Greece Travel Itineraries: From a Weekend to 3 Weeks (Focus on 7, 10 and 14 Days)

Written by Jean-Joseph Rivouchy
Date: 07/31/2026

Greece is one of Europe's richest destinations. With its millennia-old history on the continent and its approximately 6,000 islands and islets scattered across the Aegean Sea and the Ionian Sea, this European country offers an endless variety of possible routes. From the vibrant energy of Athens to the cliff-top monasteries of Meteora, the real challenge isn't finding things to do — it's choosing the right itinerary based on the length of your holiday! From a long weekend in the capital to a three-week road trip, this comprehensive guide will help you plan the trip that's right for you.

💡 Golden rule: In Greece, keep the number of stops to a minimum and take the time to experience each one at a local pace.

Key sections of this guide:

• 🏛️ Long weekend in Athens and day trips
• 🗓️ 7 days in Greece: Athens and the Peloponnese
• 🗺️ 10 days in Greece: itineraries for a first-time visit
• ⛵ 14 days in Greece: a complete land and sea circuit
• 🌍 3 weeks to explore Greece in depth
• 🧳 An itinerary for every type of traveller
• 📝 Entry requirements and practical information before departure
• ❓ FAQ: Itineraries and travel in Greece

Greece: the ideal programme for a long weekend between Athens and Hydra

Three or four days may seem short, but it's more than enough to fall in love with Greece. Athens is the perfect base: direct flights, rich culture, and a unique atmosphere. Add a day trip to the island of Hydra (1h30 by ferry) or to Cape Sounion, and you have the perfect balance between ancient ruins and island charm.

• Day 1: Arrival in Athens and getting your bearings
  Check in at Monastiraki or Plaka. Explore the winding lanes of Anafiotika and have dinner in Thissio with a view of the illuminated Acropolis.
  
• Day 2: From the heights of the ancient city to the streets of Monastiraki
  Head up to the Acropolis at opening time to beat the crowds and the heat. Then make your way down to the flea market at Avissinia Square and the lively Monastiraki neighbourhood, before soaking up the bohemian atmosphere of Psiri over a dinner of traditional mezedes.
  
• Day 3: Island escape to Hydra
  Take the ferry from Piraeus for a car-free day! Stroll through the cobbled lanes, swim in the coves of Vlychos or Bisti, and enjoy a lunch of grilled octopus overlooking the harbour.
  
• Day 4: Last Athenian gems
  Explore the Acropolis Museum to admire the famous Parthenon friezes, then treat yourself to a coffee break and some shopping in the upscale neighbourhood of Kolonaki. If your flight departs in the evening, take the opportunity to head out to the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion.

Our top 5 favourite experiences in Athens and Hydra for a weekend break

1. Rooftop of A for Athens hotel (Monastiraki): a breathtaking view of the Acropolis, perfect at sunset, in a relaxed atmosphere.
   
2. Art café Yiasemi (Plaka): a legendary Athens institution where you can enjoy a freshly made artisan pita with wild herbs alongside a traditional Greek coffee.
   
3. Acropolis Museum: one of the finest archaeological museums in Europe — bright, informative, and the perfect place to make sense of everything you saw at the top of the hill.
   
4. Lycabettus Hill: skip the funicular and take the footpath that winds through pine trees and cacti up to the chapel of Agios Georgios. From the top, the view stretches across all of Attica as far as the Aegean Sea.
   
5. Sunset from the ramparts of Hydra: If you spend the night on the island, settle in on the terrace of the aptly named Sunset bar and watch the sky blaze above the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea.

💙 A local's favourite address: "Sit down at Café Avissinia, on the flea market square, for your first morning coffee. It's the perfect spot to watch the antique dealers unpack their treasures. The atmosphere is just as flavourful as the traditional kafés served there." Nikos, an Athenian by adoption.

What to do in 1 week in Greece? Our 7-day circuit between Athens and the Peloponnese

A week in Greece allows for a genuine discovery, provided you focus on nearby regions. The combination of Athens and the Peloponnese offers the ideal balance: major ancient sites, varied landscapes, and a steady pace without being exhausting. Without criss-crossing the entire country, you still have time to savour each stop.

📌 Logistics: This circuit is a loop departing from Athens, with a rental car to be picked up before day 3 to explore the Peloponnese at your own pace.

• Days 1–2 – Athens: Acropolis, Acropolis Museum, ancient Agora, Plaka and Monastiraki neighbourhoods. Dinner in the streets of Psiri. On the evening of day 2, pick up the rental car.
  
