The Best Greece Itinerary 7 Days + Map

Visiting Greece has been on our bucket list!? This seven-day itinerary will guide you through breathtaking landscapes, rich history, vibrant nightlife, and fresh seafood. From Athens’ ancient sites to Mykonos’ stunning beaches and Santorini’s iconic views, here’s how to experience the best of Greece itinerary 7 days

This post will guide you on how to spend the perfect week hopping in the Greek Islands. We’ll also go over how to get between islands, what to pack for your trip, and more.

The Best Greece itinerary 7 days in Athens, Milos, and Santorini

Island Hopping in Greece: Your Guide to Paradise

Dreaming of clear waters, whitewashed villages, and stunning sunsets? Greece’s islands have all that and more, each island bringing its own magic to your Mediterranean adventure. Whether you’re looking for romantic getaways, historical explorations, or beach days, there’s an island hopping route for you.

Island Combinations for Every Schedule

For the 7-Day Escapist:

• Santorini + Mykonos: The classic combo that pairs Santorini’s caldera views with Mykonos’s party vibe
• Paros + Santorini: A perfect blend of real Greece and picture postcard views

For Those With More Time:

• The Triple Treat (10 days): Mykonos, Naxos, Paros – party, village life and beaches
• The Grand Tour (14 days): Crete, Santorini, Ios, Athens – history, landscapes and island culture

Getting to Greece

Flying to Greece

Flying to Greece: Most international visitors arrive through Athens International Airport (ATH) but are not forced to take advantage of this option. If you’re already in Europe, you might be able to get direct flights to islands like Santorini; imagine cutting straight to the chase and landing in paradise!

Pro Tip: While ferries from Athens are romantic in theory, consider flying to your first island instead. The many direct flights from Athens to the main isles can save you precious vacation time. Once you’re on the islands, that’s when the ferry system becomes your best friend for island hopping.

Island hopping in the Greek Islands is a classic dilemma: ferry or flight? While the ferry system is the traditional and most used in the Cyclades (including Santorini and Mykonos), it comes with its challenges. Ferries are notorious for delays and last-minute cancellations, which can ruin a well-planned itinerary.

The Greek Ferry System: A Practical Guide to Island Hopping

July and August bring another consideration: the Meltemi. These strong summer winds are regular occurrences in the Greek islands and make sea travel very rough. If you are prone to seasickness or prefer smoother travel, flying between islands might be worth considering.

But it’s not always a straightforward choice. While flying can be more comfortable and reliable, the logistics and costs don’t always add up. Take my recent experience: We flew from Athens to Santorini and then from Milos back to Athens.

But the ferry was the clear winner for the Santorini to Milos’s leg. Flying would have meant returning to Athens first, an unnecessary detour that would have cost time and money.

The ferry from Santorini to Milos was 1 hour 45 minutes and much more practical than the flying option. Note that direct flights between islands are limited; most routes go through Athens. So even the most flight-obsessed island hoppers will find themselves on at least one ferry during their Greek adventure.

Day 0: Travel to Athens + Santorini

You arrive at Athens International Airport, but don’t count this as your first full day; it’s just getting you where you need to be. The smart move? Get on a flight to Santorini instead of hanging around Athens. Several carriers fly the short 45-minute hop. Sky Express, Aegean, and Volotea all do direct flights, and they’re very reasonable at under $110 one way.

Once you land in Santorini, here’s a money-saving tip: skip the expensive airport taxis and book your transfer in advance. You’ll want to head straight to Oia, your base for this stay. If you’re still deciding on accommodations, consider Kaleidoscope Cave Houses. It hits that sweet spot for mid-range travelers, with comfortable rooms and those Santorini views you’ve been dreaming about, all in a perfect location in Oia.

If you get here early enough, you’ll have time to start exploring immediately. The best introduction to Oia? Just wander. The town’s layout is super easy; one main pedestrian street runs through everything. Take your time strolling past the shops, restaurants, and hotels. It’s the perfect way to get your bearings and get those Cycladic feels.

