Ultimate 15-Day Greece Itinerary from Dallas: Athens, Santorini, Mykonos & Crete Adventure

Day 1: Arrival and Athens Exploration

Athens, Greece on September 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kafenio Ivis

Enjoy a traditional Greek breakfast featuring fresh pastries and strong Greek coffee to start your day in Athens right after arrival.

EUR12, 1h0m

9:30am

Acropolis Museum

Explore the stunning Acropolis Museum exhibiting artifacts from the Acropolis, giving you a rich insight into ancient Greek history and culture. Open until 8:00pm.

EUR10, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani

Savor traditional Greek mezze and cured meats at this popular deli and restaurant near the center of Athens.

EUR20, 1h30m

2:00pm

Acropolis of Athens

Visit the iconic ancient citadel featuring the Parthenon, a must-see archaeological site open until 8:00pm in September.

EUR20, 2h0m

5:00pm

Stroll Plaka Neighborhood

Wander through the charming historic Plaka district with its narrow streets, shops, and cafes—perfect for an afternoon stroll and photography.

Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Strofi

Dine with a view of the Acropolis at night; Strofi offers modern Greek cuisine in a breathtaking setting.

EUR35, 2h0m

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Day 2: Athens History and Culture

Athens, Greece on September 14, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Little Kook

Start the day at this whimsical café known for its magical themed décor and excellent coffee and pastries.

EUR15, 1h0m

9:30am

National Archaeological Museum

Discover the world’s finest collection of Greek antiquities with expansive exhibits covering thousands of years. Open 9:00am–5:00pm on Sundays.

EUR12, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at O Kostas

Enjoy authentic souvlaki from this famous Athenian spot, loved by locals for quick and delicious Greek street food.

EUR10, 1h0m

2:30pm

Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch

Visit these impressive ruins near the center of Athens for a glimpse into ancient times. Open until sunset.

EUR6, 1h30m

4:30pm

Mount Lycabettus

Take the funicular or hike up Mount Lycabettus for panoramic views of Athens at sunset.

EUR7, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Kuzina

Enjoy modern Greek dishes with a view of the Acropolis from the rooftop terrace in this vibrant restaurant.

EUR30, 2h0m

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Day 3: Travel to Santorini

Santorini, Greece on September 15, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start early with breakfast at your Athens hotel to prepare for the ferry or flight to Santorini.

EUR15, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel Athens to Santorini

Take the high-speed ferry (5h) or a 45-minute flight to Santorini; morning ferry options ensure efficient arrival by early afternoon.

EUR50–80, 5h0m (ferry) or 0h45m (flight)

1:30pm

Check-in and Lunch at Selene

Check into your hotel and enjoy lunch at Selene with fresh local ingredients and stunning views of Santorini’s landscape.

EUR40, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Oia Village

Explore Oia’s famous sunset views, charming alleys, and iconic blue-domed churches. Shops typically open until evening.

Free, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Ammoudi Fish Tavern

Dine at seaside Ammoudi Bay sampling fresh seafood right on the water, known for its atmosphere and fresh dishes.

EUR35, 2h0m

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Day 4: Santorini Adventure

Santorini, Greece on September 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Passaggio

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast with coffee and baked goods in central Fira.

EUR15, 1h0m

9:00am

Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs Tour

Take a boat tour to the volcano and swim in the hot springs. Tours generally run 9:00am–2:00pm. Expect amazing views and volcanic history.

EUR30, 5h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Metaxi Mas

Taste traditional Cretan and Santorinian cuisine at this beloved taverna known for its authentic flavors.

EUR25, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Ancient Thera

Visit the archaeological site of Ancient Thera overlooking the Aegean Sea. Open until sunset, perfect for late afternoon exploration.

EUR6, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Selene

Enjoy a refined dinner experience featuring Santorini specialties, reserving ahead to secure your spot.

EUR50, 2h0m

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Day 5: Santorini Leisure & Travel to Mykonos

Santorini to Mykonos, Greece on September 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your hotel

Start the day leisurely with breakfast at your hotel before preparing for the transfer to Mykonos.

