Andrew Parlette (CC BY 4.0)Visit the Acropolis of Athens · Explore the Ancient Agora of Athens · Discover the Acropolis Museum · Akrotiri Archaeological Site · Red Beach · Santo Wines Winery Tour & Tasting
Reviewed by Shobhit Shrivastava · Founder
7-day Greece trip — Athens to Santorini. Day-by-day route, attractions and food.
Greece offers ancient history and island drama in a way few other routes can. Unlike an Italy trip that might pair Rome with the Amalfi Coast, this journey centers on the birthplace of democracy and the raw power of a volcanic caldera. You get the Parthenon and the Agora's marble, then whitewashed villages clinging to cliffs, all on one trip. It is built for someone who wants to walk through antiquity before watching an unique island sunset.
Athens
Day 1 · The Acropolis and its Monuments
Day 1 · Ancient Agora and Classical Foundations
Day 2 · Panoramic Views of Athens
Day 2 · Authentic Greek Culinary & Market Scene
Day 3 · A Journey Through Byzantine & Later Christian History
Day 4 · Volcanic Beaches
Santorini
Day 5 · Ancient Minoan Settlement
Day 5 · A Santorini Wine Tasting Experience
Day 7 · Caldera Cliff Walk
Day 5 · Sunset & Caldera Views
Day 6 · A Hands-On Greek Cooking Class
Pick travel dates to see the weather for your month.
Athens and Santorini bask in brilliant sun during the warmer months, though the breeze on the islands stays steady and refreshing. In the spring and autumn, pack layers for cool evenings, as the temperature drops significantly once the sun dips below the horizon.
Athens
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Sunrise – sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 56°F / 13°C | 44°F / 7°C (cold) | 7 | 7:40 AM – 5:29 PM |
| Feb | 59°F / 15°C | 46°F / 8°C (cold) | 6 | 7:15 AM – 6:03 PM |
| Mar | 62°F / 17°C | 48°F / 9°C | 5 | 6:36 AM – 6:31 PM |
| Apr | 70°F / 21°C | 53°F / 12°C | 3 | 6:50 AM – 8:00 PM |
| May | 79°F / 26°C | 62°F / 16°C | 3 | 6:15 AM – 8:28 PM |
| Jun | 86°F / 30°C (hot) | 70°F / 21°C | 4 | 6:02 AM – 8:49 PM |
| Jul | 92°F / 33°C (hot) | 75°F / 24°C | 1 | 6:14 AM – 8:47 PM |
| Aug | 92°F / 33°C (hot) | 75°F / 24°C | 1 | 6:40 AM – 8:18 PM |
| Sep | 84°F / 29°C | 69°F / 20°C | 2 | 7:06 AM – 7:33 PM |
| Oct | 74°F / 24°C | 60°F / 16°C | 2 | 7:33 AM – 6:47 PM |
| Nov | 67°F / 19°C | 54°F / 12°C | 5 | 7:05 AM – 5:13 PM |
| Dec | 59°F / 15°C | 47°F / 9°C | 6 | 7:33 AM – 5:06 PM |
Santorini
| Month | High | Low | Rainy days | Sunrise – sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 58°F / 14°C | 50°F / 10°C | 11 | 7:29 AM – 5:26 PM |
| Feb | 59°F / 15°C | 51°F / 10°C | 7 | 7:06 AM – 5:58 PM |
| Mar | 62°F / 16°C | 52°F / 11°C | 6 | 6:29 AM – 6:25 PM |
| Apr | 67°F / 19°C | 56°F / 13°C | 1 | 6:45 AM – 7:51 PM |
| May | 74°F / 24°C | 63°F / 17°C | 1 | 6:11 AM – 8:17 PM |
| Jun | 82°F / 28°C | 70°F / 21°C | 0 | 6:00 AM – 8:37 PM |
| Jul | 86°F / 30°C (hot) | 74°F / 23°C | 0 | 6:12 AM – 8:36 PM |
| Aug | 86°F / 30°C (hot) | 75°F / 24°C | 0 | 6:36 AM – 8:08 PM |
| Sep | 81°F / 27°C | 70°F / 21°C | 1 | 7:00 AM – 7:25 PM |
| Oct | 74°F / 23°C | 64°F / 18°C | 2 | 7:25 AM – 6:42 PM |
| Nov | 68°F / 20°C | 59°F / 15°C | 4 | 6:55 AM – 5:09 PM |
| Dec | 61°F / 16°C | 53°F / 12°C | 8 | 7:22 AM – 5:03 PM |
Hansueli Krapf This file was uploaded with Commonist. (CC BY-SA 3.0)Arrive at Athens International Airport (ATH). Take the Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) directly to Monastiraki Square (approx. 45-50 min, cost 10-12 per person) for efficient transfer to your hotel. Check into your accommodation or drop off luggage, allowing for a smooth start to your Athenian adventure.
