Dreaming of whitewashed villages, ancient ruins, and sunsets over the Aegean Sea? This 7 days in Greece itinerary gives you the perfect blend of culture, island life, and unforgettable landscapes. In just one week, you can walk the footsteps of philosophers in Athens, sail around volcanic cliffs in Santorini, and relax on sandy beaches in the Cyclades.
Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or a foodie chasing souvlaki and sunset views, this 7-day itinerary is designed to maximize your time without feeling rushed. From bustling city streets to tranquil island escapes, Greece in a week can feel both rich and relaxing.
Why Spend 7 Days in Greece?
One week in Greece strikes a perfect balance—it’s long enough to explore two or three regions without burning out, yet short enough to fit into most vacation schedules. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or as a family, this 7 days in Greece itinerary offers variety, flow, and just the right mix of history and relaxation.
Here’s why 7 days is the sweet spot:
- Efficient and Diverse: Greece is incredibly compact but geographically rich. In 7 days, you can start in ancient Athens, then unwind on island paradises like Santorini or Naxos.
- Easy Travel Connections: Frequent ferries and short domestic flights make it easy to hop between destinations quickly and affordably.
- Classic Route-Friendly: This itinerary is designed for first-time visitors who want a taste of the best—city, sea, and culture—without sacrificing depth.
- Balanced Experience: From walking through centuries-old ruins to sipping wine on a volcanic cliff, this trip gives you the best of Greece’s past and present.
So if you’re asking whether 7 days is enough—the answer is a definite yes, if you plan smart.
7 Days in Greece Itinerary Overview
This 7 days in Greece itinerary is tailored for first-time visitors who want to experience Greece’s ancient history, Cycladic islands, and iconic landscapes in one seamless journey. You’ll start in Athens, then hop to Santorini for breathtaking views, and end with Naxos or Paros for authentic island charm—before circling back to Athens for departure.
Expect a mix of sightseeing, beach time, and moments to simply enjoy the slower pace of Greek island life.
Day 1: Arrive in Athens – Acropolis, Plaka & First Taste of Greece
Your Greek adventure begins in the capital city, where ancient ruins and modern culture blend in every corner. Use this day to settle in and dive into Athens’ legendary history and food scene.
- Land at Athens International Airport (ATH)
- Take a taxi or metro to the city center (Syntagma or Monastiraki)
- Check into a hotel near Plaka, Psiri, or Thissio
- Walk to the Acropolis and visit the Parthenon, Theatre of Dionysus, and Temple of Athena Nike
- Explore Plaka’s charming streets and grab your first gyros or moussaka
- Optional: Sunset view from Areopagus Hill or rooftop bar near Monastiraki
Tip: Buy a combo ticket to access multiple archaeological sites over the next few days.
Day 2: Athens Culture or Day Trip – Museums, Delphi, or Cape Sounion
Depending on your travel style, Day 2 offers two great paths: dive deeper into Athens’ vibrant history and museums, or take a full-day trip to one of Greece’s most scenic and spiritual locations.
Option A: Stay in Athens – Museums & Local Vibes
If you prefer a slower morning and more time in the capital, spend the day uncovering the city’s cultural depth.
- Visit the Acropolis Museum – modern, interactive, and beautifully curated
- Head to the National Archaeological Museum for world-famous artifacts
- Enjoy coffee in Kolonaki or shop local goods in Ermou Street
- Optional: Walk up to Lycabettus Hill for panoramic views
- Dinner at a taverna with live music in Psiri or Anafiotika
This option is ideal if you had a late arrival on Day 1.
Option B: Full-Day Trip to Delphi
Explore one of ancient Greece’s most important religious centers—Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Join a guided day tour or drive (2.5 hours each way)
- Visit the Temple of Apollo, ancient theater, and Delphi Museum
- Enjoy mountain views and lunch in Arachova village
- Return to Athens by evening for a relaxed dinner
Option C: Half-Day Sunset Trip to Cape Sounion
Short on time but want one more iconic view? Cape Sounion is your perfect afternoon escape.
