Greece: The Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary

Planning your summer trip to Greece? Then make sure to check out this 7-day travel itinerary for Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini, with possible add-ons like Milos, Meteora, and Corfu. This post includes all the travel tips you need to know for each destination, including things to do, where to stay, getting around the islands, and more!

I was lucky enough to visit Greece three times in a 12-month period, and during that time, it easily jumped up into my top favorite countries list. (I’ve been to 44 countries on six continents at the time of writing, so you know that means something!)

Yes, parts of Greece can get crowded in the summer. Yes, parts of Greece are touristy and some people seem to only go to some places for Instagram photos.

But, it’s Greece: You’ve got ancient history in Athens. Beautiful whitewashed architecture in the Cyclades. Add on more adventure in mainland Greece with Meteora, or venture out west to Corfu for a Greek/Italian island feel.

The food is delicious and so fresh, the locals are extremely cool and friendly, those who work in hospitality are at the top of their game, and overall Greece is the place to be in Europe in the summer.

Here is my perfect summer itinerary recommendation for a classic trip spending 10 days in Greece.

I’ll include some add-on options at the end if you have more time, or want to swap out any of the below with areas that are a little more off-the-beaten-path!

The Plan

Here is a perfect itinerary to follow for a week in Greece. Note that you can fly out of Santorini to many large cities in Europe, though if you prefer to fly home or continue your travels from Athens, you can fly or take the ferry to Athens and leave from there.

2 nights in Athens
3 nights in Mykonos
2 nights in Santorini
1 night in Athens

Consider adding:

2-3 nights in Milos
a day trip from Athens or 1 night in Meteora (mainland Greece)
2-3 nights in Corfu

Athens

Athens is the capital of Greece and the perfect place to start your summer journey.

VISITING ATHENS: THINGS TO DO

Walk Among Ancient History

As you probably know from history class growing up, Greece played many major roles in ancient history.

Here, you can explore the ancient ruins of the Acropolis and Parthenon. Incredible!

Make sure to visit the Temple of Zeus and all the other ancient sites.

Hiring a local tour guide isn’t a bad idea so you get a refresher and inside knowledge on what you’re seeing!

Stroll or Bike Through the National Gardens

Our group rented bikes in Athens, and biking through the National Gardens was beautiful.

I don’t have any photos of this as I, well, had my hands on the handlebars and couldn’t get my camera out, but I wouldn’t be able to forget this gorgeous part of the city.

Take a stroll or a bike ride through the gardens if you have the time!

Rooftop bars and restaurants

What’s exciting is that since the Acropolis sits atop a massive hill and is lit up at night, you can find views of it from many parts of Athens.

Many hotels, restaurants, and rooftop bars in Athens will have spectacular views of the Acropolis! I stayed on the northern edge of Monastiraki multiple times during trips to Athens and one of my rooms on an upper floor had a perfect balcony view of the Acropolis, as did the hotel’s rooftop restaurant.

Read next: 4 Cool Places to Eat in Athens

Beat the heat and hit the beach along the Athens Riviera

You can get to the beaches along the Athens Riviera in 30-45 minutes from the city center. Amazing!

I wrote about this, too - read my guide to the Athens Riviera.

GETTING AROUND ATHENS

Metro, bus, or taxis are all available in Athens. The traffic can be pretty crazy so I wouldn’t recommend renting a car in most cases since public transportation is easy and readily available.

Uber in Athens: Technically Uber is not available in Athens, however, the Uber app works to reserve a taxi. It essentially works exactly the same as Uber (you can pay with your card on file or use cash), the app tracks the taxi and gives you the driver’s profile information and license plate number, and it quotes a fare range (for example, it’ll quote 8-12 euros and display the fare at the end).

As someone who likes to use Uber to preserve my cash on hand and track my location for safety reasons (especially if I am traveling solo), I love being able to use the Uber app for taxis in Athens.

Outside of Athens, you won’t find Uber or other ridesharing apps in Greece. You’ll have to stick to public transportation or rent a car or scooter! Keep cash on you for taxis or bus rides in other parts of Greece.

Athens International Airport (ATH):

The Athens airport is a very large international airport that has connections all over the world. You can get to or from Athens from Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and I believe even parts of Northern Africa. The Athens airport is about a 45-minute drive from the Athens city center depending on traffic, so be sure to set aside plenty of time if you are taking a taxi.

