How to spend 10 days In Greece - 5 unique itineraries

Explore the ancient wonders and modern curiosities of Greece with our five unique 10-day Greek itineraries. Whether you are a history buff, nature lover or culinary adventurer, these 5 unique itineraries will provide you with an extraordinary Greek adventure.

The best 10 days in Greece itineraries

From the ancient ruins of Athens to the stunning landscapes of Santorini and the vibrant charm of Thessaloniki, Greece offers a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered.

In the following guide, we present the best 10-day itineraries to help you capture the essence of Greece and discover its most iconic sights. While 10 days is a fantastic introduction, Greece's diverse offerings are vast and varied. 

Rough Guides tip: make sure to check out our 7-day Greece itineraries

For those who are keen to explore specific regions in more depth or are looking for a unique experience, extending your stay will provide a more complete picture of this captivating country. Dive into these carefully designed itineraries to make the most of your Greek adventure!

All 10 day Greece itineraries

• 10 days Athens and mainland
• 10 days Athens, Milos, Naxos and Santorini
• 10 days Athens, Naxos, Mykonos and Santorini
• 10 days Athens, Naxos, Mykonos, Santorini and Crete

Itinerary #1: The Historical and Mythological Cyclades Islands and Island Hopping

The Cyclades Islands are steeped in ancient Greek mythology, offering a unique blend of history and legend that enriches your travel experience.

Itinerary overview

This Cyclades Islands itinerary begins in Athens. After arriving at your city center hotel, you'll have time to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Athens.

On day two you'll travel to the island of Syros and explore the charming town of Ermoupoli, while on day three you'll have the opportunity to explore the island's pristine beaches and sample exquisite Syros wines.

On the fourth day, you'll head to Paros, where you'll visit the picturesque town of Naoussa and the unique beach of Kolimbithres. The next day you will discover the hidden gems of Paros.

Day six allows you to relax or cruise to Delos, followed by a cruise to Mykonos. While Mykonos is often thought of as just a party island, it offers a variety of experiences beyond its nightlife. On day seven, you'll travel to Santorini and explore the charming village of Oia.

Days eight and nine include exploring Santorini's traditional villages, hiking through the breathtaking caldera, and savoring the beauty of the island.

On the tenth day, you will return to Athens where you will spend your final day before leaving this incredible Greek journey.

Going to Athens? Find the best accommodation options in our guide to the best areas to stay in Athens.

Check this 10-day itinerary to the Cyclades:

Day 1

• Arrival in Athens.
• Walking tour of the city center.
• Guided tour of the archaeological site of the Acropolis.
• Overnight in Athens.

Day 2

• A boat tour to the island of Syros - the capital of the Cyclades.
• Check in the guesthouse in the Ermoupolis.
• Exploration of the Ermoupolis town.
• Relax at the Asteria Beach.
• Overnight in Ermoupolis.

Day 3

• Tour of the Syros island's traditional villages and sandy beaches by car.
• Wine tasting of exquisite Syros wines.
• Overnight in Ermoupolis.

Day 4

• Boat trip from the port of Syros to the island of Paros.
• Check in to the hotel close to Naoussa, Paros.
• Relax at the hotel pool or visit the nearby beach.
• Afternoon exploration of the picturesque Naoussa town.
• Overnight in Naoussa, Paros.

Day 5

• Exploration of the most charming and lesser-known villages of Paros Island.
• Visit to Paroikia - the capital of Paros.
• Overnight in Naoussa, Paros.

Day 6

• Day cruise to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delos.
• Continuation of the boat tour to Mykonos and visit the famous “Little Venice”.
• Overnight in Naoussa, Paros.

Day 7

• Boat tour from Paros to Santorini.
• Exploration of traditional Oia village.
• Marvelous sunset-watching.
• Overnight in Oia, Santorini.

Day 8

• Tour to the traditional villages of Santorini.
• Overnight in Oia, Santorini.

