Greece Itinerary for 10 Days: Athens and Mainland Greece

This Greece itinerary for 10 days will guide you through an unforgettable journey through Athens and the mainland. You'll discover tons of incredible places, from ancient ruins and bustling cities to breathtaking landscapes and charming villages. Each day is carefully designed to reveal the country's rich history and natural beauty, and you'll get to see the best of Greece on this exciting adventure.

Day 1: Arrival in Athens

Welcome to Athens, one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history dating back over 3,000 years. Philosophy, tragedy, comedy, history, art, and architecture are all symbols of the city that is considered the birthplace of democracy. 

Depending on your arrival, you will have time to explore the city on your own. Areas like Pala and Psyri are great to explore by foot.

Where to stay in Athens

Athens boasts a wide variety of charming neighborhoods, and we suggest you choose your accommodation based on your personal preferences. For those visiting Athens for the first time, Plaka is an excellent choice, offering easy access to the main attractions and a taste of the city's history.

If you want to experience Athens' vibrant nightlife, you should visit Psyri, known for its lively bars and clubs. For a more relaxed atmosphere, Koukaki is ideal for a family vacation. Other areas such as Kolonaki or Exarheia are a good option as well.

• Best for boutique stays: in Hypnos Inn Athens creative spirit reigns supreme. With uniquely decorated rooms inspired by Greek mythology, local artwork, and a cozy shared lounge, it is the perfect place for a budget-friendly stay in Athens.
• The best option for budget travelers: Adam's Hotel offers affordable accommodation without compromising on comfort and location. With clean, simple rooms, friendly staff, and a convenient location in Plaka, it's ideal for budget-minded travelers who want to explore Athens without going broke.
• The best option for modern luxury: Ciel Living Athens features spacious suites, modern amenities, and a chic rooftop bar. It is designed for those looking for a luxurious oasis amidst the bustling atmosphere of Athens.

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Day 2: Exploring Athens and Acropolis

On the second day of the Greece itinerary for 10 days, visit the world-famous Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum and explore the mysteries of ancient Greek mythology and history! Admire the famous historical monuments of the Acropolis Hill such as the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Propylaea, and the Temple of Nicea. 

Discover the ancient Odeon of Herodotus Atticus, still in use today, and soak in the panoramic view of Athens. If you have time, visit the Acropolis Museum.

Day 3: Free day in Athens

Today you'll have a free day to stroll around the center of Athens and enjoy its beautiful districts such as Plaka, Anafiotika, Essio, Monastiraki, Psyri, Kerameikos, Gazi, and Koukaki. 

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Day 4: Explore the archaeological site of Delphi

In the morning, head to the center of Athens to pick up your rental car and embark on a fascinating cultural journey through mainland Greece.

Leave Athens behind and head to Delphi, where you will experience the magnificent archaeological site of Delphi. The elite of the ancient Greeks came to the sanctuary of Delphi to receive the predictions of the famous oracle Pythia. Delphi was considered the center of the world and was the cultural and religious center of ancient Greece for many centuries. 

Where to stay in Delphi

Delphi has various accommodation options, each catering to different traveler preferences. 

• Delphi Town: If you want to stay in the city center, close to the ancient ruins, stay in Delphi Town, which offers easy access to the archaeological sites and museum.
• Arachova: A more scenic and upscale option. This charming mountain is perfect for travelers looking for boutique hotels and traditional tavernas. 
• Itea: Families looking for a quiet retreat will love Itea, a coastal town with a relaxing atmosphere and beautiful sea views.

How to get from Athens to Delphi

Aside from traveling by rental car, you can get to Delphi from Athens in two ways. The best option is the bus, and if you want historical context on the road, choose an organized tour from Athens.

Day 5: Exploring Ancient Olympia

Today head to the historic city of Olympia, the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games. Here you can explore the ancient site alone or with a guide and immerse yourself in history as you stroll through the world’s first stadium.

This is where ancient athletes lived, trained, sacrificed to the gods, and competed against each other. We also recommend a visit to the Archaeological Museum to see the timeless art treasures and artifacts found at the archaeological site.

Where to stay in Olympia

Olympia offers accommodations to suit every traveler's needs.