Getting to the Athens airport via metro:

You can also take the Athens metro directly to the airport on the blue line. Make sure to purchase a metro ticket at the kiosk that is specifically for the airport, or else the turnstile machines won’t let you through.

For example, you can get on the Monastiraki metro blue line toward the airport, or if you are starting at Omonia, then you’ll take the red line for two stops toward Ellikiniko and get off to transfer at Syntagma to take the blue line toward the airport.

I recommend Googling “Athens metro map” and saving an image of it on your phone. You can also take a picture of the map displayed around the metro stations on your phone for easy reference when you’re out and about.

On that note, be very cautious of your phone or expensive belongings on the Athens metro (this applies to any metro station around the world, honestly) - have your bag zipped and be cautious of your pockets when you are buying tickets, on the escalators, in the waiting area, and on the actual metro to avoid pickpockets.

WHERE TO STAY IN ATHENS

Athens is a massive, sprawling city. Most visitors stay near the Acropolis in or near the neighborhoods of Plaka, Monastiraki, and Psiri.

Plaka is the most popular and the streets/pathways are super clean, though it can get very crowded with foreigners in the summer who are staying there or walking around near the Acropolis.

I stayed close to Monastiraki and really liked that area. There was plenty to do, amazing food, and only a short walk or metro ride away from other parts of the city I wanted to visit.

Budget

Selina - I stayed at Selina during multiple visits to Athens! This is one of my favorite Selina properties around the world, partially because of the rooftop bar, friendly staff, and free yoga classes. I always opted for a private room and bathroom (the suite is amazing and super spacious for European standards), but they have dorm rooms as well if you are on more of a budget.

The free WiFi meets the Selina standard of being high-speed and consistent, and they have an attached coworking space you can access as an optional add-on. If you eat at the rooftop bar or cafe downstairs, you can work in those areas easily as well! I made new friends during each of my visits here, plus enjoyed attending the events with DJs on the rooftop and how close it was to walk to Monastiraki Square.

Pella Inn Hostel- This hostel has a good rating (it meets my “must be 8/10 or above” standard) with reviews stating super friendly staff. The rooms and bathrooms look clean, and it’s in a great area! An affordable option if you’re looking to go the hostel route on your trip.

Mid-Range

*The pool at The Stanley is stunning. The other side has a view of the Acropolis!*

The Stanley - I stayed at The Stanley on one of my recent trips to Athens, and it was lovely! The staff was super friendly and knowledgeable about Athens, and the rooftop pool had a nice view of the Acropolis. The rooftop pool is also attached to a restaurant with indoor/outdoor seating, which is nice to have if you’d like an Acropolis view but are visiting in the cooler months. There is also a gym!

The location is right next to the Metax metro stop to get around the city with ease, plus there is a bakery, a bunch of shops, and restaurants basically all next door.

Colors Hotel Athens - This hotel is right by Omonia Square, a popular place to shop, and also one of the main metro stations! I found myself walking through the Omonia area in Athens quite frequently during my visits, either for shopping, going out to eat, or taking the metro. The decor is colorful, modern, and trendy (perfect for the ‘gram), and it’s also pet-friendly!

Voulis Attico Rooms & Apartments - The modern, yet cozy and minimalistic decor from these photos makes me want to move in! With a 9.5/10 rating from over 450+ reviews at the time of writing, there’s no doubt that this hotel is a great mid-range option for your stay in Athens.

Luxury

Belle Epoque Suites - This hotel looks grand and gorgeous! It’s only a few minutes’ walk from Monastiraki Square, one of the main squares in Athens. It’s pet-friendly, has a restaurant on-site, and has an option to take an airport shuttle - conveniences to make your stay that much easier!

Hotel Lozenge - This luxury hotel is right in Kolonaki near many designer shops, but also close to the historic area. Best of both worlds! The front desk staff is available 24 hours per day, which is especially helpful for late-night check-ins or early-morning check-outs. They also offer bike rentals which can be a fun way to explore the city or take a ride through the nearby National Gardens.

Electra Metropolis - With a panoramic rooftop bar featuring views of the Acropolis, plus another restaurant and a cafe lounge, this hotel has it all! The decor looks beautiful and this would be a wonderful place to start a luxury trip in Greece!

Not fully sure what you are looking for? Click here to find other hotels in Athens. I recommend filtering by 8+ rating and also looking via the map to find the best properties in the best location!

Mykonos

Mykonos is the party island of Greece!

I think one of the biggest misconceptions about Mykonos is that it is a relaxing beach getaway. It isn’t. Santorini is relaxing. Mykonos is where you go to party! Think Vegas but with a classy, Greek island feel, or the Tulum beach road without the jungle.

