Greece 7 Day Itinerary

7 Day Itinerary: Exploring the Wonders of Greece

This itinerary focuses on Athens and its surrounding areas, offering a mix of history, culture, and modern experiences. It can be adapted for other destinations in Greece depending on your interests.

Day 1: Arrival in Athens & Acropolis Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Athens International Airport (ATH). Take the airport bus or metro (€10-€14) to reach Athens city center.
  • Afternoon: Settle into your hotel and explore the area around it.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner in a traditional taverna near the Acropolis, savoring delicious Greek cuisine while taking in the atmosphere.

Things to do:

  • Acropolis Exploration:
    • Things to know:
      • Allow at least 3 hours to explore the Acropolis and its surrounding areas (including the Acropolis Museum).
      • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven ground.
      • Bring water and sunscreen, as it can be hot and crowded.

Day 2: Ancient Agora & Museums

  • Ancient Agora: Explore the heart of ancient Athenian democracy, visiting the ruins of this historic marketplace.

  • Museums: Choose between the Acropolis Museum (if you didn’t have a chance on Day 1), the National Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Cycladic Art, or the Byzantine and Christian Museum.

    • The Ancient Agora & Museums Tip: Buy a combined ticket for access to multiple sites.

Day 3: Acropolis Museum & Ancient Greek Theatre

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in the history of the Athenian theater at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus or the Epidaurus Archaeological Site.
  • Afternoon: Explore the rich collection of artifacts at the National Archaeological Museum, immersing yourself in the treasures of Greece’s past.
  • Evening: Catch a performance by the Greek National Opera (optional)

Day 4: Athens Coastal Charm & Temple of Poseidon

  • Relax & Enjoy: Take a break from the ancient world and explore the beautiful Athenian Riviera.
  • Day trip to Cape Sounion: Visit the iconic Temple of Poseidon, enjoying breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the historic site’s ruins.

Day 5: Ancient Olympia & Archaeological Sites

  • Ancient History: Explore the birthplace of the Olympic Games and experience its ancient grandeur.
  • Day Trip: Travel to Ancient Olympia for a day and visit the archaeological sites like the Temple of Zeus, the Archaeological Museum and the stadium.

Day 6-7: Island Escape or Relax in Athens

  • Option A (Two Days): Explore the charming Plaka neighborhood, enjoying its picturesque streets, traditional shops and cafes, and stunning views of the Acropolis.
  • Option B (One Day): Take a day trip to a nearby island like Hydra, Aegina, or Poros to experience the beauty and tranquility of island life.

Things to know:

  • Athens is a big city: Plan for transportation time and consider using the efficient metro system.
  • Day Trips: You can use public transport (bus/ferry) for day trips to nearby islands like Hydra, Aegina, or Hydra.

Accommodation:

  • Stay in Athens for easy access to historical sites and nightlife.

Food & Drink:

  • Enjoy traditional Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and gyros at local tavernas.
  • Try fresh seafood on a coastal island excursion.

Other things to consider:

  • Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are the best times to visit Greece for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Language: The official language is Greek, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Currency: The Euro (€) is the currency of Greece.

Things to do in Athens:

  • Acropolis Hill: Visit this iconic hill and explore the ancient temples and ruins, including the Parthenon.

Day Trip Options:

  • Ancient Olympia (two days):
    • Day 1: Explore the archaeological site and imagine yourself in the ancient games. Enjoy local food and drink at a traditional Greek taverna.
    • Hydra Island (one day): Take a ferry to the car-free island of Hydra, known for its charming harbor and medieval architecture.

Two Day Trip Ideas:

  • Ancient Olympia Museum & Archaeological Site:
    • Explore the history and artifacts of the ancient Olympic Games.
    • Enjoy a relaxing lunch or dinner overlooking the Aegean Sea.
    • Visit one of the nearby beaches for a swim or sunbathe.

Travel Tips:

  • Transportation: Purchase a day pass for the bus network if you plan on exploring multiple sites.
  • Ferry Schedules: Check ferry schedules in advance, as they can vary depending on the season and weather conditions.
  • Island Life: Enjoy the beaches, picturesque villages and scenic hikes.

Food & Drink:

  • Try traditional Greek dishes: While in Greece, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of delicious cuisines.
  • Eat at local tavernas: Enjoy fresh, authentic Greek food and the welcoming atmosphere of these local restaurants.

Day Trip Ideas:

  • Delphi: Visit the ancient site of Delphi, home to the Oracle and steeped in history.
  • Meteora: Take a day trip to this stunning monastic complex perched atop towering rock formations.

