Charming Greek Island Hopping Itinerary from Edinburgh: Exploring Serene Isles Over 10-14 Days

Day 1: Arrival and Ancient Athens

Athens, Greece on May 18, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Kafenion

Start your day with traditional Greek coffee and breakfast pastries at this charming local café in Plaka, open from 8:00am.
EUR8, 1h

10:30am

Acropolis and Parthenon

Explore the iconic archaeological site of the Acropolis and Parthenon, open 8:00am-8:00pm. Ideal to visit early before crowds build.
EUR20, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani

Enjoy a delicious selection of cured meats, cheeses, and mezze in this rustic deli-style restaurant open 12:00pm-10:30pm.
EUR25, 1h

3:00pm

National Archaeological Museum

Visit Greece's largest archaeological museum showcasing fascinating ancient artefacts, open 9:00am-5:00pm Tuesday to Sunday.
EUR10, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Tzitzikas kai Mermigas

Dine on traditional Greek dishes with a modern twist in a welcoming setting, open until 11:30pm.
EUR30, 1.5h
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Day 2: Athens to Hydra

Athens to Hydra, Greece on May 19, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Mokka Specialty Coffee

Fuel up with artisanal coffee and light breakfast, open from 7:00am, before heading to the port.
EUR7, 0.5h

8:30am

Ferry to Hydra

Catch the ferry from Piraeus port to Hydra. The journey takes about 1.5-2 hours. Ferries begin early morning.
EUR30, 2h

11:00am

Walk Hydra Town

Stroll through Hydra's picturesque harbour and charming cobbled streets, admiring the preserved neoclassical mansions.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Omilos

Enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies in a lovely waterfront setting, open till 11:00pm.
EUR35, 1.5h

4:00pm

Visit Historical Museum of Hydra

Discover the island's role in the Greek War of Independence, open 9:00am-3:00pm (check seasonal hours).
EUR5, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Sunset Hydra

Dine on Greek and Mediterranean dishes while enjoying outstanding sea views, open until 11:00pm.
EUR40, 1.5h
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Day 3: Explore Hydra

Hydra, Greece on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Omikron Bistro

Savour homemade bread and local cheeses paired with excellent coffee, opens at 8:00am.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Hiking to Profitis Ilias

Take a scenic hike to the highest point on the island for panoramic views, following well-marked trails.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Piperia

Known for fresh salads and light Greek dishes, Piperia offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for lunch.
EUR25, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Vlichos Beach

Spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing at this pebble beach a short walk from town.
Free, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at Hydro Epicurean Gallery

Experience creative Mediterranean cuisine in a gallery setting, open until 11:00pm.
EUR45, 1.5h
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Day 4: Hydra to Poros

Hydra to Poros, Greece on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Salto Café

Enjoy delicious coffee and pastries before departing, opens at 8:00am.
EUR8, 1h

10:00am

Ferry to Poros

Take a ferry from Hydra to Poros, approximately 1 hour journey with scenic views.
EUR15, 1h

11:30am

Explore Poros Town and Clock Tower

Wander through the charming town and climb to the Clock Tower for magnificent island and sea views.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Akrogiali

Relax with fresh seafood by the water's edge, open daily from noon.
EUR30, 1.5h

3:30pm

Visit Archaeological Museum of Poros

See exhibits featuring local ancient artefacts, open 9:00am-3:00pm (verify seasonal hours).
EUR5, 1h

5:00pm

Relax on Love Bay Beach

Spend your afternoon at Love Bay, a quiet and less crowded beach ideal for relaxation.
Free, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Maria Mélnisi

Enjoy a traditional Greek dinner in a charming tavern atmosphere, open until 10:30pm.
EUR35, 1.5h
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Day 5: Relaxing Poros

Poros, Greece on May 22, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café del Mar

Start your day with fresh juices and croissants in a relaxed beachfront setting, opens at 8:00am.
EUR10, 1h

10:00am

Boat Tour Around Poros

Take a half-day boat tour exploring hidden coves and beaches around Poros (prior booking recommended).
EUR40, 4h

3:00pm

Lunch at Zepos Restaurant

Enjoy a late lunch featuring homemade traditional dishes, open until 5:00pm.
EUR28, 1h

5:00pm

Visit Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi

Discover this historic monastery tucked in a serene setting, ideal for a reflective walk.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at To Spitiko

Finish your day with comforting Greek home-cooked meals, open until 10:00pm.
EUR30, 1.5h
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Day 6: Poros to Spetses

Poros to Spetses, Greece on May 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Arco Café