• Days 3–4 – Nafplio and surroundings: base yourself in Nafplio, one of the most beautiful towns in Greece. Day trips to Mycenae (UNESCO site) and the theatre of Epidaurus (legendary acoustics!). Beach and swimming in the Tolo area.
  
• Days 5–6 – Mystras and Monemvasia: head south into the Peloponnese. Visit Mystras, a UNESCO-listed Byzantine city, then Monemvasia, Greece's secret Gibraltar, perched on a monumental rock rising from the waves.
  
• Day 7 – Return to Athens via the Corinth Canal: a panoramic stop at the Corinth Canal — a vertiginous cleft carved through the rock — before returning the car and heading to the airport.

💡 The island alternative: if you prefer the sea to the countryside, opt instead for a combined trip to the Cyclades or the Sporades after your two days in Athens (see our options below).

Must-see activities and sites for a 7-day trip to Greece

• The Acropolis and the Parthenon: the symbol of ancient Greek civilisation, an absolute must — visit early in the morning. Book your tickets online on the official website.
  
• Mycenae: the legendary city of Agamemnon, with its Lion Gate and golden tombs. A site of rare evocative power, 1h30 from Athens.
  
• Nafplio: the first capital of modern Greece. Climb the 999 steps (according to legend) leading up to Palamidi Fortress. The view over the bay and the peninsula makes every step worth it.
  
• Monemvasia: the medieval clifftop city, with its cobbled lanes, Byzantine churches and lookout over the Aegean Sea — a place to be earned (and best savoured off-season).
  
• Mezze and ouzo by the sea: Greece's signature gastronomic experience. A table by the harbour in Nafplio or Tolo, octopus, tarama and a well-chilled glass of ouzo. Ab-so-lute-ly unmissable!

🌟 Did you know? The theatre of Epidaurus, built around 340 BC, has such perfect acoustics that you can hear a coin drop from the very last row. Ancient theatre performances are still held there every summer during the Epidaurus Festival.

What to do in 10 days in Greece? 2 itineraries to choose from, between land and sea

Ten days allow you to discover Greece at an ideal pace. It's the perfect timeframe to combine the history of the capital with the pleasures of the sea. Depending on your preferences, choose our classic circuit to visit the unmissable Cyclades, or go for our wilder alternative through a more unspoilt archipelago.

Option 1: The classic 10-day circuit between Athens and the Cyclades (Paros and Santorini)

📌 Logistics: No car needed for this trip. Getting around means walking in Athens, then taking ferries from island to island departing from Piraeus port.

Stage 1 (Days 1 to 3): Cultural immersion in Athens

Base yourself in the central neighbourhood of Monastiraki. Spend your first day on the must-sees (Acropolis, ancient Agora), then wander through the lanes of Plaka. The following day, discover the alternative neighbourhoods of Psiri and Exarcheia, with their markets and old-school cafés. On day three, visit the National Archaeological Museum — one of the richest in the world — before heading to Piraeus port in the late afternoon to catch the ferry to Paros (3 to 4 hours crossing).

Stage 2 (Days 4–6): Paros and a day trip to Naxos — the authentic heart of the Cyclades

Discover the lively port of Naoussa, a hub for kitesurfing and nightlife, then explore the hilltop village of Lefkes. On a scooter, head to the famous bay of Kolymbithres with its sculpted granite rocks for a swim. Enjoy a unique, laid-back way of life here, far from the crowds of Mykonos! Finally, treat yourself to a day trip to Naxos, reachable in just 30 to 45 minutes by ferry. A picture-postcard setting awaits you, with its endless white-sand beaches like Plaka, its mountain villages (Halki, Apiranthos) and its local specialities, from cheese to kitron liqueur.

Stage 3 (Days 7–10): Santorini, the magic of the caldera

Make your way to Santorini (around 2 hours by ferry). Arriving by boat facing the volcanic cliffs and the perched white villages is an unforgettable experience. Once there, lose yourself in the lanes of Oia in search of the famous blue-domed churches, visit the site of Akrotiri and taste the local white wine (assyrtiko). On day 10, complete your circuit by returning to Athens: the domestic flight (50 min) is strongly recommended to make the most of your time.

💡 A local's tip: "To enjoy Santorini's famous sunset without the suffocating crowds of Oia, head instead to the Akrotiri lighthouse at the southern tip, or settle in on the heights of the hilltop village of Pyrgos. The view is just as spectacular — with the added bonus of peace and quiet!" Eleni, a resident of Santorini.

Option 2: The 10-day alternative in the Sporades — wild, green islands

After starting your stay with 2 days of historical immersion in Athens, leave the capital on the morning of Day 3.