However, Mykonos truly is in its own league and has its own energy and feel. It’s unapologetically extravagant, bougie, beachy, and fun.

The ultra-wealthy vacation in Mykonos, as seen by those who roll up to the beach clubs via helicopter or mega-yacht. You can take a taxi or private transport around the island too if taking a yacht or helicopter are not part your plans ;)

Visually, Mykonos is beautiful. The water and beaches give you the picturesque, sparkling Mediterranean feel, and watching the sunset from Little Venice is stunning.

Since a few days of partying can tire one out, you will probably not want to spend a full week in Mykonos. Most people feel that 2-4 nights in Mykonos is perfect, especially if you are partaking in the party/nightlife scene.

Expenses in Mykonos:

Note that Mykonos is one of the most expensive islands in Greece, if not the most expensive.

Expect to pay around 15-25 euros for a typical meal at a restaurant (think a pasta dish), more for steak and fish, and around 15-30 euros per cocktail (think Aperol Spritz). Renting a cabana area at a beach club (versus standing or hanging out in the general area) might be anywhere from 100 or 200 euros upwards of 500 euros and more, but typically includes a partial or full food and beverage credit.

The hospitality matches how pricey everything is in Mykonos - the hospitality everywhere in Greek tourist destinations is unmatched compared to the rest of the world in my opinion - though Mykonos takes it to another level.

The quality of the food in Mykonos is next-level, too - in fact, almost all of my favorite meals in Greece were in Mykonos!

THINGS TO DO IN MYKONOS

Beach Clubs

There are many beach clubs to choose from in Mykonos. We visited Nammos, Scorpios, and Sant-Anna during our trip.

Nammos was super fun (they have locations in other parts of the world, too) and is known for table dancing. Find my Mykonos Instagram story highlight and tap through to the Nammos videos, including one where a guy went “bowling” with his body through 25,000 euros worth of Veuve champagne! It was a wild experience, to say the least.

Note the music is very loud at Nammos, and that says something for me, because I’ve been to a bunch of music festivals haha. Nammos is not a place for quiet, deep conversation - and it isn’t meant to be.

Scorpios had a really cool vibe. Since we went on a Saturday, the music was by Valeron, a very well-known Greek DJ who plays a style of deep house mixed with traditional Greek instruments. So good!

While these were the beach clubs our group checked out, don’t limit yourself to this short list. Mykonos has plenty of fun and upscale beach clubs to suit any summer party-goer.

The DJs in Mykonos are all very good. Every single beach club, restaurant, and even hotel lounge that had a DJ playing truly did a fantastic job matching the energy of the location and guests.

Windmills

The Cyclades (the group of Greek islands that is home to Mykonos and Santorini) is known for its windmills. Typically no longer in operation, these windmills are a beautiful architectural sight to see.

There are multiple windmills down the way from Little Venice, if you’d like to check them out and take photos. You also get a nice view of Little Venice across the water from this windmill area.

Shopping

You’ll find plenty of clothing boutiques and souvenir stores in Mykonos in the Little Venice area. In the summer, since tons of people are out late after dinner or bars/clubs, many stores stay open, even around 11pm/midnight.

There are also a bunch of premiere designer shops (think Dior and Gucci) in Mykonos. You can find designer shops in Santorini and Athens as well, but the creme-de-la-creme (as in, premier level and amount of options) are in Mykonos.

One plus about buying European designer items if you are not from a European country is that the import taxes are lower than they are in, say, the United States. So if you’re American and typically buy Gucci in the US, even though Gucci is an Italian brand and not Greek, Greece is European and closer to Italy so the taxes are lower. Basically, the total bill will be less in Europe than the same item would be in the US after you do the currency conversion because there are less taxes.

Also, make sure to keep your receipt because you can get a VAT tax refund at the airport if you are not European. If you aren’t sure if your purchase is eligible for a VAT tax refund, ask the store clerk - it typically involves you showing your passport and them stamping the receipt. At the airport, the VAT tax refund counter is usually located before security, so make sure to look out for that and budget extra time at the airport in case there is a long line.

Personally, I bought a GoPro camera with accessories in Athens for about 500 euros and ended up getting 60 euros back from the VAT refund since I am not European. If you’re spending hundreds or thousands on electronics or designer goods, the VAT refund might be worth it!

