How to plan a trip to Greece

Offering thousands of years of history and sublime islands and beaches, taking a vacation in Greece is hard to beat. But with so many itinerary options to choose from — not to mention all those islands and epic inland destinations — deciding where and when to go sure isn’t easy. With that in mind, read on for advice on how to plan a trip to Greece. 

Follow our tips for visiting Greece

Whether you’re planning an island-hopping vacation, or you’re into Greek food, or ancient history, following our tips for how to plan a trip to Greece will set you for up for an unforgettable trip.

Alongside helping you decide when’s the best time to visit, and how to get around, we also share detailed itineraries for spending 5, 7 and 10 days in Greece that include stacks of the best things to do in Greece.

If that wasn't enough, you'll also gain intel on the best islands, beaches and cities to visit on a first trip to this beautiful nation. 

Editor’s tip: when it comes to pre-trip planning, our Greece travel tips will come in handy, as will browsing our customisable Greece itineraries.

Step 1: Figure out the best time to visit Greece

If you’re wondering how to plan a trip to Greece from scratch, figuring out the best time to visit Greece should be one of your top priorities. 

To do that, you need to decide what you most want to see and do, and how you feel about the likes of peak summer season crowds (and costs) versus out-of-season quietness that often goes hand-in-hand with reduced connections and access to amenities.

To help you decide when’s the best time for you to visit Greece, here’s an overview of what to expect of different areas of Greece around the year, every, along with info on the kinds of activities each season is best for, and where to enjoy them.

Spring ­— March to May

With a temperature range of 59°F-77°F (15°C-25°C), visiting Greece in spring means mild weather, with blooming flowers, green landscapes, and rain becoming less frequent as the season progresses.

Best spring activities and where to enjoy them

• Athens and Mainland Greece: spring is a top time to explore ancient sites like the Acropolis, Delphi and Meteora without the summer crowds.
• Cyclades Islands (Santorini, Mykonos): spring is perfect for hiking and exploring villages before the summer influx of tourists.
• Peloponnese: spring is great season to visit archaeological sites like Epidaurus and Mycenae, and to go hiking in the Taygetus mountains.
• Crete: the island’s wildflowers are in full bloom in spring, making it an excellent time to hike Samaria Gorge and explore Knossos.

Summer — June to August

Summer in Greece is hot and dry, with an average temperature range of 77°F-95°F (25°C-

Best summer activities and where to enjoy them

• Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes and Crete: summer is the peak tourist season on these popular islands, and an ideal time to enjoy beaches, busy nightlife, outdoor dining and water sports.
• Ionian Islands (Corfu, Zakynthos): lightly cooler than the Cyclades, head to the Ionian Islands in summer for lush greenery, beautiful beaches, and to explore traditional villages. 
• Saronic Gulf Islands (Hydra, Spetses): easily accessed from Athens, these islands are ideal for lively weekend getaways.

Fall — September to November

Fall sees an average temperature range of 68°F-86°F (20°C-30°C) in September, cooling to 59°F-77°F (15°C-25°C) by November. 

The sea remains warm enough for swimming until October, and crowds are smaller.

Best Fall activities and where to enjoy them

• Greek Islands: with warm weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices, September is one of the best months to visit the islands. Note that some businesses begin to close for the season in October.
• Crete: Fall sees Crete’s harvest season in full swing. Visit to enjoy wine and olive oil tastings, and explore less crowded archaeological sites.
• Peloponnese: Fall is a top time to explore historic sites and go hiking.
• Athens and Mainland Greece: autumn is the ideal time to visit cultural sites and museums.

Winter — December to February

Winter temperatures range from 50°F-59°F (10°C-15°C) in coastal areas, and can drop to 32°F-41°F (0°C05°C) in the mountains, where there’s also the possibility of snow.

Best winter activities and where to enjoy them

• Athens: Winter is a great time to explore Athen’s museums, galleries and historic sites in crowd-free conditions.
• Peloponnese: explore the region's historic sites — among them Nafplio and Monemvasia — or enjoy winter activities in the mountains.
• Greek Islands: while many island businesses close in winter, Crete and Rhodes still offer great cultural experiences and hiking.
• Mountainous regions (Zagori, Pelion): winter is ideal for winter sports, hiking and enjoying traditional village life. 

Overall recommendations

• Best time for sightseeing: late spring and early autumn offer the best combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
• Best time for beach vacations: June-September, with July and August being the hottest and most popular months.
• Best time for outdoor activities: Spring and Fall are ideal for exploring Greece’s great outdoors.

Editor’s tip: read more on when to go to Greece.