Day 9

• Hiking from Oia to Fira.
• Return boat tour to Athens.
• Overnight in Athens.

Day 10

• Final day in Athens and departure.

Ready to embark on an adventure? Book your trip now.

Looking for ideas for your Santorini vacation? Get inspired by our Santorini itineraries.

Itinerary #2: An Odyssey Adventure in Ancient Greece and Ancient Ruins

This 10-day self-drive tour of Greece offers a fascinating mix of history, mythology, and outdoor recreation. The ancient Greeks believed that trips to the seaside could heal various ailments, a practice that continues to influence wellness tourism in Greece today.

Itinerary overview

Starting in Athens, you'll rent a car and explore the bustling metropolis at your own pace. The journey continues with a tour of Athens' iconic landmarks, including the Acropolis and Parthenon. Day three will take you to Rethy, followed by a night in a forest treehouse in the village of Pheneos.

Day four focuses on the mythical landscapes of Mount Erimantos, the waterfalls of Nemuta, and the magical forest of Foloi. On day five, ancient Olympia takes center stage, followed by a visit to the picturesque town of Galaxidi.

Day six is a hike to Corica Cave and the sanctuary of Delphi. The journey continues to Thermopylae, the site of Leonidas' famous battle, and concludes with a visit to the island of Naxos.

On the ninth day, cruise to Delos and Mykonos, where you can touch the ancient history and charm of the island. Finally, on the tenth day, your adventure comes to an end as you bid farewell to Greece and head home from the airport.

Check this 10-day Greece itinerary.

Day 1

• Arrival in Athens.
• Free time to get a feel of the city.
• Overnight in Athens.

Day 2

• A guided tour of the Acropolis & the Parthenon.
• Visit to the New Acropolis Museum.
• Visit the temple of Poseidon in Sounio.
• Enjoy the sunset views of the Aegean Sea in Sounio.
• Overnight in Athens.

Day 3

• Morning drive to Rethi.
• Horse-riding across the mountains and in the forest in Rethi.
• Drive toward Feneos village.
• Overnight stay in a tree house in the forest in Feneos with breathtaking views.

Day 4

• Morning drive toward the forest of Foloi.
• Hike on Mount Erymanthos.
• Cross the waterfalls of Nemutha.
• Drive toward ancient Olympia for an overnight stay.

Day 5

• Morning exploration of Ancient Olympia.
• Departs toward Galaxidi for sightseeing and an overnight stay.

Day 6

• Departure toward Delphi.
• Hiking adventure to the Corycian cave.
• Following a path toward the Sanctuary of Delphi.
• Delphi exploration.
• Departure toward Thermopylae for an overnight stay.

Day 7

• Morning visit to Thermopylae museum.
• Departure toward Rafina & speedboat tour to Naxos.
• Overnight stay in Naxos.

Day 8

• Climbing the Mount of Zas.
• Visit the ancient marble quarries of Apollo.
• Wine tasting in the local winery.
• Another overnight in Naxos.

Day 9

• Day cruise to the small island of Delos.
• Continue with a boat trip to Mykonos.
• Return to Naxos for an overnight stay.

Day 10

• Transit to airport and departure.

Feeling curious? Take a step forward and book this trip now.

Ready to explore Greece? Get started with our expert travel planning tips.

Itinerary #3: Along the Coast of Crete: from Heraklion to Platanias

This 10-day self-drive vacation in Crete offers a rich mix of cultural exploration and relaxation. It starts in Heraklion, where you will pick up your rental car and have time to explore the vibrant city. 

Itinerary overview

On day two, you'll visit the legendary Palace of Knossos and the Archaeological Museum.

On the third day, you can choose to relax on one of Heraklion's beautiful beaches or take a historical tour. On the fourth day, you will travel to Eleutherna, Moni Arkadiou and finally to Rethymno.

