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

Viewed by 87 travelers

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
Find Hotels in Athens

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
Find Hotels in Nafplio

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
Find Hotels in Kalamata

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
Find Hotels in Chania

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
Find Hotels in Crete

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
Find Hotels in Crete

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
Find Hotels in Athens

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
Find Hotels in Athens

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
Find Hotels in Athens

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
Find Hotels in Athens
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