Greece Itinerary 10 Days: The Perfect 10-Day Greece Trip (2026)
By Panos Bampalis
Ten days in Greece. It's the sweet spot—enough time to experience both ancient wonders and island paradise without feeling rushed, yet short enough to fit into most vacation schedules. But with 227 inhabited islands and countless mainland treasures, crafting the perfect 10-day Greece itinerary can feel overwhelming.
After planning thousands of Greece trips and testing dozens of routes, here's what I've learned: The key to a great 10-day Greece itinerary isn't seeing everything—it's choosing the right combination of experiences that match your travel style.
This comprehensive guide presents three battle-tested 10-day Greece itineraries, each designed for different traveler preferences. Unlike generic "one-size-fits-all" guides, you'll get realistic daily schedules, actual costs, insider tips, and the specific mistakes that turn dream trips into exhausting races.
Choose Your 10-Day Greece Adventure:
- Classic Island Hopper: Athens → Mykonos → Paros → Santorini (First-timers)
- Best Value Route: Athens → Naxos → Paros → Santorini + Delphi (Most travelers)
- History & Mainland: Athens → Delphi → Meteora → Nafplio → Hydra (Culture seekers)
What You'll Learn:
- Three complete 10-day itineraries with hour-by-hour breakdowns
- Exact ferry schedules, flight options, and transport logistics
- Daily budget estimates (€60-€500/day tiers)
- Where to stay in each destination (specific neighborhoods)
- Common mistakes that waste vacation days
- When to book what (ferries, hotels, tours)
Let's design your perfect 10 days in Greece.
Why 10 Days is the Ideal Greece Trip Length
Too Short:
- 7 days = rushed, only 2 destinations max
- Feels like you're constantly packing/unpacking
- No buffer time for delays or spontaneity
Too Long (for first-timers):
- 14+ days = too many choices, harder to plan
- Risk of "over-touring" fatigue
- Budget stretches thin on expensive islands
10 Days = Perfect: ✅ Athens + 3-4 islands comfortably ✅ OR Athens + mainland road trip ✅ Time to actually relax, not just sightsee ✅ Built-in flex days for weather/delays ✅ Can cover multiple island groups ✅ Enough to feel complete, short enough to stay exciting
How to Choose Your 10-Day Greece Itinerary
Quick Decision Framework (H2)
Pick Route 1 (Classic Island Hopper) if you:
- ✅ Are first-time Greece visitors
- ✅ Want the iconic Greece experience (Mykonos + Santorini)
- ✅ Prioritize beaches, nightlife, and Instagram moments
- ✅ Have a comfortable budget (these islands are pricey)
- ✅ Prefer straightforward logistics
Pick Route 2 (Best Value) if you:
- ✅ Want authentic islands without tourist prices
- ✅ Value experiences over showing off
- ✅ Care about value for money
- ✅ Like exploring charming villages
- ✅ Want one iconic island (still see Santorini) + authenticity
- ✅ Prefer fewer crowds
Pick Route 3 (History & Mainland) if you:
- ✅ Are archaeology/history enthusiasts
- ✅ Have already seen islands (or don't care about beaches)
- ✅ Want dramatic mountain scenery
- ✅ Prefer road tripping to ferry hopping
- ✅ Visit off-season (Nov-March when islands are limited)
- ✅ Crave UNESCO World Heritage sites
Route 1: Classic 10-Day Greece Itinerary (Island Hopper)
Route: Athens (2 days) → Mykonos (3 days) → Paros (2 days) → Santorini (3 days)
Best For: First-time visitors wanting the iconic Greece package
Difficulty: Easy (well-established, English everywhere)
Budget: €€€ (Expensive - Mykonos/Santorini inflate costs 40-60%)
Pace: Moderate
Overview & Logistics (H3)
Why This Route Works:
- Hits the "big three" Cyclades islands everyone wants
- Logical ferry flow (no backtracking)
- Balances party (Mykonos), authentic (Paros), romantic (Santorini)
- Maximum Instagram moments per square mile
Transportation Summary:
- Athens → Mykonos: Ferry (5 hours, €50-70) OR Flight (45 min, €60-120)
- Mykonos → Paros: Ferry (45 min, €15-25)
- Paros → Santorini: Ferry (2.5 hours, €35-50)
- Santorini → Athens: Flight (45 min, €70-150) - for departure
Total Transport Costs: €170-315 (ferries) or €205-390 (mix flights/ferries)
