The cradle of civilization, the land of myths and legends, and a canvas painted with the hues of an ancient sun: “Greece” it is.!! As I sit and pen down my experiences, I’m filled with an overwhelming sense of excitement, for Greece is not merely a destination; it’s an odyssey that unfolds against a backdrop of history, culture, and unparalleled natural beauty.
Picture this: cobalt-blue waters gently lapping against rugged coastlines, the ruins of ancient temples whispering stories of gods and heroes, and quaint villages with bougainvillea-clad houses welcoming you with open arms. Greece is a symphony of contrasts, where modernity dances with antiquity, and the echoes of the past resonate in the present.
In my recent escapade to this mesmerizing Mediterranean haven, I crafted a four-day itinerary to explore the ultimate Greek trio of Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini, ensuring a seamless blend of ancient marvels, vibrant island life, and breathtaking sunsets.
Ideal time to plan.?
If you wish to escape the crowds (not completely though), then I would personally suggest to plan your trip just before/after the peak season, during the late spring (April to June) or early fall (September to October). We planned just in the first week of June, when it was still not the peak of summer, the vibes and crowds were already filled in though.
Athens – Unveiling the Ancient Marvels
Our journey begins in Athens, the beating heart of Greece, where the Acropolis stands proudly as a testament to the genius of ancient architects. Athens is a place where time stands still. As the sun bathes the Parthenon in a golden glow, you can almost feel the weight of history in the air. The Acropolis is not just a collection of ruins; it’s a time machine that transports you to the pinnacle of human achievement.
Travelling from Athens Airport to Acropolis:
Arriving at Athens airport, the allure of ancient Greece awaited, and our journey commenced with a smooth ride on the M3 Metro line. Acquiring the Ath.Ena tickets (Short term tickets including the airport transfer) at a reasonable 9 euros/person (took tickets directly in the ticket machine), we embarked on a scenic one-hour journey to the Acropolis, the cradle of Western civilization.
There are multiple ways to travel from Athens airport to Acropolis, via metro, bus, taxi and even private transfers. Please refer to the this Airport Transfer website and prefer what suits better.
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- Metro: M3 and approximately an hour journey costing about 9 euros/person, varies depending on the days chosen
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- Bus: X95 and approximately more than an hour journey costing about 6 euros/person (valid for 90 minutes)
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- Taxi: Yellow taxis with a price range between 50 euros during the day and 55 euros during the night time.
The grandeur of the Acropolis unfolded right infront of me as I explored iconic landmarks, including the Parthenon, a testament to classical architecture. The ticket, priced at 30 euros/person, granted access to seven historic spots, encompassing the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Agora, and nearby architectural marvels. The historical immersion continued, and for those seeking an extra layer of antiquity, the National Archaeological Museum stood as a captivating option.
Refer to official ticketing site – Acropolis Tickets for more information and its really advisable to book your tickets online in advance if you are planning to visit during the peak season. Also, the number of tourists per day has been limited recently by the government to avoid peak crowds.
Entry into 6 archaeological sites:
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- Acropolis and Slopes,
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- Ancient Agora,
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- Roman Agora,
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- Hadrian’s Library,
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- Olympieion Kerameikos
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- Aristotle’s School (Lykeion)
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- Note: This multi-site ticket allows one entrance to each site.
As the day unfolded its layers of history, I concluded my exploration with an evening of authentic Greek cuisine at a local taverna. The tempting flavors of Moussaka, Souvlaki, and Baklava danced on my taste buds, creating a culinary symphony.
As the sun dipped below the Athenian skyline, I navigated the efficient Metro and bus system to head back to my stay. While buses offered a local flavor, a touch of practicality led me to occasionally rely on a taxi, with Uber as a trusty companion in the cityscape.
Day 1 unfolded an exquisite blend of history, gastronomy, and Athenian charm, setting the stage for the island allure that awaited on Day 2.
We stayed in an Airbnb near to the airport since we had an early morning flight to Mykonos the next day. We stayed @Helen (personally recommended)
Mykonos – Island Escape
Day 2 is a seamless transition from Athens to the vibrant island life of Mykonos, setting the stage for a day filled with azure waters, charming alleys, and the lively atmosphere of Mykonos Town. Join me as we unravel the island charms!