📌 Transport: Take the train from Larissa Station or the bus from Liosion Bus Terminal to reach Volos port (journey time: 3 to 3h30). From there, you'll set sail for a little-known, wooded archipelago bathed in emerald waters.

Stage 1 (Days 3–6): Skopelos, the lush and flavourful green gem

Allow around 2h30 by fast ferry from Volos to reach Skopelos, the famous natural setting of the film Mamma Mia! — a place that has managed to preserve all its authenticity. Explore its harbour-capital with its 123 churches, and the traditional villages of Glossa and Klima. By the sea, enjoy the wild beaches of Stafilos and Hovolo. In the evening, sit down at a local taverna to sample octopus in olive oil and tyropita, the famous sheep's cheese pie.

Stage 2 (Days 7–10): Alonissos, a wild and unspoilt haven

Board the ferry to Alonissos (1 hour from Skopelos). Perched on a hillside, the old village of Chora, restored after the 1965 earthquake, offers a breathtaking panorama over the sea. Hire a small boat to explore the caves and crystal-clear waters, among the cleanest in the Mediterranean.
On day 10, to avoid a long and stressful ferry journey back to the mainland, make your way instead to the neighbouring island of Skiathos by ferry (1h to 1h30). From there, a short domestic flight (35 min) will take you directly to Athens airport for your onward connection.

🌟 Did you know? Alonissos is the only Greek island where you can observe the Mediterranean monk seal in its natural habitat. Fewer than 1,000 of these animals remain in the world, around one hundred of which live in the Sporades Marine Park.

10 days in Greece: 3 experiences you absolutely must include

1. The Varvakios Market in Athens (Athinas Street): in the morning, fishmongers, cheese sellers and grocers bring the central market to life. A genuine dive into Athenian daily life, well off the tourist trail.
   
2. Stay in Imerovigli or Firostefani rather than Oia in Santorini: cheaper and far less crowded, these clifftop villages offer an equally Instagram-worthy panorama — and arguably a far more original one.
   
3. Explore the secret coves of Alonissos: hire a licence-free boat and drop anchor at Agios Dimitrios, Leftos Gialos or the wild bay of Peristera. Savour the absolute silence… The anti-Mykonos.

💡 Our globe-trotter's tip against seasickness: "Do not underestimate the Meltemi, the strong wind that blows across the Aegean Sea in summer. If you are prone to seasickness, opt for large conventional ferries (such as Blue Star Ferries) rather than fast catamarans. More stable, they allow you to get some fresh air on the outer deck — the best remedy against nausea."

A 2-week itinerary in Greece: the "Mainland and Crete" combination over 14 days

These two full weeks allow you to experience an immersive trip, free from any rushed schedule. With Athens as the ideal logistical gateway, this itinerary is structured in two distinct phases: a first week of cultural road tripping on the mainland, followed by a much more relaxed second week dedicated to beaches and exploring Crete.

→ The itinerary: Athens > Delphi > Meteora > Crete.

Stage 1: Cultural road trip from Athens to Meteora (4 to 5 days)

Departing from Athens, head north towards the centre of the country. Stop at Delphi to pay your respects to the Oracle before venturing into the plain of Thessaly, where Meteora rises dramatically from the landscape. These Eastern Orthodox Christian monasteries, perched atop monolithic rocky pillars, offer a breathtaking spectacle at dusk.

💡 The experience not to miss: A hike at sunrise along the ancient monks' trails hidden at the foot of the cliffs, far from the hustle and bustle of tour buses.

📌Logistics tip: For this first week, hiring a car is essential. Getting from Delphi to Meteora by bus is a logistical nightmare of connections. For the return journey to Athens (4 hours), the motorway is modern and smooth. Take the opportunity to stop at the site of Thermopylae or have lunch by the sea at Kamena Vourla.

Stage 2: Cretan villages and relaxation in Western Crete (7 to 8 days)

After your domestic flight (45 min) or overnight ferry from Athens, settle in at Chania to explore its Venetian harbour and historic market. For nature lovers, hike down the spectacular Samaria Gorge all the way to the Libyan Sea, then stroll through the charming villages of Vamos or Loutro (accessible by boat). Finally, unwind in well-deserved leisure mode on the pink sand lagoon of Elafonissi, all to the rhythm of the flavours of Cretan cuisine.

📌Our transport advice for Crete: A car is not essential here. The local bus network (KTEL) is excellent for reaching Elafonissi or Samaria, and boats serve the isolated villages along the southern coast. Only hire a vehicle if you want to explore the hinterland in complete freedom.