Day-by-Day: Classic Island Hopper (H3)
Days 1-2: Athens Base (Same as 7-day itinerary) (H4)
Day 1: Arrival + Ancient Athens
- Morning: Arrive Athens, check into Plaka/Monastiraki hotel
- Afternoon: Acropolis (2-3 hours) + Acropolis Museum (2 hours)
- Evening: Plaka dinner, gelato, rooftop bar with Acropolis views
Day 2: More Athens or Delphi Day Trip
- Option A: Ancient Agora, National Archaeological Museum, Monastiraki
- Option B: Full-day trip to Delphi (UNESCO World Heritage, Oracle site)
- Evening: Psiri neighborhood dinner, prepare for island hopping
Where to Stay: Plaka, Monastiraki (€70-120/night mid-range)
Days 3-5: Mykonos (Party Island) (H4)
Day 3: Arrive Mykonos + Explore Town
Morning:
- 7:00 AM: Ferry from Piraeus Port (5 hours) OR 10:00 AM flight (45 min)
- 12:00-1:00 PM: Arrive Mykonos, transfer to hotel
- Accommodation tip: Stay in Mykonos Town (Chora) for nightlife access
Afternoon:
- 2:00 PM: Lunch in Mykonos Town
- 3:30 PM: Explore the maze-like streets
- Must-see: Windmills (Kato Mili), Little Venice (waterfront houses)
- Shop the boutique-lined alleys (jewelry, designer goods, souvenirs)
Evening:
- 7:00 PM: Sunset at Little Venice (arrive 30-45 min early for table)
- 9:00 PM: Dinner at seafood taverna
- Optional: Nightlife at Scandinavian Bar, Jackie O's, Cavo Paradiso
Day 4: Mykonos Beaches + Delos (Optional)
Option A: Beach Day
- 10:00 AM: Rent ATV/car (€30-50/day) - essential for beaches
- 11:00 AM: Paradise Beach (famous party beach) OR Elia Beach (longer, quieter)
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at beach club
- 3:00 PM: Super Paradise Beach (LGBTQ+ friendly, lively)
- 6:00 PM: Return to town
- 8:00 PM: Dinner in Mykonos Town
Option B: Delos Archaeological Tour (Half-Day)
- 9:00 AM: Boat to Delos Island (€40 round-trip + entry)
- UNESCO site, birthplace of Apollo, ancient ruins
- Tour: 3-4 hours total
- 2:00 PM: Return, afternoon at nearby beach
- Evening: Town exploration
Day 5: Mykonos Leisure + Evening Ferry
Morning & Afternoon:
- Relaxed morning: hotel pool, breakfast, pack
- 11:00 AM: Last beach visit OR explore Ano Mera village (traditional inland)
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at favorite spot
- 3:00 PM: Final shopping, photos at windmills
Evening:
- 5:00-6:00 PM: Ferry to Paros (45 min-1 hour, €15-25)
- 6:00-7:00 PM: Arrive Paros, check into hotel in Naoussa or Parikia
- 8:00 PM: Welcome-to-Paros dinner at harbor taverna
Where to Stay in Mykonos:
- Mykonos Town: Walkable, nightlife, expensive (€120-300/night)
- Ornos/Platis Gialos: Beach areas, family-friendly (€80-180/night)
Mykonos Budget Reality:
- 40-60% more expensive than other Greek islands
- Beach club beds: €20-40/day
- Cocktails: €12-18 each
- Dinner: €30-50/person easily
Days 6-7: Paros (The Balanced Island) (H4)
Day 6: Paros Exploration
Morning:
- 9:00 AM: Rent car/ATV (€25-40/day) in Parikia or Naoussa
- 10:00 AM: Explore Parikia Old Town
- Wander Kastro (old quarter with flower-draped lanes)
- Visit Church of 100 Doors (6th century Byzantine)
- Windmill photo op on waterfront
Afternoon:
- 12:30 PM: Drive to Naoussa fishing village (if not staying there)
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at harbor taverna (watch octopus drying in sun)
- 2:30 PM: Golden Beach (Chrisi Akti) - long sandy beach, windsurfing
- OR Kolymbithres Beach - unique granite rock formations
- Beach time with sunbeds (€10-15/set) or free areas
Evening:
- 6:00 PM: Return to Naoussa
- 7:00 PM: Explore the tiny harbor (Greece's prettiest fishing port)
- 8:30 PM: Dinner at waterfront (try fresh catch of the day)
- Best tavernas: Sigi Ikthios, Tsitsanis
Day 7: Paros → Santorini
Morning:
- Relaxed morning, final Paros beach swim
- 10:00 AM: Check out, last coffee in Parikia/Naoussa
- 11:00 AM: Ferry to Santorini (2-2.5 hours, €35-50)
Afternoon:
- 1:00-2:00 PM: Arrive Santorini (Athinios Port)
- Pre-booked transfer to hotel (€15-25/person)
- Check into Oia, Fira, or Imerovigli hotel
- 4:00 PM: Relax at hotel, enjoy your first caldera view!
