How to Spend 10 Days in Greece

Athens is the beloved first stop for most 10-day vacations in Greece as it is at the heart of ancient Greek history and a cosmopolitan melting pot of cultures that constitute its modern charm.

Lively cafes, museum displays, and private kitchens highlight the preserved traditions, while mythology comes to life in the ruined heritage grounds found on the Aegean islands during Athens and Santorini vacations. In the city, you can stroll down back alleys and sit on park steps preserving centuries of history, before you reach impressive heritage highlights such as the Acropolis, Olympic Stadium, and the Temple of Hephaestus.

You can also indulge in Athens' authentic dishes in the vibrant Plaka neighborhood and escape from the city for a day to visit one of the many relaxed and delightful towns, such as the original capital of Greece, Nafplio, a coastal gem

Things to Do in Athens: Stand in awe of the Acropolis • Tuck into authentic Athens cuisine and sip Greek coffee on culinary tours • Explore coastal towns neighboring Athens like Nafplio or visit Cape Sounion • Discover legendary Greek mythology at ancient sites around the city

Thoughts of Mykonos conjure images of white seaside homes, turquoise seas spreading to the horizon, and glimmering golden shorelines peppered with blissful travelers.

The island resort town is one of the prime places to be in Greece, with a new cobbled lane and quaint eatery to be discovered daily. Here, one can brush shoulders with celebrities while sipping cocktails with views as far as the eyes can see.

You can catch a tan, swim in the island’s cerulean waters, visit family-run restaurants that pair perfectly prepared oregano-spiced pork meatballs with a glass of ouzo, and set sail with a cocktail in hand on a private yacht charter during your Mykonos tours and vacations.

Things to Do in Mykonos: Set sail on island-hopping tours from Mykonos to neighboring islands • Enjoy traditional Mykonos meals paired with ouzo • Spend days swimming and suntanning at Mykonos’ best beaches • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Mykonos cocktail bars

Santorini is the crown jewel of Cycladic charm in the Aegean Sea, attracting travelers eager to explore its panoramic sunsets, unspoiled calderas, and lush vineyards.

The island provides insight into the history of the Mediterranean, the preservation of traditional cuisine, and the romance of a European seaside getaway. Typical thoughts of Santorini will conjure images of its blue-domed Cycladic homes hanging over the sapphire sea from lofty cliffs. However, those fortunate enough to explore the Aegean’s crown jewel will also discover its old-world charm.

You can explore the ancient city of Akrotiri to find representations of the once-thriving Minoan port and experience Santorini’s enticing wine-making history, thanks to the nutrient-rich geothermal soils on which the island’s premier grapes are grown, during your Santorini tours and vacations.

Things to Do in Santorini: Discover heritage towns, including Oia and Fira • Savor Santorini’s finest wines on tours of the wineries • Cruise around the Santorini caldera during sunset • Hike across the caldera’s breathtaking landscapes to lagoons and coastal viewpoints

Crete is Greece’s largest island and comprises grand, dramatic beaches, tantalizing cuisine, and a very rich history.

Visit the old towns of Chania and Heraklion, and embrace the culture, cuisines, and inviting beachside resorts that are popular with visitors from around the world. Discover the Venice of Greece in Rethymno and listen to locals regale guests with stories of their vibrant past everywhere you go.

Crete’s combination of historical highlights and some of the best beaches in Greece make it an excellent last stop on 10-day Crete, Athens, and Santorini tours.

Things to Do in Crete: Walk on the unique pink sands of Elafonissi Beach • Explore the ancient Venetian style of Chania • Unpack the origins of Minoan civilization at the Heraklion Archeological Museum • Admire the ruins of Knossos Palace

From Athens’ spirited ancient streets to Mykonos’ sun-soaked shores and the enchanting caldera of Santorini, 10-day vacations and tours in Greece will introduce you to captivating scenes and cultural heritage during history tours, culinary adventures, and scenic excursions.

Look beyond the fan favorites and discover a few of the many idyllic, quaint, and proudly traditional islands when you combine these to create your Greece 10-day itinerary, planning ahead with inspiration in our Greece travel guide.