On Day 2, we kicked off early with a morning flight from Athens to Mykonos. After a breezy 30-minute walk from the airport, I found myself in the heart of Mykonos, ready to explore the charms of this Cycladic paradise.
The welcome was nothing short of magical, where you’ll find yourself immersed in the narrow cobblestone streets of Mykonos Town (Chora) beckoned, adorned with whitewashed buildings and bursts of colorful bougainvillea. Icons like Little Venice, the Windmills of Mykonos, and the Panagia Paraportiani awaited around every corner.
Taking in the cultural richness, I wandered to Agias Paraskevis and nearby landmarks, all conveniently walkable. For lunch, I indulged in the delights of Sakis, a renowned spot for authentic Greek cuisine.
The Party capital of Greece!!!!
As the day unfolded, I hopped on a bus to Paradise Beach. All the buses are well connected to the city-centered Fabrika Bus Station. The azure waters and lively beach clubs made for a perfect afternoon retreat. The evening on Paradise Beach was nothing short of magical, with the sun setting over the horizon.
Day 2 in Mykonos was a seamless blend of exploration, culinary delights, and beachside tranquility, setting the stage for the adventures that awaited on Day 3.
We stayed in the heart of Mykonos: Eleanna Mykonos
Check out the detailed itinerary here, unfolding in a seamless and logical progréssion (Photo spots included for sure).
Morning:
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- Boni’s Windmill
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- Little Venice
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- Church of Panagia Paraportiani
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- Panellḗnio
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- Windmills of Mykonos
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- Agias Paraskevis
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- I Love Mykonos Staircase
Afternoon:
Plan for a late-afternoon lunch, so that you can directly head to the vibrant Paradise beach.
A personal suggestion is to opt for taxis if you have an early morning ferry from Mykonos New Port to Santorini or other Islands, like us.! The buses commence around 9 a.m.,
A final touch: Trust me, Mykonos completely had our hearts and was our personal favorite.!!!!
Santorini – Sunset Bliss
Leaving the bustling city behind, our next stop is the island of Santorini! I boarded a ferry from Mykonos to Santorini, anticipating the enchanting experiences this iconic island had in store. The ferry ride was a spellbinding experience, weaving through multiple islands, with each stop evoking a sense of pure magic.
How to get to Santorini:
You can opt for flights or ferries (personally recommended so that the magical ferry experience is not missed out). Multiple operators provide the ferry service, checkout Ferryhopper to find out which suits the best. I opted for an early-departure – WorldChampionJet (SeaJets) and the journey is about 2 hours.
Santorini-a paradise painted in shades of white and blue. As the sun sets over the Caldera, casting a warm glow on the iconic windmills, you can’t help but be swept away by the romance of it all. Santorini is a love letter written in sunsets and reflected in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
Getting around in Santorini:
I opted to stay in the cozy Hill Suites in Fira, perfectly situated to unfold the island’s wonders. A note for couples: Oia offers a romantic escape with its breathtaking vistas, making it an ideal choice.
Embracing Santorini’s charm, I hopped on a bus from Athinos Ferry port to Fira, savoring the journey along the scenic seashores (ticket: 2-3 euros per ride). After settling into my accommodation, I opted for a scooty to seamlessly navigate the island, avoiding the potential delays of buses. Trust me opting for scooty (or an ATV) is the best option for you to ride along the picturesque views of the Aegean Sea. Personally, this experience was the absolute best!
Lunch unfolded at Triana Tavern, a culinary haven for authentic Santorinian flavors, trust me this was one of the best place to taste the authentic Greek cuisine. Energized and ready for adventure, I embarked on a picturesque 30-minute scooty ride from Fira to Oia, tracing the coastline’s beauty.
The iconic sunset:
Oia welcomed me with its iconic Blue Dome viewpoint, offering a canvas of Santorini’s allure. The charming streets beckoned for a leisurely stroll, and as the evening approached, I secured a prime spot at the Castle of Oia for the legendary Santorini sunset. Arriving early guaranteed the best seat, allowing me to witness the sky transform into a palette of mesmerizing colors.
