Start your trip in Athens, the capital city of Greece. In the morning, explore the ancient wonders of the Acropolis, including the iconic Parthenon, offering breathtaking views of the city. In the afternoon, wander through the charming Plaka neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, traditional houses, and souvenir shops. As the evening sets in, head to Monastiraki Square, a vibrant area with bustling markets and lively street performers.
Acropolis: Estimated cost - €20, Time spent - 2 hours
Plaka: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Athens Cafe: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Athens Cafe, offering a wide variety of Greek pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 8 euros per person.
Taverna Oineas: For a tasty lunch, visit Taverna Oineas, a traditional Greek tavern that serves mouthwatering souvlaki and other authentic dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 15 euros per person.
Psaras Tavern: Enjoy a memorable dinner at Psaras Tavern, a charming restaurant located in Plaka with a cozy atmosphere and a menu consisting of seafood specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 25 euros per person.
Tuesday, October 3: Santorini
Take a ferry to the stunning island of Santorini. In the morning, explore the picturesque village of Oia, famous for its whitewashed buildings and breathtaking sunsets. In the afternoon, visit the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, a preserved Minoan Bronze Age settlement. As the evening approaches, relax on one of the island's beautiful beaches and enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Fira.
Oia: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
Akrotiri: Estimated cost - €12, Time spent - 2 hours
Fira: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
Restaurants
Affordable Breakfast: Melenio Café - Enjoy a satisfying breakfast at Melenio Café, known for its delicious pastries and cozy atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 8-12 euros per person.
Scenic Lunch: Restaurant Sunset Ammoudi - Indulge in fresh seafood dishes while enjoying breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea at Restaurant Sunset Ammoudi. Average cost for a meal is about 20-35 euros per person.
Authentic Dinner: Nikolas Tavern - Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Nikolas Tavern, a family-run restaurant offering a warm ambiance and traditional dishes made with local ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about 15-25 euros per person.
Wednesday, October 4: Mykonos
Catch a ferry to the lively island of Mykonos. In the morning, explore the charming streets of Mykonos Town, known for its iconic windmills and vibrant nightlife. In the afternoon, relax on the beautiful beaches of Paradise or Super Paradise. As the evening sets in, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Little Venice, where you can enjoy waterfront dining and stunning sunset views.
Little Venice: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
A great breakfast spot in Mykonos is The Rooster Cafe, located in the heart of Mykonos Town. Enjoy their delicious Greek yogurt with fresh fruits and honey, and sip on a cup of aromatic coffee or refreshing juice. The average cost for a meal is about 10 euros per person.
For lunch, head to Joanna's Niko's Place. Situated on the beach of Super Paradise, this restaurant offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes, including fresh seafood, salads, and grilled meats. Indulge in their mouthwatering gyros or moussaka while soaking up the sun. The average cost for a meal is about 15 euros per person.
In the evening, dine at Sea Satin Market, a seafood restaurant located in the enchanting area of Little Venice. Indulge in their delicious lobster spaghetti or grilled octopus, while enjoying the charming sea views and sea breeze. The average cost for a meal is about 30 euros per person.
Thursday, October 5: Delphi
Embark on a day trip to Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient ruins. In the morning, explore the archaeological site of Delphi, including the Temple of Apollo and the Delphi Museum. In the afternoon, hike up Mount Parnassus for stunning panoramic views. As the evening approaches, visit the charming village of Arachova, famous for its hand-woven textiles and local cuisine.
Mount Parnassus: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Arachova: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Delphi is Cafe Apollonia, which offers a variety of freshly baked pastries and refreshing beverages. The average cost of a meal here is about 8-12 euros per person.
For lunch, you can try Taverna To Patriko, located near the archaeological site. This charming tavern serves traditional Greek dishes like moussaka and souvlaki. The average cost for a meal here is about 10-15 euros per person.
In the evening, head to Taverna Mousses for a delightful dinner experience. This family-owned restaurant specializes in Greek cuisine with a modern twist, offering dishes like grilled octopus and lamb chops. The average cost for a meal here is about 15-20 euros per person.
Friday, October 6: Rhodes
Catch a flight to the island of Rhodes. In the morning, explore the medieval old town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the Palace of the Grand Master. In the afternoon, relax on the beautiful beaches of Faliraki or Lindos. As the evening sets in, wander through the Mandraki Harbor area and enjoy delicious Greek cuisine at a local taverna.
Medieval Old Town of Rhodes: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
For breakfast, head to The Garden, a cozy café located in the heart of Rhodes Old Town. This charming spot serves up delicious homemade pastries, freshly squeezed juices, and aromatic coffees. Average cost for a meal is about 8 euros per person.
Lunch at To Marouli is a must for food enthusiasts. This family-run taverna offers traditional Greek dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Try their moussaka or souvlaki for a taste of authentic Greek cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 12 euros per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Marco Polo Di Casa Di Amore. Located near Mandraki Harbor, this restaurant offers a wide range of Mediterranean and Greek fusion dishes, paired with a great selection of wines. Average cost for a meal is about 20 euros per person.
Saturday, October 7: Thessaloniki
Take a train or bus to the vibrant city of Thessaloniki. In the morning, explore the White Tower, an iconic symbol of the city, and enjoy panoramic views from the top. In the afternoon, visit the archaeological site of Rotunda and the nearby Arch of Galerius. As the evening approaches, stroll along the lively Aristotelous Square and indulge in the local cuisine at a traditional taverna.
White Tower: Estimated cost - €6, Time spent - 2 hours
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Eggs & Bacon. This popular spot offers a variety of delicious breakfast dishes such as fluffy omelettes and crispy bacon. Average cost for a meal is about 8 euros per person.
For lunch, head to Fish Taverna Kritikos. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes like grilled octopus and shrimp saganaki while overlooking the beautiful Thessaloniki waterfront. Average cost for a meal is about 15 euros per person.
For dinner, visit To Palio Hamam. Housed in a converted Turkish bath, this charming restaurant serves traditional Greek dishes like moussaka and souvlaki. Average cost for a meal is about 20 euros per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For budget-friendly experiences in Greece, consider visiting the lesser-known island of Naxos, known for its beautiful beaches and traditional villages. Experience the local way of life by exploring the small towns of Ano Potamia and Apiranthos, where you can discover traditional architecture and taste authentic Greek cuisine at local tavernas. Don't miss the opportunity to hike to the summit of Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding islands.
To check hotel and flight prices for your Greece trip, you can visit Kayak.