Google MapsEnjoy a traditional Greek lunch in the charming Plaka district, at the foot of the Acropolis. Savor a hearty Moussaka, a classic layered dish of eggplant, minced meat, and b chamel sauce.
Conclude your day with a delicious and authentic Greek dinner. Head to a local eatery in Monastiraki to enjoy classic Souvlaki (grilled skewers) or a hearty Gyros (shaved meat in pita), perfect for a casual evening meal.
Enjoy a refreshing Horiatiki Salata, the traditional Greek village salad, with fresh local ingredients like ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, feta, and Kalamata olives, served in a lively taverna in the Psirri neighborhood.
Savor a variety of small, traditional Greek dishes (meze) perfect for sharing, such as Tzatziki and Dolmades, in the lively and alternative neighborhood of Exarcheia, known for its vibrant atmosphere and local tavernas.
Staying at Monastiraki since Day 1
Enjoy a traditional Spanakopita (spinach pie) and a classic Greek coffee in the vibrant, artsy neighborhood of Psyri, known for its lively atmosphere.
Savor a variety of traditional Greek meze (small plates) in the upscale neighborhood of Kolonaki, offering a refined dining experience.
Staying at Monastiraki since Day 1
Photo by George Papantoniou on PexelsDepart from your hotel in Monastiraki and transfer to Athens International Airport for your flight to Santorini.
Google MapsEnjoy a scenic short flight over the Aegean Sea as you travel from mainland Greece to the volcanic island of Santorini.
Lacu Schienred (CC BY-SA 4.0)Upon arrival at JTR, transfer to your hotel in Fira, the bustling capital of Santorini, known for its stunning caldera views.
Check into your hotel and settle in, preparing for an afternoon of exploring Santorini's unique beauty.
Savor a traditional Santorini lunch featuring Fava, a creamy split pea purée made from local fava beans, served with olive oil and capers, at a local taverna in Fira.
Tango7174 (CC BY-SA 4.0)Return to Fira to wander through its charming labyrinthine streets, admire the iconic whitewashed buildings, and soak in the breathtaking caldera views as the evening approaches. Discover local shops and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant in Fira, sampling authentic Greek dishes and fresh seafood while overlooking the Aegean Sea. Consider trying Tomatokeftedes, Santorini's unique tomato fritters.
Norbert Nagel (CC BY-SA 3.0)Explore the remarkably preserved ruins of a Minoan Bronze Age city, often referred to as the 'Minoan Pompeii,' buried under volcanic ash for millennia. This site provides fascinating insights into ancient Cycladic life.
Sam Holt (CC BY-SA 4.0)Savor traditional Santorinian cuisine featuring Tomatokeftedes, crispy fritters made from the unique local cherry tomatoes, at a local taverna in the Akrotiri area.
Find a prime spot to witness the world-famous Oia sunset, a truly magical experience as the sun dips below the Aegean Sea, casting vibrant colors across the sky and the caldera.