• Ancient Olympia: For those looking to stay close to the famous archaeological sites, Ancient Olympia is a great option, offering easy access to the ruins and museum.
• Krestena: If you prefer a more relaxing vacation, the nearby village of Krestena is surrounded by nature and is perfect for a peaceful getaway.
• Kaiafas: If you prefer a coastal area, Kaiafas offers access to beautiful beaches and thermal springs, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring.

How to get from Delphi to Olympia

Aside from traveling by rental car, there are two main ways to get from Delphi to Olympia. You can take the bus, but be aware of transfers. Alternatively, you can combine a bus to Lamia with a train to Patras and then a bus to Olympia for a more varied journey.

Rough Guides tip: be sure to check out all our Greece itineraries or browse our 7-day itineraries 

Day 6: From Olympia to Mystras

On the sixth day of your Greece itinerary for 10 days, leave Olympia behind and make your way to the charming village of Pikoulianika, near Mystras. Here, you can unwind for the night in a cozy, traditional guesthouse that offers a taste of local hospitality.

Mistras and nearby Sparta, fought over for centuries by Franks, Venetians, Byzantines, and Ottomans, is a bridge from antiquity to the Renaissance, as well as the wisdom of the philosophers and artists of ancient Greece. In Mystras you can enjoy a private tour of the medieval castle, the Pantanassa frescoed nunnery, the Brontochion Monastery, and, the Church of St. Demetrios. Your next stop may be the Museum of Olives and Greek Olive Oil in Sparta, where you will learn about the secrets of traditional olive oil production.

Where to stay in Mystras

For those looking to stay close to historical sites, the village of Mystras itself offers easy access to the medieval fortress and ruins. If you are looking for a more relaxing vacation, the nearby town of Sparta offers a peaceful atmosphere with local charm and easy access to Mystras.

How to get from Olympia to Mystras

Apart from traveling by rental car, there are two main ways to get from Olympia to Mystras. Take a bus to Tripoli, change to another bus to Sparta, and then take a bus or cab to Mystras. Alternatively, you can combine a bus to Kalamata with a train to Sparta and then take a local bus or cab to Mystras.

Day 7: From Mystras to Nafplion

On the 7th day, leave Mystras and travel to Nafplion, Greece's most romantic city and the country's first capital. Here you can stroll through the Old Town. Beneath the rock of Acronafplia, the city unfolds vibrant and picturesque. A charming old town with narrow streets, tavernas serving delicious Greek food, and beautiful buildings.

Where to stay in Nafplion

Those who want to be close to historical sights should stay in the heart of Nafplion - the charming old town, Palamidi Fortress and Bourtzi Castle are all within easy reach. 

How to get from Mystras to Nafplion

A rental car is the best option. Another option is to take a bus to Sparta, then change to another bus to Tripoli, and from there change to a bus to Nafplion. Alternatively, you can combine a bus to Kalamata with a train to Argos and then change to a local bus to Nafplion.

Day 8: Exploring Epidavros

Continue your 10 days in Greece by visiting the magnificent archaeological excavations of Epidavros. Explore the archaeological excavations and the impressive theater, one of the best and best preserved ancient theaters in Greece with unique acoustics and a capacity of 15,000 spectators.

Day 9: Exploring Mycenae and Nemea

Today, visit Ancient Mycenae, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the country. In ancient times, Mycenae was a very prosperous city and gave its name to an entire civilization, the Mycenaean civilization, which flourished from around 1,600 to 1,000 BC. 

The ancient city was surrounded by gigantic walls, and the most famous site is the Lion's Gate, the entrance to the city with two stone female lions on top. Explore on your own or opt for a private tour with a guide.

You can then travel to Nemea, a significant wine-growing region surrounded by fertile plains that for centuries have contributed to the well-being of the region with their harvests. The Archaeological Zone of Ancient Nemea is a complex of well-preserved and exhibited archaeological remains, iconic for the Nemean Sports Games. It preserves the sporting roots of Europe.

Day 10: Travel to Athens and return flight

Your journey comes to an end: head to Athens to fly home, or enjoy a few extra days to explore.

Ready to start planning your Greek vacation now?

Contact us, and we’ll organize your Greece itinerary for 10 days exactly as outlined or adjust it to suit your preferences. If you're seeking more inspiration, be sure to explore our selection of Greek itineraries.