1 Week in the Greek Islands - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Discover Athens & the Cyclades

This could be the perfect week-long itinerary, pairing historic Athens with the windmills, sun-soaked beaches, and nightlife of Mykonos, plus the stupendous setting of Santorini.

You'll begin in Athens, making the most of your brief time in the city at such top attractions as the Monastiraki flea market, the sprawling National Museum and, of course, the can't-miss Parthenon. Next day, enjoy a ferry ride to glamorous Mykonos, known for its iconic windmills, jet-set crowds, vibrant art scene, and even more vivacious nightlife.

Upon arrival, spend your afternoon sunning at Agios Sostis beach, windsurfing at Ftelia Beach, or exploring the archaeological site on neighboring Delos—the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. On day three, discover Mykonos' authentic heart on a tour to charming Ano Mera village, including visits to a farm and a monastery, and a stroll through the open-air market. Don’t leave Mykonos without dancing the night away on the boardwalk of Paradise Beach.

Now take the early morning ferry to Santorini, with its classic white-topped cliffs and caldera views. Spend some time after you've settled in to wander the streets of Fira, or take a local hike. Next day is highlighted by a catamaran cruise around the island, with stops at beaches for snorkeling, and swimming in the hot springs at Nea Kameni.

On day six, raise your glass with a vineyard tour to sample Santorini’s award-winning volcanic wines, all accompanied by local cheese and other snacks. For your final night, stake out your sunset viewing platform at the caldera rim out in Oia, then linger in the town's tavernas into the evening. Then say goodbye to Santorini as you transfer to the airport or your ferry for your journey home. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Sample local life on Crete

If you truly want a slice of local life, this week-long itinerary is for you. You’ll wine and dine your way around the island, savoring its quintessential dishes while meeting and mingling with locals at markets, tavernas, and while hiking to ancient villages.

Start with two days exploring Chania, centered on a charming 14th-century harbor. You'll have time to mingle and dine on the waterfront with the locals, and for such spectacular beaches as Falassarna and Elafonissi.

On day two, a guided tour grants an insider’s take as you explore hidden neighborhoods, Cretan taverns, the Minoan ruins of Kydonia, plus the Municipal Market and adjacent garden. Next day is truly a treat—well, many treats—as you head to the time-worn village of Vamos to get a taste for local food production and preparation. A resident cook will teach you some of the island’s secret recipes and help you prepare a feast. Then, drive to Kournas Lake—a popular cooling-off spot for locals—with night at a traditional guesthouse.

Next, mix your sampling of local delicacies and drinks with a hike along ancient pathways linking old stone villages, ending with a traditional meal that includes the classic Cretan dakos salad of goat cheese, tomatoes, olive oil and barley rusk. Nature surrounds you next day with an illuminating visit to the Botanical Park and Gardens of Crete. Back in Chania, you’ll enjoy your evening in the former 16th-century Monastery of Karolos—today a multi-faceted cultural venue and swoon-worthy open-air bar.

On your final sightseeing day, you’ll visit the faded neoclassical mansions, factories and tanneries of Chania’s off-the-beaten-track waterfront Halepa and Tabakaria districts—a photographic spectacle! Spend your final afternoon shopping in Chania. Next day, say goodbye to Crete. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Relaxing Secret Cyclades

This culinary-focused seven-day itinerary lets you relax and indulge on two of the lesser-visited Cyclades islands: Tinos, known for its marble quarries and time-honored basket-weaving; and agriculturally rich neighboring Naxos. Combined with the best of Athens, what’s not to like?

You'll begin in Athens, making the most of your brief time in the city at such top attractions as the Monastiraki flea market, the sprawling National Museum and, of course, the can't-miss Parthenon.

Next day, take an early ferry to Tinos, one of the Cyclades’ most under-the-radar and religiously devout isles. In August, you can witness the Panagia Evangelistria pilgrimage; at any time, there are scores of windmills and dovecotes, plus Venetian ruins, hiking at Exomvourgo mountain, and beaches to suit your mood. On day three you’ll pick fresh ingredients and learn to cook traditional Greek recipes, consumed alfresco with local wines. Your culinary education continues into the evening at local cafés and tavernas.