Beyond the Castle Hues:
Windmills of Oia: Perch yourself near the Windmills of Oia for a classic Santorini sunset framed by the silhouette of these iconic structures.
The Catamaran Sunset Cruise: Sailing amidst the caldera’s beauty, these paid boat tours create an unforgettable canvas for witnessing one of the world’s most celebrated sunsets.
Amoudi Bay: While renowned for its seafood, Amoudi Bay also serves up a mesmerizing sunset experience. The harbor-facing restaurants offer a front-row seat to the sun’s descent.
Day 3 painted Santorini with the hues of exploration, culinary delights, and the captivating beauty of Oia.
Check out the detailed itinerary here.!
Stay: Hill suites (Stayed in Fira)
Day 4: @Santorini
Begin your day with a visit to Oia in the morning, capturing the charm of this picturesque town in the soft light for stunning photographs.
Ever wondered about visiting an Active Volcano?
Embark on a morning trip to the Active Volcano, exploring Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. The journey promises approximately 4 hours of volcanic wonder. Note: To reach the starting point at Fira harbor, either take a cable car or embark on a scenic walk with numerous steps.
Opting for the later option (30 euros/person) provides a unique perspective as the day transitions to evening.
Utilize the remaining time to explore Imerovigli or Pyrgos, immersing yourself in the distinctive charm each location offers.
Day 4 encapsulates the dual essence of Santorini – the tranquility of Oia and the thrill of exploring the island’s volcanic wonders. As the day unfolds, seize the moments that define Santorini’s unique allure.
Savouring the Mediterranean delight: Greek cuisine
In your culinary journey through Greece, make sure to savor these delightful and quintessentially Greek dishes:
Souvlaki: Indulge in the flavorful skewers of grilled meat, often served with pita bread and garnishes.
Moussaka: Immerse yourself in the layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce, creating a savory delight.
Gyros: Treat your taste buds to the delectable combination of seasoned meat, typically lamb or chicken, wrapped in pita with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki.
Authentic Greek Salad: Relish the freshness of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, drizzled with olive oil – a refreshing Greek classic.
And, let’s keep the essential ice cream highlight in mind – because priorities.!!! Whether strolling through the historic streets or lounging by the beaches, let the sweetness of Greek ice cream be your constant companion, adding a touch of delight to your every moment.
These culinary delights are not just meals; they are a celebration of the rich flavors that define Greece. So, as you roam the streets of Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini, let your taste buds dance with the symphony of Greek gastronomy. Enjoy every bite, and savor the memories they create!
Discover the off-beat wonders:
In your exploration of Santorini, consider venturing off the beaten path to discover these lesser-known gems:
Morning at Red Sand Beach: Begin your day at the Red Sand Beach, where the unique red sands meet the crystalline waters, creating a serene and distinctive setting.
Akrotiri & Nearby Exploration: Immerse yourself in the history of Akrotiri, an ancient city buried in volcanic ash. Explore the well-preserved ruins and unravel the secrets of this archaeological site. Take time to discover the nearby areas, unveiling hidden corners of Santorini’s past.
Perissa & Kameri: Journey to Perissa and Kameri, where inviting black sand beaches beckon. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, perhaps taking a dip in the Aegean Sea or wandering through the charming seaside villages.
Evening Delight: As the day winds down, find a picturesque spot to enjoy a delightful meal, blending the flavors of Santorini with the tranquility of these less-explored destinations.
Trust me, I’m always eager to revisit Greece as frequently as possible. With many islands still on the list (Ios, Crete, Paros, Zakynthos and the list goes on, every Island is a fairy tale), I’ll be back soon with more itineraries to guide you through the Cycladic islands, ensuring you make the most of your exploration.
As we traverse this land of gods and mortals, each step unfolds a new chapter in the story of Greece. Join me on this odyssey, where the past and present converge, and every moment is a special touch, creating a canvas of an unforgettable adventure. Greece awaits, ready to steal your heart and leave you forever enchanted!!!