Greece Travel Insights

2 Weeks in Greece - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks in Greece is a superb amount of time to immerse yourself in the country's history and luxury. Athens, Mykonos, Naxos, Santorini, and Crete are top destinations and offer 5-star accommodations, world-class dining, and opportunities to explore by bike, on foot, and with a paddle in hand. Or, swap in the Peloponnese peninsula for a deep dive into Greek mythology. Another option is to take to the sea for a thrilling sailing excursion amid the Cyclades.

16 Days in Greece - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 16 days in Greece, you can enjoy a well-rounded introduction to Athens and the famous Cyclades islands of Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete. Or, opt for an adventure more catered to your interests. Foodies will find lesser-visited countryside farms and wineries ideal destinations, while active travelers focus on hiking, cycling, and kayaking on the Attica peninsula, Naxos, and Crete. Other options include a laid-back island-hopping itinerary and a fast-paced road trip through the Peloponnese.

Luxury Journey Through Ancient Greece: Athens, Crete & Peloponnese - 14 Days

Dive into the ancient history, culture, and gastronomy of Athens, Crete, and the Peloponnese with this two-week luxury tour that ticks off the classical highlights. Start in the country's capital for private tours of the Acropolis and Athens' modern-day neighborhoods, then fly south to Crete for authentic experiences in idyllic hilltop and lakeside hamlets. Throw in a sunset cruise, private vineyard tours, and 5-star accommodation, and you'll leave feeling refreshed and inspired.

Luxury Sailing in the Cyclades: Santorini, Paros & Mykonos - 14 Days

Experience quintessential Greek islands and the warm breeze of the Cyclades on this first-class, two-week sailing vacation. After a 5-star welcome at one of Athens' top hotels, explore the city with private tours before jetting off to Santorini for sunset wine tasting and a spa afternoon. Sail to Paros and Mykonos via your own private yacht, with luxurious stays on each, while experiencing the best of the archipelago's beaches, charming towns, and snorkeling spots.

10 Days in Greece - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in Greece is an excellent amount of time to delve into a highlights tour that features Athens, Crete, and three picturesque Cyclades islands. You can also cater the adventure to your interests. Choose a luxury gastronomy tour to uncover the best food of the mainland, Santorini, and Naxos, or a fast-paced trip featuring the ancient sites of Olympia, Meteora, and Crete. Adventure lovers can kayak and hike around the country, while sailing enthusiasts hop between the Cyclades by private yacht.

Island Hopping From Athens Across the Cyclades - 16 Days

Immerse yourself in the culture of Athens and six Cycladic islands on this 16-day tour, visiting local villages, farms, and wineries. Begin by exploring the Acropolis in the capital, then fly to Mykonos to hike, eat, and sip wine before hopping on a ferry to Naxos, where you'll absorb history at the Temple of Apollo and cruise around the island. Learn how to cook traditional dishes on a farm in Paros, then explore the islands of Sifnos, Milos, and Santorini on horseback, on foot, and in a Jeep.

Luxury Highlights of Greece: Athens, Mykonos, Naxos, Santorini & Crete - 14 Days

This two-week tour of Greece combines elegant luxury with action-packed fun, starting in Athens, where you'll visit the ancient Acropolis and drive along the scenic Athenian Riviera. Then, you're off to Mykonos for fresh oysters and a sunset catamaran cruise. From here, hop a ferry to Naxos and take a high-speed boat tour of its pristine beaches, followed by Santorini for wine tastings and seaside dining. End with Crete's impressive Knossos Palace and the pale pink sands of Balos Beach.

1 Week in Greece - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Greece and luxury go hand in hand, and with one week to explore, you can hop between the mainland and one or two islands. Athens is a natural starting point for most tours, while Santorini and Mykonos are must-visits for those dreaming of whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and world-class cuisine. History enthusiasts will want to spend more time on the mainland, especially in Olympia. Or, for the ultimate getaway, hire a private yacht and sail around the Cyclades.