Enjoy a light breakfast with local pastries, opens from 7:30am.
EUR8, 1h

9:00am

Ferry to Spetses

Historic island with charming streets, reachable by approximately 1.5-hour ferry from Poros.
EUR20, 1.5h

11:00am

Explore Spetses Old Harbour

Wander around the picturesque harbour lined with flowers, boutiques and cafes.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Lazaros

Sample fresh fish and classic Greek dishes in this inviting waterside restaurant, open 12:30pm onwards.
EUR35, 1.5h

3:30pm

Visit Bouboulina Museum

Discover the life of heroine Laskarina Bouboulina, open 9:00am-5:30pm except Mondays.
EUR5, 1h

5:00pm

Leisure Time at Agia Marina Beach

Swim and relax at the sandy Agia Marina Beach, free entry.
Free, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Patralis

Enjoy charming setting and excellent local cuisine at this well-regarded tavern, open till 11:00pm.
EUR40, 1.5h
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Day 7: Spetses Idyllic Day

Spetses, Greece on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pelagos

Start with fresh coffee and baked goods by the sea, opens at 8:00am.
EUR10, 1h

9:00am

Horse Carriage Tour

Explore the island by traditional horse carriage, a peaceful way to see Spetses' quiet backroads.
EUR25, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Lahos

Enjoy Mediterranean flavours and fresh seafood on the terrace overlooking the sea, opens 12:30pm.
EUR35, 1.5h

3:00pm

Relax at Kaiki Beach

Quiet beach perfect for an afternoon swim and sunbathing, away from crowds.
Free, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at Orloff

Elegant dining featuring Greek and international dishes, perfect for the final night here.
EUR45, 1.5h
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Day 8: Spetses to Kea

Spetses to Kea, Greece on May 25, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Zogras Café

Light and fresh breakfast to start your day, opens from 7:00am.
EUR8, 1h

8:30am

Ferry to Lavrion Port

Ferry to Lavrion on mainland (~3 hours), then local transport to ferry to Kea.
EUR40, 4h

2:30pm

Ferry from Lavrion to Kea

Short ferry from Lavrion to Kea (around 1 hour), arriving at the peaceful island known for natural beauty.
EUR15, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Ioulida Village

Wander through the quaint main town with neoclassical architecture and boutique shops.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at To Steki tou Proedrou

Enjoy traditional Kea cuisine in a welcoming setting, open until 11:00pm.
EUR30, 1.5h
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Day 9: Kea Exploration

Kea, Greece on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Porto Kea

Enjoy fresh coffee and homemade pastries, opens at 8:00am.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Visit Ancient Karthea Ruins

Explore the archaeological site of Karthea with temple remains and stunning views, accessible by hiking or boat.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Captain's House

Savour seafood and traditional Greek dishes in Korissia harbour, open from 12:00pm.
EUR30, 1.5h

3:30pm

Relax at Koundouros Beach

Spend an afternoon swimming in crystal clear waters at this well-known sandy beach.
Free, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at Mikros Pappas

Small family-run tavern serving authentic local dishes, perfect to end the day.
EUR28, 1.5h
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Day 10: Kea Leisure and Return

Kea to Athens, Greece on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ioulida Market Café

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast in the town centre, opens at 8:00am.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Morning Beach Walk at Pisses Beach

Take a peaceful morning stroll along this quiet beach known for its natural beauty.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Peri's Oven

Enjoy delicious wood-fired meals and local wines, open till 3:00pm.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Ferry to Lavrion

Return by ferry to Lavrion port, about 1 hour journey.
EUR15, 1h

4:00pm

Drive or bus transfer to Athens

Travel from Lavrion to Athens, approximately 1 hour by car or public transport.
EUR20, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mani Mani, Athens

Sample traditional Greek cuisine from the Mani region in a hip, cosy restaurant, open till 11:00pm.
EUR35, 1.5h
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Day 11: Athens Leisure & Departure

Athens, Greece on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Little Kook

Enjoy a whimsical themed café setting with delicious pastries and coffee, opens at 8:00am.
EUR10, 1h

10:00am

Stroll through Anafiotika

Explore this peaceful tiny neighbourhood with Cycladic-style houses right under the Acropolis.
Free, 1.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Evripides

Try classic Greek dishes in a vibrant local taverna, open till 4:00pm.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Benaki Museum

Explore Greek art and history, and special exhibitions; open 10:00am-6:00pm, closed Tuesdays.
EUR12, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at hotel or do some last-minute shopping

Unwind before your departure or browse neighbourhood boutiques for souvenirs.
Free, 2h
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