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Greece is certainly my favourite nation in Europe. The mix of its fascinating historical historical past, lovely ruins, beautiful seashores, and essentially the most picturesque islands with its white home blue door mixture makes it the final word journey vacation spot.
I’ve traveled extensively all through Greece from the Cyclades islands, Ionian Islands, Athens, the north of Greece and extra so I believe I’m completely match to assist plan the one week Greece journey of your desires.
Greece will not be an enormous nation by land mass however it packs an absolute punch with the quantity of locations to go to. Whether or not you’re a historical past buff desirous to soak within the ancients sights of Athens, or a seaside bum with desires of searing blue seashores, there’s something for everybody. Greece is a magical place and one week is solely not sufficient to see every thing. Nonetheless, I’ll provide help to along with your journey as a lot as I can so you may get the highlights after which begin planning your journey again to this lovely nation!
The place to go in Greece for one week
Once more, one week in Greece is solely not sufficient to see the entire nation so that you’ll need to be strategic with the place you go. For the aim of this itinerary, I’ll give a number of choices of tips on how to plan your journey.
The preferred locations in Greece are within the Cyclades islands. These islands are a few of my favourite locations to journey on this planet. Well-known for his or her well-known and impossibly picturesque white homes with blue window frames, the Cyclades is a should go to for my part.
With a one week itinerary to journey by way of Greece, I might suggest beginning off in Athens after which visiting two Cyclades islands. You don’t wish to rush your journey by way of Greece as a result of it’s all about having fun with your time and going slowly with the Greek method, aka consuming superb meals, sipping on wines with views of the Aegean, exploring the character facet of the islands, and easily stress-free.
My different Greece Posts
I’ve spent in depth time touring by way of Greece so be certain that to learn my different Greece associated posts!
The right way to journey between the islands?
Nicely there is no such thing as a island hopping with out a technique to get between the islands. Fortunately, Greece has one in all its most in depth and serviced ferry system within the Cyclades.
Ferries are the one technique to get between islands. In the summertime months, they run steadily with a number of ferries coming into an island per day. There are a number of corporations to select from which is nice for conserving prices affordable.
Among the hottest islands have airports like Mykonos, Santorini, Milos, Naxos and so on. the place you may fly into from Athens or worldwide locations. Nonetheless, there are not any flight routes (that I do know of) between the islands, so you’ll not discover any flight between Mykonos and Santorini. It is because the distances are so quick that flights don’t make sense in addition to there being an in depth ferry system to cowl this.
Ferries within the Cyclades are usually fairly massive ships and are very snug. I took ten of them so I’ve skilled all various kinds of boats and for essentially the most half, I’m fairly glad. Most ferries begin from Athens and make a route the place they cease at completely different islands. You might be basically hopping on and hopping off relying in your level of origin and vacation spot.
There’s a lot to know concerning the Greek ferry system that I’ve written a complete publish devoted to this matter. Be certain that to learn that so you recognize what to anticipate whenever you arrive!
Is one week sufficient time to go to Greece?
One week, or 7 days in Greece (or 8 days in Greece when you’re fortunate) is a good period of time to see some issues in Greece. Nonetheless, there may be merely method an excessive amount of to see in Greece so that you can see a lot. I spent two months touring the Cyclades islands alone and that is only one group of islands amongst many!
With one week in Greece, I might suggest conserving it easy and selecting just a few islands together with Athens. I’m an enormous proponent of visiting the capital metropolis of Greece however I do know that wish to skip the large metropolis and go straight for the islands. My rule of thumb is to spend 3-4 days per island simply so you may have ample time to discover and loosen up. 2 days is just too rushed and simply the logistics of stepping into an island by ferry will eat up your free time.
Subsequently, if you’re combining with Athens, then solely select two islands. In any other case, three islands may work.
Alternatively, you could possibly additionally spend per week touring by way of the north of Greece. This itinerary would begin in Thessaloniki and go to the extremely picturesque Meteora which you’ve certainly seen dreamy footage of.
One week in Greece – Day 1-2: Athens
The traditional capital of Greece is the primary cease on the 1 week Greece itinerary. It’s seemingly you’ll fly into Athens and it will be a complete disgrace to skip the town when you’re already right here. The town will not be solely chalk stuffed with well-known historic sights however it’s simply a tremendous metropolis with so many superb eating places and bars. I might suggest no less than 2-3 nights in Athens to get the correct expertise.
For an inventory of every thing to do in Athens, be certain that to learn my What to do in Athens information. Here’s a abstract of some of the highest highlights you have to do whilst you’re in Athens!