Luxury Greek Gastronomy Tour: Athens, Nafplio, Santorini & Naxos - 14 Days

See and taste the best of Greece and its islands on this fun-filled two-week luxury tour, starting in Athens for a private tour of the Acropolis and a Greek wine tasting. From here, you're off to historic Nafplio for a decadent dinner with a personal chef. Then it's time to hop on a ferry to Santorini and then Naxos for sailing and catamaran cruises and visits to local farms known for cheesemaking and wine. Finish back in t with a scenic drive along the Athenian Riviera to finish the adventure.

Luxury & Adventure in Greece: Athens, Crete & Santorini - 14 Days

Outdoor adventures meet ultimate luxury on this two-week trip around Greece. Explore Athens by bike and kayak to the Temple of Poseidon, then you're off to Crete and the ancient city of Chania. Walk the streets of the Old Town, venture into the Samaria River Gorge, and relax on the pink sands of Balos Beach before transferring to Heraklion for visits to the Cave of Zeus and Knossos Palace. End in Santorini, cruising around the island via catamaran and savoring a decadent picnic at a local organic farm.

Historic Tour Through Mainland Greece & Crete - 16 Days

Immerse yourself in Greece's rich culture, history, and mythology on this 16-day trip across the mainland and Crete. Begin in Athens, where you'll explore the Acropolis, visit museums, and discover the city's Ottoman history. More archaeological wonders await in Nafplio, Olympia, and Delphi as you walk in the footsteps of ancient Greeks. Finally, visit the UNESCO-listed monasteries of Meteora before flying to Crete to explore Knossos Palace in Heraklion and ride a Trikke along Chania's Venetian harbor.

Luxury & Adventure in Greece: Athens, Crete & Santorini - 10 Days

Combine outdoor fun with 5-star luxury on this 10-day adventure through Greece. Start on the mainland with a kayaking trip along the Athenian Riviera; then, you're off to Crete, where you'll balance a rugged hike through the Samaria River Gorge with food and wine tasting around the Old Town of Chania. Stop in Heraklion for farm-to-table dining and a descent into the mythical Cave of Zeus, and end on Santorini for a private sunset sailing cruise and a trek through the island's volcanic landscapes.

Luxury Highlights of Greece: Athens, Mykonos, Naxos, Santorini & Crete - 10 Days

Get a taste of authentic Grecian luxury with this 10-day island-hopping odyssey. Begin in the capital with an introduction to the Acropolis and a chauffeured jaunt along the Athenian Riviera, then skip over to Mykonos for a meal of freshly caught oysters and a private catamaran cruise. See the Temple of Demeter on Naxos, settle into Santorini for wine tastings and a walk through the ruins of Akrotiri, and end on the island of Crete for elevated farm-to-table fare and a journey into the mystical Knossos Palace.

Luxury Greek Gastronomy Tour: Athens, Nafplio, Santorini & Naxos - 10 Days

This lavish 10-day exploration of Greek food and wine starts in Athens, where you'll stroll through historic neighborhoods and visit the towering Acropolis. Then, you're off to Nafplio for an introduction to local cuisine by way of dinner with a private chef and a wine tasting among the ancient vines of Nemea. Fly to Santorini for a sunset catamaran cruise, then ferry over to Naxos to taste local cheeses and visit a citron distillery. End with a celebratory dinner of fresh seafood overlooking the glittering Athenian Riviera.

Luxury Journey Through Ancient Greece: Athens, Crete & Peloponnese - 10 Days

Experience the best of ancient and modern Greece with this luxury tour that starts in Athens and combines cocktails, street art, and fine dining with tours of the Acropolis and the capital's landmarks. Fly south to Crete and visit the legendary Palace of Knossos, rounded off with a visit to the famous Boutari winery. Back on the mainland, you'll discover picturesque fishing villages and ancient sights, capped off with plenty of Greek hospitality and mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine.

Luxury Sailing in the Cyclades: Santorini, Paros & Mykonos - 10 Days

This perfectly curated itinerary starts in Athens with a lavish stay at one of the capital's best hotels and fine dining with an Acropolis view. Then, it's deck shoes at the ready for a luxury sailing trip around the Cyclades with your own private yacht and crew. Each day, you'll cast off to discover uninhabited islands, ancient ruins, unspoiled villages, and some of the Aegean's best beaches—while evenings are spent in 5-star style between Santorini, Paros, and Mykonos.