Dining

*Restaurant with a sunset view in Little Venice*

Mykonos has a bit of a bold and flashy dining scene (especially when the restaurant doubles as a beach club), though there are a number of (somewhat) chill and quaint restaurants on the island, too.

For example, did you know you can get gold foil-wrapped steak and burgers at Nusr-et? (And did you know that this restaurant is owned by the famous salt-sprinkling meme guy?)

The food and dining in Mykonos and next-level. Yes, it’s pricey compared to the rest of Greece, but the quality and customer service both hold up!

I wrote about a few restaurants we liked and tried in Mykonos in this post here.

Quick Tips for Making Restaurant Reservations in Mykonos:

Book dinner reservations in advance, especially if you want a table during sunset that looks out at the sunset! Little Venice is the best place to find restaurants on the west side of the island for sunset, as that is the main town area with plenty of dining options.
Many restaurants will book up in advance, so reserve a table ahead of time, especially if you are traveling with a group.
If you can’t figure out how to reserve a table online, see if they take reservations via WhatsApp (a free texting app everyone uses abroad) or ask your hotel if they can call the restaurant to make a reservation for you.

Water Sports and beach Time

While Little Venice isn’t beachy, there are other parts of the island you can stay at or visit during the day for beach time and water sports!

For example, Super Paradise Beach has water sports you can pay for, such as fly-boarding or jet skiing.

You can also lay out at the beach or rent a chair, but know that most beaches have beach clubs and/or DJs that start playing early, around noon. You probably won’t get a daytime nap in, but you can enjoy the atmosphere and admire the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

GETTING TO MYKONOS FROM ATHENS

The most popular way to get to Mykonos from Athens is by ferry, which will most likely leave from the Piraeus port west of Athens.

The ferry from Athens to Mykonos can take anywhere from 2.5 hours to 4-5 hours or more, depending on the type of ferry you book (how many locations it stops along the way) and the sea conditions (if it is super windy it might take longer or get delayed).

You can also take a ferry to Mykonos from other Greek islands as well, such as Santorini.

Alternatively, you can fly to the Mykonos airport from Athens or directly from other European cities like London, Amsterdam, Madrid, Barcelona, or Paris, to name a few.

GETTING AROUND MYKONOS

Taxis are the easiest way to get around the island of Mykonos, and there is no Uber on the island. Be sure to have cash on hand so you can pay for taxis!

Another option is to take private transport (like a private car with a driver or a small sprinter van if you’re with a group). Ask your hotel what transportation options they are able to arrange and what the cost is.

If you have the means and connections, consider a helicopter or arriving via yacht. Hey, it is Mykonos, after all - this isn’t out of the ordinary!

Walking, especially in Little Venice, is super easy. The small winding roads and alleyways make it a treat to feel fully immersed by walking around the whitewashed architecture associated with the beautiful Cyclades islands.

Transportation during peak season

Taxis can be in high demand during peak summer season, and in Little Venice, there is a taxi stand with a line. Consider your timing in case you need to wait in line.

Alternatively, if you book private transportation (like a car or Mercedes van from your hotel), see if you can get the driver’s WhatsApp number in case you need to change your pickup time.

WHERE TO STAY IN MYKONOS

Stay in Mykonos Town/Little Venice or by the beach?

Little Venice has more of a cliff/wall where the water splashes up (it is named Little Venice since it has a similar feel in terms of the water to Venice, Italy!)
Super Paradise Beach will give you the option to be beach-side. Note that outside the surrounding beach clubs, you will need to call a taxi or reserve private transportation to get to Little Venice or other shops and restaurants. It takes about 20-30 minutes each way to drive from Super Paradise Beach to Little Venice, for example.

Budget

Hotel Milena - This family-run hotel is friendlier on the budget side for Mykonos, and looks really cute! The cafe has a surrounding garden. The location is near a bus stop for easy access to Mykonos Town.

Sing and Blossom Accommodation - Another friendly budget option for Mykonos, that doesn’t sacrifice quality! The flooring inside uses the Cyclades stone pathway style you often think of when you think of Greece. It’s near a grocery store and bus stop to make it easy to get around and have the essentials nearby!

Mid-Range

Super Paradise Suites - This is where I stayed the last time I was in Mykonos! First, the hotel is on Super Paradise Beach (not in Mykonos Town), which I personally loved. Since we were right on the beach, we could simply walk down to the sand or beach clubs, or enjoy the view of the beach from the room or the hotel’s infinity pool.

