Greece is a popular vacation hotspot, and for good reason: there’s stunning stretches of powdery white beaches, unbelievable eats, and legendary (no pun intended) ancient history to top it all off.
To set expectations: if you’re traveling through Greece in 7 days, there’s no way you’ll be able to hit all the islands on the typical “Best Islands to Visit in Greece” lists. After extensive research, this is how I chose to spend my seven days and what I’d recommend: Athens → Milos → Naxos → Athens. You may notice a few popular islands missing from this itinerary (e.g., Santorini and Mykonos); I deliberately chose not to visit these islands to avoid places that were too crowded and touristy. If you’re big into exploring nightlife, then you can substitute one of the islands with Mykonos.
Day 1 (Athens): Fly into Athens
For first-time visitors to Greece, I’d recommend kicking off your trip with a day or two in Athens. If you’re a history buff and want to do a deep dive into Ancient Greek sightseeing, you may be interested in a longer stay in Athens.
In terms of Athens lodging, there are several options on AirBnb that are affordable and in a central walking distance. You’ll likely be walking around a lot in Athens, so stay in a centrally located neighborhood; Monastiriki, Plaka, and Syntagma Square are popular options for tourists.
I almost exclusively walked, Ubered, or used a taxi to get around. Uber’s quite common in Athens, but you’ll find that walking from place-to-place is quite convenient.
Here is my recommended itinerary for day 1:
- Morning/afternoon flight arrival: most people take an Uber or taxi to their lodging (if your hotel doesn’t offer it). Shower, freshen up, and settle into your hotel/AirBnb.
- Afternoon activity options:
- Cooking Class: I did a 4-hour cooking class that included a visit to the Central Market.
- Central Market Visit: try the famed Greek coffee!
- Athens Food Tour: there are many options for food tours around Athens, which often take you through the Central Market.
- Dinner at Bandiera: one of the best-value meals I had in Athens. Get the moussaka, saganaki cheese, and fish.
- Drinks at The Clumsies: a cozy atmosphere with unique cocktails
- Get some sleep, you’ll be tired from the flight!
Day 2 (Athens): Explore Ancient Greece
Did anyone else absolutely love reading the iconic yellow D’aulaire’s Book of Greek Myths as a kid? Greece’s capital city is steeped in history and culture, and there are many opportunities to be swept back in time.
- If you’re a runner, run part of the original Marathon (click here for a map of the route) including through the Panathinaiko Stadio.
- Breakfast at Stani: Greek yogurt and honey at Stani, one of the most famous restaurants in Greece. Order the sheep’s yogurt with walnuts and honey – you may want to split this, because it’s quite filling.
- Ancient Greece sightseeing: visit the Acropolis, the Parthenon temple, and other ancient sites, such as Hadrian’s library, the agora, and Kerameikos archaeological site. You’ll need to book tickets for these sites.
- Dinner at Krasopoulio tou Kokkora
- Dessert: Greek donuts at LUKUMAΔΕΣ This is a must – the freshly made lukumades are the perfect sweet treat to end your day of sightseeing.
Day 3 (Milos): Explore Milos
Milos was personally my favorite island of the trip. If you’re a fan of beautiful beaches and swimming in crystal-clear waters, Milos is a must-visit. Some of the best places on the island are unreachable by car, so I’d recommend dedicating a day to sailing on a cruise that will take you to some of the tucked-away gems in the island.
- Morning/early afternoon: take a morning ferry from Athens to Milos. From my experience, these ferries always departed on time (if not a couple minutes late), so plan ahead and make sure you’re able to travel to the port from Athens in time.
- Rent a car, mopeds, or ATVs (~$25/day). It’s quite easy to rent a car in Milos; there are several rental services in the area. Renting a car will allow you to buy fruit, bread, and snacks at the grocery store (which is more affordable than eating out for each meal).
- Quick lunch at Gyros of Milos
- Drive to Klima and Firopotamos. These are fishing villages in Milos, with beautiful blue waters.
- Visit Sarakiniko Beach. This is a must-do in Milos – the volcanic rock formations looked like a moonscape, and we spent a good amount of time exploring the area and climbing over the rocks. We visited Sarakiniko at sunrise, which was magical; visiting during the afternoon will likely be much more crowded.
- Dinner at O! Hamos! Tavern
Day 4 (Milos): Sail around Milos
If you’re going to splurge on one activity in Greece, spend it on a sailing cruise through Milos. There are several price points for these cruises, and it’ll depend on the type of boat and whether you choose a private, semi-private, or shared experience. These cruises usually include lunch, a snack, and unbeatable views of the island.
- Full-day cruise around Milos. Top sights: Sykia (largest cave in Milos), Kleftiko, and the Arkoudes (towering 20 ft. bear-shaped rocks)
- Be prepared to swim, jump from cliffs (if you want), and explore caves.
- Dessert at Aggeliki Ice Cream
Day 5 (Naxos): Beach hopping in Naxos
As the largest island in the Cyclades, Naxos has no shortage of activities, from beach hopping, hiking, to lively local nightlife. We had the best food of the trip in Naxos (in my humble opinion). The food was fresh, creative, and beautifully plated.
- Morning/early afternoon: Ferry from Milos to Naxos. Mini tip: stop by a bakery in the morning to grab breakfast/lunch for the ferry ride. I would buy spinach pies, cheese pies, and koulouri rings for the group.
- Souvlaki lunch at The Souvlaki of Makis
- Rent ATVs. I’d recommend renting ATVs in Naxos, since it’s such a large island. You’ll be able to explore several beaches much more quickly.
- Beach-hopping:
- Plaka Beach
- Mikri Vigla
- Agra Prokopios Beach
- Dinner at Doukato Restaurant. I’d make a reservation a day or two ahead of time, because it can get busy.
- Drinks at Honey & Cinnamon Cocktail Bar
Day 6 (Naxos): Hikes and Wine in Naxos
At this point of your trip, you’ll likely start adopting a “play-it-by-ear” attitude. I’ve outlined a diverse list of activities you and your group can enjoy in Naxos. If you’re just in the mood for relaxation, beaches and marvelous foods are just a short walk away.
- Morning hike up Mount Zas: The hike takes about 2-3 hours round trip. If you’re able to wake up early enough, you can watch the sunrise from the summit. This is the highest point of Naxos, and you’ll be able to enjoy panoramic views of the island and the Aegean sea.
- Lunch at Kozi
- Explore Saint Anna Winery. Experience the local Naxian wine at this winery, which offers tours and tastings to visitors.
- Dinner at To Elliniko. This was my favorite restaurant in Greece. The outdoor seating at To Elliniko is unparalleled. You’ll be surrounded by string lights and vibrant flowers, with an olive tree nearby. Order the beetroot salad to start, the Kleftiko (roasted baby goat) for the main, as well as the daily special (which usually is a fish dish).
Day 7 (Athens): Saying goodbye to Greece
In your last full day in Greece, you’ll loop back to Athens and spend your last remaining hours in the capital city. By the end of your trip, you’ll likely have compiled a list of favorites: favorite Greek dish, favorite bakery snack, favorite drink. I recommend spending your last day in Greece getting one last taste of your favorites, and buying some gifts or foods to bring back home.
- Morning/afternoon: Ferry from Naxos to Athens
- Souvlaki lunch at Lefteris O Politis
- Visit Monastiriki Flea Market
- Dinner at Tavern Klimataria
Day 8 (Athens)
- Fly out of Athens