Step 2: Decide how long you need for a trip to Greece 

Another key part of your trip planning process will be working out how long you need for a trip to Greece.

While it’s a diverse country that inspires travelers to return year after year, with careful planning it’s perfectly possible to enjoy an unforgettable vacation in limited timeframes.

With that in mind, read on to find out how to spend 5, 7 and 10 days in Greece.

How to spend 5 days in Greece

Fear not if you’re short on time. We’ve come up with an itinerary that will see you discovering classical Athens and the Cyclades islands of Santorini and Mykonos in just five days.

As such, it’s ideal for first-time visitors who want the best of both worlds i.e. to experience Greece's rich history and island scenery.

After arriving in Athens, kick off your trip with a visit to the Acropolis to explore the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Come the afternoon, stroll Athens' oldest district. Namely, the Plaka neighborhood, which is known for its narrow streets, neoclassical architecture, and charming tavernas.

On day two, visit Athens’ Ancient Agora, the Temple of Hephaestus and the National Archaeological Museum in the morning before watching the Changing of the Guard at the Hellenic Parliament in the afternoon.

On day three, take an early morning flight or ferry to the island of Santorini and spend the afternoon exploring picturesque Fira or Oia, or else enjoying the best alternative things to do in Santorini.

Come dusk, experience Santorini’s iconic sunset from Oia or a clifftop restaurant.

Next, take a morning ferry to Mykonos on day four and explore the narrow alleys and whitewashed buildings of Mykonos Town (Chora).

In the afternoon, you could visit the island’s the iconic windmills and Little Venice, or relax on one of Mykonos’ beautiful beaches.

On day five, return to Athens after spending more time on the beach or in Mykonos Town. 

If time allows, do some last-minute shopping in Kolonaki or Ermou Street, and enjoy a farewell dinner with views of the Acropolis .

Into history and short on time? Here’s how to make the most of Athens, City of the Gods, in just four days.

How to spend 7 days in Greece

If you have a week in Greece, you could choose to truly immerse yourself in the cultural and natural sites of Athens and the Peloponnese .

Kicking off in the capital, your first day in Athens will see you enjoy a guided tour of the Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum. 

After having your fill of ancient culture, head to the Plaka and Monastiraki districts to enjoy great Greek food. 

On day 3, collect a hire car and head to the Isthmus of Corinth to view the Corinth Canal.

From here, the marvels of ancient Mycenae and Nemea await. With the latter surrounded by vineyards, you can enjoy a wine-tasting experience after seeing the site. 

Come the afternoon, drive to the ancient city of Sparta before bedding down in a Mystras guest house for the night. 

On the 4th day of your trip, explore medieval Mystras — expect to be dazzled by Byzantine beauty — before driving to the Mani region.

From here, board a boat to see the enchanting Alepotripa and Vlichada caves, and then visit Areopoli.

Later, bliss out on Limeni beach before dining in a local fish restaurant. 

On day 5, visit the archaeological site of Ancient Messene before moving to the pretty seaside town of Pylos. 

Here you can visit a splendid Venetian castle before bathing in the crystal-clear waters of Voidokilia beach.

Next morning, visit 13th-century Chlemoutsi Castle ahead of discovering the secrets of organic honey at a farm.

The remainder of day 6 will be spent exploring the ancient site of Olympia before you explore Langadia on the last day of your vacation.

Editor’s tip: discover more ways to spend 7 days in Greece, and browse our 7-day Classical Greece itinerary.

How to spend 10 days in Greece

If you have 10 days in Greece, your options widen up. In that time, you could hop a few islands, see a considerable range of the mainland, or else choose to fully immerse yourself in one destination.

On that subject, here’s one of our favourite ways to spend 10 days in Greece — doing a deep dive into discovering the island of Naxos in style.

After arriving in Athens, take a guided city tour before heading to the harbor on the morning of day two.

Board a boat to Naxos and spend the next few days relaxing on the island’s magnificent beaches before enjoying a day cruise to the ancient island of Delos and cosmopolitan Mykonos on day five.

Devote day six to discovering the charming villages of Apiranthos and Halki, and take a culinary tour on day seven.

Next, more water-based adventure await, courtesy of a catamaran cruise to the south of Naxos and the Lesser Cyclades, where you can visit beautiful beaches and coves. 

On day nine, return to Athens, where you’ll have free time to explore more of the city before departing on day ten.

Editor’s tip: discover more ways to spend 10 days in Greece, and browse our immersive 10-day Cyclades trip.

Step 3: Decide where to go

Planning where to go in Greece is very important, especially given the fact that Greece has some 6000 islands, which can make deciding where to go feel pretty daunting.