The hotel was able to easily help us with private transportation to get to and from beach clubs and restaurants in Mykonos Town/Little Venice (it is about a 20-30 minute drive from Little Venice). This gorgeous hotel felt luxury, but the prices were far from outrageous, making this a great option for Mykonos if you prefer to be near the beach!

Bluetopia Suites - What a cute hotel! This hotel is in Little Venice, a perfect location in Mykonos for watching the sunset and also to walk around the town area. The rooms look cozy with plenty of natural sunlight, perfect for a Greece getaway.

Luxury

Cavo Tagoo Mykonos - The ultimate luxury of all luxury in Mykonos, or Greece in general, are the famous Cavo Tagoo hotels. Chances are, you’ve heard rave reviews about Cavo Tagoo, and have seen photos of this gorgeous, award-winning hotel on social media. Most rooms have sea views and some have infinity pools with a cave cut-out to provide shade from the hot Greek sun in the most unique and exquisite way.

Even if it’s out of your budget for your trip, it’s still worth a look - only if just to admire the photos!

Vencia Boutique Hotel - Ohhhkay Vencia, I see your exquisite infinity pool that looks out over the sea. Much more affordable than Cavo Tagoo, but still very much on the luxury side, this hotel is in a great location (only a 10-minute walk to Mykonos Town) and offers bike rentals, too.

Don’t be surprised if you find me here this summer lounging at the pool under an umbrella with an Aperol Spritz in hand. This property looks amazing!

Oniro Suites - This gorgeous, modern hotel is close to Mykonos Town, and some rooms have a beautiful sea view! If you’re looking for modern luxury on one of the most luxurious islands in the world, look no further!

Nimbus My Aktis on Super Paradise Beach - if you’re seeking luxury accommodation near the beach instead of being in Mykonos Town, this is a spectacular option. Some units have sea views, with others also having private pools or hot tubs. Perfect for a honeymoon in a little bit of a quieter part of Mykonos, yet still a close enough drive to spend the day in bustling Little Venice/Mykonos Town.

Not fully sure what you are looking for? Click here to find other hotels in Mykonos. I recommend filtering by 8+ rating and also looking via the map to find the best properties in the best location!

Santorini

Chances are when you think of Greece, you think of Santorini.

The white-washed stone architecture is a beautiful contrast to the dramatic volcanic cliffside views of a navy blue sea. Yes, I said volcano - the island of Santorini was actually formed after a volcanic eruption ages ago in 1600 BC!

Visitors flock to Santorini for honeymoons, engagements, photo opportunities, and group trips. It is the most popular destination in Greece other than Athens and Mykonos, and it can get crowded.

In my personal opinion, you don’t need a ton of time in Santorini, unless you are on a relaxing honeymoon or want a very chill holiday. Santorini is stunning - just gorgeous - but it can be…dare I say it…a little boring. My first visit to Santorini spanned five nights which felt too long; my second visit was for two nights, which felt better.

WiFi in Santorini is not the best, so if you are working online as a digital nomad, I recommend not needing to book Zoom calls or download/upload large files (like big video files) if that applies to your business. Santorini isn’t meant for work! It’s meant for relaxation, vacation, and fun.

It’s a small island and quieter than Athens and Mykonos, but there are still a number of fun things to do. (Just please don’t ride the donkeys or use these poor animals for luggage transfers…!)

THINGS TO DO IN SANTORINI

Santorini is an island known for its stunning views, romantic atmosphere, and white-washed villages. Take a boat tour around the island, explore the hidden beaches, and visit the top of the volcano. Visit the Red Beach, Akrotiri archaeological site, and Amoudi Bay for breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.

Wine Tasting

Santorini is known for its wine, so consider doing a wine tasting!

Be sure to try Assyrtiko, a white wine made from grapes indigenous to the island of Santorini. Assyrtiko wine can be found in other parts of Greece, but it is fun to try it in one of the main growing locations!

Vinsanto is another popular Greek wine from Santorini. It’s a very strong and very sweet dessert wine. Sip it slowly to savor the sweet flavor (and to not accidentally get drunk too fast or by accident…!).

Dining

Try some of the fresh and delicious foods local and specific to Santorini, such as mashed fava beans. And get a Santorini salad to share for the table - it is a spin on the classic Greek salad and pairs well with literally any other Greek food.

I could totally go for a glass of Assyrtiko wine and some feta saganaki with honey (this is lightly fried feta cheese drizzled with Greek honey…trust me and try it, you will not regret it).

