Ultimate Greek Islands Adventure: Athens, Crete, Paros & Santorini Itinerary Oct 2025

Day 1: Historic Athens Exploration

Athens, Greece on October 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Meliartos

Enjoy a traditional Greek breakfast with fresh pastries and Greek coffee at this popular downtown bakery.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Acropolis and Parthenon Visit

Explore the Acropolis, the ancient citadel with iconic monuments like the Parthenon, open from 8:00am to 7:00pm in October.
EUR20, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Mani Mani

Savor authentic Greek dishes with a modern twist, just a short walk from the Acropolis Museum.
EUR25, 1h30m

2:00pm

Acropolis Museum

Visit the Acropolis Museum nearby to see exquisite artifacts and learn about ancient Greek history. Open until 8:00pm October.
EUR10, 1h30m

4:00pm

Stroll through Plaka Neighborhood

Wander the charming Plaka district, known for its neoclassical architecture and quaint shops.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Kuzina

Dine with a view at Kuzina, offering delicious Greek cuisine with sights of the illuminated Acropolis.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 2: Crete Arrival & Knossos Palace

Heraklion, Crete, Greece on October 9, 2025

7:00am

Flight from Athens to Heraklion

Take a morning flight from Athens to Heraklion (~1h) to start your Crete exploration.
EUR60, 1h

8:30am

Breakfast at Ippokambos

Enjoy fresh Cretan breakfast near the harbor with great sea views.
EUR12, 1h

10:00am

Knossos Palace Tour

Visit the ancient Minoan Palace of Knossos, the legendary labyrinth of King Minos, open 8am-5pm in October.
EUR15, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Peskesi

Try authentic Cretan cuisine emphasizing local and organic ingredients.
EUR25, 1h30m

2:30pm

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Explore one of Greece's best archaeological museums displaying Minoan artifacts.
EUR10, 2h

6:00pm

Evening Walk along Heraklion Venetian Harbor

Relax by the picturesque harbor and enjoy cafes nearby.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Paralia Seaside Restaurant

Savor fresh seafood with sea views in a relaxed atmosphere.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Elafonisi Beach & Chania Town

Chania, Crete, Greece on October 10, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or local bakery

Have a quick Greek coffee and pastry before heading out early.
EUR7, 30m

8:00am

Drive to Elafonisi Beach

Take a 2.5-hour scenic drive to Elafonisi, known for its pink sand and crystal-clear waters.
EUR0, 2h30m

10:30am

Elafonisi Beach Relaxation

Spend time swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the unique pink sand beaches.
Free, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Tigani

Enjoy traditional Cretan dishes just 15 minutes from the beach.
EUR25, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Chania Old Town

Walk through the Venetian harbor, narrow streets, and vibrant market in Chania.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Tamam Restaurant

Try authentic Greek and Cretan cuisine in a charming setting inside the old town.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 4: Crete to Paros Island

Paros, Greece on October 11, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Bougatsa Iordanis in Chania

Famous for its creamy bougatsa (sweet or savory pastry), a perfect start before travel.
EUR8, 30m

8:30am

Travel from Chania to Athens (flight or ferry)

Fly or ferry back to Athens (flight ~1h, ferry longer so flight recommended early morning).
EUR60, 1h

10:30am

Flight from Athens to Paros

Catch a direct flight (~40 min) or ferry (~3h) from Athens to Paros to maximize your time.
EUR50, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Siparos

Enjoy fresh seafood right on the Parikia harbor overlooking the sea.
EUR28, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Parikia Town

Visit the Church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani and stroll through charming alleys and shops.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Kolymbithres Beach

Famous for unique rock formations and calm waters, perfect for an afternoon swim.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Barbarossa Tavern

Dine seaside with authentic Greek dishes and fresh catch of the day.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 5: Paros to Santorini Sunset

Paros to Santorini, Greece on October 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Open Garden Cafe

Enjoy organic coffee and homemade pastries in a relaxed garden setting.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Morning Ferry to Santorini

Take a ferry (~2h) from Paros to Santorini, scenic and comfortable options available.
EUR40, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Arismari Traditional Restaurant

A cozy spot in Fira with delicious local specialties and great reviews.
EUR30, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Fira Town

Discover museums, shops, and stunning caldera views in Santorini’s capital.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Oia for Sunset

Head to Oia to witness the world-famous Santorini sunset, arriving early for best views.
Free, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at Dimitris Ammoudi Taverna

Enjoy fresh seafood right at Ammoudi Bay under the stars, reservation recommended.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 6: Santorini Volcanic Exploration

Santorini, Greece on October 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pier To Pier

Start your day with excellent coffee and pastries in Fira’s caldera view cafe.
EUR12, 1h

9:30am

Santorini Volcano & Hot Springs Boat Tour

Take a 4-hour guided boat trip to the volcano island and hot springs, departing from Ammoudi Bay, boat tours start around 9:30am.
EUR50, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Metaxi Mas

Local favorite in Exo Gonia village with delicious traditional dishes and wine.
EUR30, 1h30m

4:00pm

Wine Tasting at Santo Wines

Enjoy a wine tasting session overlooking the stunning caldera, open till early evening.
EUR20, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Selene

Dine at one of Santorini’s top gourmet restaurants offering innovative Greek cuisine.
EUR60, 2h
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Day 7: Departure or Optional Extra Day

Santorini, Greece on October 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your Hotel or Local Cafe

Leisurely breakfast before preparation for departure or exploring more island gems.
EUR10, 1h

10:00am

Optional Explore Pyrgos or Beach Relaxation

Visit the traditional village of Pyrgos or relax at Kamari or Perissa beach, open all day.
Free, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at To Psaraki

Seaside seafood restaurant in Vlychada port, fresh and authentic offerings.
EUR35, 1h30m

4:00pm

Transfer to Santorini Airport or Port

Prepare for onward flights or ferry connections to your next destination or return home.
Variable, Variable
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