It’s also worth knowing that traveling between islands can be pretty tricky, especially in low season. 

As a result, deciding when to travel should always be done in conjunction with deciding where you travel.

Step 4: Where to visit on a first trip

Fear not if you’re still not sure where to go — read on for tips on the best islands, beaches and cities to visit on a first-time trip to Greece.

Best islands to visit

Santorini 

Famous for its dramatic caldera views, white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and stunning sunsets, Santorini is a romantic and impossibly picturesque destination.

Island highlights include heading to Oia and Fira to soak up sublime sunsets, exploring Ancient Akrotiri, and stretching out on beautiful beaches.

Editors tip: like the sound of Santorini? Be inspired by Santorini itineraries.

Mykonos

Known for its lively nightlife, chic boutiques, and beautiful beaches, Mykonos is a top destination for those who want a vacation that offers relaxation and entertainment.

Highlights include Mykonos Town (Chora), Little Venice Paradise Beach, Super Paradise Beach and taking a day trip to see Delos Island’s archaeological site.

Editors tip: discover the best areas to stay in Mykonos.

Rhodes 

Combining medieval history with beautiful beaches, Rhodes is another versatile destination.

Must-see sights include the Medieval Old Town of Rhodes UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Palace of the Grand Master, Lindos Acropolis and Anthony Quinn Bay.

Editors tip: read up on things to see and do in Rhodes beyond the beach.

Naxos

The largest island in the Cyclades, Naxos offers a mix of beautiful beaches, traditional villages, and historic sites. Being less crowded than Santorini and Mykonos, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a more relaxed vacation.

While on the island, don’t miss exploring the Temple of Apollo, visiting Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna Beaches, discovering the Old Town (Chora), and heading to Mount Zas to hike.

Want more Greek Island inspiration? Read our feature on the best Greek islands, and get The Rough Guide to the Greek Islands to help you plan your trip.

Not keen on planning? Take a look at our customisable Greek Island itineraries, from an exclusive vacation in Milos, to uncovering the coast of Crete, and exploring the historic and mythological Cyclades Islands.

Best beaches to visit

Read on to find out about a few of the best beaches to visit in Greece, with more suggestions in our full guide.

Navajo Beach (Shipwreck Beach), Zakynthos

Famous for its turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and the shipwreck resting on its shore, This iconic beach is one of Greece’s most photographed spots, and only accessible by boat.

Elafonissi Beach, Crete

Known for its pink sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters, Elafonissi Beach is ideal for families and beach lovers looking for an enchanting beach experience.

Balos Lagoon, Crete

Another of Crete’s best beaches, Balos is a stunning lagoon with shallow, turquoise waters and pink sand. Unspoiled, it offers one of the most beautiful natural settings in Greece, which is really saying something.

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

Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia

Renowned for its striking blue waters, white pebbles, and dramatic surrounding cliffs, Myrtos Beach is often ranked among the top beaches in the world.

Sarakiniko Beach, Milos

Famous for its lunar-like white rock formations and clear blue waters, Sarakiniko is a surreal and picturesque spot.

Best cities to visit

Athens

The cradle of Western civilization and heart of ancient Greece, Athens is a a must-see for its historic landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural experiences.

Don’t miss the Acropolis and Parthenon, Ancient Agora, and the Plaka and Monastiraki neighborhoods.

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

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is known for its rich history, diverse cultural scene, and vibrant nightlife.

Highlights include the White Tower, the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, the Rotunda and Arch of Galerius, and the Ladadika district for dining and nightlife.

Chania, Crete

Offering a charming mix of Venetian architecture, beautiful harbors, and close proximity to some of Greece's best beaches, Chania is know for its Venetian Harbor, Old Town and market.

Step 5: Check visa requirements

Good news — as Greece is part of the Schengen Area, US citizens don’t need a visa to enter Greece for stays of up to 90 days.

Note that your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen Area. And, if you’re traveling beyond Greece, be aware that time spent in other Schengen countries counts toward your 90-day limit.

For stays over 90 days, you need to apply for a visa before traveling. Visa types include work visas, student visas, and residency permits.

You’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa at the Greek consulate or embassy in the United States before your trip. 

Editor's tip: keep an eye out for news on ETIAS requirements (European Travel Information and Authorization System) for US citizens.

Step 6: How to get to Greece

Major cities like New York (JFK), Atlanta (ATL), Chicago (ORD), Boston (BOS), Washington D.C. (IAD), and Los Angeles (LAX) offer direct flights to Greece.

