A Curated 10-Day Itinerary of Greece

Hear me out — when I started writing this extensively curated 10 day itinerary of Greece, people were flocking to this Mediterranean oasis after seemingly endless months spent in lockdown.

What better way the glorious escape from isolation that with endless blue skies, turquoise waters, and hearty Greek fare? Well, clearly great minds think alike.

Or at least everyone was equally sick and tired of being trapped at home.

While it may not be the best time to hop on a plane to this blissful paradise at this very moment, I promise…one day it will be. And when that day comes you will be armed with all these killer recommendations for what to see, things to do, and (most importantly) what/where to eat in Greece.

When if the best month to travel to Greece?

If you’re trying to plan your Greek itinerary, the collective opinion on the internet is that the best time to visit Greece is between late April to early November.

The hottest weather and busiest (see: most expensive) months are July and August which is not ideal for those on a budget. To avoid the crazy crowds but still experience glorious weather, aim for the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October but avoid visiting around the Greek Orthodox Easter (late April). It’s an important holiday in the country so you’ll be hard-pressed to find accommodations or restaurant reservations anywhere.

As I despise being overly hot and crowds, I was in Greece early October and it was 👌🏼. The temperature was pleasant, the amount of tourists was tolerable, and the prices were reasonable.

How many days do you need for Greece?

Is 6 days enough for Greece? Is 8 days enough for Greece? It depends on how many islands you want to visit and the pace you want to travel at but ensure that your Greek itinerary is 7 days minimum because you’ll need a day in Athens to recuperate and time to explore at least one or two islands.

Obviously 10 days in Greece is my sweet spot — you can move at a more leisurely pace and cram more islands into your visit.

Which islands should be included in your itinerary of Greece?

If you have limited vacation days, choose ones that are close to Athens or within the same complex or cluster.

You could hone in on the first cluster amid the Ionian Sea including Corfu, Paxos and Antipaxos, Ithaka, Lefkada, Kefalonia and Kythira. It’s referred to as Eptanisa, or the 7 islands, and they’re known for lush greenery, otherworldly turquoise waters, and Venetian architecture.

This itinerary of Greece focuses on The Cyclades, a complex of islands (220 to be exact) — including Milos, Santorini, and Mykonos — named for the way they form a protective circle around the sacred island of Delos. Santorini and Mykonos are essential additions to any first-timers to Greece BUT Milos was my personal favourite of the three. Paros and Ios are also popular choices within this complex.

You can obviously visit islands that are part of different clusters, just keep in mind that they require more travel time in between.

A 10 Day Itinerary of Greece

SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE

Duration: 10 Days

Day 1-2: Athens
Day 3-5: Milos
Day 6-8: Santorini
Day 8-10: Mykonos

day 1-2: Athens

When people start feverishly planning an itinerary of Greece, the Cycladic Islands are usually front and centre, casually dismissing the country’s gritty capital. However, Athens will surprise you and is worth at least a two-day visit.

Not only is the city of Athens considered the birthplace of Western civilization, but you’ll be surrounded by majestic archaeological sites from the looming Acropolis to the Ancient Agora of Athens. Plus, if you’re as obsessed with mythological lore as I am, you will be wide-eyed with wonder your entire stay.

Where to Eat in Athens

O Thanasis

Take a break from all the action at Monastiraki Square and snag a patio seat at O Thanasis. Order a juicy yogurt kebab perched atop grilled pita and people-watch while you dig in to this classic dish.

Diporto Taverna

For the most authentic place to eat in Athens, seek out this hidden (literally!) gem of a restaurant. The lack of signage may make finding Diporto Taverna deep in the belly of a 150-year old building a bit of a struggle, but the gustatory reward will be worth it.

Don’t expect chatty waiters rattling off daily specials or laminated menus. Instead you’ll be ushered to a modest table in the rustic, wine barrel-filled cellar of this no-frills establishment and immediately presented with a parade of simple but hearty and flavourful home-style fare along with a carafe of mulled white wine.