The 100% mainland alternative: Epirus and the Zagoria

If you would rather avoid flying or taking a ferry mid-trip, skip Crete after Meteora and head instead towards Epirus. Discover Ioannina, a medieval capital with Ottoman character set on the shores of a lake, which serves as the gateway to the Zagoria. This wild region conceals 46 traditional stone villages linked by bridges from another era. It is the ideal spot for a hidden hiking trail through the vertiginous Vikos Gorge, far from the crowds.

3-week itinerary in Greece: the great road trip off the beaten track

Three weeks is the ultimate opportunity to embrace slow travel and truly discover Greece in depth. This comprehensive itinerary is designed as a framework: you are free to decide how much time you wish to spend in each region according to your own discoveries and preferences. It will take you from the treasures of the North to the wild coastlines of the South.

📌 Logistics: For this grand loop, a hire car is essential from the moment you leave Athens (or after a domestic flight to Thessaloniki). KTEL buses are not suited to connecting such distant regions or to exploring off-the-beaten-track areas. For Kefalonia, ferries easily accommodate vehicles.

Week 1: The cities of Macedonia and the legacy of Alexander the Great

After a stopover in Athens, head north towards Thessaloniki. Greece's second city pulses with energy through its trendy Ladadika neighbourhood, its White Tower and its rich Byzantine and Ottoman heritage. Then take the road to Vergina (Aigai) to admire a unique archaeological treasure: the tomb of Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great.

Week 2: From the mountains of Epirus to the beaches of the Ionian coast

Head west to explore Epirus, its medieval city of Ioannina and the traditional stone villages of the Zagoria. Then make your way down to the coast at Parga, a charming seaside resort with an Italian feel, to enjoy the coves of Sivota. This is the perfect moment to treat yourself to a full-day boat trip to the blue caves of the island of Paxos, just across the water. Finally, take the ferry to the island of Kefalonia to explore the breathtaking beach of Myrtos and the fishing village of Assos.

Week 3: Medieval cities and ancient ruins of the Peloponnese

Disembark at Kyllini port to explore the Peloponnese. This remarkable region deserves time, and two options are available to make your way back to Athens for your return flight:

• The northern option — quick and cultural: head to the ancient site of Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games. Then follow the northern coast via Patras to admire the engineering feat of the Rio-Antirion Bridge, before crossing the famous Corinth Canal.
  
• The southern option — wild and historic: after Olympia, head south towards Kalamata and the rugged Mani peninsula with its fortified tower villages. Then travel east to explore the clifftop rock of Monemvasia and the ancient theatre of Epidaurus, before crossing the Corinth Canal.

💡 A Greece expert's secret itinerary: "In Epirus, forget the main roads. Take the small mountain roads that lead to the villages of Papingo or Vradeto. That is where you will discover the 'Skala of Vradeto', a monumental stone stairway of more than 1,000 steps built in the 18th century into the clifftop. A completely free and utterly deserted architectural marvel." Alexandros, travel photographer.

How to plan a trip around Greece according to your interests?

Greece is a chameleon destination: it suits history enthusiasts just as well as families or travellers without a car. Here are our suggestions for building the trip that is right for you, well away from standardised package tours.

Itinerary for exploring the Greek islands and enjoying the beaches

• The setting: The picture-postcard Cyclades (Milos for its white rocks, Paros for its villages) or the Sporades for a more low-key atmosphere.
  
• The roadmap: choose a maximum of two to three islands over 10 days to avoid spending all your time in transit.
  
• The right pace: one rule only — slow travel. A morning stroll through whitewashed lanes, an afternoon on the beach, and an evening on the terrace of a harbour taverna.

Where to go in Greece for a nature and hiking trip?

The top destinations: the hidden trails on the island of Karpathos, the forests around Lake Plastira, the ridges of the Taygetos mountains in the Peloponnese, or the Alonissos marine reserve.

The best season: spring (May–June) or the shoulder season (September–October). You will hike in mild temperatures and enjoy the national parks well away from the crowds.

Planning: allow 10 to 14 days on the ground. Hire a vehicle to reach remote trailheads with ease, and adopt a suitable pace: a rewarding hike in the cool of the morning, followed by swimming or rest in the afternoon.

How to visit Greece without a car?

The best regions: central Athens combined with an easily accessible archipelago such as the Cyclades (where local buses provide excellent coverage of all beaches and villages).

The logistical secret: use the national bus network (KTEL) on the mainland — it is punctual, affordable and connects all major towns. For island travel, book your ferry tickets in advance during summer through centralised booking apps.

The smart reflex: always choose accommodation within a 15-minute walk of the port or bus station to avoid complicated transfers.