The most common entry point is Athens International Airport (ATH), with some seasonal direct flights also traveling to Thessaloniki (SKG) or Heraklion, Crete (HER).

Airlines offering direct flights include Delta Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Emirates. 

If you're departing from a smaller city or looking for more options, you could book a flight with one or more layovers. Common layover cities include London, Paris, Frankfurt, or Zurich.

Editor’s tip: direct flights are more common during the peak travel season (spring to fall), In the off-season (winter), you might need to connect through a European city.

Step 7: How to get around Greece

Thanks to its well-developed transportation network, getting around Greece is generally straightforward. Here are some tips for how to navigate the country:

Domestic flights

Domestic flights are the fastest way to travel between major cities, or from Athens to the Greek islands.

Athens International Airport (ATH) is the hub for most domestic flights. Other major airports include Thessaloniki (SKG), Heraklion (HER) on Crete, and Santorini (JTR).

It’s best to book in advance, especially during peak season (June to August).

Ferries

Ferries are the primary mode of transportation between the Greek islands and from the mainland to the islands, and offer a scenic and leisurely way to travel.

Piraeus (Athens) is the largest and busiest port, with connections to most islands. Other key ports include Rafina (near Athens), Thessaloniki, and Heraklion (Crete).

Buses and trains

Buses are the most economical way to travel around the mainland, and between towns and cities on the islands.

While trains are a comfortable way to travel, be aware they have limited coverage compared to buses. 

That said, trains are ideal for certain routes, particularly between Athens and northern Greece (e.g. Thessaloniki).

Bikes

Bikes are a great option for getting around some islands and smaller towns. 

However, in large busy cities like Athens, the volume of traffic makes navigating by bike pretty challenging.

How to hire a car

Renting a car is ideal if you plan to explore rural areas, drive between cities, or visit remote attractions that aren’t easily accessible by public transport.

To legally drive in Greece, US citizens must have an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their U.S. driver’s license.

You can either rent your car from major international companies like Hertz, Avis, or use a local company.

It’s always best to book in advance — especially in summer — and to opt for a smaller vehicle to make it easier to park and navigate narrow roads.

You drive on the right-hand side of the road, and should be cautious of narrow streets in older towns and villages. You should also be aware of of motorbikes and scooters.

Editor’s tip: read our guide to getting around Greece.

Step 8: Book accommodation and attractions

Booking accommodation and entry to attractions in advance offers several advantages that’ll definitely enhance your travel experience, and offer peace of mind.

Firstly, accommodation is often cheaper when booked in advance — hotels typically offer special early bird discounts and promotions.

Booking early also gives you access to a wider selection of room types — especially important if you have special requests.

At the same time, having your travel arrangements sorted well in advance cuts down last-minute stress and fosters a more relaxed planning process.

Conversely, booking early gives you time to make adjustments if your plans need to change.

When it comes to booking tickets to attractions and tours in advance, you’ll have access to more dates and time slots, and might be able to secure time-saving skip-the-line tickets. 

Step 9: How much does a Greece trip cost?

It goes without saying that the cost of a trip to Greece will vary widely depending on your travel style, length of stay, and kind of activities you plan to do.

That said, here's a ballpark overview of estimated costs for budget, mid-price and luxury travel.

Budget travel

Staying in budget accommodation — i.e. hostels, budget hotels, or cheap Airbnbs — will cost around $20-$60 a night, and you can expect to pay $10-$30 a day to eat street food, dine in local tavernas, or self-cater.

Factor in $10-$20 a day to cover transport, and $5-$20 per day for activities, after checking which attractions and historic sites are free, or offer reduced fees on certain days.

Mid-range travel

Expect to pay $70- $150 a night to stay in mid-price boutique hotels and comfortable Airbnb apartments, with decent dining-in options available for $30-$60 a day.

Transport could average around $20-$50 per day if you end up booking the likes of mid-range ferry tickets and taking the odd taxi.

When it comes to activities, allow $20-$50 a day to cover a few guided tours, entrance fees to historic sites, and some cultural experiences.

Luxury travel

You’ll pay $200-$600+ a night to stay in luxury hotels, 5-star resorts and high-end villas, with fine dining meals costing $100-$150 per person.

For first-class ferry tickets, private transfers, business-class domestic flights, and private car rentals, work to a daily budget of $50-$200+.

Meanwhile the likes of private tours, luxury yacht charters and exclusive experiences could set you back $50-$200+ per day. 

Ready to plan your own trip to Greece? The Rough Guide to Greece will enhance every step of your journey.

Overwhelmed by the idea of planning? Explore our customisable Greece itineraries.