Nosh on grilled sardines with a splash of lemon, stewed chickpeas, potatoes swimming in tomato sauce and fresh AF horiatiki salad.

Stani

Since writing my 2-day itinerary of Athens, I’ve discovered t~~hrough an embarrassingly basic Google search~~ that Greek yogurt is known as straggisto in its country of origin.

Now that you’re armed with that essential bit of knowledge, head to Stani for the most luscious Greek yogurt you’ll ever have in your life.

Established in 1931, it’s the last traditional dairy bar standing from over 1,600 that once existed in Athens, making it all the more delicious in its rarity.

Shovel thick spoonfuls of the house yogurt into your maw — served in the customary Greek way — smothered in gooey honey and a smattering of crunchy chopped walnuts.

If you’re somehow still hungry, snag an order of lukumades, a type of deep-fried donut drizzled with honey and dusted with cinnamon.

Aiolou 68

With the aim of creating their own island in the middle of Athens, Aiolou 68 is the place to find an elaborate seafood feast.

Nestled in a courtyard at the end of a meandering alley, begin your meal at this spacious yet cozy eatery with a refreshing horiatiki salad piled with crumbled feta and a platter of grilled sardines with a bright splash of lemon.

Follow it up with pot full of mussels and topped with tomato and MORE feta, finishing off with am impressive pasta brimming with prawns.

Atlantikos

Feeling ravenous post-hammam massage, we stumbled upon Atlantikos just up the street. The tables inside of the cozy restaurant and the patio that lined the alley was bursting with locals, a sure sign that it’s a killer spot.

Wash down crispy fried mussels with a chilled mug of Alpha beer and dig into a thick fava bean hummus and a side of feta topped with briny capers.

What to Do in Athens

Sandal Shopping

Strap on some sandals fit for heroes of ancient Greek myths…or at least for infamous musicians like John Lennon and Barbara Streisand. If you’re looking to do a bit of shopping in Athens, Melissinos Art (known as ‘The Poet Sandal Maker’) should be at the top of your souvenir-gathering list.

Tucked away in the Monastiraki neighbourhood, this family-run spot handcrafts traditional leather sandals in a plethora of styles that are custom-fit to your feet. Since you’ll be doing a lot of walking and exploring throughout this itinerary of Greece, picking up more comfy footwear can’t hurt!

Tour mythological Ruins

No itinerary of Greece is complete without a tour of the ancient landmarks that Athens is known for.

For all the piping hot tea on the legendary affairs of the Greek gods and the deeper societal, cultural and political context of myths, join the Mythology Highlights Tour.

You’ll swing by notable historic sites — from the looming Acropolis of Athens to the impressive Parthenon to the Temple of Athena Nike — accompanied by a guide who will serve as narrator, regaling you with tales of fantastical beasts and vengeful deities.

Explore charming neighbourhoods

Looking for places to visit in Athens? Monastiraki, literally translating to “little monastery,” is known as the main shopping district of Athens and where you’ll unearth all manners of trinkets and knick-knacks. Situated in the old town, spend the afternoon losing yourself in the hustle and bustle energy of this charming neighbourhood.

Collect souvenirs to commemorate your trip, admire jewellery and pottery for sale, or just aimlessly wander the warren of shops.

Note: The actual Athens flea market is only on Sundays (and it’s pretty underwhelming).

Alternatively, explore the hillside neighbourhood, Plaka, just below the ancient Acropolis. Revel in the quaint village vibe of the homey shops, cobblestone streets, and family-owned tavernas. Relax on one of the many sidewalk cafés with a cold frappé coffee while soaking up some sunshine.

Get pampered at a hammam

Feeling weary and worn after a long flight to Greece? Rejuvenate with a traditional cleansing and purification ritual at the austere Polis Hammam.

Whether I’m in Istanbul or Marrakech, you know I love me a good hammam experience. This Turkish steam bath is as much about socializing as it is about cleansing and relaxation so after trading your dust-crusted clothes for bathing suits, lounge in the warm marble chambers.

