Romantic and Scenic 10-Day Greek Island and Athens Itinerary with Car Rental

Day 1: Athens Arrival & Romantic Evening

Athens, Greece on May 17, 2025

12:00pm

Check-in in Plaka Neighborhood

Settle at a charming boutique hotel in Plaka, the scenic historic neighborhood known for its romantic narrow streets and neoclassical architecture.
EUR100, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at Strofi

Enjoy traditional Greek cuisine with a stunning Acropolis view at Strofi, a perfect romantic start to your trip.
EUR30, 1h

3:00pm

Visit the Acropolis and Odeon of Herodes Atticus

Explore iconic ancient ruins and admire Athens’ skyline; the site closes around 7:00pm in May so plan for a leisurely visit.
EUR20, 2h

6:00pm

Sunset at Lycabettus Hill

Take a funicular or hike up Lycabettus Hill to see one of the best panoramic sunset views over Athens.
EUR7, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Kuzina Restaurant

Dine on creative Greek cuisine on a rooftop terrace with Acropolis views, perfect for a romantic atmosphere.
EUR40, 2h
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Day 2: Athens to Nafplio & Coastal Magic

Nafplio, Greece on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Meliartos

Start the day with fresh pastries and coffee in Monastiraki before picking up your rental car.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Car Rental Pickup

Pick up your rental car in Athens to explore the Peloponnese at your own pace.
EUR50/day, 30m

10:00am

Drive to Nafplio

Enjoy the scenic 2-hour drive southwest to the romantic seaside town of Nafplio, known for its promenades and historic castles.
EUR0, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Aiolos Taverna

Taste local seafood specialties along the waterfront with a romantic sea view.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Palamidi Fortress

Climb the hill to this breathtaking Venetian fortress offering views over the Argolic Gulf and Nafplio town.
EUR8, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Arvanitia Beach

Spend the afternoon unwinding on this small but warm sandy beach near Nafplio's town center.
EUR0, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Pidalio Mezedopoleio

Dine on traditional mezedes (small plates) in a cozy, romantic courtyard setting.
EUR30, 2h

9:30pm

Evening Stroll along the Waterfront

Enjoy a romantic walk on the lit promenade with cafes and bars for a nightcap.
EUR10, 1h
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Day 3: Nafplio to Kalamata - Beach and Relaxation

Kalamata, Greece on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sailor’s House

Enjoy traditional Greek breakfast with sea views in Nafplio’s old town.
EUR15, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Kalamata

Take a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Kalamata, known for its warm beaches and olive groves.
EUR0, 2h30m

12:00pm

Check-in in Kalamata by the Beach

Stay in a beachfront hotel near Kalamata’s lively city center and marina.
EUR100, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Mouria

Sample fresh grilled fish and local dishes with a sea view at one of Kalamata’s top tavernas.
EUR30, 1h

2:30pm

Relax at Voidokilia Beach

Visit the stunning Voidokilia Beach (about 1-hour drive), famous for its warm turquoise waters and perfect crescent shape.
EUR0, 3h

6:00pm

Return to Kalamata

Head back to Kalamata town for the evening.
EUR0, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Zepos

Enjoy creative Greek cuisine in a romantic atmosphere close to the marina.
EUR35, 2h

9:30pm

Nightlife at YI-KA Bar

Experience a stylish bar with cocktails and live music in Kalamata.
EUR15, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Drive to Crete – Warm Beaches & Nightlife

Chania, Crete, Greece on May 20, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast & Check-out

Grab a quick breakfast at your hotel before heading to the Kalamata airport.
EUR12, 45m

9:00am

Flight to Crete (Chania Airport)

Take a short ~1h25m flight from Kalamata to Chania to reach the warmer beach areas of Crete.
EUR60, 1h30m

10:45am

Pick up Rental Car in Chania

Rent a car at Chania airport to explore beaches and villages at your own pace.
EUR50/day, 30m

11:30am

Check-in Beach Resort near Elafonissi

Settle into a romantic beachfront resort near Elafonissi for ideal warm beach conditions.
EUR130, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Chrisofyllis Tavern

Try local Cretan dishes in a family-friendly taverna near Chania.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Elafonissi Beach

Spend the afternoon at Elafonissi, one of the warmest and most romantic pink sand beaches in Greece.
EUR0, 4h

7:00pm

Dinner at La Bodega

Enjoy a romantic dinner in Chania’s old harbor with a vibrant atmosphere and fresh seafood.
EUR40, 2h

9:30pm

Night Walk and Drinks at Old Venetian Harbor

Stroll the lit harbor area, explore cozy bars, and enjoy live music by the sea.
EUR20, 2h
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Day 5: Crete Island Beaches & Exploration

Crete, Greece on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Resort

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast overlooking the sea with fresh local produce at your resort.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Falassarna Beach

Visit another warm and beautiful beach on Crete’s west coast, renowned for its clear waters and sunset views.
EUR0, 1h

