9-Day Ultimate Greece Itinerary: Explore Ancient Ruins and Stunning Islands

Day 1: Explore Athens

Athens, Greece

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Avissinia

Start your Greek adventure with a delightful breakfast featuring local frittatas and fresh Greek yogurt.
Walk to your next destination.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Acropolis

Marvel at the iconic Parthenon and explore the Acropolis Museum to learn about ancient Greek history.
Take Metro Line 1 to Monastiraki.
EUR20, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani

Enjoy a traditional Greek lunch with cured meats and local cheeses in a unique deli atmosphere.
Walk 10 minutes from Acropolis.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll Through Plaka

Wander the charming, historic neighborhood of Plaka, featuring cobblestone streets and quaint shops.
Walk from lunch spot.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Watch Sunset at Lycabettus Hill

Take the funicular to Lycabettus Hill for breathtaking views of Athens, especially stunning at sunset.
Funicular from Kolonaki square.
EUR10, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Zonar's

Finish your day with a chic dining experience at Zonar's, renowned for its Mediterranean cuisine.
Short taxi ride or 20 minute walk.
EUR40, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More of Athens

Athens, Greece

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kokkion

Have a delicious breakfast of fresh pastries and espresso at this charming café.
Walk from your hotel.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Ancient Agora

Visit the Ancient Agora, historically the heart of public life in Athens, and see the Temple of Hephaestus.
Metro Line 1 to Monastiraki.
EUR10, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Visit the National Archaeological Museum

Discover a vast collection of ancient Greek artifacts, a must-see for history buffs.
Taxi to the museum.
EUR12, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Ouzeri Tou Laki

Savor some delectable mezes and local ouzo in a laid-back setting.
Walk nearby to the restaurant.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Discover Monastiraki Flea Market

Enjoy shopping for souvenirs and antiques while soaking in the vibrant local culture.
Walk from lunch spot.
Free, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Karamanlidika

Dine on remarkable charcuterie and regional specialties at this beloved restaurant.
Short walk from the flea market.
EUR35, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Ancient Delphi

Delphi, Greece

8:00AM

Eat at Aigai

Fuel up with a hearty Greek breakfast featuring local honey and bread.
Take a bus from Athens to Delphi (2.5 hours).
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Delphi Archaeological Site

Explore the ruins of this ancient oracle site, including the Temple of Apollo and the theater.
Short walk from the café.
EUR12, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Taverna To Patriko Mas

Savor fresh, homemade Greek dishes made with love and care.
5-minute walk from the site.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Delphi Museum

Discover remarkable artifacts from the site and gain insight into its historical significance.
Walk 10 minutes to the museum.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Hiking in the surrounding mountains

Enjoy a scenic hike to appreciate the stunning landscape of Mount Parnassus.
Head to local trailheads.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Apollon

Enjoy dinner while soaking in the views of the mountains and valleys.
Return to the village center.
EUR28, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Travel to Santorini

Santorini, Greece

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Melina

Enjoy a refreshing breakfast overlooking the breathtaking views of Ioannina.
Return to Delphi bus station.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Santorini

Catch the ferry from Piraeus (Athens) to Santorini.
Travel by bus back to Athens then ferry (4 hours total).
EUR50, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Aktaion Restaurant

Delight in local seafood dishes with fabulous caldera views.
Walk 15 minutes from the ferry terminal.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Check into hotel and relax

Unwind and soak in the atmosphere, preparing for sunset later.
Walk to hotel nearby.
EUR0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Watch Sunset at Oia

Experience the mesmerizing sunset at Oia, famous for its whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches.
Take a bus or taxi from your hotel.
EUR5, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Sunset Restaurant

End your day with a romantic dinner featuring traditional dishes from the island.
Walk back to Oia village.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 5: Discover Santorini

Santorini, Greece

8:00AM

Breakfast at PitoGyros

Indulge in a hearty breakfast with local favorites like Greek omelets and fresh fruit.
Walk from hotel.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Akrotiri Archaeological Site

Visit this very well-preserved ancient Minoan settlement, buried by a volcanic eruption.
Take a bus to Akrotiri.
EUR12, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Fishbone