Included if staying at hotel, 1h0m

10:00am

Travel Santorini to Mykonos Ferry

Catch a direct ferry to Mykonos taking about 2 hours, enjoying scenic views of the Cyclades islands.

EUR40, 2h0m

12:30pm

Check-in and Lunch at Kiki’s Tavern

After settling into your Mykonos hotel, enjoy an outdoor beachside lunch known for grilled specialties at Kiki’s Tavern, open until sunset.

EUR30, 1h30m

3:00pm

Explore Mykonos Town (Chora)

Stroll through Mykonos’ vibrant town with its picturesque whitewashed buildings, boutiques, and iconic windmills.

Free, 3h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at M-eating

Savor modern Greek cuisine in a trendy Mykonos Town restaurant, perfect for a start to your island experience.

EUR35, 2h0m

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Day 6: Mykonos Beaches & Culture

Mykonos, Greece on September 18, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Bakery Fatma

Start with fresh baked goods and coffee at a popular bakery in Mykonos Town.

EUR10, 1h0m

9:30am

Beach Day at Psarou Beach

Relax at one of Mykonos’ most famous beaches, known for crystal-clear waters and upscale beach bars. Open all day.

Free, cost for sunbeds approx EUR20, 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Nammos Beach Bar

Enjoy a luxurious beachfront lunch with Mediterranean cuisine and fresh seafood at Nammos on Psarou Beach.

EUR50, 2h0m

3:30pm

Visit the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos

Explore artifacts from the island’s history, including ancient sculptures and ceramics, open 9:00am–2:00pm and 6:30pm–10:00pm in summer.

EUR6, 1h0m

5:00pm

Walk to Windmills and Little Venice

Enjoy sunset views at Windmills and the charming canals of Little Venice in Mykonos Town.

Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Avra Restaurant

Dine in a lush garden setting offering Mediterranean and Greek dishes in Mykonos town.

EUR35, 2h0m

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Day 7: Mykonos to Crete Journey

Mykonos to Heraklion, Crete, Greece on September 19, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before traveling to Crete.

Included with stay, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel Mykonos to Heraklion Ferry

Take the ferry from Mykonos to Heraklion, Crete, lasting approximately 3.5 to 4 hours.

EUR45, 4h0m

1:00pm

Check-in and Lunch at Peskesi

Try traditional Cretan dishes made from local ingredients in a cozy Heraklion setting.

EUR25, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Heraklion Archaeological Museum

One of Greece’s best museums showcasing Minoan artifacts, open daily 8:00am–8:00pm.

EUR10, 2h0m

5:30pm

Walk Along Heraklion Venetian Harbor

Enjoy the sunset and scenic views at the historic Venetian harbor before dinner.

Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ippokambos

Enjoy fresh seafood with a sea view at this popular restaurant in Heraklion harbor.

EUR30, 2h0m

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Day 8: Knossos & Cretan Cuisine

Heraklion, Crete, Greece on September 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kafenion Orestis

Taste traditional Greek coffee and pastries at a local breakfast spot in Heraklion.

EUR10, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Palace of Knossos

Tour the ancient Minoan palace ruins, a must-see archaeological site open 8:00am–8:00pm with guided tours available.

EUR15, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at I Trapetsina

Enjoy authentic Cretan traditional dishes in a welcoming tavern atmosphere near Heraklion.

EUR20, 1h30m

2:30pm

Explore Historical Museum of Crete

Learn about Crete’s modern history and cultural heritage, open 9:00am–5:00pm daily.

EUR5, 1h30m

4:30pm

Relax at Koules Fortress

Visit this Venetian fortress at Heraklion’s old harbor for scenic views and photo opportunities, open until sunset.

EUR4, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Paralia Seaside Restaurant

Dine on fresh seafood by the sea with a relaxed vibe in Heraklion.

EUR35, 2h0m

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Day 9: Crete Beach and Village

Chania, Crete, Greece on September 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation in Heraklion before heading west to Chania.

Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Travel Heraklion to Chania

Take a scenic 2.5 to 3-hour drive or bus ride to Chania, the beautiful city on Crete’s northwest coast.

EUR25 (bus), 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Tamam Restaurant

Enjoy Cretan dishes in a lively setting inside Chania’s old town.

