Introduction: Your Dream Greek Getaway Awaits
The first time I set foot on Greek soil, I made the classic rookie mistake: I tried to see everything in just 7 days. I rushed from Athens to Mykonos to Santorini, spending more time on ferries than actually experiencing these magical places. Fast forward to my sixth visit last spring, and I’ve finally mastered the art of crafting the perfect one-week Greek itinerary that balances iconic sights with authentic experiences.
Greece isn’t just a destination; it’s a feeling. The moment that crystallized this for me was sitting in a tiny taverna in Naxos, where the owner insisted I try his mother’s moussaka recipe and then refused payment when he discovered it was my birthday. “Χρόνια πολλά!” (Happy birthday!) he exclaimed, pouring us shots of raki instead. That genuine hospitality—philoxenia as the Greeks call it—is what keeps drawing me back.
This 2025 guide draws from years of trial and error to bring you a realistic, perfectly-paced 7-day Greece itinerary, focusing on the absolute must-sees while leaving room for spontaneous discoveries. I’ll share specific costs, local phrases, and the mistakes I’ve made so you don’t have to. Whether it’s your first time in Greece or your fifth, this guide will help you experience the Greece that tourists often miss.
The Perfect 7-Day Greece Itinerary Overview
After multiple visits and countless conversations with locals, I’ve crafted this itinerary to maximize your time while minimizing stress. Here’s the day-by-day breakdown of what I believe is the ideal first-time Greek adventure:
| Day | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | Athens | Acropolis, Plaka, Ancient Agora |
| 3-5 | Santorini | Oia sunset, Akrotiri, wine tasting |
| 6-7 | Naxos | Old Town, Portara, beaches |
This balanced itinerary gives you the perfect mix of ancient history, Instagram-worthy vistas, and authentic island life without the exhausting daily packing and unpacking that so many travelers fall victim to.
Insider Tip: Many travelers try to squeeze in 3-4 islands in a week. Don’t! You’ll spend half your vacation on ferries and in transit. The two-island approach lets you truly experience each location while still getting that coveted variety.
Days 1-2: Athens – Where Ancient Meets Modern
Athens often gets a bad rap as just a stopover city, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. The Greek capital deserves at least two full days of your itinerary.
Day 1: Ancient Wonders
Start your Greek adventure with the crown jewel: the Acropolis. Get there when it opens at 8 AM (trust me on this one—I once arrived at 11 AM in July and nearly melted on the marble). The morning light on the Parthenon is magical, and you’ll beat both the cruise ship crowds and the punishing midday heat.
After exploring the Acropolis, head to the Acropolis Museum where the surviving treasures are displayed in a stunning modern building. I recommend getting the audio guide (€5) for context that truly brings the artifacts to life.
For lunch, avoid the tourist traps directly below the Acropolis and instead head to the charming Plaka neighborhood. I love Scholarchio on Tripodon Street, where the beef stifado (€12) has been perfected over generations. The owner, Yannis, still uses his grandmother’s recipe!
Spend your afternoon exploring the Ancient Agora, once the heart of Athenian public life. The well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus offers a less crowded alternative to the Parthenon for those perfect vacation photos.
Day 2: Local Athens
On your second day, dive deeper into local Athenian life. Start with a Greek coffee at Tailor Made in Agias Irinis Square, where you can watch Athenians start their day. Try ordering a “metrio” (medium-sweet) for the authentic experience.
From there, walk to the Central Market (Varvakios Agora) on Athinas Street. The sensory overload of fishmongers shouting prices, butchers displaying their wares, and the pungent smell of fresh spices is quintessentially Greek. I once spent two hours here chatting with a spice vendor who gave me his secret blend for the perfect tzatziki (hint: it’s all about the quality of the garlic and a pinch of dill).
- Morning: Visit Syntagma Square to watch the changing of the guard at the Parliament Building (happens hourly)
- Afternoon: Explore the National Archaeological Museum
- Evening: Dinner in Psiri neighborhood, followed by drinks with a view at A for Athens rooftop bar
Athens Money-Saving Tips
- Unified Archaeological Ticket: For €30, you get access to the Acropolis plus six other ancient sites, saving you at least €20 if you visit most of them.
- Athens is a winter bargain: Hotel prices drop by up to 40% from November through March, and you’ll face no lines at the major sites. The weather is still mild (think 50-60°F), perfect for exploring.
- Skip the taxi from the airport: The Athens metro line connects directly to the airport for just €9, compared to €38 for a taxi. The trip takes about the same time (40 minutes) during daytime traffic.