- Acropolis
- Acropolis Museum
- Historical Roman Agora
- Hadrian’s Arch
- Temple of Zeus
- Nationwide Historical past Museum
- Lycabettus Hill
- Stroll round Monastiraki
- Temple of Poseiden day journey
Acropolis
No doubt, the principle sight of curiosity in Athens would be the Acropolis. This is among the unique seven wonders of the world and is among the most nicely preserved historical Greek monuments on this planet.
The title Acropolis is Greek for the best level within the metropolis (Akro means excessive, and polis means metropolis). Primarily, each city in Greece has an Acropolis as a result of it’s simply the best level within the city however after all Athens is a little more well-known than that.
The Acropolis consists of the Parthenon which is the enduring historical Greek temple that’s just about the one image mandatory to explain Greece, numerous different temples, and theaters. It’s very spectacular and can examine off all of the containers on your Historical Greek repair. Nonetheless, ultimately, I’d nonetheless say the Pyramids of Giza had been rather more spectacular.
You may spend a whole lot of time right here relying on how into the historical past you might be however usually I believe 1-2 hours is sufficient. In the course of the summers, you may anticipate a big crowd always of the day. One of the best ways to keep away from the crowds is to come back right here within the very early morning or keep till it closes.
It’s exhausting to take a nasty picture right here so shoot away!
Admission Value: €20 in the summertime months, €10 between Nov and Apr
Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday From 8am to 8pm
*You should purchase the Athens Go for €30 which is able to let you go to quite a few sights in Athens together with the Acropolis. Positively value it when you plan to do most issues.
Roman Agora
The Agora, whereas not within the Acropolis, is a should go to sight as nicely. It’s essentially the most nicely preserved Historical Greek temple in all of Greece. After seeing the Acropolis which is sort of half gone, the Agora supplied a glimpse of what these buildings seemed like totally standing.
The Agora, translating to “a spot of gathering”, was as soon as dotted with statues, outlets, markets, faculties and it was the place Socrates used to lecture his younger disciples.
The entire advanced solely takes about 20 minutes to see however is nicely definitely worth the go to particularly when you’ve bought the Athens Go.
Go to the Plaka and Anafiotika
Essentially the most distinctive a part of Athens needs to be the Anafiotika neighborhood. This neighborhood is situated proper on the base of the Acropolis with excellent views over the town. It options homes constructed within the conventional Cycladic fashion that you just’ll discover on lovely islands like Mykonos and Santorini.
I like the Cyclades and every thing concerning the islands so what a shock it was once I may discover the enduring white stone homes in the midst of Athens! Within the early nineteenth century, King Othon employed one of the best builders from Greece to refurbish his palace. These builders got here from the Cyclades and from the island of Anafi (therefore the title). The king let the builders keep at gifted them land close by to the Acropolis the place they construct houses for his or her households within the conventional fashion.
You could find the neighborhood excessive up within the Plaka district of Athens and it’s the proper place for some good picture alternatives. You’ll need to stroll by way of Plaka to get to the Anafiotika neighborhood. Alongside the best way, cease for a fast espresso on the idyllic steps of the Plaka at Klepsýdra or Dióskouroi and soak within the Athens air.
Take pleasure in rooftop drinks with views of the Acropolis
For golden hour, head to one of many many rooftops in Athens with lovely views of the Acropolis. That is one in all my favourite issues to do in Athens as I believe the view is completely lovely.
The very best bars to do that are A For Athens and Couleur Locale. Each bars serve nice drinks with a laid again vibe searching on the Acropolis.
Dinner within the metropolis
Lastly, to finish an ideal day, get pleasure from a scrumptious dinner of Greek meals out within the metropolis. There are numerous Greek eating places in Athens starting from native however vibrant eating places to upscale and fancy. Monastiraki and Psyri have limitless restaurant choices so that you can select from.
Head over to a spot like Lithos Taverna, Bandiera, or Maiandros and feast away. Greek meals is understood for its recent substances, beneficiant parts, and scrumptious flavors. It’s very simple to overdo it since you wish to attempt every thing.
In case you nonetheless have power after dinner, go get pleasure from a cocktail at one of many world ranked cocktail bars at locations like Baba Au Rum or the Clumsies!
Odeon Theatre Present
If you’re visiting in the summertime, be certain that to e-book a present on the Odeon Amphitheatre which was one in all my favourite issues in Athens.
Free Strolling Tour
I’m an enormous fan of free strolling excursions in cities and Athens isn’t any completely different. The free strolling tour I did right here was extremely informative and I realized issues that I undoubtedly wouldn’t have realized if I hadn’t gone.