- 6:00 PM: Walk around your village, get oriented
Evening:
- 8:00 PM: Early dinner in your village
- 9:00 PM: First Santorini sunset from your hotel or nearby spot
- Don't fight Oia crowds yet - there's better spots
Where to Stay in Paros:
- Naoussa: Most charming, best food (€60-120/night)
- Parikia: Convenient for port, more budget options (€50-90/night)
Days 8-10: Santorini (The Icon) (H4)
Day 8: Santorini Exploration
Morning: Fira to Oia Hike (Optional)
- 7:00 AM: Start the famous coastal hike (6.5 miles, 3-4 hours)
- Route: Fira → Firostefani → Imerovigli → Oia
- Stunning caldera views entire way
- Arrive Oia around 11:00 AM
Alternative Morning (If Not Hiking):
- 9:00 AM: Rent car/ATV (€30-50/day - essential for island exploring)
- 10:00 AM: Akrotiri Archaeological Site (ancient Minoan city, €12)
- 11:30 AM: Red Beach (dramatic red cliffs, volcanic sand)
Afternoon:
- 1:00 PM: Black sand beach - Perissa or Kamari
- Bring water shoes (rocky!)
- Sunbeds + umbrellas available (€10-15)
- Lunch at beach taverna
- 4:30 PM: Wine tasting at Santo Wines (€15-30/person)
- Caldera views + local Assyrtiko wine
- Perfect sunset spot (book table in advance)
Evening:
- 7:30 PM: Return to hotel, freshen up
- 9:00 PM: Dinner in Fira (more affordable than Oia)
- Try: Fava, tomato fritters (ntomatokeftedes), fresh fish
Day 9: Santorini Sailing + Oia Sunset
Morning & Afternoon: Catamaran Cruise
- 10:00 AM: Sunset catamaran tour (5 hours, $120-180/person)
- Route: Caldera cruise, Red Beach, White Beach, hot springs
- Includes: Swimming stops, BBQ lunch, unlimited wine/drinks
- Why it's worth it: Best way to see coastline + sunset from sea
- 3:00 PM: Return to port
Evening: The Famous Oia Sunset
- 6:00 PM: Make your way to Oia
- 7:30 PM: Sunset watching (arrive 60-90 min early!)