Day five is dedicated to exploring the old town of Rethymno and its historical sites. Then, on the sixth day, you'll head to Chania, stopping off at the picturesque coves and Preveli beach along the way.

On the seventh day in Chania, you'll enjoy a tour of the charming old town. On the eighth day, you can relax on Platanias Beach, and on the ninth day, you can choose between a beach vacation and excursions to exotic destinations.

Finally, on the tenth day, you will say goodbye to Crete, return to Heraklion Airport, hand over your rental car and head home.

Considering Crete for your Greece trip? Explore our list of the best places to stay in Crete.

Check this 10-day Greece itinerary.

Day 1

• Arrival at Heraklion Airport.
• Self-drive to the hotel by rental car.
• Heraklion exploration on foot.
• Overnight in Heraklion.

Day 2

• Visit the palatial complex of Knossos.
• Exploration of the nearby archaeological museum.
• Afternoon visit to a local winery.
• Overnight in Heraklion.

Day 3

• Relaxing day at the beach or a private historical tour.
• Overnight in Heraklion.

Day 4

• Departure from Heraklion toward Rethymno.
• Visiting the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Eleutherna and the Monastery of Arkady along the way.
• Stop in the village of Kapsaliana for traditional Cretan dishes and local wine-tasting
• Overnight in Rethymno.

Day 5

• Exploration of the romantic medieval town of Rethymno.
• Visit a local bakery for "fyllo" pastry leaves and syrup sweets.
• Dinner at a local restaurant, located in a Venetian building.
• Overnight in Rethymno.

Day 6

• Departure from Rethymno toward Chania, exploring the entire island of Crete along the way.
• Stop for Agios Pavlos Beach with its magic sand dunes along the way.
• Visit to Preveli Lake on the way.
• Overnight in Chania.

Day 7

• Exploration of the old town of Chania.
• Visit Miaouli Beach.
• Discover the city's museums.
• Overnight in Chania.

Day 8

• Relaxing at the Platanias Beach.
• Overnight in a beach resort in Platanias.

Day 9

• Relaxing at Platanias Beach, Falasarna Beach, or Balos Beach.
• Overnight in a beach resort in Platanias.

Day 10

• Departure from Heraklion Airport.

Excited to discover? Waste no time and book this trip now.

Picked Crete as your island for a vacation in Greece? Explore our Crete itineraries for inspiration.

Itinerary #4: A secluded villa stay on Mainland Greece

On this trip to a secluded Greek villa, you'll stay in a private villa with magnificent sea views and explore this beautiful corner of mainland Greece in your own rental car.

Itinerary overview

The journey begins in Athens with a transfer to the city center, allowing you to experience the vibrant atmosphere of this ancient city.

The second day begins with a self-guided drive through the Southern Peloponnese with stops at the Corinth Canal and Epidavros. You will continue to the town of Nafplio before reaching Kardamili.

The third day offers a rest or exploration of Kardamili, famous for its tiled roofs and restored towers. Day four is a tour of the Lakonian region of Mani.

On the fifth day, you will embark on a sea kayaking tour along the coast of Mani. On days six and seven, you'll visit Gythion and the medieval town of Mistras before traveling to Sparta, home to the Museum of Olives and Greek Olive Oil.

Day eight includes an introduction to ancient Messenia, a city rich in history and archaeological treasures, followed by a tour of Messenia. The ninth day offers visits to Monemvasia, Epidavros Limera, Ierakas and the Liotrivi Mansion.

Finally, on the tenth day, you will return to Athens airport for your return flight, completing an incredible journey through Greece.

Check this 10-day Greece itinerary

Day 1

• Arrival in Athens.
• Free time to explore the city or choice of guided tours.

Day 2

• Self-drive trip to Southern Peloponnese towns by rental car.
• Exploration of Corinth, Epidavros and Nafplio.
• Evening check in in Kardamyli.