Luxury Sailing in the Cyclades: Santorini, Paros & Mykonos - 7 Days

Escape to the Greek Islands for a week of sun, sand, and sailing in luxurious style. With a private yacht and crew, you'll spend your days cruising the glittering Aegean while nights are spent on land in some of the Cyclades' finest hotels. Start with astonishing sunsets in Santorini and finish in laid-back Paros and cosmopolitan Mykonos—discovering a paradise of secluded islets, tiny villages, and secret coves in between.

Luxury Journey Through Ancient Greece: Athens, Peloponnese & Santorini - 7 Days

Follow in the footsteps of the Gods and delve into ancient Greece as you uncover the best of the mainland's classical sights. With a private driver throughout, you'll tour ancient Mycenae, Olympia, and Delphi, bookended with luxurious stays at Athens' top 5-star hotels. Then, spend two nights savoring the sunsets in Santorini while days are spent tasting wine in labyrinthine caves, cruising the Cyclades' best beaches, and savoring the view from your private cliffside plunge pool.

Luxury Highlights of Greece: Athens, Mykonos & Santorini - 7 Days

Opulence abounds on this seven-day tour of Greece, where you'll experience 5-star accommodations, private tours, and the finest in Mediterranean cuisine. It starts in Athens, walking the paths of the ancient Greeks at the Acropolis and skirting the coastline of the Athenian Riviera. Continue to Mykonos to sample fresh seafood and relax on a sunset catamaran cruise, then hop over to Santorini for volcanic beaches, clifftop villages, and a wine tasting at one of the island's exclusive vineyards.

Active Adventure in Greece: Hiking, Cycling, Swimming & Kayaking - 16 Days

Pack your gear and get ready for a 16-day active adventure across mainland Greece and the islands of Crete, Santorini, and Naxos. Spend a night in Athens, then head to Nafplio for an e-bike tour and Kardamyli for standup paddleboarding and snorkeling. In Chania, jump on a Trikke tour and hike through Samaria Gorge, then in Heraklion, join a 4WD safari along an ancient Minoan trail at sunset. Finish with a sea kayak in Santorini and, with the energy you have left, a trek up Mount Zas in Naxos.

Greek Food & Wine Discovery Tour: Athens, the Peloponnese, Naxos & Santorini - 12 Days

Combine ancient sights and delicious Greek cuisine on this 12-day gastronomy-focused tour of the Aegean. You'll start in the capital with dinner overlooking the Acropolis before experiencing the best of Peloponnese produce with trips to wineries, olive groves and a hands-on cooking class. Hop over to the charming whitewashed houses of the Cyclades, where Naxian cuisine and the perfect beach await. Then finish in elegant Santorini with a sunset catamaran cruise.

Luxury & Adventure in Greece: Athens, Crete & Santorini - 7 Days

If you like your luxury travel with a dash of active adventure, this weeklong Greek itinerary is the perfect fit. The fun starts right away, with sea kayaking along the Athenian Riviera. Then, trade the capital for Crete and the city of Heraklion, where you'll descend into the Cave of Zeus and tour the mythical Knossos Palace. End on Santorini, exploring the island's coastline by catamaran, hiking its rugged Caldera, and closing your trip with an exclusive private picnic at an organic farm.

Luxury Greek Gastronomy Tour: Athens, Santorini & Naxos - 7 Days

Take a deep dive into the cuisine and culture of Greece with this weeklong luxury itinerary. Start in Athens, where you'll dine on authentic Mediterranean dishes against the backdrop of the Acropolis. Then, you're off to Santorini for a tour of the island's most exclusive vineyards and a sunset catamaran cruise. Hop over to Naxos to sample local liqueurs and learn about cheesemaking at a working farm, and finish back on the Athenian Riviera with a scenic drive and a stroll to the famed Temple of Poseidon.