- Oia Castle area: Most crowded, most iconic
- Alternative: Watch from Imerovigli (same views, 10% the people)
- Or: Sunset dinner reservation (book weeks ahead)
- 9:00 PM: Dinner in Oia (splurge-worthy on last night)
- Best restaurants: Ambrosia, Roka, Skala
Day 10: Santorini Morning → Depart
Morning:
- Leisurely breakfast with caldera views
- 10:00 AM: Final shopping in Fira (souvenir central)
- 11:30 AM: Quick visit to Pyrgos village (traditional, less touristy)
Afternoon:
- 1:00 PM: Check out hotel
- 2:00 PM: Transfer to airport
- Flight to Athens for evening/next day departure
- OR direct international flight if available
Where to Stay in Santorini:
- Oia: Most expensive, iconic views (€200-600/night cave hotels)
- Fira: Central, affordable, lively (€100-250/night)
- Imerovigli: Romantic, quiet, still stunning (€150-400/night)
- Perissa/Kamari: Budget beach areas (€60-120/night, less atmosphere)
Classic Route: Complete Budget Breakdown (H3)
Budget Traveler (€65-95/day):
- Accommodation: €45-65/night (hostels Athens, budget hotels islands)
- Food: €20-35/day (bakeries, gyros, cheap tavernas)
- Activities: €10-20/day (beaches free, skip expensive tours)
- Transport: Covered separately
- 10-Day Total: €650-950 + transport (€205) = €855-1,155
- Realistic? Challenging in Mykonos/Santorini but doable
Mid-Range Traveler (€130-190/day):
- Accommodation: €80-130/night (3-star hotels, nice Airbnbs)
- Food: €40-60/day (taverna lunches, nicer dinners)
- Activities: €30-50/day (wine tours, sailing, archaeological sites)
- Transport: Better ferries/flights
- 10-Day Total: €1,300-1,900 + transport (€280) = €1,580-2,180
- Realistic? YES - comfortable experience most travelers aim for
Luxury Traveler (€320-550/day):
- Accommodation: €230-450/night (boutique hotels, cave hotels Santorini)
- Food: €90-150/day (fine dining, wine, hotel breakfasts)
- Activities: €70-120/day (private tours, premium sailing, spa)
- Transport: Business class, premium transfers
- 10-Day Total: €3,200-5,500 + transport (€390) = €3,590-5,890
- Realistic? Absolutely - honeymoons, special occasions
Classic Route: Pros & Cons (H3)
Pros: ✅ See the three most famous Cyclades islands ✅ Perfect Instagram moments everywhere ✅ Great mix: party (Mykonos), authentic (Paros), romantic (Santorini) ✅ Easy logistics (frequent ferries, everything in English) ✅ Paros provides breather from tourist intensity ✅ 10 days allows proper time in each spot (not rushed like 7-day)
Cons: ❌ Expensive (Mykonos + Santorini = budget buster) ❌ Crowded in summer (July-August packed) ❌ Still touristy (even Paros getting discovered) ❌ Everyone does this route (not unique) ❌ Moving 3 times in 10 days (packing fatigue)
Skip This Route If:
- You're on a tight budget (costs 50% more than Route 2)
- You hate crowds (summer is overwhelming)
- You've already done Greek islands
- You want deeper cultural immersion
Route 2: Best Value 10-Day Greece Itinerary
Route: Athens (2 days) → Delphi day trip → Naxos (3 days) → Paros (2 days) → Santorini (3 days)
Best For: Travelers wanting authentic experiences + one iconic spot
Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
Budget: €€ (40-50% cheaper than Classic Route)
Pace: Relaxed
Why This Route is Better Value (H3)
The Secret: Replace expensive Mykonos with authentic Naxos + add Delphi
- Save €300-600 on accommodation alone (Naxos vs. Mykonos)
- Better beaches (Naxos has Greece's best)
- More authentic Greek island experience
- Still see Santorini (don't miss out on the icon)
- Add mainland culture (Delphi UNESCO site)
Who Should Choose This:
- Value-conscious travelers
- Foodies (Naxos food scene incredible)
- Beach lovers (Naxos > Mykonos for beaches)
- Anyone seeking "real Greece"
- Families (Naxos more family-friendly)
Day-by-Day: Best Value Route (H3)
Days 1-2: Athens + Delphi (H4)
Day 1: Athens (Same as Classic Route Day 1)
Day 2: Delphi Day Trip
- 8:00 AM: Depart Athens by rental car or bus (2.5 hours)
- 10:30 AM-4:00 PM: Delphi (UNESCO World Heritage)
- Oracle of Apollo, ancient theater, museum
- One of Greece's most important ancient sites
- Why worth it: Adds cultural depth to island-heavy trip
- 6:30 PM: Return Athens
- 8:00 PM: Final Athens dinner (tomorrow = islands!)
Days 3-5: Naxos (The Best-Kept Secret) (H4)
Day 3: Athens → Naxos
Morning:
- 7:00 AM: Ferry from Piraeus to Naxos (5 hours, €40-60)
- OR 10:00 AM: Flight to Naxos (45 min, €70-110)
- 12:00-1:00 PM: Arrive Naxos port
Afternoon:
- Check into hotel in Naxos Town (Chora)
- 2:00 PM: Lunch at Naxos waterfront
- 3:30 PM: Explore Naxos Old Town
- Climb to Kastro (Venetian castle, medieval quarter)
- Wander marble-paved alleys (less crowded than Santorini!)