- Depart Athens mid-afternoon (1.5–2 hrs drive)
- Visit the Temple of Poseidon, perched above the sea
- Watch the sunset over the Aegean – one of the best in mainland Greece
- Return to Athens around 9–10 PM
Cape Sounion is perfect for photographers and romantics alike.
Day 3: Ferry to Santorini – Caldera Views & Oia Sunset
Today, trade the ancient stones of Athens for whitewashed villages and volcanic cliffs. It’s time to head to Santorini, one of the most iconic islands in the world. While the journey takes several hours, the reward is instant once you step into postcard-perfect scenery.
- Take an early morning ferry from Piraeus Port to Santorini (approx. 5–8 hours). Faster but pricier alternative: 45-min flight from Athens to Santorini
- Arrive at Santorini Port (Athinios) and transfer to your hotel
- Check in to a hotel in Fira, Imerovigli, or Oia (sunset spots!)
- Take the afternoon to walk the caldera path from Fira to Imerovigli
- Grab a pre-dinner drink at a rooftop bar with volcano views
- Head to Oia in the evening to experience the famous Santorini sunset
- Optional: Dinner with a view or fresh seafood by Amoudi Bay
Oia gets crowded during sunset—arrive early for the best spots, or choose a quieter viewpoint in Imerovigli.
Day 4: Explore Santorini – Volcano Cruise or Wine Tasting
Now that you’ve arrived and caught your first sunset, it’s time to truly experience what makes Santorini special—volcanic landscapes, charming villages, and world-class wine. This day offers two distinct ways to enjoy the island: by sea or by vineyard.
Option A: Caldera Cruise & Hot Springs
Ideal for active travelers who want to explore the island from the water.
- Book a catamaran or sailboat tour (half-day or sunset cruise)
- Sail to Nea Kameni (volcanic island) for a light hike
- Swim in the hot springs at Palea Kameni
- Snorkel and enjoy a BBQ meal onboard (included with many tours)
- Return to port in the afternoon or after sunset, depending on cruise time
Choose between morning cruise (more peaceful) or sunset cruise (more romantic).
Option B: Wine Tasting & Island Discovery
Perfect for those who prefer to explore by land and sip their way through Santorini’s vineyards.
- Visit top wineries like Venetsanos, Santo Wines, or Gavalas
- Try local varietals like Assyrtiko and Vinsanto
- Explore Pyrgos village – a lesser-known gem with traditional charm
- Optional stop: Akrotiri ruins (Minoan site) or Red Beach for a swim
- End the day with a sunset dinner at a clifftop restaurant
Many wine tours include transportation, tastings, and small bites—great value and convenience.
Day 5: Ferry to Naxos or Paros – Beach Bliss & Small Town Charm
Ready to slow things down a bit? On Day 5, you’ll leave iconic Santorini behind and head to a more laid-back Cycladic island like Naxos or Paros. Both offer beautiful beaches, local villages, and fewer crowds—making them perfect for a relaxed mid-trip reset.
Morning
- Take a morning ferry from Santorini to Naxos or Paros (approx. 2–3 hours)
- Check in to a seaside hotel near Naxos Town (Chora) or Naoussa (Paros)
- Grab brunch at a local café and enjoy a calm pace
Afternoon
- Relax on a nearby beach:
- Naxos: Agios Prokopios or Plaka Beach
- Paros: Kolymbithres or Golden Beach
- Optional: Rent an ATV or scooter to explore inland villages and hidden coves
- Sip a cold drink at a beach bar or traditional kafeneio
Evening
- Wander the narrow streets of Naxos Town or Naoussa
- Dinner at a seaside taverna—don’t miss fresh grilled octopus or moussaka
- Catch sunset from the Portara (Naxos) or Lefkes hilltop (Paros)
If you’re seeking a more local, non-touristy feel—Naxos is slightly more authentic; Paros is livelier and trendier.