The 6 Best Mid-Range Hotels in Heraklion

These six mid-range hotels of Crete's present-day capital, Heraklion, capture different aspects of its layered culture and history. Features like prime Old Town locations, modern takes on mythological figures, and smart technology that connects you more deeply to the island all make these options stand out in this city once ruled by the Venetians, Ottomans, and Arabs.

The 3 Best Standard Hotels in Chania

Chania's best—and affordable—standard hotels reflect the city's diverse past and culture with landmark buildings, prime locations, and Cretan hospitality and cuisine. Whatever your budget, you can experience the best that Chania has to offer from a hotel that captures one or more parts of the city's distinct character.

The 4 Best Standard Hotels in Athens

Athens is rich in history and culture, and the city makes these and other elements accessible for travelers with all kinds of budgets. The best standard hotels in Athens are affordable, and offer stays that are anything but standard. Instead, these options highlight the city's best aspects, whether with views of the Acropolis and other ancient sites, the warmth of Greek hospitality, or perfectly preserved historic buildings that bring the past to the modern era.

The 7 Best Mid-Range Hotels in Chania

Chania's accommodations are as diverse as its history, cuisine, and nature; some of its best mid-range hotels bring the city's Venetian, Ottoman, and Roman history to life in landmark buildings, others focus on the surrounding natural landscape, and several treat guests to tasty local cuisine. Regardless of their approach, these hotels all have one thing in common: a particular Cretan experience at a more affordable price.

The 6 Best Luxury Hotels in Chania

The luxury hotels in Chania are unique in how they interact with and capture the spirit of Crete's former capital, showcasing thousands of years of Roman, Venetian, and Ottoman influences. Relax in a Jacuzzi overlooking the White Mountains, enjoy a panoramic harbor view in a 19th-century building, or experience the best of Crete's famous hospitality in a Venetian family home.

The 10 Best Boutique Hotels in Chania

Whether traveling to Chania for its history, romantic atmosphere, or mix of Roman, Venetian, and Ottoman cultures, you'll find that its hotels are as diverse as its past. The best boutique hotels in Chania include unique centuries-old landmark buildings, family-run luxury hotels with fascinating stories, and historic gems overlooking the Venetian Harbor.

The 6 Best Hotels Near the Acropolis

Athens is an exciting city for different reasons, but for many travelers, the Acropolis pulls them in the most. While numerous hotels have fantastic views of the Acropolis, a handful have the added benefit of being close to the site. These include features like rooftop pools overlooking the Parthenon, romantic atmospheres for couples, and spacious rooms for families, and all are within 10 minutes walking distance of the Acropolis.

The 11 Best Mid-Range Hotels in Athens

When looking for a mid-range hotel in Athens, the options are as diverse as the city's 3,400 years of history. These accommodations offer different experiences and amenities for all types of travelers without breaking the bank or sacrificing comfort. Experience the past in landmark buildings, take in Acropolis views from rooftops, private Jacuzzis, and terraces, or taste a variety of Greek cuisine in these mid-range hotels that bring you the best Athens has to offer.

The 8 Best Luxury Hotels in Athens

In a city as historic as Athens, it's not surprising to discover that many of the best luxury hotels bring the past to life. Each hotel incorporates the city's offerings in different ways that will appeal to couples, families, and groups alike. Time travel to the 19th century with a stay in an opulent neoclassical landmark building, take in Acropolis views from your room or a rooftop pool, or engage in a lively discussion in a philosophy-inspired hotel.

The 11 Best Acropolis View Hotels

For many, Athens is synonymous with the Acropolis, an epic point of reference to orient yourself in Europe's second oldest city. While many hotels are focused on the famous landmark, a select few have the best and most unforgettable views of this 2,500-year-old Temple of Athena. These include rooftop terraces with panoramic vistas, lush gardens that add a respite from the bustling city life, and rooms with direct views of the Parthenon.

Athens, Paros, Santorini & Mykonos: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that 8 to 12 days is perfect for a well-paced Greece trip with stops in Athens, Paros, Santorini, and Mykonos. If you like keeping a quick pace, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as seven days. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country; some of the best-loved trip extensions include Naxos or Antiparos. See below for more ideas for the Athens, Paros, Santorini, and Mykonos itineraries.