For dinner, head to Klimataria on Theater Square, a taverna that’s been serving classic Greek dishes since 1927. Order the shared mezedes (small plates) for the best value—my favorites are the melitzanosalata (eggplant dip), saganaki (fried cheese), and grilled octopus. A feast for two with house wine costs around €35-40.
Days 3-5: Santorini – Those Iconic Blue Domes
No first trip to Greece is complete without experiencing Santorini’s jaw-dropping caldera views. Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it can be expensive. But there’s simply nothing else like it in the world.
Getting to Santorini
You have two options to reach Santorini from Athens:
- Flight: 45 minutes, typically €60-120 each way (book 3+ months ahead for the best rates)
- Ferry: 5-8 hours depending on the service, €40-80 each way
I typically recommend the morning flight to maximize your time on the island. Ferryhopper is my go-to site for comparing all ferry options, while Skyscanner works best for flights.
Day 3: Fira and the Caldera
After arriving in Santorini, check into your accommodation and head straight to Fira, the island’s main town. Spend your first afternoon simply wandering the charming white-washed streets and getting your first glimpses of the famous caldera views.
For your first Santorini sunset, I recommend avoiding the crowds at Oia and instead heading to Franco’s Bar in Fira. The cocktails are pricey (€15-18), but the unobstructed caldera views without the Oia madness make it worthwhile. Arrive 45 minutes before sunset to secure a good spot.
Money-Saving Tip: Stay in Karterados or Messaria, just 5-10 minutes from Fira by bus, for accommodations that cost 30-40% less than caldera-view hotels while still being conveniently located.
Day 4: Exploring Southern Santorini
On your second day, rent a car or ATV to explore the southern part of the island (ATVs run about €35/day, car rentals start at €50). I prefer the freedom of an ATV for short distances, but a car is better if you’re visiting in early spring or late fall when evenings can get chilly.
Start your morning with a visit to the archaeological site of Akrotiri (€12 entry), Santorini’s answer to Pompeii. This Bronze Age settlement was preserved by the volcanic eruption that shaped the island. Get there at opening time (8:30 AM) to avoid tour groups.
Next, head to the black sand beaches. Perivolos and Perissa form a long stretch of dark volcanic sand with crystal clear waters. Beach chairs with umbrellas typically cost €10-15 for the day, but if you order food or drinks at the beach bars like JoJo on Perivolos, they often waive the fee.
In the afternoon, visit a winery. Santorini produces exceptional white wines from the Assyrtiko grape, grown in the island’s volcanic soil. Venetsanos Winery offers a stunning caldera view with their tasting (€25 for 4 wines), while Boutari offers excellent value (€15 for 5 wines).
Day 5: Oia and Caldera Activities
Dedicate your final Santorini day to the island’s postcard-perfect northern village, Oia. But here’s my hard-earned advice: don’t go for sunset unless you enjoy being crushed by selfie sticks. Instead, visit early in the morning (before 9 AM) when the cruise ship crowds haven’t arrived yet.
Spend the morning photographing those iconic blue domes, whitewashed buildings, and bougainvillea-draped pathways. The most famous viewpoint is by the Byzantine Castle ruins, but for a less crowded spot with equally stunning views, head to the pathway near Aspro restaurant.
For lunch, escape the main pedestrian path and try Pitogyros, where locals get their souvlaki fix. A generous pork or chicken wrap costs €4.50, a fraction of what you’ll pay at the caldera-view restaurants.
In the afternoon, consider one of these unforgettable caldera experiences:
- Catamaran cruise: A 5-hour semi-private cruise with swimming stops, barbecue lunch, and drinks costs €95-120 per person, but it’s worth every euro. I recommend Santorini Sailing for smaller groups.
- Hike from Fira to Oia: This 6-mile (10km) trail offers incredible views the entire way. Start early to avoid the heat, wear proper shoes (I learned this the hard way when my flip-flops broke halfway), and allow 3-4 hours with photo stops.
For your final Santorini dinner, I recommend Metaxi Mas in the village of Exo Gonia. This local favorite serves Santorinian and Cretan specialties at reasonable prices (€35-40 per person with wine). Their fava beans with caramelized onions and caper leaves perfectly showcase the island’s culinary traditions. Reservations are essential!
Days 6-7: Naxos – The Authentic Greek Island Experience
While everyone flocks to Mykonos, savvy travelers head to nearby Naxos for equally stunning beaches, better food, lower prices, and a more authentic Greek island atmosphere. This is my “secret” stop that often becomes travelers’ unexpected highlight.