- Shop: kitron liqueur, Naxian graviera cheese, local products
- 6:00 PM: Portara (Temple of Apollo doorway, iconic photo)
- Sit on rocks, watch sunset for FREE
- Best free activity in Greece
Evening:
- 8:30 PM: Dinner in Old Town
- Try: Naxos potatoes (famous!), arseniko cheese, local lamb
- Stroll harbor promenade (locals hang here - real Greek life)
Day 4: Naxos Beach Day
Morning & Afternoon:
- 9:00 AM: Rent car (€30-40/day) - Naxos is larger, car essential
- 10:00 AM: Agios Prokopios Beach
- Often rated Europe's best beach
- Long golden sand, shallow crystal water
- Beach chairs (€8-10) or free if ordering food
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at beachside taverna
Afternoon:
- 2:30 PM: Plaka Beach (continuation of Agios Prokopios)
- 4km of pristine sand
- Less developed, more peaceful
- Cedar trees for natural shade
- Alternative beaches: Mikri Vigla (windsurfing), Alyko (isolated)
Evening:
- 6:00 PM: Return to Naxos Town
- 7:00 PM: Sunset at Portara again (never gets old!)
- 8:30 PM: Dinner at different taverna
Day 5: Naxos Villages
Morning & Afternoon: Mountain Village Tour
- 9:00 AM: Drive into Naxos interior (car essential)
- 10:00 AM: Halki village (old capital, neoclassical architecture)
- Visit Kitro distillery (local citron liqueur)
- Church with 11th century frescoes
- 12:30 PM: Apiranthos village (marble-paved, most beautiful)
- Cretan character (different from Cycladic)
- Lunch at traditional kafeneio
Afternoon:
- 2:30 PM: Filoti village (largest mountain village)
- 4:00 PM: Return to coast, quick beach swim
- 6:00 PM: Pack for tomorrow's ferry
Evening:
- 8:00 PM: Farewell Naxos dinner (your new favorite island!)
Where to Stay in Naxos:
- Naxos Town (Chora): Most convenient (€55-110/night)
- Agios Prokopios/Agia Anna: Beach areas (€60-120/night)
- Naxos is 40-50% cheaper than Mykonos/Santorini
Days 6-7: Paros (H4)
Day 6: Naxos → Paros + Exploration
Morning:
- 9:00 AM: Ferry Naxos to Paros (45 min, €10-15)
- Shortest, cheapest ferry of entire trip!
- 10:00 AM: Arrive Paros, check into hotel
Rest of Day 6 + Day 7: (Same as Classic Route Days 6-7 - see Paros section above)
Days 8-10: Santorini (H4)
(Same as Classic Route Days 8-10 - see Santorini section above)
Best Value Route: Budget Breakdown (H3)
Budget Traveler (€55-80/day):
- 10-Day Total: €550-800 + transport (€170) = €720-970
- Savings vs Classic: €135-185 (14-16% cheaper)
Mid-Range Traveler (€105-155/day):
- 10-Day Total: €1,050-1,550 + transport (€210) = €1,260-1,760
- Savings vs Classic: €320-420 (20-20% cheaper)
Luxury Traveler (€260-450/day):
- 10-Day Total: €2,600-4,500 + transport (€250) = €2,850-4,750
- Savings vs Classic: €740-1,140 (21-19% cheaper)
Best Value Route: Pros & Cons (H3)
Pros: ✅ 40-50% cheaper accommodation (Naxos vs. Mykonos) ✅ Best beaches in Greece (Naxos beaches > everyone else) ✅ More authentic experiences (real Greek life) ✅ Fewer crowds (Naxos still undiscovered by many) ✅ Still includes Santorini (get your iconic experience) ✅ Better food quality for less money (Naxos food scene amazing) ✅ Adds cultural depth (Delphi UNESCO site) ✅ Easier ferry connections (islands close together)
Cons: ❌ No Mykonos nightlife (if that's your priority) ❌ Friends may not recognize Naxos (less "famous") ❌ Requires slightly more research (less hand-holding)
Perfect For:
- Value seekers who still want quality
- Foodies (Naxos food incredible)
- Beach lovers (best beaches in Cyclades)
- Families (more affordable, family-friendly)
- Anyone who hates crowds
- Culture + beach balance seekers
Route 3: History & Mainland 10-Day Greece Itinerary
Route: Athens (2 days) → Delphi (1 day) → Meteora (2 days) → Nafplio (3 days) → Hydra (2 days) → Athens (depart)
Best For: History buffs, archaeology lovers, UNESCO collectors
Difficulty: Moderate (requires driving)
Budget: €€ (Mid-range, no island price premiums)
Pace: Fast (lots of ground to cover)
Why Choose Mainland Greece (H3)
Choose This Route If:
- You've done islands before (or don't care about beaches)
- History/archaeology is your passion
- You want dramatic mountain scenery
- Traveling Nov-March (island services limited)
- You love road tripping
- You want 4+ UNESCO World Heritage Sites
What You'll See:
- 5 UNESCO Sites: Acropolis, Delphi, Meteora, Epidaurus, Mycenae
- Ancient wonders: Oracle of Delphi, Mycenaean palaces, ancient theaters
- Dramatic landscapes: Meteora monasteries on rock pillars, Pindus mountains
- Charming towns: Nafplio (Greece's prettiest town), Hydra (car-free island)
Day-by-Day: Mainland Route (H3)
Days 1-2: Athens (H4)
Day 1: Acropolis, Museum, Plaka (same as other routes)
Day 2: Ancient Agora, pick up rental car, Cape Sounion sunset
- Pick up car after lunch (avoid morning Athens traffic)
- Afternoon trip to Cape Sounion (Temple of Poseidon, sunset)
Day 3: Athens → Delphi (H4)
Morning:
- 8:00 AM: Drive to Delphi (180km, 2.5 hours)
- Stop: Arachova mountain village (coffee, 20 min)
Afternoon:
- 11:00 AM: Arrive Delphi, check into hotel
- 1:00 PM: Lunch in modern Delphi town
- 2:30 PM: Delphi Archaeological Site (UNESCO)
- Ancient sanctuary of Apollo, Oracle site
- Temple, theater, stadium, Treasury
- Timing: 2-3 hours
- 5:30 PM: Delphi Museum (Charioteer statue, incredible artifacts)
Evening:
- 7:30 PM: Dinner in Delphi
- Overnight Delphi (€50-90/night)
Days 4-5: Meteora (H4)
Day 4: Delphi → Meteora
Morning:
- 8:00 AM: Drive to Meteora (230km, 3 hours through mountains)
- Scenic drive through Pindus Mountains
Afternoon:
- 11:00 AM: Arrive Kalambaka, check in
- 12:30 PM: Lunch
- 1:30 PM: Meteora Monastery Tour (UNESCO)
- 24 monasteries built atop rock pillars
- Visit 2-3: Great Meteoron, Varlaam, Roussanou
- Entry: €3 per monastery
- Dress code: Covered shoulders/knees required
- Timing: 3-4 hours
Evening:
- 6:00 PM: Sunset viewpoint
- Meteora at sunset = absolutely magical
- 8:00 PM: Dinner in Kalambaka
Day 5: Meteora Sunrise → Drive to Nafplio
Morning:
- 6:30 AM: Sunrise at Meteora (worth waking up for!)
- Drive to viewpoint, watch sun illuminate rocks
- 8:30 AM: Return for breakfast
Midday:
- 10:00 AM: Drive to Nafplio (350km, 4.5 hours)
- Stop: Thermopylae (300 Spartans battle site, 30 min)
Afternoon & Evening:
- 3:30 PM: Arrive Nafplio (most beautiful Peloponnese town)
- 4:30 PM: Explore Old Town
- 6:00 PM: Optional climb to Palamidi Fortress (999 steps, sunset views)
- 8:00 PM: Waterfront dinner
Overnight Nafplio (€60-130/night)
Days 6-8: Nafplio Base + Day Trips (H4)
Day 6: Epidaurus + Mycenae Day Trip
Morning: Epidaurus
- 8:30 AM: Drive to Epidaurus (30km, 30 min)
- 9:00 AM: Ancient Theater (UNESCO)
- Best-preserved ancient theater in Greece
- Famous acoustics (drop coin, hear in back row!)