Athens, Naxos, Tinos, Ios & Syros: Best Itinerary Ideas

Athens, Naxos, Tinos, Ios, and Syros are a classic pairing for travelers headed to Greece. To make the most of your trip, maximizing time between travel days at each incredible stop, you'll want to plan your trip for about 10 to 14 days. Arrange your perfect trip to Athens, Naxos, Tinos, Ios, and Syros with the itinerary ideas below.

Athens & Crete: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, 9 to 12 days is the perfect amount of time for a Greece trip, with stops in Athens and Crete's Chania and Vamos. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in six to eight days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some favored trip extensions include Santorini. Keep reading for more inspiring Athens, Chania, and Vamos itineraries.

Athens, Naxos, Mykonos & Tinos: Best Itinerary Ideas

Nine to 12 days are excellent for a Greece trip with stops in Athens, Naxos, Mykonos, and Tinos. It's possible to hit the highlights in six to eight days if you don't mind a fast-paced route. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Santorini or Nafplio. Read on for more inspiring Athens, Naxos, Mykonos, and Tinos itineraries.

Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Tinos & Crete: Best Itinerary Ideas

Ten to 16 days is a great length for a Greece trip that includes stops in Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Tinos, and Crete's Chania. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Heraklion. See more ideas for Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Tinos, and Chania itineraries below.

Athens, Naxos, Santorini & Crete: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find 12 to 14 days perfect for a well-paced Greece trip with stops in Athens, Naxos, Santorini, and Crete's Heraklion and Chania. It's possible to hit the highlights in 10 or 11 days if you don't mind a fast-paced itinerary. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some favorite itinerary extensions include Vamos, Mykonos, or Rethymno. Get inspired with the following trip ideas below.

Athens, Santorini, Mykonos & Crete: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, 11 to 14 days is the perfect amount of time for a Greece trip, with stops in Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete's Heraklion and Chania. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as 8 to 10 days. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Nafplio, Naxos, or Tinos. Get inspired with the Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete trip ideas below.

15 Days in Greece - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 15 days in Greece, you can easily see many of the country's highlights or base yourself in one region for more in-depth cultural, historical, and culinary experiences. Whether you choose to explore the wonders of mainland Greece on a road trip, relax in the beautiful Cyclades Islands, or get active around Meteora, the Zagori villages, and the lovely isle of Corfu, these five itineraries showcase some of the best that Greece has to offer.

Gourmet Experience & Outdoor Adventure in Athens, Crete & Santorini - 12 Days

Offering the perfect balance of outdoor activities and gourmet pursuits that provide insight into Greece's history and culture, the pleasures of Athens, Crete, and Santorini await. Begin in Athens and discover the city, kayak around Cape Sounio at sunset, and hike in Parnassos National Park. Then it's off to Crete to sample local cuisine and relax on the famous pink sand beach of Elafonissi before ending the adventure with several days on Santorini.

Wine, Sun, and Romance in Athens & the Greek Islands - 13 Days

Experience the best of Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini on this romantic 13-day luxury voyage. You'll explore the ancient ruins of the Acropolis and sample local delicacies before being whisked away to drink red wines around Nemea and sail along the picturesque coastline of Nafplio. Then it's off to discover the beautiful beaches of Greece's islands, cruise turquoise waters on a catamaran, and cap the experience with a professional photographer documenting your sunkissed excursion around Santorini's most scenic locales.

Sun and Sea in Athens, Naxos & Santorini- 11 Days

Soak up the sunshine on this 11-day luxury tour of Greece, Naxos, and Santorini. Enjoy a guided tour of Athens' ancient Acropolis, an escorted drive of the coastline, and a sunset over Cape Sounio. On Naxos, take lessons to windsurf, sail to the Small Cyclades, and catch a high-speed ferry to Santorini for a catamaran cruise over pristine waters to swim, snorkel, and lie out on the island's famous volcanic beaches.