Day 1: Explore Oia & Ammoudi Bay

Welcome to your first full day in Oia, the jewel of Santorini! If you arrived late last night, enjoy a leisurely morning – you’re on Greek time now. Start your day at the charming Melenio cafe, where flaky spanakopita (Greek spinach pies) and rich Greek coffee will fuel you for the adventures ahead.

The morning is yours to discover Oia’s enchanting maze of whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches. Pro tip: Early morning light is perfect for photos, and you’ll beat the crowds that flood in from cruise ships later in the day. Don’t miss the iconic shots of the windmills and the cascading architecture that makes Oia famous.

For your afternoon adventure, pack light but smart: a swimsuit, water shoes (the rocks can be slippery), sunscreen, and a change of clothes. The journey to Ammoudi Bay starts at Oia Castle. Look at the 300 steps winding down the caldera. It’s a workout, but the views are worth every step.

At the bottom, you’ll discover Ammoudi Bay, a tiny fishing harbor that looks like it’s straight out of a postcard. While the bay is stunning at any time, it truly comes alive at sunset, so we’re saving dinner for later.

Follow the path left past Sunset Ammoudi restaurant (don’t worry, you’ll be back here later!). The trail hugs the coastline for about 5 minutes until you reach a small white church. This is your swimming spot – a hidden gem where crystal-clear Aegean waters meet volcanic cliffs. For the adventurous, there’s a famous rock perfect for cliff jumping. If that’s not your style, the swimming alone is incredible.

As the day winds down, clean up and return to Sunset Ammoudi for an unforgettable dinner. Make reservations well in advance during peak season (June-September) – getting a sunset table here is like winning the lottery! Order the fresh catch of the day; the restaurant’s relationships with local fishermen mean you get some of the freshest seafood in the Cyclades.

Day 2: Beaches & Wine + Exploring Beyond Oia

While Oia’s white-washed buildings steal the spotlight, Santorini’s dramatic beaches and renowned wineries offer an entirely different side of the island. Today’s itinerary takes you beyond the famous caldera views to explore the island’s unique volcanic coastline and celebrated wine heritage.

Morning: Beach Hopping

Santorini’s beaches are unlike anything you’ve seen before. Thanks to the island’s volcanic history, striking black and red sand beaches create an otherworldly coastal landscape. The two main black sand beaches, Kamari and Perissa, stretch along the southeastern coast, each offering its own distinct atmosphere.

Kamari Beach combines a sophisticated resort feel with traditional Greek charm. The long promenade lined with restaurants and shops makes it perfect for those who like their beach days with plenty of amenities. Perissa, meanwhile, offers a more laid-back vibe with its beach bars and water sports facilities.

For something truly unique, head to Red Beach near Akrotiri village. The rust-colored cliffs and crimson pebbles contrast sharply against the blue Aegean waters. Reaching the beach requires a short hike, but the dramatic scenery makes it worth the effort.

Getting There: All beaches are easily accessible by public bus from Fira’s central bus station. If you prefer more flexibility, consider renting an ATV or car for the day – it’s a great way to explore the island at your own pace.

Afternoon: Wine Tasting

Santorini’s volcanic soil and unique climate create perfect conditions for winemaking, particularly for the indigenous Assyrtiko grape. While Santo Wines may be the most famous winery, offering spectacular caldera views near the Athinios Ferry Port, several excellent alternatives are worth considering.

Avantis Winery in Fira offers intimate tastings in a modern setting, while Domaine Sigalas near Oia combines excellent wines with a serene vineyard setting. For the best experience, time your visit to catch the sunset – there’s something magical about sipping local wine while watching the sun dip into the Aegean.