10:30am

Beach Day at Falassarna

Relax, swim, or rent paddle boards to add activity and fun to your day.
EUR15, 4h

2:30pm

Lunch at Thalassino Ageri

Eat seaside with fresh fish and local specialties just steps from Falassarna Beach.
EUR30, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Chania Old Town

Return to Chania and wander romantic streets, markets, and historic Venetian sites.
EUR0, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Salis

Taste innovative Cretan cuisine with craft wine in an intimate setting in Chania.
EUR50, 2h

9:30pm

Nightlife at Koukouvaya Cocktail Bar

Sip creative cocktails in a cozy garden bar known for its ambiance perfect for couples.
EUR20, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Crete's Historical & Natural Beauty

Crete, Greece on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at the Hotel

A hearty breakfast with freshly baked bread and local honey to energize your day.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Samaria Gorge

Head out early for a full-day hike through Samaria Gorge, one of Europe's longest and most spectacular gorges (opens 7am - 3pm entrance).
EUR10, 6h

4:00pm

Return to Chania for Rest

Relax after your trek with time to unwind back at the hotel.
EUR0, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Tamam Restaurant

Enjoy a mix of Cretan and Middle Eastern flavors in a romantic setting inside Chania’s old town.
EUR35, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Return to Athens & Evening Fun

Athens, Greece on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast & Check-out

Enjoy a last breakfast with sea views before your departure flight to Athens.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Drive to Chania Airport

Return your rental car and board your flight back to Athens.
EUR0, 30m

12:00pm

Flight to Athens

Fly for approximately 1h25m to Athens International Airport.
EUR60, 1h30m

2:00pm

Taxi to Kolonaki Neighborhood

Check in at a luxury hotel in Kolonaki, a chic and romantic area with upscale shops and bars.
EUR120, 1h

3:00pm

Coffee and Pastries at Mokka Specialty Coffee

Relax and people-watch over excellent coffee and desserts.
EUR15, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Kolonaki’s Boutiques & Benaki Museum

Discover contemporary Greek art and shopping in arguably Athens' most sophisticated neighborhood.
EUR12, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Tudor Hall Restaurant

Watch the lit Acropolis while enjoying elevated Greek cuisine in a stylish rooftop setting.
EUR50, 2h

9:30pm

Night Drinks at A for Athens Rooftop Bar

Perfect romantic spot with expansive city and Acropolis views to conclude the day.
EUR20, 2h
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Day Trip to Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon

Athens, Greece on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in Kolonaki

A light breakfast at Ergon House with fresh Greek yogurt and honey.
EUR12, 1h

9:00am

Rent a Car and Drive to Cape Sounion

Drive about 1h15m southeast along the scenic coast to visit the Temple of Poseidon, a perfect romantic ruin overlooking the Aegean Sea.
EUR40 rental + EUR8 site entry, 1h15m

10:30am

Explore Temple of Poseidon

Walk among ancient columns and soak in the magnificent sea views and Mediterranean breeze.
EUR8, 1h

11:45am

Beach Time at Legrena Beach

Relax with a swim at a nearby quiet beach, one of the warmest in the region in May.
EUR0, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Pan by the Sea

Enjoy fresh seafood and Greek salads at this seaside taverna with outstanding views.
EUR30, 1h

3:30pm

Return to Athens

Drive back to Athens to relax and prepare for the evening.
EUR0, 1h15m

6:00pm

Spa and Relaxation at Hotel

Unwind with a couples massage or spa treatment at your hotel to recharge.
EUR80, 1h30m

8:30pm

Dinner at Kuzina

Return to Kuzina for a romantic dinner under the stars near the Acropolis area.
EUR40, 2h

10:30pm

Jazz Night at Half Note Jazz Club

Enjoy a lively night of jazz music and cocktails in a renowned Athenian venue.
EUR15, 2h
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Day 9: Athens Culture & Leisure

Athens, Greece on May 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Little Kook

Indulge in a fairy tale themed bakery perfect for a whimsical start to the day.
EUR15, 1h

9:30am

Visit the National Archaeological Museum

Explore Greece’s richest collection of antiquities, open 9am-5pm on Saturdays.
EUR12, 2h

11:30am

Walk through the National Garden of Athens

Enjoy a peaceful and romantic walk in this lush garden oasis located in the city center.
EUR0, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Tzitzikas kai Mermigas

Classic Greek comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere close to Syntagma Square.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Shopping in Monastiraki Flea Market

Shop for souvenirs, antiques, and local crafts in this vibrant area.
EUR0, 2h

5:00pm

Coffee and Sunset at Thea Terrace

Enjoy one last romantic sunset with a view of the Acropolis from this rooftop cafe.
EUR15, 1h

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Varoulko Seaside

Celebrate your trip with Michelin-starred seafood dining overlooking the sea in Piraeus.
EUR70, 2h
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Day 10: Departure

Athens, Greece on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast & Pack

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel and prepare for departure.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Taxi to Athens International Airport

Arrive early for your departure flight home.
EUR40, 45m
View Hotel Availability