Then your entire body is scrubbed with a rough kesa glove to rid yourself of dead skin before being lathered with pure olive soap and massaged until you feel like jelly. Recuperate with an aromatic tea in their leafy courtyard. You’ll feel like a new person!

Read: A 2 Day Itinerary of Athens

days 3-5: Milos

Greece is made up of 227 islands…!!! I can barely decide between strawberry and raspberry jam so choosing which islands to include in this 10 day itinerary of Greece was a task of Herculean proportions.

But if you’re looking for a locale with understated charm, unique landscapes, breathtaking beaches and an authentic Greek vibe, Milos is dream.

Hop a ferry from Athens to Milos and arrive at this sleepy volcanic island in the Cyclades. It may be quiet in compared to Santorini and Mykonos but it boasts plenty of drool-worthy restaurants and picturesque little villages far from the bustling crowds of tourists. Aim to spend a minimum of 3 days to explore at a leisurely pace.

Where to Eat in Milos

O Hamos

Beeline to this Secret Garden-esque oasis the minute you arrive on Milos. Full of traditional Greek recipes, peruse the handwritten menu at O! Hamos! Tavern under lush canopies of greenery and fragrant blooms on the multi-level terrace of this family-run taverna.

Feast on an epic banquet composed of the freshest local ingredients — a crispy horiatiki salad* with the softest feta, eggplant stuffed with minced lamb and goat (melitzana boulouka), and my personal fav the succulent roast piglet (gourounopoulo metimezako) that’s been slow-cooked for hours in a molasses-mustard and thyme marinade served with couscous and burst cherry tomatoes.

Read: Why O! Hamos! Tavern Is One Of The Best Restaurants in Milos

*I know I recommend this everywhere but you need your greens, plus it’s kind of an imperative addition to any Greek itinerary

Flisvos

The oldest of all the waterfront eateries at the port of Adamas in Milos, Flisvos is known for its grilled meats but the thick hummus-like fava with caramelized onions, capers and octopus will steal your heart/stomach.

For some classic Greek cuisine opt for the pastitsio, a baked pasta with layers of meat and rich béchamel (like a Greek lasagna) and/or the filling moussaka.

Artemis Bakery

Camping out in Adamas in Milos as part of your Greek itinerary? Whether you plan on visiting the catacombs or Sarakiniko Beach for the day, make sure you drop by Artemis Bakery in this harbour town before setting out.

Press your nose up against the glass display featuring a drool-worthy display of freshly baked goods, perfect to pack in case of you’re hit with a hanger emergency. I was obsessed with the flavourful pizzas studded with olives, fresh tomato and cheese.

Medusa restaurant

Another culinary treasure located in a humble fisherman village, you’ll find strings of freshly caught octopi hanging to dry outside of Medusa Restaurant in Milos.

Let the sea salt air whet your appetite as you sip on rosé while making the acquaintance of several friendly felines on the premises who will cozy up to you in the hopes of winning table scraps.

Start the meal at this oceanside taverna with grilled slices of eggplant and dakos (a kind of Greek bruschetta) before moving on the tender octopus in a tangy dressing and a creamy grilled Mastelo cheese drizzled in honey and garnished with poppyseeds.

Mikros Apoplous

Head down to the seaside Mikros Apoplous restaurant and bar and dine of an impressive platter of sea bream carpaccio generously drizzled in rich olive oil and orange tobiko.

Drink in the views and a refreshing Mythos beer while digging into a creamy prawn linguine.

What to Do in Milos

wander to Nearby Villages

The island of Milos is made up of several quaint villages (seven to be exact!), all with their own charms just waiting to be discovered. Spend lazy days poking around every nook and cranny, from the narrow streets of Plaka to the (relatively) lively Adamas to catching some warming rays on Pollonia beach.

Sailing in Milos

Done exploring Milos by foot? Set sail for a different perspective of this gorgeous Cycladic island.