There are a bunch of delicious restaurants all along Oia and Thera! If you want a sunset view for dinner, try to book a table in advance (see below).

Sunset in Oia

I’m putting this in here since everyone hypes up watching the sunset in Oia. It’s beautiful! But…it’s incredibly crowded. It’s almost not enjoyable when you are standing in the pathways like you’re in the middle of a concert.

The sunset is worth a watch, but if you are able to swing a table at a restaurant with a nice view instead, I recommend that route if possible for a bit more of an enjoyable experience!

Take Photos in Oia

*Kastro Oia Houses in Santorini, Greece*

Just being honest - Oia is a huge Instagram spot and also a place where many couples get engaged or do couples photoshoots. You will likely see a lot of people stopping to pose for photos in Oia. And who’s to blame them? It’s gorgeous!

Whether you’re posing for the ‘gram or taking photos to cherish your memories for yourself, be sure to snap a few pictures in gorgeous Santorini. I spent an afternoon on my first visit to Santorini taking a bunch of photos and definitely do not regret it! The backdrops truly are stunning.

A quick Google or Pinterest search will have a bunch of blog posts on popular photo spots if you’re curious to find that one picturesque location you saved from Instagram.

Keep in mind that there are locals living in many of these houses or villas along Oia/around the island, however! Please be quiet if you are taking photos near homes and be respectful of the locals (as in, don’t trespass onto someone’s property or rooftop if it isn’t public).

The “Flying Dress” photos are also very popular in Santorini - I think that’s where they originated? (Many photographers do these types of photoshoots around the world.) If that is of any interest, you will probably want to book in advance, especially if you only have a few days in Santorini!

Shopping

You will find plenty of designer shops and small boutiques in both Oia and Fira, as well as souvenir shops. If you have space in your luggage, consider bringing back Greek olive oil - it’s delicious and will for sure up your cooking game back home!

Boat Cruise

One of my favorite things I did on my second visit to Santorini was taking a catamaran boat cruise with our group! It’s a beautiful island and makes the quiet island a little more exciting during the day. You can go for a swim, lay out, and if the company you go with includes it, have some wine and delicious Greek food.

Red Beach

The red beach in Santorini literally looks red due to the volcanic matter and red cliffs behind the beach. This is actually something I haven’t personally done, but is very popular in Santorini!

Locals have recommended wearing proper shoes (instead of flip flops) to get down to the beach to protect your feet. Do a little research before you go, if you go!

GETTING TO SANTORINI

Getting to Santorini from Athens: take the ferry or fly into the Santorini airport (see my ferry tips in the Greece travel tips section below)

Getting to Santorini from Mykonos: take the ferry or fly, though since it’s so short of a distance a ferry is most likely the better option (I believe most or all flights would have to connect via Athens or another city, which would take much longer and be a pain in my opinion)

Getting to Santorini from other parts of Europe: fly into the Santorini airport! Many European cities fly to Santorini outside of Greece, including Rome, Paris, Milan, and others.

WHERE TO STAY IN SANTORINI

You will probably stay in either Oia (pronounced ee-ah) or Fira (also called Thera; Fira and Thera are interchangeable).

Oia will have a few more luxury hotels and shopping and is quieter at night.
Fira/Thera has both luxury hotels and boutique hotels (plus a few hostels, even) and a couple of bars that get packed at night.

Budget

Loizos Stylish Residences - it can be tricky to find a nice accommodation that is on the more affordable side in Santorini (especially in the summer), but this one looks really nice! The location seems perfect for staying in Fira/Thera, as it is right by the famous Caldera/volcano sunset lookout point. The food looks amazing and they also have a pool!

En Plo Boutique Suites - This beautiful property in Oia is also not extremely budget-friendly, but is on the more affordable side for Santorini! This is a beautiful hotel with gorgeous pool/sea views, making it a wonderful option if you want to stay in Oia.

Mid-range

Mare Norstrum Santorini - This pool has an ocean view, and the look of it just screams “Mediterranean Europe in the summer.” It’s situated in Oia, one of the main towns in Santorini known for the famous Santorini sunset.

Hermes Hotel - This hotel is located on the lesser-stayed in part of Santorini, the eastern part of the island at Kamari Beach. It is a beautiful hotel with free breakfast. Santorini is a small island, so if you are renting a car, scooter, or ATV, it’ll be easy to get to Oia or Fira, and taxis and buses are also an option (please be careful with traffic and pedestrians though!). This hotel also has a fitness area, lounge, and in-room massages upon request.

