Greece is a land of ancient ruins, sun-drenched islands, and vibrant Mediterranean culture. This 10-day itinerary blends classical highlights with coastal beauty—perfect for first-time visitors.
Overview
- Day 1-2: Athens
- Day 3: Delphi day trip
- Day 4-5: Santorini
- Day 6-7: Naxos or Paros
- Day 8-9: Mykonos
- Day 10: Return to Athens
Day 1-2: Athens – The Ancient Capital
Highlights: Acropolis, Parthenon, Plaka district, Temple of Zeus, Acropolis Museum.
Transport: Airport to city center via Metro or taxi (~10€, 45 min).
Accommodation: Stay in Plaka or Monastiraki (60–100€/night).
Food: Try souvlaki at Kostas, rooftop dining at 360 Cocktail Bar.
Nightlife: Psiri area – live music, bars; Gazi – clubs and rooftop lounges.
Day 3: Day Trip to Delphi
Why go: A stunning ancient sanctuary set on Mount Parnassus. UNESCO site.
How: Rent a car or take a guided tour (~60–70€). Bus from Liossion Station (~15€ one-way).
Don’t miss: Temple of Apollo, Athena Pronaia, Archaeological Museum.
Day 4-5: Santorini – Cliffside Beauty
Ferry: From Piraeus to Santorini (5 hrs by high-speed, ~40–70€).
Stay: Oia (romantic, scenic) or Fira (central, more affordable).
Things to do:
- Watch sunset in Oia
- Swim at Red Beach or Perissa
- Walk the Fira–Oia trail (~10 km)
- Wine tasting at Santo Wines
Budget tip: Skip expensive cliff hotels; go for guesthouses with terrace views (~70–100€).
Day 6-7: Naxos or Paros – Relaxed Island Vibes
Ferry from Santorini: ~2-3 hours, 25–40€.
Naxos: Best for beaches, hikes, authentic villages.
Paros: Trendier, with better nightlife and boutique charm.
Activities: Beach days (Agios Prokopios, Kolymbithres), explore mountain villages, try windsurfing.
Stay: In Naxos Town or Parikia (~50–90€/night).
Day 8-9: Mykonos – Party & Chic
Ferry: 1–2 hours from Naxos or Paros (~25€).
Vibe: Cosmopolitan, lively, LGBTQ-friendly.
Top spots: Paradise Beach, Super Paradise Beach (clubs), Little Venice, Windmills.
Nightlife: Cavo Paradiso, Skandinavian Bar, gay-friendly JackieO’ Beach Club.
Stay: Avoid Chora if you’re on a budget; try Agios Stefanos or Platis Gialos.
Day 10: Return to Athens
Options:
- Morning flight (45 min, ~50€ if booked early)
- Ferry to Piraeus (~4–5 hours)
Spend the last evening shopping in Ermou Street or dining at a rooftop with Acropolis views.
Tips for Booking
- Ferries: Book through Ferryhopper.
- Accommodation: Check Booking or Airbnb.
- Transport: Island buses are reliable; scooters/ATVs cost 20–30€/day.
Estimated Budget (Mid-range)
- Accommodation: 60–100€/night
- Food: 20–40€/day
- Transport (total): 150–200€
- Total for 10 days: ~1000–1200€
Final Word
This itinerary offers a bit of everything: history, beaches, island life, and city energy. Want more adventure? Extend your trip to Crete or Meteora!