We walked by all the principle sights and received numerous tales from the information about Greek tradition, historical past, and meals. We even visited a neighborhood adjoining to the Acropolis that may be a little mini Cyclades throughout the metropolis. I had no thought this existed however actually it felt like I used to be strolling by way of a village in Milos. It is because builders from the Cyclades had been recognized to be one of the best and had been introduced in to assemble a whole lot of the official buildings again within the day. They settled close to to the Acropolis and had been allowed to construct in no matter trend they needed.
Olympic Stadium
I had completely forgotten Athens was the house for the 2004 Olympics (and naturally the unique Olympics). They constructed this large stadium modeled within the conventional sense for the opening and shutting ceremonies in 2004.
It has since been largely unused and only a relic from that these video games. I’m unsure why they wouldn’t use such a gorgeous construction however I assume it’s the identical motive they don’t wish to reconstruct any of the Historical buildings?
Nonetheless, it’s largely only a large stadium in the midst of the town these days that vacationers can go to. It’s €5 for the doorway payment and you’ll stroll across the stadium to your need. There weren’t many guests in any respect throughout the occasions I visited so you may wager on taking some unbelievable pictures.
Mount Lycabettus
Don’t miss a go to to Mount Lycabettus which is the final word sundown spot for my part. It’s close to to the town heart and may simply be reached by foot or taxi. You may both take a cable automobile from the doorway for €5 or stroll your self to the height. From the doorway of the cable automobile, it’s only about 200m to the highest and isn’t a troublesome hike.
The views listed here are merely beautiful as you may actually grasp simply how huge of a metropolis Athens is. You may even see the Mediterranean from the perspective.
There’s a cafe and restaurant right here the place you should purchase cocktails to benefit from the view. The restaurant may be very costly however might be value it when you’re eager for some good views!
One Week in Greece – Day 2-5: Mykonos Island
From Athens, I flew to Mykonos the place I spent the subsequent three nights. Mykonos might be the second most visited island after Santorini and is legendary for its lovely Chora (the principle city) and its seaside golf equipment. With one week in Greece, it is a nice island choice to start out your Cyclades adventures.
Mykonos felt just like the gathering place of the European Jersey Shore crowd combined with all of the semi-pro influencers yow will discover. Most occasions it felt like folks had been going that additional step to look higher than they usually would. It’s just like the Miami of Greece in a way. All the pieces can also be priced accordingly and you’ll anticipate to spend 2-3x extra for nearly something in Mykonos versus the opposite islands within the Cyclades.
Nonetheless, it’s simple to keep away from this by merely staying away from the flowery seaside golf equipment and that complete vibe. The Chora is completely lovely to stroll round throughout the day when persons are nursing their hangovers from the night time earlier than.
It’s every thing you’re on the lookout for in that typical Cycladic village with its completely manicured cobblestone streets, white homes, and blue doorways. I additionally actually loved the sundown from the Armenistis lighthouse in addition to from the 180 diploma sundown bar (even when the cocktails are €18).
One Week in Greece – Santorini: Days 5-8
Lastly, the final a part of the one week Greece itinerary ends within the lovely island of Santorini. If you’re debating between Mykonos and Santorini, be certain that to learn my publish evaluating these two hottest islands.
Santorini is essentially the most well-known and most visited island in all of Greece, and possibly even the world. That is the final word in beautiful views and picture alternatives. For the women, be certain that to pack your favourite clothes and a sufficiently massive hat which is vital.
Even when you’ve by no means heard of Santorini, there’s a excessive probability you’ve seen a photograph of its iconic blue domes floating round someplace. Mykonos has develop into the defacto upscale celebration island of Greece whereas Santorini has develop into the mecca for romantic {couples} journeys, honeymoons, and influencer picture sprees.
Santorini is not like the opposite islands in that it was shaped by a volcanic eruption hundreds of years in the past. The complete island these days is constructed on the remnants of lava hardening within the sea. The island may be very lovely in that each one the homes had been constructed on the clifftops that descend straight into the ocean permitting for dramatic results.
The primary cities of Santorini are Fira and Oia with the latter being the well-known city that everybody takes images from. I might suggest one of many lovely resorts in Oia or if you’d like unique privateness away from all of the insanity, keep someplace in between Fira and Oia.
Santo Vineyard
No go to to Santorini is full with out visiting the world well-known Santo Vineyard. Santorini is extensively considered one of the best wine rising island in all of Greece because of its wealthy volcanic soil (bear in mind, Santorini is the remnants of a big volcano explosion hundreds of years in the past). Santo Vineyard is the most important producer on the island courting again to the Nineteen Forties.
Santo Wines has a big compound close by to Fira city and it has maybe essentially the most beautiful surroundings that any vineyard on this planet may hope to have. It’s actually in the midst of the Santorini crescent and presents fully unobstructed views of the ocean.
