10 Days in Greece Itinerary 2025: The Ultimate Island Hopping Route (Athens & Santorini)

Greece is the cradle of Western civilization and home to the world's most beautiful sunsets. Unlike the single-city focus in our Rome Guide, a trip to Greece requires mastering the art of "Island Hopping." You need a strategic online trip planner to coordinate ferry schedules between the ancient ruins of Athens and the white-washed cliffs of the Cyclades. This updated Greece route planner 2025 ensures you see the Acropolis and the Santorini caldera without missing your boat.

Before You Go: Ferry Logistics

The Greek ferry system is vast. Here is what you need to know:

• Book Ahead: In summer, ferries sell out. Book tickets via apps like Ferryhopper.
• The Meltemi Wind: In July/August, strong winds can delay high-speed catamarans. Large ferries (Blue Star) are slower but more stable if you get seasick.
• Strike Action: Public transport strikes happen. Always have a buffer day before your flight home.

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Days 1-3: Athens (Ancient History)

Start your trip in the capital. It is gritty, historical, and vibrant.

Day 1: The Acropolis & Parthenon

Climb the sacred rock early (8:00 AM). Seeing the Parthenon up close is a bucket-list moment. The view over the sprawling white city is incredible. Warning: You must now book a specific entry time slot online; walk-ins are often turned away.

Day 2: Plaka & Ancient Agora

Wander through Plaka, the neighborhood of the gods. It feels like a village with bougainvillea-covered streets. Visit the Ancient Agora to see the Temple of Hephaestus, the best-preserved Greek temple in the world.

Day 3: Monastiraki & Rooftop Bars

Shop for sandals and antiques in the Monastiraki Flea Market. End your day at a rooftop bar (like "A for Athens") to watch the Acropolis light up at night.

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Days 4-6: Mykonos (Windmills & Vibes)

Take a ferry (2.5 hours) to the island of winds.

Day 4: Little Venice

Explore Mykonos Town (Chora). The white maze was designed to confuse pirates, so getting lost is part of the fun. Watch the sunset at the famous Windmills (Kato Mili) overlooking Little Venice.

Day 5: Beach Clubs

Mykonos is famous for its beach life. Head to Scorpios or Nammos for the luxury vibe, or Super Paradise for a party atmosphere.

Day 6: Delos Day Trip

Take a short boat ride to the sacred island of Delos. It is an open-air museum and the mythological birthplace of Apollo. No one is allowed to stay overnight there.

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Days 7-10: Santorini (Romance & Volcanoes)

Take the ferry (2 hours) to the crown jewel. This is the view you see on postcards.

Day 7: Oia Sunset

Stay in Oia (pronounced "Ee-ya") or Fira. Walk the marble streets of Oia and find a spot at the castle ruins 2 hours before sunset. The applause when the sun hits the water is a tradition.

Day 8: Catamaran Cruise

This is the #1 activity in Greece. A Catamaran Cruise takes you into the volcanic caldera. You will swim in hot springs, see the Red Beach, and enjoy a fresh Greek BBQ on board.

Day 9: Hike Fira to Oia

For the active traveler, the 10km hike along the caldera edge offers the best views on the island. It takes 3-4 hours and passes through classic blue-domed churches.

Day 10: Wine Tasting

Santorini wine is unique because the vines grow in baskets on the ground to protect them from wind. Visit Santo Wines for a tasting flight with a view before heading to the airport.

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Greek Food Guide: Fresh & Healthy

1. Gyros: Pita bread filled with pork or chicken, fries, tzatziki, and onions. The ultimate $3 meal.
2. Souvlaki: Grilled meat skewers. Simple and delicious.
3. Greek Salad (Horiatiki): Note: A real Greek salad never has lettuce. Just tomato, cucumber, onion, olives, and a big block of Feta cheese.