EUR25, 1h30m

2:30pm

Explore Chania Old Town and Venetian Harbor

Wander the charming old town streets, shops, and waterfront lined with cafes and historic buildings.

Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Visit Maritime Museum of Crete

Discover maritime history of Crete in a historic building by the harbor, open 10:00am–2:00pm and 5:00pm–7:00pm.

EUR4, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Salis

Modern Cretan cuisine with innovative preparations and local ingredients in Chania’s center.

EUR40, 2h0m

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Day 10: Day Trip to Elafonissi Beach

Chania, Crete, Greece on September 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast at hotel before day trip to famous pink-sand Elafonissi Beach.

Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Travel to Elafonissi Beach

Drive or join a guided tour to reach the stunning Elafonissi Beach (~1.5h one way).

EUR30 (tour), 3h0m (roundtrip travel)

10:00am

Enjoy Elafonissi Beach

Relax on pink sand dunes, swim in turquoise waters, and explore the protected nature reserve.

Free, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch Picnic or Local Tavern

Have a picnic on the beach or eat at nearby local taverns offering fresh Cretan fare.

EUR20, 1h0m

3:30pm

Return to Chania

Head back to Chania for an evening at leisure.

Included in tour, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Well of the Turk

Dine in a cozy tavern offering traditional Cretan and Greek dishes to end your day.

EUR30, 2h0m

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Day 11: Heraklion Return & Leisure

Heraklion, Crete, Greece on September 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast and check out from the hotel in Chania before traveling back east.

Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Travel Chania to Heraklion

Travel back to Heraklion by bus or car, approximately 3 hours.

EUR25, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Paralia Seaside Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxing lunch beside the sea in Heraklion with fresh fish and Cretan specialties.

EUR30, 1h30m

2:30pm

Leisure afternoon or optional visit to Cretaquarium

Spend a relaxing afternoon or visit Cretaquarium (open 9:00am–6:00pm) to explore Mediterranean marine life.

EUR10, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Peskesi

Enjoy one last authentic Cretan dinner at locally renowned Peskesi restaurant.

EUR30, 2h0m

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Day 12: Return to Athens

Athens, Greece on September 24, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast before catching a flight to Athens.

Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Flight from Heraklion to Athens

Flight duration about 1h15m; frequent morning flights available.

EUR50, 1h15m

10:00am

Check-in Hotel and Rest

Check into Athens hotel for some rest and refreshment.

Varies, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bucatini

Enjoy Italian and Greek fusion dishes in central Athens, open daily.

EUR30, 1h30m

2:30pm

Byzantine and Christian Museum

Visit this museum featuring Byzantine art and artifacts, open 9:00am–5:00pm Tuesday to Sunday.

EUR8, 2h0m

5:00pm

Coffee and Pastry at Mokka Specialty Coffee

Recharge at this local favorite spot with quality coffee and light snacks.

EUR8, 1h0m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Orizontes Lycabettus

Dine with stunning panoramic views of Athens from Lycabettus Hill to celebrate your trip’s final night.

EUR50, 2h0m

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Day 13: Athens Leisure & Shopping

Athens, Greece on September 25, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Taf Coffee

Start your day with specialty coffee and local pastries at this hip café in Athens.

EUR12, 1h0m

9:30am

Shopping at Monastiraki Flea Market and Ermou Street

Explore the bustling flea market for souvenirs and stroll Ermou street for fashion shops. Open most days until 8:00pm.

Free, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at The Greco’s Project

Enjoy Mediterranean dishes crafted with local ingredients in a trendy setting near Monastiraki.

EUR25, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at National Garden

Take a peaceful walk or rest in Athens’ central National Garden, free entry and open daily.

Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Kuzina

Enjoy modern Greek cuisine overlooking the Acropolis, a perfect spot to experience classic and contemporary flavors.

EUR35, 2h0m

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Day 14: Delphi Day Trip

Athens, Greece on September 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast before full day trip to Delphi.

Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Guided Day Trip to Delphi

Travel 2.5 hours from Athens to Delphi; explore the Temple of Apollo, Delphi Museum, and scenic mountain views. Trip duration approximately 10 hours total including transportation.

EUR100 (tour), 10h0m