Enjoy an evening meal in the picturesque village of Oia, savoring authentic Greek dishes, focusing on fresh seafood and local produce.
Photo by GEORGE DESIPRIS on PexelsEmbark on a scenic catamaran cruise, sailing through the stunning Santorini caldera. Enjoy swimming and snorkeling stops in the crystal-clear Aegean waters and experience the unique volcanic landscape from the sea.
Klearchos Kapoutsis from Santorini, Greece (CC BY 2.0)Savor authentic Santorinian dishes like Fava (split pea purée) and Tomatokeftedes (tomato fritters) at a local taverna in the charming village of Pyrgos.
Participate in a hands-on cooking class to learn the secrets of traditional Santorinian cuisine using fresh local ingredients. Enjoy the dishes you prepare for a delightful dinner, a true 'food' and 'cultural' immersion.
Staying at Fira since Day 5
Sam Holt (CC BY-SA 4.0)Head back to Fira for a final taste of local specialties. Enjoy a lunch featuring fresh, authentic Santorinian dishes at a local taverna with caldera views.
Spend some time browsing the charming local shops in Fira. Look for unique souvenirs like local art, jewelry, or volcanic stone crafts to remember your trip to Santorini.
Return to your hotel in Fira to complete checkout procedures and collect your luggage, preparing for your departure.
Stan Zurek (CC BY-SA 3.0)Transfer from your hotel to Santorini (Thira) International Airport (JTR) for your international flight home. Allow ample time for check-in and security.
Google MapsSame destination, your dates, group, and pace. Generated free in about 2 minutes.
Customize this tripFreeFood, shopping & festivals
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Santorini
Day 6 · lunch
Days 5 and 7
Athens
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Santorini
A PDO-protected superfood grown only on the island, these velvety split peas offer a unique, earthy flavor distinct from other lentils.
The island's unique microclimate produces exceptionally sweet and flavorful cherry tomatoes, often found as sun-dried paste, preserves, or capers.
Athens
Fira
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Feb 15 – Mar 7
Apr 12 – 18
Jun 1 – Aug 14
Jul 1 – Aug 29
Dec 25 – 26
Costs
Estimated total · For 2 travelers · 1 room · 7 days
USD 2,296Flights from your city not included.
| City | Simple | Comfortable | Upscale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Athens | USD 60 | USD 100 | USD 140 |
| Santorini | USD 60 | USD 100 | USD 140 |
Not included: visas, travel insurance, SIM cards, tips, shopping.
Moderate overall, with Athens offering $80-120/night for hotels and $12-20 for sit-down meals. Santorini's iconic caldera-view rooms are uniquely expensive, often starting at $200-300+/night, so plan accordingly. Many public restrooms in Greece may lack toilet seats; carrying disposable covers is a good idea.
To manage Santorini's high accommodation costs, consider staying in beach towns like Perissa or Perivolos, where hotels average $70-120/night, and take the KTEL public bus (around €2-3 per ride) to Fira or Oia for caldera views.
In Athens, embrace street food culture; a filling gyros or souvlaki pita costs only €3-5, a fraction of sit-down restaurant prices (which average €12-20) and a great way to save on daily food costs.
For Athens' historical sites, purchase the Acropolis combo ticket (€30) which includes entry to the Acropolis and 6 other archaeological sites like the Ancient Agora, saving you significant money compared to buying individual €10-20 tickets.
Allocate around €100-150 per person for a sunset catamaran cruise in Santorini; it's a unique way to experience the caldera from the water, often including a meal and drinks, which justifies the cost as a significant activity and meal.
Before you go
Flight into Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH)
Day 1
Hotel in Athens
Nights 1–4 · Monastiraki · about USD 400 · Comfortable hotel range
Ferry from Athens to Santorini
Day 5 · Book 3 weeks ahead · about 5 hrs · about USD 210 · Book via the Ferryhopper website or mobile application to compare multiple operators like Blue Star Ferries.