Luxury

Cavo Tagoo Santorini - I already mentioned you can experience the ultimate luxury upon all luxury with Cavo Tagoo in Mykonos, and the same goes for Santorini! The Cavo Tagoo Santorini property looks absolutely stunning. The views of the infinity pool look right out onto the sea and the iconic Santorini sunsets. The rooms include their own private pool or hot tub, perfect for a honeymoon - or any trip to Santorini, honestly!

The location is about halfway between each Oia and Fira, which makes it a little more secluded but also easy to get to both parts of the island. With a 9.6/10 rating at the time of writing, I can’t imagine regretting a stay at Cavo Tagoo Santorini!

Santo Pure Villas and Suites - only a 5-minute walk from the center of Oia, with five pools. Need I say more?

Chic Hotel Santorini - This beautiful boutique hotel is located in Fira/Thera, and has a really fun-looking waterfall that empties into the pool! The hotel is situated on the coastline looking over the sea, and rooms have private balconies.

Not fully sure what you are looking for? Click here to find other hotels in Santorini. I recommend filtering by 8+ rating and also looking via the map to find the best properties in the best location!

Leaving Greece

Be prepared: you’ll probably want to stay in Greece forever. If not forever, at least for a while. Alas, every amazing trip must come to an end at some point, and when that point comes for you, you’ll need to figure out your transportation out of Athens or the islands.

If you are leaving from Santorini, you can take the ferry to Athens or other islands.

Ferry Tips for Greece

Reserve your Greek island ferry ahead of time (they can sell out during peak times)
Note the ferry classes and assigned seating/where your seat is based on your ticket
Get to the port ahead of time to make sure you find the ferry and get settled! Some of the ferries are quite massive and take time to get on/off
Store your luggage on the area below if it is a large ferry, and on the sides/back of the ferry if it is one of the smaller ones
The larger ferries tend to be a smoother ride and also have a snack bar and wifi for purchase (think Santorini to Athens); the smaller ferries might feel rougher if the sea is rough, and may not have a snack bar or WiFi (think Santorini to Milos)
The weather might delay the ferry (it was sunny but very windy the day I left Milos for Athens and the ferry was delayed for about an hour!)

Flying from the Greek Island Airports

Alternatively, you can fly from Santorini to many major European cities, like Paris or Rome. The Santorini airport is tiny and only has a few gates.

Most airline options are the European budget ones (think RyanAir), so if the European budget airlines aren’t your thing, you will either want to book ahead for the most availability, fly the budget airline (not bad at all, you usually just have to pay extra fees for bags and such!), or ferry back to Athens and fly from there.

Looking for Athens airport or metro tips? Scroll up to the Athens section above!

Extend Your Trip in Greece

Want to stay longer in Greece? I don’t blame you! Here are a few amazing places to consider off the typical tourist track of Athens-Mykonos-Santorini.

Milos

Milos, Greece is one of the most up-and-coming islands in the Cyclades. It's small but worth a visit if you love untapped beaches, crazy landscapes, and delicious Greek food.

If you've ever wanted to extend your Greek Island trip here, I highly recommend it! It will definitely become more crowded as time goes on, as many travel bloggers and creators (myself included, tbh) have been blowing it up on social media (you’ve probably seen the famous Sarakiniko Beach all over Instagram!).

Read my guide to spending 48 hours in Milos here.

Corfu

Corfu is an island known for its lush greenery, stunning beaches, and charming villages. Take a boat tour around the island and explore the beaches, caves, and lagoons. Visit the Achilleion Palace and the Old Town for a taste of history, and enjoy the nightlife at Kassiopi and Sidari for a truly unforgettable experience.

Corfu is very much Greece, but it definitely has an Italian feel and I’d even say it almost feels more like an Italian coast destination compared to a Greek destination (though, that’s assuming that all Greek islands are like the Cyclades, which they aren’t)!

Choosing Between Greece and Italy? Consider Corfu for a taste of both!

I get questions often about traveling to Europe, including where to go if you’re short on time. It’s tempting to pack a bunch of countries/destinations into one trip, though if you’re visiting Greece, I recommend at least an entire week in Greece alone.

That said, if you are leaning toward choosing Greece for a summer trip but don’t have time to visit Italy, Corfu is a fantastic option for a couple of nights. The architecture in Old Town Corfu is purely Italian, and there are plenty of Italian restaurants and gelato shops peppered between the delicious Greek tavernas. Many Italians travel to Corfu as well, so you will likely hear people speaking the beautiful Italian language in Corfu. It’s the best of both worlds, and a great alternative if you are craving authentic Italian culture but don’t have time for a full trip to Italy!

