Planning a 10-day trip to Greece is an exciting journey that offers a combination of history, breathtaking landscapes, delicious food, and vibrant culture. From ancient ruins to crystal-clear beaches, Greece has it all. This detailed guide will help you make the most of your time in Greece, with a step-by-step itinerary that covers everything from flights and accommodations to daily activities, estimated costs, and transportation options.
Day 1: Arrive in Athens
Morning: Your journey begins in Athens, the capital of Greece and home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. If you’re flying from the US or Europe, most flights arrive at Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH) early in the morning. After clearing customs, you can take the Metro (Line 3) from the airport to the city center for around €10 per person, or opt for a taxi, which costs approximately €35 during the day.
Afternoon: Check into your hotel and take some time to freshen up. For a central stay, consider accommodations in areas like Plaka or Syntagma Square. Mid-range hotels will typically cost around €80-120 per night, while luxury options could go up to €200-300 per night.
Evening: Begin your Greek adventure with a leisurely evening stroll through Plaka, Athens’ oldest neighborhood. Enjoy dinner at a local taverna, where a traditional meal, like moussaka and a glass of wine, will cost around €15-20 per person.
Read also: Discover Greece: 10 Must-Visit Cities for an Unforgettable Trip
Day 2: Athens – Exploring Ancient History
Morning: Start your day early with a visit to the Acropolis, the ancient citadel perched above the city. The Acropolis opens at 8 AM, and it’s best to arrive early to avoid the crowds and the midday heat. Tickets for the Acropolis are €20 for adults and €10 for students, with free admission for children under 18.
Afternoon: After exploring the Parthenon and other ancient monuments, head down to the Acropolis Museum, a short walk from the site. The museum offers fascinating insights into ancient Greek civilization. Admission is €10.
Evening: For dinner, head to the Monastiraki district, famous for its lively atmosphere and traditional tavernas. A typical dinner with drinks here will cost around €20-30 per person.
Day 3: Day Trip to Delphi
Morning: On your third day, take a day trip to Delphi, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Located about 2.5 hours from Athens, you can either rent a car (approximately €50-60 per day) or join a guided tour (prices vary from €60-80 per person). Alternatively, buses depart regularly from Athens’ KTEL station for around €20 each way.
Afternoon: Once in Delphi, explore the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theater, and the Delphi Archaeological Museum. Entrance fees for the site and museum are €12 per person.
Evening: Return to Athens in the evening and enjoy a relaxing dinner. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, try a rooftop restaurant with views of the Acropolis. Expect to pay around €30-40 per person for dinner.
Keep reading: Top 8 Museums in Greece You Must Visit
Day 4: Fly to Santorini
Morning: On Day 4, take a morning flight to Santorini, one of Greece’s most famous islands. Flights from Athens to Santorini take about 45 minutes, with prices ranging from €50-100 depending on the season and when you book.
Afternoon: Upon arrival, head to your accommodation in either Fira or Oia. Mid-range hotels on the island range from €120-200 per night, while luxury accommodations with caldera views can exceed €400 per night.
Evening: Spend your evening enjoying Santorini’s famous sunset from Oia. This is one of the most spectacular sights in Greece. For dinner, try a local seafood restaurant, where a meal will cost around €25-35 per person.
Day 5: Explore Santorini’s Beaches and Villages
Morning: After breakfast, head to one of Santorini’s beautiful beaches, such as Kamari or Perissa. You can rent a beach chair and umbrella for about €10-15 for the day.
Afternoon: Explore the island’s traditional villages like Pyrgos and Megalochori. If you’re renting a car, prices start at around €35-40 per day, making it easy to get around the island.
Evening: Head back to Fira for dinner and enjoy the local delicacies, such as fava and fresh fish. Expect to pay around €20-30 per person for dinner.
Day 6: Sailing and Wine Tasting in Santorini
Morning: Santorini is known for its volcanic landscapes and the famous caldera. Consider booking a half-day catamaran cruise, which usually includes swimming, snorkeling, and a meal on board. Prices for these tours range from €90-150 per person, depending on the inclusions.
Afternoon: After your sailing adventure, visit one of Santorini’s many wineries. The island is famous for its Assyrtiko wine. Many wineries offer tasting tours for around €15-20 per person.
Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner at a taverna in Fira or Oia. Meals typically cost around €20-30 per person.
Day 7: Travel to Mykonos
Morning: On Day 7, take a ferry from Santorini to Mykonos. Ferries between the islands take about 2-3 hours, with prices ranging from €30-70 depending on the class of service and season. High-speed ferries are usually more expensive but save time.
Afternoon: Upon arrival in Mykonos, check into your hotel in areas like Mykonos Town or Platis Gialos Beach. Mid-range hotels cost around €100-200 per night, while luxury accommodations can go up to €400 per night.
Evening: Mykonos is known for its vibrant nightlife. Begin your evening with a walk around Mykonos Town and enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant. Expect to pay around €25-35 per person for a meal.
Day 8: Beach Day in Mykonos
Morning: Spend your day relaxing on one of Mykonos’ famous beaches, like Paradise Beach or Super Paradise Beach. Beach clubs often charge around €20-50 for a sunbed and umbrella, depending on the location.
Afternoon: If you’re feeling adventurous, rent an ATV or scooter to explore more remote beaches and hidden coves. Rentals cost around €30-50 per day.
Evening: Enjoy Mykonos’ nightlife, whether at a beach club or a cocktail bar in Mykonos Town. Drinks typically cost around €8-15 each.
Day 9: Return to Athens
Morning: On Day 9, take a ferry or flight back to Athens. Ferry tickets from Mykonos to Athens range from €30-60, and flights are usually around €50-100, depending on availability and season.
Afternoon: Upon arriving in Athens, check into a hotel for your final night in Greece. Spend the afternoon exploring any areas of the city you may have missed, such as the National Archaeological Museum (€10 entry fee) or the Temple of Olympian Zeus (€6 entry fee).
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Greek restaurant in the Psiri or Gazi neighborhood. A three-course meal with drinks will cost around €30-40 per person.
Day 10: Departure from Athens
Morning: On your final day, take some time to enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café and reflect on your incredible trip. Depending on the time of your flight, you can squeeze in a last-minute visit to the Central Market for local souvenirs or take a stroll through the National Garden.
Afternoon: If your flight departs later in the day, plan your transfer to the airport accordingly. The Metro from the city center to the airport takes about 40 minutes and costs €10. Alternatively, a taxi costs around €35-40.
Estimated Budget Breakdown
- Accommodation: €800-1,500 for 9 nights, depending on your choice of mid-range or luxury hotels.
- Food: €400-600 per person, based on average meal costs of €20-30 per day.
- Transport: €200-400, including flights, ferries, and local transportation.
- Attractions and Tours: €300-500, including entrance fees and guided tours.
- Miscellaneous (souvenirs, extra activities): €150-300.
Total Estimated Cost (per person): €2,000-3,500 for a 10-day trip to Greece, covering accommodations, meals, activities, and transportation.
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