Epic Adventure Around Ancient Greece & the Islands - 18 Days

If you have more than a couple of weeks to travel, this epic 18-day trip around Greece is a fantastic choice. The itinerary takes you to ancient monuments, idyllic islands, clifftop monuments, family-run wineries and so much more! Start in Athens before hitting the road for a self-guided car trip around the mainland's historic ruins, including Olympia, where the original Olympic Games were held. Then it's time to island-hop to Milos, Santorini, and Crete, enjoying active excursions and relaxing beach time along the way. You'll dine in local taverns, boat around the coast at sunset, and stroll through quaint villages, culminating the trip with an unforgettable hike through Samaria Gorge on the island of Crete.

Discover Athens and the Greek Islands of Lemnos, Kos & Rhodes - 14 Days

This action-packed two-week tour around Greece offers everything from Roman ruins and archaeological museums to island-hopping, a wine tasting, and a visit to a butterfly habitat. You'll kick off the tour in Athens, doing some traditional sightseeing and enjoying a food tour of the capital. Then you'll fly to Leros, a lesser-visited Greek island known for its beaches and historic windmills. Next, it's off to the island of Kos, where you'll swim and sunbathe on the beach, then tour the island's historic castles. The adventure ends with several days on the island of Rhodes, where the itinerary includes visits to quaint villages, a day trip to an idyllic island, a Greek wine tasting, and sunset with a spectacular view over the sea.

Enjoy Athens, the Peloponnese, Santorini & Crete - 15 Days

This lively 15-day itinerary around Greece features too many activities to list, from boating excursions and tours of ancient ruins to waterfall hikes and wine tastings. The journey begins on the mainland with sightseeing in Athens, a visit to Olympia — the site of the first Olympic Games — the fabled Homeric city of Mycenae, and more. Then you'll take off on an island adventure, starting with a ferry ride to Santorini, known around the world for its spectacular beaches and sunsets. Wrap up the trip on Crete, dividing your time between Heraklion and Chania as you discover the island's caves and coastline.

Greek History & Gourmet Adventure in Athens, Naxos & Amorgos - 14 Days

Food and wine enthusiasts — especially those looking to get off the beaten path a bit — will love this two-week itinerary around Athens and a pair of Greek islands. The trip starts with a few days in Athens, where you'll get oriented in Greek history and mythology. Then it's off to the island of Naxos, where you'll sample local sweets and visit a family-run olive oil farm. You'll also enjoy a day of sailing on the Aegean Sea before continuing to the lesser-visited island of Amorgos for several days of eating, drinking, and sunbathing. Learn how to prepare Greek food during a cooking class, sip wine with a sunset view, and pick up some bottles of locally produced olive oil to take home with you. You'll head back to Athens for one last Greek meal before the trip comes to an end.

Venture Off the Beaten Path in Greece - 15 Days

This sweeping 15-day tour of Greece features stops at popular destinations like Athens and Santorini. It also takes you to several jaw-droppingly beautiful places that many tourists never see! Start with some traditional sightseeing at the Acropolis before catching a boat to the quiet island of Sifnos, where you'll hike, explore traditional villages, and take a ceramics class. Then continue on to Amorgos, another lesser-visited island that's known for its dramatic scenery and delicious food. Learn all about it on a gourmet tour of the island before the itinerary takes you to Santorini. Kayak through sea caves, snorkel with sea urchins, take in the island's glorious sunsets from a sailing cruise at sunset, and more — this action-packed trip has something for everyone.

Escape to Athens, Mykonos & Santorini - 12 Days

This colorful 12-day itinerary around Greece features a wide range of cultural activities and outdoor adventures, from sightseeing at the Acropolis to sailing around Santorini at sunset. You'll begin the journey with sightseeing in Athens, then move on to explore ancient ruins at Mycenae, Nafplio, Delphia, and Olympia, the site of the first Olympic Games. Hike around the Meteora before catching a boat to Mykonos and enjoying some relaxation on the island. You'll end the trip with several days in Santorini, plenty of time for exploring island villages, discovering quiet beaches, and taking in a glorious sunset during a sailing excursion.