Join a full day cruise that will take you on a journey to inaccessible parts of Milos from secluded bays to the cave of Sykia.

Set sail from the meeting point in Adamantas and a fun-filled day spent snorkelling and swimming the clear turquoise waters and gliding by majestic sights like the Kleftiko Caves (infamous as a congregation spot and hideout for pirates) and the cave of Sykia.

Sarakiniko Beach

This unique beach will not only be a highlight of your time on Milos but a standout experience of your entire itinerary of Greece.

The seemingly endless stretches of smooth, bone-white landscapes at Sarakiniko Beach formed over time from the strong northern winds sending waves crashing against the volcanic rock.

The result? Surreal moonscapes, perfect for photos and pretending like you’re an astronaut. Make sure you pack some snacks and check the bus schedule if you aren’t driving.

Read: Sarakiniko Beach: Moonscapes and X-Rated Views in Milos

fancy cocktails

If you’re on the hunt for some buzzy nightlife, swing by Akri in Adamas for some killer tunes and delicious cocktails. Sip fruity concoctions and if the moon is high in the sky, you’ll be treated to a haunting view of the port.

For more bars on Milos, Kri Kri in Plaka has live music regularly while Utopia offers an epic view to watch the sunset.

Read: A Curated 3-Day Itinerary of Milos

Days 6-8: Santorini

Onwards from Milos to the iconic Santorini. ‘Thira,’ as it’s officially known, is absolutely essential for any first-timer’s itinerary of Greece.

When one conjures images of this Baltic country, the mind is filled with visions of cerulean domes and white-washed cubic buildings clinging precariously to the rugged, steep cliffs of the caldera.

Whether you stay in a luxury villa in Akrotiri or a romantic hotel in Oia, make sure you set aside 3 days to give yourself enough time in each area of this awe-inspiring Greek island.

Where to Eat in Santorini

Argo

With a bougainvillea-draped interior, panoramic views of the caldera, and seriously some of the best food to be found on Santorini, Argo is a triple threat.

Claim a table amid lush greenery and romantic blooms at multi-level al fresco eatery before tucking into hearty fare – cheesy pastourmas, comforting veal and onion stifado (stew) served in tomato sauce on linguine, truffle risotto and crispy white eggplant that the island is known for. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.

The Good Heart

If your itinerary of Greece takes you to the Akrotiri side of Santorini, make sure to take a delicious pause at this family-run taverna which you’ll find standing in the middle of an open field.

My favourites: taramasalata + dolmades!

If you’re feeling homesick at this point in your itinerary of Greece, you’ll feel comforted in the cozy interior of The Good Heart while noshing on homemade Greek classics like dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) drenched in rich olive oil, taramasalata (salted and cured cod roe dip), stewed octopus and capers atop fava bean and roasted white eggplant, a rare product of Santorini soil.

Obelix

New York has pizza. Toronto has street meat. Late night munchies in Santorini calls for souvlaki and gyros and the Fira-based Obelix is the spot to indulge in these Greek classics.

Grab an expertly grilled pita jam-packed with deliciousness — juicy slices of tomato, red onion, crispy fries, garlicky tzatziki sauce, and whatever meat your heart desires (as long as it’s pork, beef or chicken). It’s sure to hit the spot!

Skiza cafe

Not only will Skiza Cafe provide an unforgettable view of the crystalline waters around the caldera from the terrace, but it offers an array of tasty treats.

OMG, vin santo millefeuille…soo good!

Cheers with the local Santorini beer (Yellow Donkey) and munch on a refreshing salad or a savoury crepe before satisfying your sweet tooth with a flaky millefeuille filled with a cream infused with Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine.

Dimitris Ammoudi Taverna

Spot by the water? ✅ Unobstructed view of the sunset? ✅ Yummy food? ✅ Dimitris Ammoudi Taverna in Santorini checks all of the boxes for a memorable meal.