- 14,000-seat amphitheater
- Timing: 1.5-2 hours
Late Morning: Mycenae
- 11:30 AM: Drive to Mycenae (60km, 1 hour)
- 12:30 PM: Mycenae Archaeological Site (UNESCO)
- Bronze Age citadel, King Agamemnon's home
- Lion Gate (oldest monumental sculpture in Europe)
- Treasury of Atreus (beehive tomb)
- Royal graves where gold "Mask of Agamemnon" found
- Timing: 1.5-2 hours
- Lunch in Mycenae village
Afternoon:
- 3:00 PM: Return to Nafplio
- Free afternoon: beach, Bourtzi island fortress, shopping
Evening:
- 7:00 PM: Sunset from harbor or fortress
- 8:30 PM: Dinner at different taverna
Day 7: Nafplio Leisure Day
Option A: Relax in Nafplio
- Morning beach time at Arvanitia Beach
- Explore more of Old Town
- Visit Bourtzi (15-min boat ride to island fortress)
- Final shopping
Option B: More Sites
- Olympia day trip (2 hours away, birthplace of Olympics)
- Corinth (ancient city, 1 hour away)
Day 8: Nafplio → Hydra
Morning:
- 9:00 AM: Drive to Metochi (2 hours)
- 11:00 AM: Drop rental car
- Ferry to Hydra (1 hour, €15-25)
Afternoon:
- 12:00 PM: Arrive Hydra island
- Check into hotel
- Hydra = car-free island! (only donkeys, walking)
- Explore the harbor town
- Hike to monastery
Evening:
- Sunset from harbor
- Seafood dinner
- Overnight Hydra (€70-140/night)
Days 9-10: Hydra + Return Athens (H4)
Day 9: Full Day Hydra
- Beach time
- Hike to different parts of island
- Boat taxi to remote beaches
- Enjoy the car-free tranquility
- Last dinner on island
Day 10: Hydra → Athens → Depart
- Morning ferry back to Athens (1.5 hours)
- Final Athens hours (if time)
- Depart
Mainland Route: Budget Breakdown (H3)
Key Differences:
- ✅ No expensive island accommodation
- ❌ Rental car for 7 days (€210-350)
- ❌ Gas (€100-150)
- ➡️ Overall similar or cheaper than islands
Budget Traveler: €630-1,050 total
Mid-Range Traveler: €950-1,380 total
Luxury Traveler: €1,820-3,050 total
Mainland Route: Pros & Cons (H3)
Pros: ✅ 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites ✅ Dramatic scenery (Meteora is breathtaking) ✅ Works year-round (not ferry-dependent) ✅ Authentic culture (fewer tourists) ✅ Road trip freedom ✅ Unique sights (Meteora is one-of-a-kind) ✅ More affordable than island hopping
Cons: ❌ Lots of driving (400+ km some days) ❌ No classic beach/island experience ❌ Fast-paced (cover lots of ground) ❌ Requires confident driving ❌ Not the "postcard Greece" most expect
Perfect For:
- History enthusiasts
- Off-season travelers
- Road trip lovers
- UNESCO collectors
- Repeat Greece visitors
- Mountain/nature lovers
Critical Planning Information for ALL Routes
When to Book What (H2)
3-4 Months Before (Peak Season July-Aug):
- ✅ International flights
- ✅ Santorini accommodation (books out!)
- ✅ Mykonos hotels (if doing Classic Route)
- ✅ Catamaran sailing tours
6-8 Weeks Before:
- ✅ Ferry tickets (peak season sells out)
- ✅ Domestic flights
- ✅ Rental car (mainland route)
- ✅ Sunset dinner reservations in Oia
- ✅ Popular restaurant reservations
2-4 Weeks Before:
- ✅ Verify ferry schedules (they change!)
- ✅ Book transfers (airport/port)
- ✅ Research restaurant options
- ✅ Download offline maps
Packing for 10 Days in Greece (H2)
Essential Items:
- 🎒 Carry-on + personal item (avoid checked bags for island hopping)
- 👟 Comfortable walking shoes (cobblestones everywhere)
- 🩴 Water shoes (rocky beaches!)
- 🧴 SPF 50+ sunscreen (Greek sun is brutal)
- 🧢 Sun hat (essential May-September)
- 😎 Sunglasses
- 💊 Dramamine (ferry motion sickness)
- 🔌 Europe plug adapter (Type C/F)
- 💳 Credit card + €200-300 cash
- 📱 Portable charger
- 🩱 2 swimsuits
- 🧥 Light jacket (ferries, AC, evening)
Clothing Strategy:
- Pack for 7 days max, do laundry (available everywhere)
- Quick-dry fabrics
- Modest clothes for churches (covered shoulders/knees)
- One nice outfit for sunset dinners
Common 10-Day Greece Mistakes (H2)
Mistake 1: Too Many Destinations (H3)
The Error: "We'll see 5 islands in 10 days!"