Then ferry to Naxos. Upon arrival, unwind as you choose. Maybe hike to the summit of Mount Zas… explore the market of Chalki… or visit the temples of Demeter and Apollo. Day five is another foodies’ delight as you explore time-worn villages, sampling and recreating such trademark treats as loukoumades fried donuts, keftedes meatballs, and local kitron liqueur. Next day return to Athens, where you’ll visit the Athenian Riviera and the Temple of Poseidon, including a stellar sunset vista at Cape Sounion, overlooking the Saronic Gulf. This evening, take time to enjoy the legendary Athenian nightlife before departing next day. Learn more.

Itinerary #4: Discover Medieval Rhodes

There are few islands better for culture vultures than Rhodes. This seven-day itinerary provides a compelling insight into the evolution and glories of the largest of the Dodecanese islands in its medieval prime. Add beach time, hiking, and the stellar attractions of Athens, and this itinerary is sure to inspire.

After spending your first day exploring Athens, you'll head to Rhodes, with time to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-designated medieval Old Town of Rhodes, including the Byzantine fortress and Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights, and the site where the Colossus of Rhodes once stood. Day three is for beach time as you explore the eastern half of the island and dine at one of the coastal restaurants, or spend your evening back in town exploring the Street of the Knights in the labyrinthine Rhodes old town.

Then hike a rocky gorge that gives a sublime taste for Rhodes' at its natural best. You’ll wind past olive groves to reach the hilltop Kammiri Monastery before descending though pine forest to the fishing village of Lindos, with its hilltop acropolis. Next day, climb up to the medieval castle of Monolithos, built by the Knights of Saint John, then stop in at the vineyards of Embonas for lunch, followed by the hilltop monastery of Prophete Elias. On day six, return to Athens, where you’ll visit the Athenian Riviera and the Temple of Poseidon, including a stellar sunset vista overlooking the Saronic Gulf. This evening, take time to enjoy the legendary Athenian nightlife before departing next day. Learn more.

Itinerary #5: Explore Zakynthos

Named for one of Zeus’ many offspring, the Ionian Island of Zakynthos is renowned for scenic shipwrecks, ancient stone villages, and beaches where rare loggerhead sea turtles nest. This seven-day itinerary samples the best of the isle.

Start your trip in Athens, making the most of your brief time in the city at such top attractions as the Monastiraki flea market, the sprawling National Museum and, of course, the can't-miss Parthenon. Next day, head to the Peloponnese port of Kyllini port to hop a ferry to Zakynthos. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to visit the church of Agios Dionysos, and walk the restaurant-lined, waterfront Strata Marina to Solomos Square, with its Post-Byzantine Museum and exquisite architecture.

On day three, enjoy a full-day boat ride to Zakynthos's many secluded coves, including postcard-perfect Navagio (or ‘Shipwreck’) Beach, to sun, snorkel, and swim. Ashore, you can photograph the beach from atop Skinari Cape, then tour a winery before returning to Zakynthos town.

Next day explore the island’s hidden corners, including the vista from high in the Vrachionas Mountains and a memorable swim in the bathtub warm turquoise waters of Makris Gialos beach. Plus, you’ll visit such ancient villages as Exo Hora and Gyri for an immersion in time-honored Ionian rural lifestyle. Day five, head to Maries to visit a local vineyard and learn about, and taste, distinctive local varietals.

Then, enjoy a panoramic vista from the hilltop village of Bochali, and perhaps linger over a fine meal with a view. On day six, return to Athens, where you’ll visit the Athenian Riviera and the Temple of Poseidon, including a stellar sunset vista overlooking the Saronic Gulf. This evening, take time to enjoy the legendary Athenian nightlife before departing next day. Learn more.

More Great 7-Day Greece Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your Greece trip? Check out these other 7-day Greece itineraries, ranging from active, to cultural, to luxury, or family-friendly trips.

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