Greece is never out of the dream trips lists. For the one looking for culture, nature, and/or party – Greece fills everyone’s vacation checklist!
If you’re planning a trip to Greece and want a mix of culture, island vibes, and easy day trips, this itinerary is for you!
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My Experience
I spent one month in Athens in the month of September. From there, I took day trips for nearby islands. There is also plenty of places to explore in the city itself!
I do hope you like feta cheese! If so, this place is paradise. Food here is overall amazing, and I even recommend you do some grocery shop for the most affordable (and delicious) Greek yogurt of your life!
Day 1-3: Athens – The Heart of Ancient Greece
Start your journey in Athens, the capital of Greece. Stay a few days here to get familiar with the local culture, try tons of Greek food, and visit sites with thousands of years of history.
Must-See Cultural Highlights:
- The Acropolis & Parthenon – You can’t visit Athens without seeing this ancient wonder. Get there early to beat the crowds and soak in the view of the city below.
- Acropolis Museum – A modern museum showcasing artifacts from the Acropolis. A must for history lovers!
- Plaka & Anafiotika – The cutest neighborhoods in Athens! Wander through narrow streets filled with pastel houses, tavernas, and hidden staircases.
- Monastiraki Flea Market – The place to find souvenirs, vintage treasures, and street food.
- Lycabettus Hill – If you’re up for a little hike (or a funicular ride), this is the best sunset spot in town.
All these attractions are around the same central area, so if you have the energy you can do all of them in one single day.
If you want to go a bit out of the beaten path, here are my recommendations:
- Hike up to the Kaisariani Monastery for some nature plus historical sites.
- Go for a run or walk in the park that surrounds the Panathenaic Stadium. You will be able to see it from above and also feel like a classic Olympic athlete!
- If you are into art museums, the Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation is my top favorite! Its several floors are filled with works from world class artists like Van Gogh and Pollock.
- The Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion is bit far from the city center, but if you have some extra time it is highly recommended. The sunset is stunning! And you can also pay a visit to the Cape beach, a hidden treasure of the city.
Pro tips
- If you can come in September like I did, try to be in Athens during the European Heritage Days. On that weekend, the entrance to the Acropolis and the museum are free! The crowds are large of course, but it’s like that during most of the high season.
- You can see the Parthenon from almost everywhere in the city. Try to spot it from different angles! It’s kind of magical, to see such a historic mark like it’s everyday.
Day 4: Day Trip to Aegina – Pistachio Heaven
Aegina is just an hour from Athens by ferry and not much touristy. I visited it on a Thursday.
Aegina is known for its pistachios – my tip ir for you invest on a pistachio butter jar, you are not going to regret!
What to Do in Aegina:
- Temple of Aphaia – An ancient temple with great views.
- Aegina Town – Stroll along the harbor lined with pastel buildings and seafood tavernas.
- Monastery of Saint Nektarios – A peaceful and beautiful religious site.
- Pistachio Shopping – You HAVE to try Aegina’s famous pistachios! Grab some pistachio butter, ice cream, or honey.
- Beach Time at Agia Marina – If you want a little beach break, Agia Marina is a great spot.
- Explore the Archaeological Site Palaeochora: with dozens of small historical churches, hiking there also offers great views of the city! It will make you feel like an authentic explorer.
Ferries run frequently back to Athens, so you can head back in the evening.
Day 5: Day Trip to Agistri – A Tiny Island Paradise
Right next to Aegina, Agistri is a small island with pine forests and crystal-clear waters. It’s quieter and more off-the-beaten-path than other islands, making it a dream for nature lovers and travelers with a more “hippie” vibe.
Even being so close to Athens, not even locals come here very often. Best for you: the calm and clear waters here make you feel like you’re in an exclusive pool! Seriously, this place is breathtaking.
What to Do in Agistri:
- Dragonera Beach – A stunning beach with turquoise water and soft sand.
- Chalikiada Beach – If you are more open-minded, you can try this beautiful (but nudist-friendly) beach.
- Skala Village – Cute seaside village with great seafood restaurants
Once there, you can rent a bike or motorcycle to explore the island. Buses are also available and follow a specific timetable – be sure to check it before going
Catch a ferry back to Athens in the evening.
Day 6-9: Island Hopping – Choose Your Vibe
Now it’s time to hit the islands! Here are three options depending on what kind of experience you’re after:
Option 1: Santorini – The Romantic Showstopper
- Best for: Couples, photographers, and luxury travelers.
- Vibe: Iconic sunsets, white-washed houses, blue domes.
- Must-do: Sunset in Oia, wine tasting in Pyrgos, a boat tour around the caldera, and visiting the black sand beaches.
- Where to Stay: Oia for the best views, Fira for nightlife.
Option 2: Mykonos – The Party & Beach Island
- Best for: Nightlife lovers, beach club fans, and social travelers.
- Vibe: Chic, energetic, and glamorous.
- Must-do: Dance at Paradise Beach, explore Little Venice, wander the charming streets of Mykonos Town, and visit the famous windmills.
- Where to Stay: Near Mykonos Town for nightlife or Ornos for a quieter beach stay.
Option 3: Naxos – The Laid-Back Hidden Gem
- Best for: Travelers who want culture, nature, and fewer crowds.
- Vibe: Relaxed, authentic, and scenic.
- Must-do: Hike Mount Zas, visit the Portara (Temple of Apollo ruins), relax on Plaka Beach, and explore cute villages like Halki.
- Where to Stay: Naxos Town for convenience or Agios Prokopios for the best beaches.
Day 10: Back to Athens & Final Explorations
Depending on your ferry or flight schedule, you can either chill in Athens or squeeze in a few last-minute stops. Grab a final Greek coffee, shop for souvenirs in Monastiraki, or visit the National Archaeological Museum if you’re feeling extra cultural.
Final Tips for Your Greece Adventure:
- Ferry Tickets: Book in advance, especially in summer.
- Food You Must Try: Moussaka, souvlaki, spanakopita, feta cheese, and baklava. Don’t put a limit on your Greek yogurt consumption. Pair it with some local honey. If you are on the sweet side, don’t skip a good orange cake – I bought some every week at the supermarket, to cover with some plain yogurt at home and enjoy being in Greece!
- Local Phrases to Know: “Kalimera” (Good morning), “Efharisto” (Thank you), and “Yamas” (Cheers!).
I am sure Greece is a dream destination for you too! If you have a chance to go, enjoy it like you are sipping. Have the best time, and don’t forget to eat all the feta!
Yamas! 🇬🇷