Why It Fails:
- Each move = 4-6 hours (pack, checkout, travel, checkin, unpack)
- 5 moves in 10 days = exhausting
- Never actually relax anywhere
The Fix:
- Maximum 4 destinations in 10 days
- Stay 2-3 nights minimum per place
- Build in rest days
Mistake 2: All Islands, No Mainland (or Vice Versa) (H3)
The Error: "We're only doing islands" when you'd love Delphi/Meteora
The Fix:
- Best of both: Add Delphi day trip (Route 2)
- OR do mainland route if history is priority
- Don't assume you have to pick sides
Mistake 3: Peak Season Without Advance Booking (H3)
The Error: "We'll book as we go in July!"
Reality (July-August):
- Santorini hotels booked 4-6 months out
- Ferries sell out
- Pay 60% more for last-minute
- Miss sunset dinner spots
The Fix:
- Book 3-4 months ahead for peak season
- OR visit shoulder season (May, June, Sept, Oct)
Mistake 4: Only Visiting Famous Islands (H3)
The Error: Mykonos + Santorini only, skip Paros/Naxos
Why It's a Mistake:
- Miss authentic Greece
- Pay 50% more for everything
- Crowds ruin the magic
The Fix:
- Add Paros or Naxos (Route 1 & 2 do this)
- Balance famous with authentic
- Save money, gain experiences
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is 10 days enough for Greece?
A: Yes! 10 days allows Athens + 3-4 islands OR Athens + mainland road trip. You can't see "all of Greece," but you CAN have a complete, satisfying experience that doesn't feel rushed.
Q: What's the best 10-day Greece itinerary for first-timers?
A: Route 1 (Classic Island Hopper) hits iconic spots but is expensive. Route 2 (Best Value) offers better balance of authentic + iconic at lower cost. Choose based on budget and priorities.
Q: How much does a 10-day Greece trip cost?
A: Budget: €720-1,155 | Mid-range: €1,260-2,180 | Luxury: €2,850-5,890. Route 2 (Best Value) costs 20-25% less than Route 1 (Classic).
Q: Should I rent a car in Greece?
A: Athens: No (nightmare). Islands: Optional for large ones (Naxos, Crete), not needed for small. Mainland Route: Essential. ATVs work for smaller islands.
Q: Can I fit Crete into a 10-day itinerary?
A: Technically yes, but you'd skip other islands: Athens (2 days) + Crete (8 days). Crete alone needs 5-7 days minimum. With 10 days total, it limits variety.
Q: What's the best time for a 10-day Greece trip?
A: Best: May-June or Sept-Oct (great weather, fewer crowds, reasonable prices). Peak: July-Aug (guaranteed sun, but hot, crowded, expensive).
Q: Is Mykonos worth it or should I skip it?
A: Worth it if: You want party scene, don't mind crowds/prices, prioritize nightlife. Skip if: Budget-conscious, prefer authentic experiences, family traveling. Replace with Naxos (better value, beaches, food).
Q: How many islands should I visit in 10 days?
A: 3-4 islands maximum. Ideal: Athens (2) + Island 1 (3) + Island 2 (2) + Island 3 (3). This allows proper exploration without constant moving.
Your Perfect 10-Day Greece Itinerary
The ideal 10-day Greece itinerary depends on your priorities:
Choose Route 1 (Classic Island Hopper) if:
- First-timer wanting iconic Greece
- Budget isn't primary concern
- Want party scene + romance + beaches
- Prefer easy, established paths
Choose Route 2 (Best Value) if:
- Value-conscious traveler
- Want authentic + iconic balance
- Love great food and beaches
- Prefer fewer crowds
- BEST FOR MOST TRAVELERS
Choose Route 3 (Mainland) if:
- History/archaeology enthusiast
- Already did islands
- Prefer mountains to beaches
- Visit off-season
- Want UNESCO sites
My recommendation for most first-timers: Route 2 (Best Value)
- Better value (40-50% cheaper)
- More authentic experiences
- Best beaches in Greece (Naxos)
- Still includes Santorini
- Adds cultural depth (Delphi)
Ready to plan? Use our free AI Greece trip planner to customize any of these routes to your exact dates, budget, and preferences.
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