Things to remember:

  • Carry Cash: Not all places in Greece accept credit cards, especially smaller shops and restaurants.

Things to enjoy:

  • Traditional Greek food: Experience the flavors of Greece with its traditional dishes and fresh ingredients.
  • Historical sites: Explore the ancient ruins and learn about the rich history of the region.
  • Local culture: Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending cultural events, visiting museums, or enjoying a meal at a traditional tavern.**

Things to consider:

  • Weather: The weather in Greece can be hot and sunny in the summer, but it’s important to check the forecast for your specific destination.
  • Crowds: Expect larger crowds during peak tourist season (July-August) and on weekends.

Day trips offer a chance to see more of Greece:

  • Historical sites: Explore the ancient Oracle of Delphi or the breathtaking monasteries at Meteora.

Other considerations:

  • Travel Insurance: Ensure you have adequate travel insurance for unforeseen events.**
  • Transportation: Consider renting a car for exploring the countryside, as it offers more flexibility to visit hidden gems and less-traveled areas.**
  • Accommodation:

Enjoy the unique charm of each destination:

  • Ancient Sites: Explore ancient ruins like the Acropolis of Olympia or the Temple of Zeus at Olympia.

Day Trip Experiences:

  • Experience the history of Greece: Visit the ancient sites of Delphi and the Meteora monasteries.
  • Delphi: Enjoy a day trip to the picturesque town of Delphi, known for its stunning views.
  • Explore the Greek islands: Experience a different side of Greece with a visit to one of the many islands.**

Enjoy the beauty of nature:

  • Traditional Greek Cuisine: Indulge in the local delicacies and enjoy the fresh, delicious ingredients that make Greek food so unique.

Things to do in Greece:

  • Island Hopping: Enjoy a scenic boat trip to nearby islands with breathtaking beaches and landscapes.

  • Ancient Sites: Visit the ancient ruins of Delphi and the surrounding mountains for hiking and exploring.**

  • Travel:

  • Explore the ancient temples and ruins of the Peloponnese region, including the Temple of Apollo at Delphi and the ancient theatre at Epidaurus (Greece is a country with a rich history of travel).

  • Enjoy the culture: Visit the local markets, try fresh seafood by the sea, and experience the vibrant nightlife in the Plaka neighborhood.

Enjoy this cultural richness:

  • Historical Sites: Take a day trip to the island of Crete and explore the Minoan Palace of Knossos.**

Enjoy the rich history:

  • Ancient Greece:

  • Explore the ancient ruins and artifacts of the ancient city of Knossos (a must-do for any traveler visiting the birthplace of Zeus).

  • History Tip: Check local museums for opening hours, as they may vary.

Travel & Accommodation:

  • Epidaurus:

  • Ancient site exploration: Enjoy exploring the theater and its acoustics.**

  • Relaxing on a beach:

  • Enjoy:

  • Greece’s History:

  • Enjoy:

  • For travel:

  • Enjoy the scenery:

  • Explore the ancient ruins and enjoy the stunning beaches.

Consider:

  • Visiting during the shoulder season (spring or fall) for better weather and fewer crowds.**

  • Booking your tickets in advance, especially if you’re traveling to a popular destination.**

For accommodation:

  • Look into local guesthouses, villas or apartments for a more authentic experience.

  • Consider:

  • Visiting a variety of destinations,** not just the most well-known ones.

Enjoy the diverse experiences:

  • Enjoy the beaches and historical sites of Greece’s Peloponnese region.**

  • Explore the mainland before heading to an island.**

  • History:

  • Visit the ancient ruins in the morning and relax on the beach in the afternoon.**

  • Experience:

  • Visit the Acropolis Museum (the museum is a must-do for a taste of Greek history).

  • The ancient sites

on the mainland are fascinating, but you can also experience the historical charm of Greece by exploring the ancient ruins and beaches.

  • Consider:

  • Taking a day trip to Delphi, the site of the ancient Oracle.**

  • Visiting other archaeological sites on the mainland, such as the Temple of Zeus at Olympia, which is a great option for exploring the history of Greece.**

Remember:

  • To enjoy the experience, consider booking tickets for experiences in advance, especially during peak season.

This itinerary highlights some popular options for tourists visiting Greece. However, remember to personalize it based on your interests and travel style.

  • Consider exploring:

  • The beauty of nature in Greece:

  • Take a day trip to the island of Santorini and enjoy its stunning black sand beaches.

Santorini:

  • Enjoy the sunset: The island is famous for its breathtaking sunsets, so be sure to catch one while you’re there!**