Day 3

• Relax by the pool in your villa or at the nearby beach.
• Kardamyli Exploration.

Day 4

• Full day tour of the Laconian Mani Region.
• Visit to the spectacular caves of Diros, Alepotripa and Vilchada caves
• 40-minute boat trip inside the cave.
• Easy hike to the lighthouse of Cape Tenaro.
• The hike to the lighthouse takes about an hour, offering stunning views of the coastline.
• Exploration of traditional villages (Vathia, Gerolimenas).

Day 5

• Sea kayaking at the foot of Taygetos in Kardamyli.
• Discovering hidden caves & cliffs.
• Stop for swimming & snorkeling.
• Snack made from local products.

Day 6

• Start the day with a tasty Greek coffee in the coastal village of Gythion.
• Explore the medieval city of Mystras.
• Visit Sparta.
• Explore Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil.

Day 7

• Visit the tower of the families Troupakis and Mourtzinos by foot.
• Explore Ancient Messene.
• Enjoy an Olive Oil Experience in Messinia.

Day 8

• Explore the castle city of Monemvasia.
• Head north to the ancient site of the Epidavros Limera.
• Have a traditional lunch in a village of lerakas.
• Go wine tasting at a bar in Monemvasia.

Day 9

• Drive back to Athens.
• Enjoy the last day of your trip.

Day 10

• Return flight from Athens airport.

Excited by the possibilities? Book this trip now.

Don't have that much time? Our 7-day itineraries in Greece will come to your rescue.

Itinerary #5: Discover Naxos in style

Lasting 10 days, this Naxos itinerary leaves plenty of room for relaxation and exploration of the amazing island of Naxos, with its authentic mountainous villages and magnificent sea views.

Itinerary overview

Your journey will start in Athens, after transfer from the airport to your private apartment in the city center, you will have free time to explore the lively atmosphere of the city.

On the second day, you will head to the harbor to take a speedboat to Naxos. The following days are dedicated to relaxing on the magnificent beaches of Naxos. Day five offers a day cruise to the ancient island of Delos, and cosmopolitan Mykonos.

Day six allows you to explore Naxos, and discover the charming villages of Apiranthos and Halki. On day seven, you'll embark on a culinary tour and sample local specialties.

On day eight, take a catamaran or sailboat to the south of Naxos and the Lesser Cyclades, where you can visit beautiful beaches and coves. Day nine is the return to Athens, where you will have free time to explore the city.

Day ten concludes the journey in Athens, leaving you free time to walk around the city and reflect on the incredible exploration of Greece's rich history and natural beauty.

Check this 10-day Greece itinerary.

Day 1

• Arrival in Athens.
• Free time to explore the city.

Day 2

• Speedboat tour to the island of Naxos and check in to the villa.
• Relax at the villa or nearby beach.
• Evening exploration of the main town of Naxos.

Day 3

• Full day at the Naxos beach of your choice.

Day 4

• Day Cruise to the Island of Delos, followed by island hopping to Mykonos.
• Follow by boat tour to Mykonos Island.
• Return to the Naxos in the evening.

Day 5

• Free day to explore the island of Naxos.

Day 6

• Private full-day tour with a local guide.
• Exploration of Naxos’ Hora (main town) and lesser-known traditional villages.
• Visit a local cheese-making shop and tasting of traditional delicacies.

Day 7

• Catamaran/sailing day tour in the small Cyclades.
• Swim, snorkel, and enjoy a delicious meal on board while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
• End your day with a luxurious sunset catamaran cruise, enjoying the stunning views and gourmet dining.

Day 8

• return to Athens by speedboat.

Day 9

• A day in Athens at your leisure.

Day 10

• Departure from Athens airport.

Striving for unforgettable memories? Book this trip now to create unforgettable moments.

For more inspiration for your trip to Greece, see The Rough Guide to Greece. Browse our customizable Greece itineraries or talk to our local Greece travel experts.

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