Greece is calling, and one week is all you need to experience the magic of its islands. Sun-soaked beaches, white-washed villages, and food that makes every meal feel special, it’s all waiting for you.
I’ve spent years helping travelers plan Greek island trips that actually work. No rushed schedules. No tourist traps. Just the real Greece that locals know and love. This guide gives you a proven seven-day itinerary that covers the best islands without wearing you out.
You’ll learn which islands to visit, how to get between them, where to stay, and what to skip. I’m sharing the exact route that lets you see crystal-clear waters, ancient ruins, and authentic villages, all in one amazing week. Let’s plan your Greek island trip the right way.
Before You Go: Essential Travel Planning Tips
Your passport needs at least 6 months of validity from your travel date. This is non-negotiable for Greece. Most visitors need a Schengen Visa check your country’s requirements before booking anything.
I always verify travel advisories a month before departure. Regional rules can change. Keep digital copies of all documents in cloud storage. Plan for €120-€180 per person daily if you want mid-range comfort. This covers accommodation, meals, and activities without stress.
- Save money: Book Airbnbs with kitchens and eat at local tavernas. Use buses and ferries instead of private transfers to cut costs significantly.
- Cash is king on smaller islands, though credit cards work in cities. Exchange money at banks or use ATMs for the best rates avoid airport kiosks.
- Pack light: Bring breathable fabrics for hot days and layers for cool evenings. Covered shoulders and long pants for temples, plus swimwear and SPF 50+ for beaches.
- Essential tech items: Portable charger, eSIM for connectivity, and comfortable walking shoes. You’ll take countless photos and walk on many cobblestones.
- Flights save time: Athens to Santorini takes 45 minutes versus 5-8 hours by ferry. Rent a car on larger islands like Milos for freedom, but use buses for the mainland archaeological sites.
Day by Day Detailed Itinerary
This itinerary balances ancient history with island relaxation. I’ve planned each day to avoid burnout while hitting the best spots. You’ll see Athens twice, once at the start, once midway, so nothing feels rushed.
Day 1: Arrive in Athens: Gateway to Ancient Greece
You’ll land at Athens International Airport and head straight to your hotel near Plaka or Monastiraki. These neighborhoods put you within walking distance of everything that matters.
- Acropolis & Parthenon: Buy skip-the-line tickets online and arrive by 8 AM to beat the heat and crowds.
- Acropolis Museum: Plan 90 minutes here with glass floors revealing ancient ruins beneath your feet.
- Psyrri District dinner: Try Kuzina or Seychelles for authentic mezze like tzatziki, grilled octopus, and saganaki.
Bring a hat and water. There’s zero shade on the Acropolis, and by 10 AM, it’s scorching hot.
Day 2: Fly to Santorini: Welcome to the Aegean
Your morning flight takes 45 minutes. Book the left side of the plane for caldera views on approach.
- Oia exploration: Get lost in narrow alleys and stop for freddo espresso at a cliffside cafe.
- Ammoudi Bay sunset: Walk down 300 steps to waterfront restaurants like Sunset Taverna for fresh catch-of-the-day.
- Wine tasting option: Santo Wines offers tours with caldera views for €25-€40 per person.
Reserve sunset tables 2-3 days ahead. Dress resort-chic, clean sandals, and a nice shirt work for dinner.
Day 3: Santorini trip: Catamaran & Coastline
Start with the Fira to Oia hiking trail. This 6-mile walk takes about 3 hours. Leave by 7 AM before the sun gets brutal.
- Catamaran cruise: 5-hour trips cost €80-€120 and include lunch, drinks, and snorkeling gear.
- Red Beach & Hot Springs: Clear deep water for swimming, Hot Springs are lukewarm and smell like sulfur.
- Lolita’s gelato in Oia: Try pistachio flavor while people-watching as sunset crowds gather.
You’re back on land by 5 PM. Add Akrotiri ruins if you like archaeology, otherwise rest before evening plans.
Day 4: Mainland Exploration or Island Hop
This is decision day. Choose cultural Delphi or lively Mykonos based on your energy level and interests.
Option A: Delphi & Arachova (Cultural Route)
Book a private day tour from Athens. You’ll fly from Santorini and drive 2.5 hours northwest to Delphi.
- Temple of Apollo: Plan 2 hours for the site and Archaeological Museum with the famous Charioteer statue.
- Arachova village: Shop for wool blankets, honey, feta cheese, and fresh baklava.