Alternative: Cooking with a Local

Not everyone’s ideal afternoon involves wine tasting. For a truly authentic experience, consider joining a cooking class with a local grandmother who shares traditional Santorinian recipes passed down through generations.

You’ll learn to prepare classic dishes using local ingredients while hearing stories about the island’s culinary heritage. This hands-on experience offers insight into Santorini’s food and culture.

Tips for the Day:

• Bring appropriate footwear if you plan to visit Red Beach
• Pack beach essentials: sunscreen, water, and a hat
• Make winery reservations in advance, especially during high season
• Most wineries offer shuttle service if you’re planning to do tastings
• Book cooking classes at least a day ahead

Day 3: Fira to Oia Hike + Sunset Catamaran

How to Spend a Perfect Day in Santorini: From Fira to Oia

Looking for the ultimate day in Santorini that combines adventure, incredible views, and relaxation? Let me walk you through an unforgettable itinerary that takes you from the charming streets of Fira to the iconic sunset views of Oia.

Start Your Day with the Famous Fira to Oia Hike

Rise and shine early for this one! Catch the first bus from Oia to Fira around 7 a.m. Trust me, and the early start is worth avoiding the midday heat. This scenic 6-mile hike offers some of the most spectacular views you’ll find anywhere in the Mediterranean.

About 30 minutes into your journey, you’ll want to stop at Galini Café for breakfast fuel quickly. Then, prepare yourself for a feast for the eyes as you wind your way along the caldera’s edge. The path takes you past stunning cliffside resorts in Fira, Firostefani, and Imerovigli, offering endless photo opportunities.

Pro Tips for the Hike:

• The path is mainly paved, with some gravelly sections
• Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks
• Expect the hike to take 3-5 hours, depending on your pace
• Don’t forget your camera – the views are incredible!

A Local Lunch in Oia

Time your hike right, and you’ll arrive in Oia ready for lunch at Pito Gyros, a hidden gem serving some of the island’s most authentic and delicious Greek food. Try to get there just before noon to beat the crowds. It’s budget-friendly and absolutely delicious—you can thank me later!

Afternoon at Sea: Sunset Catamaran Cruise

After freshening up at your hotel, you’ll be ready for the grand finale: a sunset catamaran cruise departing from Ammoudi Bay around 3 p.m. This popular excursion includes dinner and drinks and offers a unique perspective of Santorini’s famous sunset from the water.

Quick Tip: Don’t forget to pack seasickness medication if you’re prone to motion sickness!

Alternative Options: Not feeling up for the hike? No problem! You could spend the morning:

• Relaxing by a resort pool
• Exploring historical sites
• Shopping in Oia’s charming streets

Day 4: Travel to Milos + Explore the Island

Welcome to Milos. Your next stunning stop is on this Greek Island adventure! After soaking in Santorini’s charm, it’s time to discover this lesser-known Cycladic gem.

Getting here is straightforward. The ferry is your best bet from Santorini. While you might consider flying, there aren’t any direct flights (you’d need to connect through Athens).

The ferry journey is typically cheaper and takes under two hours. Just remember to book your tickets early. The Cyclades route is incredibly popular, especially during peak season!

Do you need a place to call home on Milos? The Artemis Seaside Resort on Paliochori Beach is a hidden treasure. Picture waking up to serene views in beautifully appointed rooms, with attentive staff ready to make your stay memorable.

Pro tip: As soon as you step off the ferry, head to one of the nearby rental agencies to grab a car or ATV. Having your own wheels is practically essential for exploring Milos properly.

If you arrive with daylight to spare, take that opportunity for a scenic drive around the island – it’s the perfect way to get your bearings and start plotting out your adventures!

Here’s a local secret: plan your beach visits strategically. The legendary Tsigrado Beach, with its adventurous ladder descent, is best visited before 11 AM when the crowds are thin and the sun isn’t too intense. Pack water shoes, though – the ladder climb can be tricky, but the secluded cove below is absolutely worth it!