Hotel in Santorini
Nights 5–6 · Fira · about USD 200 · Comfortable hotel range
Flight out of Santorini International Airport (JTR)
Day 7
Catamaran Cruise of the Caldera and Volcanic Islands
Day 6 · Book 4 weeks ahead · Catamaran Cruise of the Caldera and Volcanic Islands. These cruises are highly popular and sell out quickly, especially those offering sunset views. Book well in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
Santo Wines Winery Tour & Tasting
Day 5 · Book 2 weeks ahead · Santo Wines Winery Tour & Tasting. It is essential to book a specific time slot for the tour and tasting, especially if you wish to enjoy a sunset experience, as these slots sell out rapidly.
Acropolis of Athens Entry Ticket
Day 1 · Book 7 days ahead · Acropolis of Athens. Timed entry slots fill up, especially in peak season. It's crucial to book in advance to secure your preferred entry time and avoid long queues.
Acropolis Museum Entry Ticket
Day 1 · Book 7 days ahead · Acropolis Museum. Timed entry is highly recommended to avoid queues and ensure entry, especially during busy periods.
National Archaeological Museum Entry Ticket
Day 2 · Book 7 days ahead · National Archaeological Museum. Recommended to book in advance to secure entry and avoid potential queues, particularly during high season.
Benaki Museum Entry Ticket
Day 3 · Book 7 days ahead · Benaki Museum. While not always strictly necessary, booking ahead is recommended for smoother entry and to save time.
When using the Athens Metro, be particularly vigilant at the Syntagma and Monastiraki interchange stations where pickpockets often target distracted tourists.
The Athens city center is highly walkable, but for the trip to Lycabettus Hill, use the funicular rather than walking the steep residential streets to save energy for the sunset view.
On Santorini, buses are the primary public transport, but they can get crowded; always verify the current schedule at the Fira central bus station as it changes frequently.
In Greece, plumbing systems are old; ensure you use the provided bins for toilet paper rather than flushing it, as the pipes clog easily.
When wandering Monastiraki or the central market, politely decline offers of 'free' gifts or charms from street vendors, as these are usually followed by an aggressive request for payment.
Dress modestly when visiting the Metropolitan Church of the Annunciation, keeping shoulders and knees covered, as a sign of respect for local customs.
The hike from Imerovigli to Skaros Rock is beautiful, but the terrain is uneven and rocky; wear proper closed-toe shoes rather than flip-flops.
While many restaurants in Athens and Fira accept cards, keep a small amount of cash on hand for street food, small cafes, or rural bus tickets.
Buy travel insurance and save the policy offline
Keep a backup card and emergency cash apart from your wallet
Get EUR cash / a no-forex-fee card
Check visa requirements for Greece
Reserve Acropolis timed-entry tickets
Reserve Akrotiri Archaeological Site tickets
Copies of passport and bookings (paper + phone)
Tell your bank your travel dates and check foreign transaction fees
Leave your itinerary, emergency contacts and a passport copy with someone at home
Register with your embassy's traveler program (STEP for US citizens)
Passport (valid 6+ months past your return)
Wallet with ID and payment cards
Transit card: ATH.ENA Card · Athens
Pen for arrival forms
This plan front-loads three full days in Athens, taking advantage of your fresh arrival to explore its vast archaeological sites and city life. The move to Santorini lands mid-week, turning the travel day into a welcome reset after Athens' intensity. Santorini then gets two full days to explore its unique volcanic landscape, Oia's famous sunsets, and the caldera cruise.
This pacing ensures you experience both cities deeply before departing from the island. This itinerary prioritizes the classical history of Athens and Santorini's caldera views, balancing city exploration with island relaxation. It does not include time for Crete, with its Minoan palaces like Knossos and diverse landscapes, nor does it delve into the Peloponnese mainland, where you would find the ancient theater of Epidaurus or the medieval castles of Mystras.