Taste local seafood dishes, celebrated for their freshness.
Bus back to Fira.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Fira Town

Experience the lively atmosphere, shops, and stunning views of the caldera.
Walk around Fira town.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Wine Tasting Tour

Go on a delightful tour of local wineries and sample exquisite Santorini wines.
Book through local tour operators.
EUR60, 2.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Metaxi Mas

Savor innovative Mediterranean dishes paired with local wines in a welcoming atmosphere.
Taxi back to your hotel.
EUR35, 2 hours
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Day 6: Island Hopping to Mykonos

Mykonos, Greece

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pastry Shop

Start the day with delicious baked goods and cheese pie with coffee.
Walk from your hotel.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ferry to Mykonos

Take a ferry to the enchanting island of Mykonos, famous for its vibrant nightlife.
Catch the ferry from the main port.
EUR30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kastro's

Enjoy authentic local dishes while overlooking the waterfront.
Walk from the port.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Mykonos Town (Chora)

Wander the narrow streets, visit iconic windmills and take photos at Little Venice.
Walk from lunch spot.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Mykonos Beaches

Sunbathe and swim at the beautiful beaches, like Paradise Beach or Super Paradise Beach.
Bus or taxi to the beach.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at M-eating

Indulge in an upscale dining experience with a focus on modern Greek cuisine.
Return to Mykonos Town.
EUR45, 2 hours
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Day 7: Mykonos Fun Day

Mykonos, Greece

8:00AM

Breakfast at Alemagou

Have a leisurely breakfast with local fruits and pastries by the beach.
Walk from your hotel.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Delos Island Tour

Take a guided tour to the UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its archaeological ruins.
Take a ferry from Mykonos.
EUR50, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Fato a Manolo

Savor delicious brunch favorites and traditional dishes in a cozy setting.
Ferry back to Mykonos then walk to eat.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Ornos Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon swimming or sunbathing at one of Mykonos' quieter beaches.
Take a bus to Ornos Beach.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Sunset Bar Hopping

Experience the vibrant nightlife by hopping to bars along the beach as the sun sets.
Walk along the beach side path.
Variable, 3 hours

9:00PM

Dinner at 180º Sunset Bar

Finish your day with dinner and drinks while enjoying the view from one of the best sunset spots.
Stay in the area.
EUR40, 2.5 hours
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Day 8: Travel to Crete

Crete, Greece

8:00AM

Breakfast at Flip Flop

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with plenty of fresh fruit and Greek yogurt.
Walk from your hotel.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ferry to Crete

Catch a ferry from Mykonos to the beautiful island of Crete.
Depart from Mykonos port.
EUR35, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Taverna Katerina

Relish local Cretan dishes, famous for their flavors and freshness.
Walk to the taverna from the ferry.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Knossos Palace

Explore the ruins of this ancient Minoan palace, one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece.
Take a taxi from lunch spot.
EUR15, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Elafonissi Beach

Spend the late afternoon at one of Crete's most beautiful beaches with pink sand.
Drive or take a bus to Elafonissi.
Free, 2.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Taverna To Stachi

Indulge in authentic Cretan cuisine alongside local wines to finish off your day.
Return to Chania for dinner.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Explore Crete

Crete, Greece

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Mokka

Start your day with a delicious coffee and traditional Cretan pastries.
Walk from your hotel.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Chania Old Town

Wander the historic streets and take in the vibrant architecture, culture, and atmosphere.
Walk from the café.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Tamam Restaurant

Enjoy a feast of local dishes and fresh seafood based on family recipes.
Head back to the harbor area.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Beach Day at Balos Lagoon

Take a boat trip to Balos Lagoon, known for its stunning waters and natural beauty.
Book the tour through local providers.
EUR50, 4 hours

6:30PM

Return to Chania

Relax on the boat trip back, reflecting on your incredible journey.
Boat trip back to harbour.
Included in tour price, 2 hours

8:30PM

Farewell Dinner at La Bauta

Celebrate your last night in Greece with delicious food and wine at a cozy taverna.
Walk from your hotel.
EUR30, 2 hours
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