For something truly special, visit Papafragas Cave in the late afternoon. This natural sea cave forms a narrow channel between towering white cliffs, creating what looks like a natural swimming pool. The lighting is perfect for photos at this time, and most tour groups have already left.

Don’t overlook the charming village of Plaka, Milos’s capital! While most visitors just do a quick walk-through, the magic happens after 6 PM when the day-trippers leave.

That’s when local life comes alive – join the evening “volta” (stroll), weaving through whitewashed alleys up to the Plaka Castle. From here, you’ll catch one of the most spectacular sunsets in the Cyclades, with views stretching across the entire island.

For a unique experience, book a traditional mining tour. Milos has a fascinating mining history (it’s where the Venus de Milo was discovered!), and some local guides offer tours of the abandoned sulfur mines at Paliorema. The contrast of rusty mining equipment against the pristine beach creates an eerily beautiful scene.

Food tip: Everyone rushes to the waterfront restaurants, but some of the best meals are found in unlikely places. Try O! Hamos! near Papikinou Beach, it looks unassuming, but its goat dishes and handwritten menu on wooden boards are legendary. Just go early (around 7 PM) or be prepared to wait.

Day 5: Boat Tour around the Island

Today’s adventure takes you on a boat tour around the island’s stunning coastline, revealing perspectives you simply can’t get from land.

A boat tour should be at the absolute top of your Milos must-do list. We chose a tour that circled the island, with the undisputed highlight being the legendary Kleftiko Caves. These dramatic white rock formations rise majestically from the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, hiding a fascinating history within their carved walls.

Fun fact: The caves’ name comes from the Greek word ‘klefti,’ meaning ‘thief’ – a nod to the pirates who once used these natural formations as hideouts! The best tours will weave through the cave network, letting you explore the secret coves and tunnels that made this spot perfect for seafaring outlaws.

If you opt for a half-day tour, the afternoon is yours to unwind. Lounge by your hotel pool or find a quiet spot on one of Milos’s beautiful beaches. As evening approaches, go to the charming port town of Adamantas for dinner.

The waterfront restaurants in Adamantas offer excellent local cuisine and front-row seats to one of the island’s most magical moments: sunset over the harbor. There’s something special about watching the sky paint itself in oranges and pinks while fishing boats bob gently in the golden light. Trust me, it’s worth timing your dinner to catch this show!”

 Day 6: A Perfect Day in Milos: Beaches and Fishing Villages

The Greek island of Milos may be compact, but its treasures are wonderfully spread out across its volcanic landscape. While you could technically traverse the island in a matter of hours, you’ll want to take your time exploring its hidden coves, moon-like beaches, and charming fishing villages. A car or ATV isn’t just recommended here—it’s essential for discovering all the magic this Cycladic gem offers.

Morning: Breakfast in Plaka

Start your day in the enchanting town of Plaka, perched like a white-washed crown on the northwestern hills of Milos. As you approach, you’ll notice something distinctly different about this traditional settlement: no car is in sight. The streets here are so charmingly narrow that vehicles are banned from the central area, leaving you to wander the peaceful cobblestone pathways at your leisure. Keep your camera ready—the maze of winding alleys decorated with iconic blue doors and cascading bougainvillea creates the perfect backdrop for morning photography.

The Hidden Gem of Firopotamos

From Plaka, make your way to what might be Milos’s best-kept secret: Firopotamos. This drowsy fishing hamlet feels frozen in time, with its peaceful bay and traditional boat garages (syrmata) carved into the rocky coastline. While there’s not much here regarding amenities, that’s precisely its charm. Spend some time soaking in the tranquility of the small beach, and if you’re feeling adventurous, there’s a perfect little cliff-jumping spot that locals love—just make sure to check the water depth first!