This is the right cut if you prioritize the must-see highlights of Greece; it is not for someone seeking a deeper dive into regional history or extensive beach time beyond the island views. To extend this trip, add three days to visit the island of Mykonos. You could experience its windmills, narrow alleys and nightlife, just a short ferry ride from Santorini.
| Visa & entry | US, UK, EU, Australian, and Canadian citizens can enter Greece (Schengen Area) visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Indian citizens typically require a Schengen visa, which must be applied for in advance at a Greek embassy or consulate. All travelers need a passport valid for at least three months beyond their intended departure date from the Schengen Area. |
|---|---|
| US risk level | Exercise normal precautionsUpdated Oct 22, 2025 |
| Official advice | US State Department · UK Foreign Office |
| Emergency | Police 112 · Ambulance 112 · Fire 112 · Tourist police 171112 for all emergencies; 100 police, 166 ambulance and 199 fire also work |
| Tipping: restaurants | 5–10% or round up |
|---|---|
| Tipping: taxis | Round up to nearest euro |
| Tipping: hotels | €1 per bag |
| Cards | Accepted in cities and tourist areas |
| Contactless | Growing in Athens and popular islands |
| Cash | Cash needed on islands and at tavernas |
| Payment tip | Carry cash for islands and smaller establishments. ATMs available but may charge fees. |
| Plugs | Type C, F230V · 50Hz |
|---|
| SIM | Price | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmote | $15 for 30 days | Any Cosmote store or major airport arrival hall |
| Vodafone Greece | $20 for 30 days | Vodafone retail shops or kiosks |
| Airalo eSIM | $10 for 1GB | Airalo website or application |
Local SIM cards often require a passport for registration. Always carry your physical passport when purchasing a prepaid card.
About USD 2,296 for 2 travelers · 1 room · 7 days: hotels, food, activities, local transport and travel between places. Flights from your city not included.
Greece is part of the Schengen Area. Travelers from the US, UK, Australia, and many other nations can enter for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism without a visa. Citizens from India and several other countries must obtain a Schengen visa before arrival. Check your specific national consulate requirements well in advance of your flight.
Athens is generally safe, with a heavy presence of police in central areas. Pickpockets operate on the Metro, especially at busy interchanges like Omonia and Syntagma, so keep your bag in front of you. Violent crime is rare, but standard city caution is always recommended.
Greece uses the Euro. While card payments are standard in almost every shop and restaurant, carry some cash for small purchases or rural island cafes. Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill or leaving about five to ten percent for good service is common and appreciated.
You can fly from Athens International Airport to Santorini in about 45 minutes via Aegean Airlines or Sky Express. Ferries from Piraeus Port are also common, taking anywhere from 4 to 8 hours depending on the vessel speed. If you choose the ferry, book early during the summer months.
The KTEL public bus network connects Fira to major villages and beaches and is the most affordable way to travel. Avoid renting ATVs or motorbikes from smaller, unverified agencies due to frequent equipment scams. If you need more freedom, rent a car from a reputable, established company.
Plumbing in many parts of Greece, including the islands, cannot handle toilet paper due to narrow pipes. You must dispose of used paper in the provided bin next to the toilet, never in the bowl. Public toilets in restaurants may also lack seats, so carrying personal disposable seat covers can be helpful.
April and May offer pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers, making them ideal for hiking the trails between Fira and Oia. Summer is very hot and crowded, while late September and October offer warmer sea temperatures with fewer tourists. Avoid July and August if you prefer to escape the intense heat and peak crowds.
Transport for Athens operates the metro, trams, and buses with a single integrated ticket system. You can buy daily or multi-day passes that cover almost all routes, excluding the dedicated Airport Express lines. Validate your ticket before boarding any tram or bus to ensure it is active.
Download this Athens, Greece; Santorini, Greece itinerary — day-by-day plan, maps, budget, and more.
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