Start your adventure in Athens, the capital of Greece. Begin your morning by exploring the iconic Acropolis, where you can marvel at the ancient ruins and the Parthenon. In the afternoon, visit the Plaka neighborhood, known for its charming streets and traditional Greek tavernas. As the evening approaches, head to Monastiraki Square for a lively atmosphere and delicious local cuisine.
Acropolis: €20, 3 hours
Plaka neighborhood: Free, 2 hours
Monastiraki Square: Cost varies, 2 hours
Restaurants
The Breakfast Club: Enjoy a delightful breakfast at The Breakfast Club, located in the heart of Athens. This cozy café offers a variety of options including freshly baked pastries, fluffy omelettes, and aromatic coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 10 euros per person.
Mediterranean Delights: Savor a delicious lunch at Mediterranean Delights, a charming restaurant overlooking the Acropolis. Indulge in traditional Greek delicacies such as moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh tzatziki. The average cost for a meal is about 15 euros per person.
The Olive Tree: Treat yourself to an unforgettable dinner experience at The Olive Tree, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city. Gorge on delectable Greek dishes like spanakopita, grilled octopus, and baklava. The average cost for a meal is about 25 euros per person.
Monday, October 16: Delphi
Embark on a day trip to Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its archaeological ruins. In the morning, explore the Temple of Apollo and the Delphi Archaeological Museum. Afterward, hike the scenic trails of Mount Parnassus for breathtaking views. In the evening, return to Athens and indulge in a delicious Greek meal at a local restaurant.
Delphi day trip: €80-100, 8 hours
Mount Parnassus hike: Free, 3-4 hours
Local dinner: €20-30, 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Koukouvagia Cafe where you can enjoy traditional Greek pastries and strong coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 8-10 Euros per person.
For lunch, visit Taverna Kalivia and savor authentic Greek dishes like Moussaka or Souvlaki. The average cost for a meal is about 12-15 Euros per person.
For dinner, dine at Oineas Restaurant which offers a delicious selection of seafood and Greek mezes. The average cost for a meal is about 20-25 Euros per person.
Tuesday, October 17: Meteora
Travel to Meteora, a unique rock formation hosting ancient monasteries perched atop towering cliffs. In the morning, visit the monasteries and admire their stunning architecture and panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the surrounding trails and enjoy a scenic hike. In the evening, relax and unwind in the peaceful atmosphere of Meteora.
Ariadne's Delights is a charming breakfast spot known for its delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes. You can expect to spend around $10 per person for a satisfying morning meal.
For lunch, head to The Olive Tree Taverna, a family-owned restaurant serving traditional Greek cuisine. Enjoy their mouthwatering souvlaki and refreshing Greek salad for an average cost of $15 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at The Cliffside Restaurant, nestled on the edge of the breathtaking Meteora cliffs. Savor their delectable seafood dishes while taking in the stunning sunset views. Dinner here typically costs around $30 per person.
Wednesday, October 18: Santorini
Catch a ferry to the enchanting island of Santorini. Begin your morning by exploring the picturesque village of Oia, known for its stunning sunsets and blue-domed churches. In the afternoon, relax on the black sand beaches of Perissa or Kamari. As the evening sets in, savor the local flavors at one of the island's many waterfront restaurants.
Transportation to Santorini: €50-100 (ferry), 5-6 hours
Oia exploration: Free, 4 hours
Beach time: Free, 3-4 hours
Dinner: €30-50, 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Byzantio, located in Oia. Indulge in their traditional Greek pastries and rich coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 10 euros per person.
For lunch, head to Franco's Bar & Restaurant in Perissa for a taste of authentic Greek cuisine. Enjoy their fresh seafood dishes and refreshing cocktails with a beautiful view of the beach. Average cost for a meal is about 20 euros per person.
In the evening, dine at Ambrosia Restaurant in Oia for a romantic waterfront dinner experience. Delight in their exquisite Mediterranean dishes and extensive wine selection while enjoying the stunning sunset views. Average cost for a meal is about 40 euros per person.
Thursday, October 19: Crete
Take a ferry to Crete, the largest Greek island known for its diverse landscapes and rich history. In the morning, visit the Palace of Knossos, a significant archaeological site showcasing the Minoan civilization. In the afternoon, explore the charming old town of Chania, with its Venetian harbor and narrow streets. Enjoy an evening stroll along the waterfront promenade and try traditional Cretan cuisine.
Transportation to Crete: €50-100 (ferry), 6-7 hours
Palace of Knossos: €10, 3 hours
Chania exploration: Free, 3-4 hours
Waterfront promenade: Free, as desired
Dinner: €20-30, 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Tamam Restaurant in Chania where you can indulge in a delicious traditional Greek breakfast including freshly baked bread, local cheese, olives, and homemade jam. The average cost for a meal is about €10 per person.
For lunch, try Thalassino Ageri in Chania, a seaside taverna known for its fresh seafood. Feast on grilled octopus, crispy calamari, and succulent shrimp, all caught from the nearby waters. The average cost for a meal is about €15 per person.
For dinner, visit Symposium in Chania's old town, a charming restaurant serving authentic Cretan cuisine. Enjoy dishes such as lamb with herbs, stuffed vine leaves, and traditional cheese pies. The average cost for a meal is about €20 per person.
Friday, October 20: Rhodes
Fly to the island of Rhodes, known for its ancient city and beautiful beaches. In the morning, explore the medieval town of Rhodes and its impressive Palace of the Grand Master. In the afternoon, relax on the pristine beaches of Lindos or Faliraki. As the day ends, savor a taste of local cuisine at a traditional taverna.
Flight to Rhodes: €100-150, 2 hours
Rhodes town exploration: Free, 4 hours
Beach time: Free, 3-4 hours
Dinner: €20-30, 2 hours
Saturday, October 21: Mount Olympus
Embark on an adventurous hike on Mount Olympus, the legendary home of the Greek gods. In the morning, start your ascent from Litochoro and marvel at the stunning natural beauty along the trail. Reach as far as your fitness level allows, and enjoy the breathtaking views. In the evening, return to Litochoro and celebrate your accomplishment with a hearty Greek meal.
Mount Olympus hike: Free, 7-10 hours
Celebratory dinner: €20-30, 2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For the adventurous at heart, consider exploring the Vikos Gorge in the Zagori region. This dramatic limestone canyon offers captivating hiking trails, stunning viewpoints, and a chance to immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of northern Greece. Another off-the-beaten-path gem is the Navagio Beach on Zakynthos Island, famous for its shipwreck and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Dive into adventure and uncover these hidden treasures loved by locals.