The property is ready up with a contemporary inside excellent for wine tasting in addition to quite a few massive outside patios so that you can benefit from the breathtaking view. Santo Wines is definitely well-liked for weddings and who may blame them?
We did a wine tasting right here which included 12 of their wines (6 pink and 6 white) for roughly €40. I really thought this was loopy costly contemplating I had been getting wine at eating places for €4 for a half liter. Nonetheless, the wine right here is of prime notch high quality however in actuality you’re principally paying for the view. The view is completely out of this world and is a should go to because of this alone.
The solar units instantly in entrance of the property so it’s a vastly well-liked place for sundowners. A reservation is an absolute should if you wish to come right here for the sundown. Even throughout coronavirus occasions, this vineyard was packed full. In case you come in the summertime months in regular occasions, I’d make a reservation no less than per week beforehand. In any other case, you may nonetheless come right here throughout the daytime with out a lot concern. The solar is tremendous sizzling so most individuals wait till sundown to come back right here in massive numbers.
Do the Fira to Oia hike
If you wish to combine up the Instagramming and upscale eating with some bodily train (gentle after all), look no additional than the hike from Fira to Oia.
I’m unsure I might actually name this a correct hike as extra of a protracted stroll. It’s not very difficult because the terrain is novice and nearly all of it’s completed on paved highway. Nonetheless, if you wish to get really feel of what Santorini has to supply by way of views and panorama, the hike from Fira to Oia is it. Fira is situated within the heart of the island whereas Oia is situated on the northwest tip. Doing this hike basically means you’ve walked half of the island. Not solely will you be capable of see the breathtaking views Santorini is legendary for, however you’ll additionally stroll by way of among the lesser recognized cities in Santorini (that are additionally very worthwhile).
The hike may be completed at any time of the day as there is no such thing as a entrance payment you have to pay. You merely begin in Fira, Santorini’s capital, and stroll alongside the sting of the city till you discover the beginning of the footpath that goes in direction of Oia. You may see Oia from Fira so actually when you’re simply strolling alongside the ocean in direction of Oia, you’re moving into the suitable route. If all else fails, simply ask somebody!
I like to recommend ranging from Fira as a result of the hike in direction of Oia is barely much less of an incline than the opposite method round. In fact, you may hike from Oia to Fira as nicely however simply be ready for extra uphill. The following two cities are Firostefani and Imerovigli that are nearly like suburbs of Fira and are on this footpath (you may’t miss it). Each are a lot decrease key than Fira and since they don’t seem to be as simply accessible for the swarms of cruise ship vacationers.
To return to your place to begin, merely take the frequent bus that goes between the 2 cities. This bus leaves each half hour so you’ll by no means have to attend that lengthy. Alternatively, when you’re staying in Oia, take the bus to Fira first, after which stroll again dwelling. I’d suggest doing this hike within the morning hours because the solar may be very unforgiving after 11am.
The stroll is roughly 10kms (6 miles) lengthy and can take you thru a wide range of landscapes alongside the best way. Be sure you put aside a good period of time to finish so you aren’t in a rush. Typically, it ought to take between 3-5 hours relying on health degree, stops and the temperature.
The trail modifications terrain from every thing equivalent to free scoria, concrete, sand and rocks. Good strolling footwear with loads of help is a should.
Day by Day One week Greece Itinerary breakdown
Here’s a breakdown of the daily itinerary for spending one week in Greece.
Day 1: Land in Athens and discover the town
Day 2: Half day in Athens, afternoon flight to Mykonos
Day 3: Full day Mykonos
Day 4: Full day Mykonos
Day 5: Mykonos to Santorini by ferry
Day 6: Full day Santorini
Day 7: Full day Santorini
Day 8: Flight dwelling from Santorini (both direct or by way of Athens)
What If I don’t wish to go to Mykonos or Santorini?
If visiting Mykonos and Santorini aren’t on the prime of your record, what different islands must you contemplate? I do know Mykonos and Santorini get all the popularity and the FOMO from first time Greece guests however I can completely guarantee you that there are rather more lovely islands within the Cyclades to go to at a fraction of the associated fee.
For the aim of a one week Greece itinerary, I’ll suggest you to select from the next islands:
These are a few of my favourite islands within the Cyclades and they’re simply accessible from Athens by flight or ferry (relying on the island).
A preferred choice to to exchange Mykonos and Santorini can be to mix islands like Naxos and Paros. Milos and Folegandros is one other nice choice. Lastly, Naxos and Amorgos is perhaps my favorites. Amorgos might be my favourite island within the Cyclades and undoubtedly essentially the most breathtaking.
Proceed Studying:
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