Day 6: Explore Villages, History & Island Life
Now that you’ve settled into the island rhythm, Day 6 invites you to look beyond the beaches and explore the traditional heart of the Cyclades. Whether you’re on Naxos or Paros, there’s plenty to discover—from ancient ruins to hilltop villages and artisanal shops.
Morning
- Begin with a Greek-style breakfast at a local café
- Set off to explore traditional villages:
- Naxos: Visit Halki (known for Kitron liqueur), Apeiranthos (marble village), or Filoti (olive groves and local tavernas)
- Paros: Explore Lefkes (mountain village), Marpissa, or Prodromos (whitewashed lanes and old churches)
Don’t rush—part of the charm is walking slowly, chatting with locals, and tasting fresh baked goods or cheese.
Afternoon
- Optional light hike or cultural visit:
- Naxos: Hike to Zeus Cave or visit Temple of Demeter
- Paros: Visit the Butterfly Valley (summer) or Ancient Marble Quarries
- Relax on the beach in the afternoon or take a short sailing tour (sunset options available)
Evening
- Enjoy your final island dinner—perhaps with live Greek music
- Pick up handcrafted souvenirs: olive wood, ceramics, local spirits
- Watch the stars and reflect on your Greek island escape
This is the night to truly unplug—no plans, just good food and island vibes.
Day 7: Return to Athens – Departure or Extra Exploration
Your Greek island adventure comes to a close today. Depending on your flight time, you can either catch a morning ferry or flight back to Athens, or squeeze in a little more sightseeing if your schedule allows.
Option A: Morning Return to Athens + Flight Home
- Take an early domestic flight from Naxos or Paros to Athens (45–60 minutes)
- Or opt for a morning ferry (approx. 4–5 hours) if your flight is late afternoon or evening
- Transfer to Athens International Airport (ATH) and check in for departure
- Optional: If your flight is next morning, stay overnight at an airport hotel or return to the city for one last stroll and dinner
Option B: Extra Day in Athens (If Time Allows)
- Visit anything you missed: Roman Agora, Benaki Museum, or local markets
- Enjoy a farewell lunch at Varvakios Central Market or a rooftop with Acropolis views
- Shop for last-minute souvenirs—think olive oil, evil eye charms, or local spices
- Relax with a coffee in Monastiraki Square before heading to the airport
Travel tip: Domestic island airports are small—arrive at least 90 minutes early for peace of mind.
Estimated Budget for 7 Days in Greece
Traveling in Greece can be surprisingly affordable—especially if you plan ahead and balance city stays with island life. Here’s a realistic cost estimate for a one-week trip, depending on your travel style:
7-Day Greece Trip Cost Estimate (Per Person)
| Category | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler |
| Accommodation (6 nights) | $180 – $300 | $450 – $750 |
| Domestic Travel (ferries/flights) | $90 – $150 | $150 – $250 |
| Meals & Drinks | $100 – $180 | $200 – $300 |
| Entrance Fees & Tours | $60 – $100 | $120 – $200 |
| Local Transport (metro, taxis) | $40 – $60 | $60 – $90 |
| Misc. (souvenirs, tips) | $30 – $50 | $50 – $80 |
| Total Estimate | $500 – $840 | $1,030 – $1,670 |
Flying between islands costs more than ferries but saves time. Booking early = better prices.
Conclusion
This 7 days in Greece itinerary blends iconic highlights with authentic moments. From standing at the foot of the Parthenon to sipping wine on a volcanic island, this one-week adventure captures the soul of Greece in a way that’s both memorable and manageable.
Whether you’re chasing sunsets in Santorini or exploring quiet villages in Naxos, this trip offers the perfect mix of history, island life, and Mediterranean flavor. And best of all—you’ll leave already dreaming of your next return.