Lunch: Medusa’s Catch of the Day

When hunger strikes, head to the fishing village of Mandrakia, where the Medusa Café awaits with what might be the best-grilled octopus in the Cyclades. This isn’t just a restaurant recommendation. It’s a must-do Milos experience. The octopus, fresh from the Aegean and prepared to perfection, is their signature dish for good reason.

Afternoon: Walking on the Moon at Sarakiniko

Post-lunch, prepare yourself for something truly otherworldly. Sarakiniko Beach isn’t your typical stretch of sand. It’s more like taking a walk on the moon. The landscape here is simply extraordinary: smooth, white volcanic rock formations have been sculpted by wind and waves into an alien landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth.

Spend your afternoon exploring this natural wonder. If the sea is calm, join the locals in cliff-jumping into the crystal-clear waters below. If you prefer a more relaxed approach, find one of the protected coves for a peaceful swim. The contrast between the stark white rocks and the deep blue Aegean makes for photos that barely need filtering.

Evening Options: Beach Hopping or Dinner in Pollonia

If you still have energy as the day winds down, the northern coast of Milos offers a string of stunning beaches to explore. Alogomandra, Kapros, and the mysterious Papafragas caves each offer their own unique charm. However, if you’re ready to wind down, head to the seaside town of Pollonia for dinner. This charming fishing village has evolved into one of the island’s premier dining destinations, where you can toast to your perfect Milos day with a glass of local wine and fresh seafood as the sun sets over the Aegean.

Day 7: A Perfect Final Day: Why Athens Deserves Your Last 24 Hours

Don’t rush to catch your international flight right after leaving the Greek islands! Here’s why spending your final day in Athens is not only practical but also the perfect way to crown your Greek adventure.

First, let’s talk logistics: Milos’s charming but tiny airport operates with small prop planes that dance to the wind’s whims. A gusty day can ground all flights, making same-day international connections risky. Book an early morning flight to Athens instead. These typically have the best chance of operating as scheduled.

Once you’ve landed in Athens, make this bonus day count. After checking into your hotel, the majestic Acropolis awaits. There’s something poetic about ending your Greek journey at this ancient citadel, where civilization’s foundations were laid. As evening falls, treat yourself to dinner at one of the rooftop restaurants overlooking the illuminated Parthenon. Watch the city lights twinkle below while you savor both your meal and memories of island-hopping adventures.

Consider it your victory lap – a chance to bid farewell to Greece from its historic heart before catching your flight home the next day. Plus, you’ll sleep better knowing no rushed connections or island winds can interfere with your journey home.

Final Thoughts

Greece’s island-hopping adventure perfectly blends ancient history, stunning landscapes, and warm Mediterranean hospitality. After spending a week exploring these jewels of the Aegean, I can confidently say that Greece deserves its reputation as one of Europe’s most enchanting destinations.

Time Management Tips:

• If you have less than 7 days, Focus on Athens plus one island to avoid rushing. This will allow you to truly immerse yourself in both the ancient capital and island life.
• With 7 days: This itinerary gives you a perfect taste of Greek island diversity without feeling too rushed.
• If you have 10+ days, Consider either:
  • Extending your stays on Milos and in Athens for a more relaxed pace
  • Adding another island like Naxos or Paros to your adventure
  • Exploring more mainland sites like Delphi or Meteora

What made this trip truly special wasn’t just the postcard-perfect views or the ancient ruins – it was the incredible warmth of the Greek people. From family-run tavernas to local shop owners, the hospitality we experienced added an unforgettable dimension to our journey.

Pro Planning Tip: Don’t forget to check out the alternative Greece Island Hopping itineraries mentioned at the start of this guide. They’re designed for different travel styles and timeframes to help you craft your perfect Greek adventure.

Remember, island hopping in Greece isn’t just a vacation. It’s an opportunity to experience one of the world’s most beautiful and historically rich regions in all its glory. The memories you’ll make here, from watching sunsets in Santorini to exploring hidden beaches in Milos, will stay with you long after your tan fades.