Make a reservation at this popular waterside restaurant in Santorini or you risk missing out on unhindered views of the caldera. As the sun sinks below the horizon, nibble on crispy tomato fritters (tomatokeftedes), marinated octopus, and a dense fava dip garnished with salty capers.

What to Do in Santorini

Lounge on Red Beach in Santorini

Trade expanses of powdery white sand for sunbathing at the Red Beach on Santorini’s Akrotiri peninsula.

Formed from black and red volcanic rock that’s been pulverized into rough pebbles, the robust hue of the cliffs makes for a striking contrast against blue skies and ocean. Don’t forget to wear flip flops while finding the perfect spot to lay your towel down!

P.S. If you’re an archeology buff, add the nearby Prehistoric Town of Akrotiri to your itinerary of Greece. Explore the Minoan town that’s rumoured to be the inspiration for Plato’s Atlantis!

Sailing in Santorini

What better way to admire the white-washed buildings, cerulean domes, and the craggy ridges of the caldera than from the Aegean Sea?

If you’re like me and search for any opportunity to be on and in the water, take to the high seas on a luxury Santorini catamaran tour with VIP Sailing.

The Red Beach, Mesa Pigadia, Black Mountain, Indian’s Face Rock, the Hot Springs, Thirasia’s Port, etc…you’ll see it all on this ocean adventure, narrated by your guide and captain.

Work up an appetite cannonballing off of the side of the boat before feasting on prawn linguine, Greek salad, baked Plevrotous mushrooms, fava beans and octopus as the vessel basks in the fading light.

Read: How To Explore Every Inch of Santorini in 3 Days

Santorini Wine Tour

Did you know that the warm climate and mineral content in the volcanic soil makes Santorini optimal for wine production? It’s the best island in this itinerary of Greece to squeeze in a thorough tour of the local wineries.

Join Santorini Wine Stories on a guided excursion starting with Koutsoyannopoulos Wine Museum to learn about winemaking.

Swing by Estate Argyros for a curated tasting followed by a glorious glass of rosé at Venetsanos Winery (widely regarded as the best winery in Santorini) optimally paired with a view of the caldera, just in time for sunset.

Geeked out over the pretty wine bottle labels for the Venetsano vintages!

experience the wild nightlife

Fira is known for its vibrant nightlife so throw on your party attire and dive into the middle of all the action in Santorini’s capital. If you’re looking for an inventive boozy concoction sipped under twinkling stars, grab a rooftop spot at PK Cocktail Bar, a multi-level venue vibrating with killer beats.

Get sweaty dancing it out on the tiny dance floor at Tropical Bar that garners bonus points for offering half-priced after 9pm.

For an absolute rager, it doesn’t get crazier than Two Brothers Bar which will bring you back to your wild university/college days.

days 9-10: Mykonos

For the last leg of your itinerary of Greece, board a ferry and head to Mykonos.

As the wild child of the Greek islands, Mykonos is paradise for those who love to party from dawn to dusk. In between the blur of bacchanalian revelry, wander the maze-like streets, catch some shut-eye on stretches of golden sand and admire the dusky hues of a glorious sunset or two.

Where to Eat in Mykonos

Kastro’s restaurant

For dinner with a view, park yourself at the end of a narrow, white-washed alleyway at Kastro’s Restaurant.

Situated in Little Venice, the most charming quarter of Mykonos Town, and witness the sun set over the Kato Windmills and the glittering ocean.

Sip on a chilli mango cocktail while feast on traditional Greek cuisine like a toothsome Mykonian Fish Soup and and artful platter of grilled octopus with pickled shallots and beluga lentils.

Kiki’s Taverna

The number one spot that I always recommend when people ask me where to eat in Myknos is Kiki’s Taverna! It’s more than worth the trek to the northern part of the island.

Arrive early (ideally before they even open for the day) to ensure that you’re part of the first seating at this popular al fresco eatery. Start with a couple of fresh af salads, like the dill potato salad or a satisfying mix of lentil and feta, before moving on to tangy anchovy fillets and chunks of octopus.