- Pack a jacket: It’s cooler at this elevation and sometimes rainy, even in summer.
Return to Athens by evening. Tours cost €100-€150 per person, including transport, guide, and entry fees.
Day 5: Athens in Depth: History, Food & Fun
You’re back in Athens with a full day to fill. Start at a museum or jump straight to a food tour.
- Museum choice: Pick the Acropolis Museum or the National Archaeological Museum, don’t try both.
- Food tour: 3-4 hour walks cost €60-€80 and include koulouri, loukoumades, and spanakopita tastings.
- Segway tour: Cover 10+ landmarks in two hours for €45-€55.
End with a rooftop dinner overlooking the floodlit Parthenon. GB Roof Garden or Electra Roof Garden requires reservations for window tables.
Day 6: Milos: Untouched Island Paradise
Milos is the anti-Santorini. Fewer tourists, better beaches, and lower prices make this island special.
- Sarakiniko Beach: White volcanic rocks create moon-like landscapes perfect for cliff jumping.
- Tsigrado Beach: Climb down a wooden ladder to reach this tiny sheltered cove.
- Fyriplaka Beach: Colorful rock walls and soft sand with shallow water extending far from shore.
Rent a car immediately. Public transport barely exists here; you need wheels to reach good beaches for €30-€50 per day.
Day 7: Departure via Athens
Your morning flight returns you to Athens. You’ll have 3-4 hours for last-minute shopping before international flights.
- Olive oil: Buy extra virgin, cold-pressed bottles from Aristokratikon or Monastiraki shops.
- Leather sandals: Ancient Greek Sandals or Melissinos Art offer custom sizing.
- Ceramics: Look for blue and white patterns, avoid anything labeled “Made in China.”
Reflect on your week over sidewalk cafe coffee. You’ve done Greece right, mixing famous sites with hidden gems, history with relaxation.
Travel Logistics
Skip July and August unless you love crowds and heat. Those months bring peak tourism and temperatures over 95°F. I always recommend shoulder seasons for mild weather and pleasant experiences. Greece changes fast, so plan accordingly.
- Visit May, June, September, or October for mild weather, smaller crowds, and hotel prices 30-40% lower than peak season.
- Get a local eSIM from Airalo for €10-€2; you’ll need data for maps, reservations, and ferry changes throughout your trip.
- Book Santorini Oia Airbnbs 2-3 months early (from €180/night), or choose Fira for better value (from €120/night); Milos stays cost €65-€70/night in Plaka or Adamas.
Book ferries at least two weeks ahead during high season. Popular routes like Athens to Santorini sell out fast. Always read recent reviews from the last 6 months, photos li, but reviews tell the truth about noise, cleanliness, and location.
Conclusion
One week in Greece is enough to fall in love with the islands. You now have a solid plan that covers the highlights without the stress of cramming too much in.
Santorini’s sunsets, Mykonos’ beaches, and Crete’s history, you know exactly how to fit them together. The ferry schedules work. The timing makes sense. You’re ready to book that trip with confidence.
Start looking at flights and accommodations now. The best time to visit is May through October, but honestly, Greece welcomes you year-round. Have questions about your specific dates or want to adjust the itinerary? Drop a comment below. I’d love to help you fine-tune your plans. Safe travels, and enjoy every moment of your Greek island trip.
Frequently asked questions
Is one week in Greece enough to visit multiple islands?
Yes, one week gives you enough time to visit 2-3 islands comfortably. Focus on nearby islands like Santorini and Mykonos, or stick to one island group. You’ll avoid spending too much time on ferries and actually enjoy each destination.
What’s the best island combination for one week in Greece?
Santorini and Mykonos work perfectly together, connected by a quick ferry. Another great option is Crete plus one smaller island. Choose islands that are close to each other to maximize your time exploring instead of traveling.
How much does one week in Greece cost?
Budget travelers can manage on $700-1,000 per person. Mid-range trips run $1,500-2,500, covering nice hotels, good restaurants, and activities. Flights and summer season prices will increase your total. Book accommodations early to save money.
When is the best time for a one-week Greece trip?
May, June, and September offer perfect weather with fewer crowds. July and August are the hottest and busiest. April and October work too, though some island services may be limited. Avoid winter when many island businesses close.
Do I need to book ferries in advance for one week in Greece?
Yes, especially in summer (July-August). Book ferries 1-2 weeks ahead to secure good times and prices. Spring and fall offer more flexibility, but booking still helps. Check schedules early since some routes only run on certain days.
