How to Plan 10 Days in Greece

Greece, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, offers a plethora of experiences that can captivate travelers for weeks. If you’re planning a 10-day trip to Greece, you’ll want to make the most of your time exploring its diverse regions, from ancient ruins and bustling cities to serene islands and picturesque beaches. This guide will help you create a well-rounded itinerary to experience the best of Greece in 10 days.

Day 1-3: Athens – The Heart of Ancient History

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization

• Arrive in Athens: Fly into Athens International Airport. Depending on your arrival time, you might want to settle into your hotel and take a leisurely evening stroll.
• Explore Plaka: Start with a visit to Plaka, the old neighborhood of Athens. Wander through its charming streets, visit local shops, and enjoy a traditional Greek dinner at a taverna.

Day 2: Historical Athens

• Acropolis: Spend your morning at the Acropolis, home to iconic landmarks like the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Consider booking a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and significance of these ancient structures.
• Acropolis Museum: Head to the Acropolis Museum to view artifacts and sculptures recovered from the site. The museum’s modern architecture offers a striking contrast to the ancient ruins.
• Syntagma Square and the National Garden: In the afternoon, visit Syntagma Square to see the Greek Parliament building and witness the changing of the guard. Adjacent is the National Garden, a pleasant spot for a leisurely walk.

Day 3: Beyond Athens

• Ancient Agora: Explore the Ancient Agora, the heart of ancient Athens’ commercial and political life. Key sites include the Stoa of Attalos and the Temple of Hephaestus.
• Monastiraki Flea Market: Spend the afternoon browsing the Monastiraki Flea Market for souvenirs, antiques, and local products.
• Sunset at Lycabettus Hill: For a panoramic view of Athens, take the funicular or hike up Lycabettus Hill. The sunset view of the city and the Acropolis is spectacular.

Day 4-5: Delphi and Meteora – Mystical Landscapes and Ancient Ruins

Day 4: Delphi

• Travel to Delphi: Take an early morning drive or bus ride to Delphi, located about 2.5 hours from Athens. Delphi was considered the center of the ancient world.
• Archaeological Site: Visit the Delphi Archaeological Site, including the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theater, and the Oracle of Delphi. The site offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Delphi Museum: Explore the Delphi Archaeological Museum to see important artifacts, including the famous Charioteer of Delphi.

Day 5: Meteora

• Travel to Meteora: Depart for Meteora, a 3-hour drive from Delphi. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its monasteries perched on towering rock formations.
• Monasteries of Meteora: Visit some of the monasteries, such as the Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron and the Holy Monastery of Varlaam. Each offers unique views and insights into monastic life.
• Hiking: If time permits, enjoy a hike among the rock formations to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Day 6-7: Santorini – Iconic Island Beauty

Day 6: Arrival in Santorini

• Travel to Santorini: Fly from Kalambaka (near Meteora) to Santorini or take a ferry from Athens. The island’s stunning landscapes are a highlight of any Greek itinerary.
• Explore Fira: Spend your first day exploring Fira, the island’s capital. Wander through its white-washed streets, enjoy the views of the caldera, and visit the Archaeological Museum of Thera.
• Sunset in Oia: Head to Oia in the late afternoon to experience one of Santorini’s famous sunsets. The views over the caldera are breathtaking, and the town itself is charming with its narrow streets and boutique shops.

Day 7: Santorini’s Highlights

• Akrotiri Archaeological Site: Start your day with a visit to Akrotiri, the ancient Minoan city preserved by volcanic ash. The site provides a fascinating glimpse into ancient life.
• Red Beach and Perissa Beach: Relax at some of Santorini’s unique beaches, such as the Red Beach with its volcanic sand and the black sand beach of Perissa.
• Wine Tasting: In the afternoon, explore Santorini’s wine country. Visit local wineries and taste the island’s distinctive Assyrtiko wine.

Day 8-9: Crete – Rich History and Vibrant Culture

Day 8: Arrival in Crete

• Travel to Crete: Take a flight or ferry from Santorini to Crete. The island offers a diverse range of experiences from archaeological sites to vibrant towns.
• Heraklion: Start in Heraklion, the island’s capital. Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to see artifacts from the Minoan civilization, including the famous frescoes from Knossos.
• Knossos Palace: Explore the nearby Knossos Palace, the largest Minoan palace and a key archaeological site that provides insights into ancient Crete.

Day 9: Rethymno and Chania

• Rethymno: Head to Rethymno, a charming town known for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture. Wander through its old town, visit the Fortezza Castle, and enjoy a meal at a local taverna.
• Chania: Continue to Chania, another picturesque town with a Venetian harbor, narrow alleys, and vibrant markets. Explore the harbor area and visit the Maritime Museum of Crete.

Day 10: Return to Athens and Departure

Day 10: Travel Back to Athens

• Return to Athens: Fly or take a ferry back to Athens for your departure. Depending on your flight time, you may have some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Last-Minute Exploration: If time permits, revisit your favorite spots in Athens or explore areas you missed earlier, such as the hip neighborhoods of Psiri or Kifisia.
• Departure: Head to Athens International Airport for your flight home, with a camera full of memories and a heart full of experiences.

Practical Tips for Your 10-Day Greece Tours Packages

1. Transportation

• Flights and Ferries: Book domestic flights and ferries in advance to secure the best rates and ensure availability. Greece’s islands are well-connected by ferries, but flights can save time.
• Rental Car: Renting a car can be beneficial for exploring Crete and Meteora at your own pace.

2. Accommodation

• Varied Options: Greece offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels. Book early, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Location: Choose accommodations close to major attractions or transportation hubs to minimize travel time.

3. Language and Currency

• Language: Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
• Currency: The currency is the Euro (€). ATMs are readily available, and most places accept credit cards.

4. Safety and Health

• Safety: Greece is generally safe for travelers. Keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious in crowded areas.
• Health: Tap water is safe to drink in most parts of Greece, but bottled water is also widely available.

5. Cultural Etiquette

• Dress Code: When visiting religious sites, dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees). Casual attire is acceptable for other tourist activities.
• Tipping: Tipping is customary but not mandatory. A small tip (5-10%) is appreciated in restaurants and cafes.

Conclusion

Planning 10 days in Greece allows you to experience a wonderful blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. From the historical wonders of Athens and Delphi to the natural beauty of Santorini and Crete, this itinerary offers a diverse and enriching experience. By following this guide and tailoring it to your interests, you can make the most of your Greek adventure and create unforgettable memories.

Visit our Greece Cruise Packages