The pièce de résistance? A grilled pork chop the size of your HEAD served with a velvety twice-baked potato. To satisfy your sweet tooth, indulge in the dense chocolate cake topped with a generous dollop of amaretto whipped cream.

Post-meal roll yourself down to the nearby Agios Sostis beach to nap in the sun before taking a dip to work off your meal.

Read: Why Kiki’s Tavern Is The Most Popular (& Delicious) Spot In Mykonos

Pepper

If you’re looking for a contender for the best souvlaki in Mykonos, look no further than Pepper. I guarantee that you’ll eat there at least 3 times throughout your stay. It’s that good!

This casual spot serves up classic Greek comfort food — souvlakia loaded with juicy meat, tomatoes, onions and fries and smothered in garliky tzatziki sauce, fries buried under crumbled feta and herbs, grilled pita with flavourful dips…

Grab a table outside to watch people meandering the streets or revel in a respite from the crowds on the inner courtyard.

Il Forno di Gerasimo

Before heading out to the beach or an all-day excursion, venture into the heart of the “chora,” or Mykonos Town, to snag some freshly baked treats and hot cups of coffee at Il Forno di Gerasimo. Fill a pastry box with flaky baklava and elaborate desserts or an entire flatbread before heading out for the day.

The most drool-worthy dish I had there was what looked like bits of octopus mixed with a short tubed pasta stewed in tomato sauce. It was SO flavourful! Htapothaki me Kofto Makaronaki is slow cooked, letting the juices from the octopus soak into the sauce and pasta. Heaven.

Pasta Fresca Barkia

Pasta Fresca Barkia is heaven on Earth for lovers of Italian cuisine especially because of its proximity to the ocean and freshly caught seafood.

This three-storey restaurant in Mykonos delivers every type of pasta imaginable — ravioli, tagliatelle, angel hair, etc…Twirl long strands of linguine stuffed with juicy crab meat or spear bellybutton-shaped mushroom tortellini bursting with umami.

Read: The 6 Best Restaurants in Mykonos (For Every Foodie)

What to Do in Mykonos

Scorpios Beach Club

What is a vacation to Mykonos without a day spent lolling about one of the many grandiose beach clubs on the island?

Whether you’re looking to lounge on a lush beach bed while sipping rosé, party the day away, or pamper yourself with a fabulous meal, the boho-chic Scorpios is the place to be.

During high season make sure to reserve in advance, especially if you’re looking for the best vantage point to catch a sunset in Mykonos. Grab a pouf or a wicker lounge chair at Sunset Beach while a DJ spins beats in the background.

Kato Windmills

You’ll know the Mykonos part of your Greek itinerary has officially begun the moment you catch a glimpse of the iconic Mykonos windmills, known as Kato Mili.

Constructed by the Venetians in the 16th century, you’ll never lose sight of these preserved and renovated north-facing structures no matter where you find yourself in the chora.

While there are about 16 windmills across the island, there are 7 that stand in a row between the harbour of Alefkandra and the Neochori neighbourhood. It’s another idyllic position for sunset watching.

Sunset cocktail hour

Mykonos may be known as “The Island of the Winds” for its strong gusts blowing around the island, but most people visit for the spirited nightlife.

180º Sunset Bar offers the ultimate trifecta — masterful cocktails, a buzzy atmosphere, and a panoramic view of the neat, white buildings framing the Aegean shoreline. Perched at the highest peak in Mykonos Town, this hotspot is definitely a pricy visit but you’ll never forget the spectacle of colours of a Mykonian sunset.

Read: The Best Spots To Catch A Killer Sunset In Mykonos

Armed with this itinerary of Greece, all you have to do now is book a flight and you’re ready for your next vacation. I can always tell how thorough of a job I’ve done because it’s directly correlated to how exhausted I am. And you know what? I’m pretty darn tired.

If you’re in the process of planning a trip to Greece, here are some tips for doing it right!

Keep your stalking game strong and follow me @teriaki if you aren’t already!

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