7 Day Greece Itinerary: Combine Athens and the Islands
Planning a 7-day trip to Greece offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history of Athens before basking in the sun on the stunning islands. This itinerary focuses on a balanced blend of cultural exploration and relaxation.
Day 1: Arrival in Athens
Morning:
Arrive at Athens International Airport (ATH) and head to your hotel in the city center. After settling in, kickstart your Greek holiday with a traditional Greek breakfast—try yogurt with honey and nuts, possibly at a local café such as Café Avissinia.
Afternoon:
Explore the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take an audio guide to enhance your visit to the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Spend a good two to three hours here, soaking in the ancient history.
Evening:
Stroll through the historic Plaka district, known for its charming streets and vibrant ambiance. Visit a taverna like Taverna Psaras for dinner, sampling local dishes like moussaka and fresh seafood while enjoying the warm Greek evening.
Day 2: Explore More of Athens
Morning:
Visit the Acropolis Museum, where you’ll find significant artifacts from the Acropolis site itself. Allocate at least two hours to fully appreciate the impressive collections.
Afternoon:
Take a leisurely walk to the Ancient Agora, the heart of ancient Athens, where you can wander among the ruins and visit the well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to stop for lunch at a nearby café, opting for a classic souvlaki.
Evening:
Head to Mount Lycabettus for panoramic views of Athens at sunset. You can either hike up or take the funicular. Afterward, enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant such as Orizontes, which offers breathtaking vistas of the Acropolis illuminated at night.
Day 3: Delos and Mykonos
Morning:
Depart early for a day trip to Delos, a sacred island and birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. Ferries leave from Mykonos and take about 30 minutes. Spend at least three to four hours exploring the ruins, including the Terrace of the Lions and the House of Dionysus.
Afternoon:
Catch the ferry to Mykonos, arriving in time for a leisurely lunch at the Old Port; sample local specialties such as kopanisti (spicy cheese spread). After lunch, relax at one of Mykonos’ famous beaches, like Elia Beach, or explore the charming streets of Mykonos Town.
Evening:
Experience Mykonos’ vibrant nightlife by dining at a beachside restaurant such as Kiki’s Tavern. Try the grilled octopus or fresh fish. Afterward, enjoy a night out in the town’s lively bars or clubs, like Cavo Paradiso, which often features international DJs.
Day 4: Mykonos to Santorini
Morning:
Spend the morning soaking up the sun at another beach or visiting iconic sites like the windmills and Little Venice. Have a light lunch at a local café before boarding your ferry to Santorini.
Afternoon:
Arrive in Santorini and check in to your accommodation. After settling in, head to Akrotiri, the ancient Minoan city preserved under volcanic ash. Spend a couple of hours exploring the site.
Evening:
Enjoy dinner at a cliff-side restaurant in Oia, such as Amoudi Bay. Order their grilled seafood while taking in the mesmerizing views of the caldera at sunset.
Day 5: Discover Santorini
Morning:
Visit the black sand beaches of Kamari or Perissa. Spend the morning swimming in the Aegean waters and relaxing under the sun. Enjoy lunch at a beachside taverna, sampling local Santorini wine.
Afternoon:
Continue your exploration with a visit to a local winery, such as Santo Wines, where you can enjoy a wine tasting paired with artisan cheeses and local delicacies. This is a great way to learn about Santorini’s unique viticulture.
Evening:
Return to Oia for another stunning sunset experience. Afterward, indulge in dinner at 1800, offering gourmet dishes in a romantic setting.
Day 6: Santorini to Naxos
Morning:
Leave Santorini and take a ferry to Naxos, one of the largest, most unspoiled islands in the Cyclades. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and head to the Portara, the temple of Apollo, for some impressive photos.
Afternoon:
Spend your afternoon at Agios Prokopios Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and golden sands. Grab lunch at a nearby beach taverna, selecting fresh seafood or traditional grilled meats.
Evening:
Explore Naxos Town (Chora) in the evening. Stroll through the labyrinth of narrow streets filled with shops and bakeries, tasting local pastries like ‘Kavourmas’—a Naxian sweet. Dine at a local taverna, enjoying classic dishes like Naxian cheese and lamb with lemon.
Day 7: Naxos and Departure
Morning:
On your final day, visit the Temple of Demeter and learn about ancient mythology amidst beautiful countryside views. Take your time enjoying the tranquil rural atmosphere of the island.
Afternoon:
Head back to Naxos Town for a leisurely lunch and perhaps a final swim at the beach. Take time for some last-minute shopping, purchasing handmade goods or olive oil as souvenirs.
Evening:
Catch a ferry back to Athens for your departure flight or extend your stay. If time permits, savor a final dinner in Athens, reminiscing about your adventurous week. Focus on traditional dishes or any favorite flavors discovered during your journey.
Essential Travel Tips
Transportation:
Utilize ferries for island hopping, as they are efficient and scenic. Book your ferry tickets in advance, especially in peak season (June-August). In Athens, use the metro or taxis to navigate the city efficiently.
Accommodation:
Opt for centrally located hotels in Athens and boutique hotels or Airbnb options in the islands for convenience and unique experiences.
Dress Code:
Bring comfortable clothing for daytime exploring, swimwear for beach activities, and a light jacket for evenings, especially in the islands where temperatures can drop at night.
Local Etiquette:
Engage with locals by learning a few Greek phrases, and practice respectful dining etiquette in tavernas. Tipping is customary, so leave a small percentage for good service.
This itinerary provides a splendid mix of history, culture, and relaxation, ensuring that your 7-day journey through Greece is both memorable and enriching.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best 7 day Greece itinerary for first-time visitors?
A perfect 7-day Greece itinerary includes exploring Athens for two days, followed by visiting islands like Mykonos, Santorini, and Naxos for a blend of culture and relaxation.
2. How many Greek islands can I visit in 7 days?
With a well-planned itinerary, you can comfortably visit 2–3 islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, and Naxos without feeling rushed.
3. Is 7 days enough to explore Athens and the islands?
Yes, 7 days is ideal for seeing Athens’ major historical sites and enjoying island experiences like beaches, wine tasting, and charming villages.
4. What is the best way to travel between Greek islands?
Ferries are the most efficient way to island-hop. Book in advance during peak season (June–August) to secure preferred timings.
5. What are the must-visit attractions in Athens for a 7-day trip?
The Acropolis, Acropolis Museum, Plaka, Ancient Agora, and Mount Lycabettus are essential stops during your Athens stay.
6. Which island is better for nightlife during a 7-day Greece trip?
Mykonos is famous for its vibrant nightlife, beach clubs, and party atmosphere with world-class DJs and bars.
7. Which Greek island is best for relaxation in a 7-day itinerary?
Naxos is ideal for relaxation, offering quiet beaches, scenic villages, and delicious local cuisine without the heavy crowds of Santorini or Mykonos.
8. What should I pack for a 7-day Greece vacation?
Pack breathable clothes, swimwear, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a light jacket for cooler island evenings.