Where to go in Greece on a family holiday with children?

The ideal destination: western Crete or the island of Naxos, renowned for their vast fine-sand beaches, their shallow and safe waters, and their family-friendly facilities.

Keeping children entertained: alternate swimming sessions with fun and educational visits. You can book a specialist guide at ancient sites (such as the Acropolis or Delphi) to bring mythology to life through riddles and stories.

The right pace: limit car journeys to a maximum of 1h30 per day and plan stays of at least 3 nights in the same place to avoid repacking every morning.

Where to go in Greece for nightlife and entertainment?

The top spots: Mykonos and Paros in the Cyclades for internationally renowned beach clubs, Ios for a younger and more laid-back vibe, or the Gazi neighbourhood in Athens to kick off your trip.

The roadmap: focus on a single archipelago. An Athens – Paros – Mykonos combination over 7 to 10 days offers an excellent mix of electronic beach parties, cocktail bars with local DJs, and all-night revelry through the Cycladic lanes.

The best timing: peak season, from late June to late August, when clubs host international DJs. Outside this period (May or October), most nightlife venues on the islands are closed.

Entry requirements and practical information before travelling to Greece: the essential checklist

While you are finalising your itinerary, make sure to check the entry conditions for the country. As Greece is part of the Schengen Area, visa requirements depend on your nationality. You should also make sure to choose appropriate travel insurance. AXA is here to support you before and during your stay.

👉 Consult our resources to complete your preparations:

• The complete travel guide to Greece: find all our practical advice, budget tips and insider secrets.
  
• The official website of the Greek National Tourism Organisation: Visit Greece
  
• Visa for Greece and entry requirements: comply with travel rules and the documents required to enter the Schengen Area.
  
• Schengen travel insurance for Greece: get the mandatory coverage required for your visa and to protect your stay in just 3 clicks.

Why choose AXA for your trip around Greece?

AXA Schengen insurance plans are tailored to all types of stays, whether it is a long weekend in Athens, a road trip on the mainland, or an extended island-hopping journey by ferry.

Our policy meets the official visa requirements and covers you throughout Greece (including Crete, the Cyclades and the Sporades), as well as across the rest of the Schengen Area.
With our assistance available 24/7 and our extensive range of guarantees, you and your loved ones are in safe hands.

Before you pack your bags:

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FAQ: Itinerary and travel in Greece, answers to your questions

How many days do you need to properly visit Greece?

Allow at least 10 days for a first trip. This is the ideal length of time to combine a visit to Athens, exploration of the Peloponnese and a few days of relaxation in the Cyclades. If you are travelling for less than a week, limit yourself to a single region or a single island. Beyond 10 days, you will have the time to discover the full diversity of the country.

Do you need to hire a car to visit Greece?

On the mainland and in Crete, yes: a car remains essential for reaching ancient sites, national parks and remote villages at your own pace. For the smaller islands of the Cyclades or the Sporades, however, a scooter or the local bus network is more than sufficient. If you are travelling between July and August, be sure to book your vehicle several months in advance to avoid shortages.

Is it easy to combine several Greek islands in one trip?

Yes, as long as you are realistic: for a one-week stay, 2 to 3 islands is a comfortable maximum. The Cyclades are the easiest to combine. The Sporades or the Ionian Islands also work very well together. Avoid mixing several different archipelagos on a short trip: connections often require a stop in Athens and can involve long and costly journeys.

What is the best time of year to visit Greece?

The months of May, June, September and October are the most recommended. Temperatures during these months are mild (between 22°C and 28°C), perfect for walking, visiting ancient sites or swimming. By choosing these shoulder-season months, you will avoid the summer crowds and benefit from more favourable accommodation rates, while experiencing a more authentic side of the country.

Can you visit Greece without a car in 10 days?

Yes, it is definitely possible and in fact the ideal option for a circuit combining the capital and the Cyclades. Athens is very easy to explore on foot or by metro, while ferries provide fast connections to the islands. Once there, you can get around easily using local buses, on foot, or by hiring a scooter. For exploring the mainland, the national KTEL bus network is modern, affordable and very reliable for connecting major cities and historical sites.

Is Crete suitable for a short 10-day stay?

Yes, but you will not be able to see it all. At 260 km long with mountainous roads, Crete is a large island! With 10 days, do not try to cover everything: focus exclusively on one half of the island, ideally the western coast (Chania, Rethymno, and the lagoons of Balos or Elafonissi). This is the right amount of time for a well-balanced stay combining beaches and hiking. If you wish to explore the entire island from east to west, plan instead for a full circuit of 14 to 15 days. In either case, hiring a car remains essential.