If you do have time to visit both Greece and Italy (or other parts of Europe on your trip), I highly recommend it! Europe is packed with so many beautiful countries, each with their own unique culture and experience to be had.

Meteora (Mainland Greece)

Meteora is one of the most impressive areas in Greece. The complex is made up of several monasteries perched atop towering rocky pinnacles and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Take a tour of the monasteries or explore the nearby villages, to get a truly unique Greek experience.

In my opinion, Kalambaka, the small town surrounding Meteora, is quite small and there is not a whole lot to do outside visiting the monasteries or eating at some restaurants. The locals were all incredibly friendly, though I’d only really recommend staying here for a night if you’re taking a tour of Meteora, or doing a day trip from Athens.

Read my article about my day trip to Meteora from Athens here.

In addition to Meteora, you can also venture to other parts of mainland Greece for a unique and authentic travel adventure! Keep in mind that depending on where you go, locals might not speak as much English as they do in the more touristic areas, so Google Translate will be your BFF if that’s the case.

Explore other Greek islands

Greece is home to over 6,000 islands, 227 of which are inhabited. Consider visiting other islands during your trip if you have the time (or save them for a second trip next year!).

Take a look at ferry routes: you’ll notice that the ferries often stop at the islands along the way between major destinations like Mykonos and Santorini. If you are already heading in a particular direction and have the time, maybe consider staying on some other islands.

More Must-Know Travel Tips for Greece

Here are a few more know-before-you-go tips for your trip to Greece.

The islands can get windy

Bring something light to cover your shoulders at night on the islands. It can get pretty windy, even in the summer!

Language

Do you need to speak Greek to get around Greece as a visitor? Most Greeks who work in tourism and hospitality in the main touristic parts of Greece will speak great English, especially Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Milos, Corfu, and other popular islands.

English is the most common second language in the world, and since Greek is mainly only spoken in Greece and Cyprus as a first language, it is very easy to get around knowing English.

Signs and menus often have English translations in tourist locations, and if not, they might have a phonetic translation from the Greek alphabet to the Roman alphabet. (Chances are, if you did Greek Life with your university or studied advanced math, you might be familiar with the appearance and pronunciation of Greek letters!)

That said, it is always smart, helpful, and respectful to learn at least a few basic words or phrases when traveling to any country.

Here are a few quick, common phrases that can be helpful to know and use on your trip (spelled out phonetically in Roman letters instead of Greek letters, and remember to “roll the ‘R’” like you would in Spanish or Italian):

Hello = “YASsas”

Thank you = “EfkarISto”

Please/You’re Welcome (same for both phrases) = “ParakaLO”

Cheers! = “YAmas!”

Water = “NERah”

Cash and ATMs in Greece

Have cash on hand, as some places only take cash, like taxi drivers. There are plenty of ATMs around Greece, but it is nice to have cash. Greece’s currency is the euro, which is helpful if you are coming to Greece from other parts of Europe that also use the euro.

EuroNet ATMs are often called “scam ATMs” due to their sky-high fees. These ATMs are a yellow and blue color and are all around Europe, and are present in Greece. The ATMs work just fine, but you might get hit with a hefty transaction fee (I believe they charge 20-30%) for foreign transactions.

In my experience, a typical ATM in Europe will charge between 2-5 euros for a foreign transaction and then my bank will charge me a $5 USD foreign fee transaction on top of that. It’s not ideal, but much less than the Euronet fees.

Sometimes the ATMs will have a screen that notifies you what the percentage is before you pull cash out. Read the screen! You might be able to save on fees.

It’s also worth noting that it is helpful to take out enough cash to last most or all of your trip at once - though take what you need for each day and keep the rest secured in your hotel safe just in case.

Get Travel insurance for your trip to Greece

It is always smart to get travel insurance before any trip abroad.

I personally pay for and recommend SafetyWing for its extensive coverage for digital nomads, including travel delays or issues, medical coverage, and also coverage for COVID-19 related incidents. I even had a 2-day travel delay last summer and SafetyWing followed through on my claim and reimbursed me for the eligible expenses. Here’s more information about SafetyWing.

I hope this 7-day summer travel itinerary for Greece has given you some ideas for your trip. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, you'll find it in Greece! Enjoy your summer trip exploring the beautiful country of Greece!