Getting to Naxos
From Santorini, take a ferry to Naxos (1.5-2 hours, €20-35 depending on the service). I recommend the SeaJets high-speed service for this connection.
Day 6: Naxos Town and Beaches
After arriving at Naxos port, you’ll immediately see the island’s iconic landmark: the Portara (Apollo’s Temple gateway) standing proudly on its little islet. Check into your accommodation—I recommend staying near Naxos Town (Chora) for this short visit—and start exploring.
Spend your first morning wandering through the Castro (old town) area, a medieval Venetian settlement with narrow winding alleys, archways, and hidden courtyards. Unlike the perfectly maintained (sometimes overly so) streets of Santorini, Naxos has an authentic, lived-in charm.
After lunch at Scirocco (try their Naxian potatoes with local cheese—just €7), head to the beaches. Agios Georgios is walking distance from town, but for the full Naxos experience, take the local bus (€2) to Plaka Beach, a stunning 4km stretch of golden sand with crystal clear waters.
Insider Tip: Cedar Beach (Kedros), just past Plaka, is my favorite spot on the island. It’s less developed, with just one taverna and natural shade from cedar trees. Bring a snorkel mask—the rocky outcrop on the southern end teems with fish.
For dinner, return to Naxos Town and visit the Fish Market Tavern (“I Irini”) near the port. This family-run spot serves the freshest seafood at prices 30-40% lower than comparable places in Santorini. Order the catch of the day (priced by weight, usually €45-60/kg) or the excellent seafood kritharoto (orzo with shrimp, €14).
Day 7: Mountain Villages of Naxos
For your final day in Greece, rent a car (about €40) to explore Naxos’ mountainous interior, home to ancient marble quarries, Byzantine churches, and villages that seem frozen in time.
Start with the village of Chalki, once the island’s capital. Stop at the Vallis Citron distillery for a free tasting of kitron, Naxos’ distinctive citrus liqueur made since 1896. Nearby, the Byzantine church of Panagia Drosiani dates back to the 7th century.
Continue to Apeiranthos, a marble-paved mountain village with distinctive architecture and four small museums. The Geological Museum (€3) is particularly interesting, showcasing the island’s rare marble and emery deposits.
On your way back to Naxos Town, stop at a roadside taverna for lunch. These family-run establishments often don’t have menus—just ask what’s cooking today. The lamb with potatoes slow-cooked in a wood-fired oven (“arni me patates sto fourno”) is a local specialty not to be missed.
Naxos Money-Saving Tips
- Local buses: Naxos has an excellent bus network connecting all major beaches and villages for €2-4 per ride, eliminating the need for a car rental every day.
- Picnic lunch: Stop by Naxos Town’s market street (behind the waterfront) where local shops sell amazing cheeses, olives, and fresh bread for a beach picnic that costs a fraction of restaurant prices.
- Free wine tastings: Visit the cooperative winery near Eggares for complimentary tastings of local varieties like Assyrtiko and Mantilaria.
For your final Greek dinner, head to Vasilis in the less touristy Grotta area of Naxos Town. Order mezedes style, sharing multiple small dishes. My perfect last meal in Greece: tzatziki (€4), grilled octopus (€12), Naxos cheese saganaki (€7), Greek salad (€8), and horta (wild greens, €5). Accompany with a carafe of local white wine (€8) and finish with a complimentary shot of kitron liqueur.
Conclusion: Making Your Greek Week Unforgettable
After countless trips to Greece, I’ve learned that the most memorable experiences come not from checking off every possible site, but from slowing down and embracing the Greek way of life. This one-week itinerary gives you the perfect taste of Greece’s diverse offerings—ancient history in Athens, breathtaking scenery in Santorini, and authentic island life in Naxos.
Did I wish I had more time? Absolutely. There’s always more to discover in Greece. But rather than feeling rushed, this itinerary allows you to experience each destination at a pace that lets you actually enjoy the journey.
Your 5-Step Action Plan for 2025
- Book flights 4-6 months in advance – Athens is best accessed through its international airport (ATH), with direct flights from most major European cities and increasing options from the US and Middle East. For 2025, aim to book by January for summer travel to secure the best rates.
- Reserve ferries and island accommodations 2-3 months ahead – This is especially crucial for Santorini in high season (June-September), where the best values sell out quickly.
- Learn 5 basic Greek phrases – A little effort goes a long way! Start with “Καλημέρα” (Good morning), “Ευχαριστώ” (Thank you), “Παρακαλώ” (Please/You’re welcome), “Γεια σας” (Hello), and “Λογαριασμό παρακαλώ” (Check, please).
- Download useful apps before departure – I recommend Ferryhopper for ferry tickets, Moovit for Athens public transport, and Google Translate with Greek downloaded for offline use.
- Pack strategically – Comfortable walking shoes for Athens and Santorini’s cobblestones, modest attire for visiting churches, and a reusable water bottle (tap water is safe in Athens but not recommended on islands).
Remember the most important ingredient for a successful trip to Greece: flexibility. Some of my favorite memories came from unexpected detours—like the time a missed ferry led me to discover a tiny family taverna in Naxos where I was invited to learn how to make proper tzatziki in the kitchen.
Greece will welcome you back time and again, each visit revealing new layers of its endless charm. This one-week itinerary isn’t about seeing everything—it’s about experiencing the true essence of Greece that will have you planning your return before you’ve even left.
Καλό ταξίδι! (Good travels!)
Frequently Asked Questions: One Week in Greece
Is one week enough time for Greece?
One week is enough to get a wonderful taste of Greece, but you need to be strategic. Focus on 2-3 destinations maximum rather than trying to see everything. This itinerary with Athens, Santorini, and Naxos gives you a perfect blend of ancient history, iconic scenery, and authentic island life without exhausting yourself.
When is the best time to visit Greece for one week?
The sweet spots are May-early June and September-early October when you’ll enjoy warm weather (70-85°F/21-29°C), lower crowds, and prices about 20-30% less than peak season. July and August bring intense heat (often 90°F/32°C+), maximum crowds, and premium prices. Winter (November-March) offers tremendous value but many island businesses close, and ferry schedules are limited.
How much does a week in Greece cost in 2025?
For 2025, budget travelers can experience Greece on €90-120 ($100-130) per day including modest accommodations, public transportation, street food and casual tavernas, and basic entrance fees. Mid-range travelers should plan for €150-250 ($165-275) daily, while luxury experiences start at €350+ ($385+) per day. Note that Santorini commands a significant premium over most other destinations.
Should I rent a car in Greece?
In Athens, absolutely not—the metro and tram system is excellent, and traffic is challenging. On Santorini and Naxos, I recommend renting a car or ATV for at least one day to explore beyond the main towns, but it’s not essential every day as both islands have good bus systems connecting major points of interest.
Is it better to book ferries in advance for Greek island hopping?
Yes, especially during high season (June-September) and particularly for popular routes involving Santorini. While you might find availability for next-day travel in shoulder seasons, summer routes can sell out weeks in advance. Ferryhopper makes advance booking easy with e-tickets.
What are common tourist mistakes to avoid in Greece?
The biggest mistakes I see (and have made myself): trying to visit too many islands in a short time; not accounting for potential ferry delays or cancellations; visiting the Acropolis at midday in summer; paying for beach chairs without ordering from the beach bar (many waive the fee with a minimum order); and eating in obviously touristy restaurants (look for where the Greeks are dining!).
How should I handle money in Greece?
Greece uses the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but always carry some cash for smaller businesses, especially in villages. ATMs are plentiful, but many now charge €3-5 per international withdrawal. I recommend withdrawing larger amounts less frequently and using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
What about tipping in Greece?
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in Greece. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common practice. For taxi drivers, rounding up is customary. Tour guides generally expect about €5-10 per person for a group tour. Hotel porters: €1-2 per bag.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Greece?
Tap water is safe to drink in Athens and most mainland areas. On most islands including Santorini and Naxos, locals typically don’t drink the tap water, though it’s generally safe for teeth brushing. Rather than buying endless plastic bottles, consider a reusable bottle with a filter, or buy large 5L jugs for your accommodation.
References and Further Reading
- Greek National Tourism Organization – Official tourism website with updated information on entry requirements and attractions
- Ferryhopper – Comprehensive site for comparing and booking Greek ferry tickets
- This is Athens – The official Athens city guide with events and local recommendations
- Santorini Official Tourism Website – Island-specific information and updates
- Naxos Island Official Website – Details on attractions, beaches, and events
- Culinary Backstreets Athens – Excellent resource for authentic dining experiences
- Kathimerini English Edition – Greek newspaper with English content for current events
- David’s Been Here Greece Guides – Detailed neighborhood guides and video content
- Greece Is – Beautiful magazine-style site with in-depth cultural articles
- Greece Travel by Matt Barrett – One of the most comprehensive independent Greece travel sites
- Greeka – Detailed guides to over 120 Greek destinations
- Athens Social Atlas – Fascinating resource for understanding Athens’ social landscape and neighborhoods