Greece Island Hopping Itinerary: 7 Days on the Greek Islands

Greece is a top European travel destination, and it’s easy to see why. This Mediterranean gem is renowned for its stunning landscapes, historic ruins, and vibrant culture. From its sunny beaches to its charming whitewashed villages, Greece offers an unparalleled travel experience.

In this article, we present a detailed 7-day itinerary designed to help you explore the best of Greece’s enchanting islands. Our route covers the most iconic and breathtaking spots, offering you a chance to immerse yourself in the essence of Greek island hopping. Whether you’re seeking the lively energy of Mykonos, the romantic allure of Santorini, or the serene beauty of Naxos, our guide will help you navigate these islands with ease.

You’ll find practical travel tips, including the best times to visit, how to get around, and essential attractions not to be missed. We’ll also provide insights on how to make the most of each day and what to consider while planning your trip.

So, whether you’re setting off on a solo adventure, a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a honeymoon, join us as we dive into a week of Greek island exploration. Get ready to discover the highlights of this Mediterranean paradise and create unforgettable memories along the way!

First, let’s look at the general questions that arise when planning a trip to Greece, followed by a day-by-day list of the 7-day itinerary.

General questions about island hopping in Greece

Which are the best islands to visit in Greece?

We think the best islands are the Cyclades, which include many islands in the Aegean Sea. Due to our 7-day limit, we chose the four most popular Cyclades islands for our itinerary: Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, and Naxos.

Another good option could be the Ionian Islands, but we believe the islands listed above offer more, especially if it’s your first time in Greece.

Best time to visit Greece

The best times to visit the islands in Greece are late spring or early autumn. The best months are May, early June, September, and early October.

Summer is only recommended if you want to spend time at the beach, with July and August being ideal.

Winter is not recommended because, while it might be cheaper and less crowded, many places may be closed during the off-season.

How many days to spend in Greece

To explore Greece thoroughly, we believe at least 3–4 weeks are needed. This time would allow you to visit places like Athens, Meteora, Thessaloniki, the Ionian Islands, Crete, and more.

However, since most tourists can’t spend that much time in Greece, we’ve put together a one-week itinerary. It covers the Greek islands that are the easiest to visit and offer the most.

If you have more time in Greece, feel free to extend your itinerary. We provide additional ideas at the end of the article.

Is one week enough for a Greek island hopping trip?

Yes, 7 days can be sufficient. However, since one week isn’t a lot of time, our itinerary only includes 4 islands. The schedule is still quite packed, as there is plenty to see.

So, 7 days is enough for visiting up to 4 islands. If you want to see more islands or have more time to relax, we recommend traveling for 10 or even 14 days.

Where to start your trip

Our itinerary, maybe surprisingly, doesn’t start on a Greek island but in Athens, the capital of Greece. The reason is that whether you’re driving from a nearby country or flying in, Athens is the most likely place you’ll arrive first.

If you arrive on a Greek island instead, like Mykonos or Santorini, which also have international flights, adjust your itinerary accordingly.

How to travel between the Greek islands

You can travel between the Greek islands by ferry or, in some cases, by plane.

We strongly recommend taking the ferry, as flights don’t connect all the islands. Ferry travel can be expensive, but it’s the best way to explore the Greek islands.

Tips for ferry travel in Greece:

• Compare ticket prices on Ferryhopper.com.
• Be careful when booking your ferry, as prices can vary significantly.
• You can buy tickets online or at ticket offices near the ports on the islands.
• Always arrive at the port about an hour before departure. In Santorini, plan for extra time due to traffic jams near the port.
• Not all ferry companies strictly enforce seating class rules, but SeaJets does, based on our experience.
• If you have a car on the ferry, make sure it’s not parked too deep inside if it needs to be offloaded at the next stop. We almost got stuck because our car was parked in a difficult spot, even though we were among the first to disembark.

How to get around the islands

We recommend renting a car for exploring the Greek islands. The easiest way is to rent a car in Athens and then use it along with ferries to travel between the islands. However, this is also the most expensive option.

We recommend booking your car rental through Rentalcars.com or Discovercars.com.

Another option is to use ferries between the islands and private transfers on the islands. This works well if you’re okay with walking a lot and being flexible with your schedule, hotels, and sights.

We recommend booking private transfers through GetYourGuide:

Costs of a one-week Greek island hopping trip

The cost of a one-week trip to Greece can be hard to estimate, but we’ll try to give you a general idea. It’s important to know that during peak season, the cost can be two to three times higher than during the shoulder season. That’s one reason we recommend traveling in the shoulder season.

• For accommodation, plan to spend at least 150–200 euros per night for two people. If you’re looking at five-star hotels, you might spend 300-400 euros or more per night.
• Restaurants are generally priced at Western European levels, so expect to pay at least 20–25 euros per person per meal. You can save money by eating at street vendors. If you choose places with nice views, the cost can often be 50–100 euros per person.
• In terms of activities, you don’t need to budget much, as most are free, with few places charging entry fees.
• Similarly, parking is often free in many small towns, though some private lots may charge, but they’re usually not expensive.
• You might also need to budget for private transfers or city tours, which vary by individual preferences.
• When it comes to car rentals, a small car is usually enough and more practical on the islands. Expect to pay around 100–400 euros for a week.
• However, ferry travel in Greece is quite expensive. We found it to be the most expensive in Europe. For the four-island trip we outlined, we spent over 800 euros just on ferries, which included five ferry trips for two people and a car.
• Additionally, you need to factor in the cost of getting to Greece, which varies for everyone.

So, if you add everything up, a mid-range one-week Greek island-hopping trip for two people might cost around 4000 euros. If you make some compromises, you could manage with 2500–3000 euros, but if you want to stay and eat at luxurious places, the sky’s the limit.

Best things to do on a one-week Greek island hopping trip

A 7-day Greek island hopping trip can be full of adventures, relaxing, enjoying the good weather and the beauty of the Mediterranean islands.

Here are what we think are the best things to do on such a trip:

• Taste traditional Greek cuisine: Enjoy authentic Greek food at local tavernas on each island
• Sail the Aegean Sea: Experience the beauty of the Greek islands from the water
• Watch stunning sunsets: Catch breathtaking sunsets in Paros, Santorini, Mykonos, and Naxos
• Enjoy Mykonos’ nightlife: Experience the vibrant nightlife that Mykonos is famous for
• Discover Santorini’s best views: Explore the iconic viewpoints of Santorini, considered some of the most beautiful in the world
• Relax on Naxos’ world-class beaches: Spend time unwinding on the best beaches of Naxos
• Explore charming Greek towns: Wander through the picturesque towns on each island, like Oia in Santorini and Naoussa in Paros.

After the basic questions, let’s see how we think it’s worth spending 7 days in Greece.

The perfect 7-day Greek island hopping itinerary

Day 1: From Athens to Mykonos

On the first day of your 7-day Greece trip, start with a visit to Mykonos, a beautiful Greek island known for its lively nightlife, stunning beaches, and charming Mykonos Town.

You can travel from Athens to Mykonos by plane or ferry. If you’re traveling by car, you’ll need to take the ferry. If you’re traveling without a car, flying is also an option, but we recommend the ferry for a more scenic experience.

Check flight prices on the Aegean Airlines website and ferry schedules on Ferryhopper.

Ferries to the Greek islands depart from two ports in Athens: Rafina and Piraeus. If you have a car, it doesn’t matter which port you use. If you’re traveling without a car, we recommend Piraeus, as it’s easier to get to from the city.

The ferry ride from Athens to Mykonos takes between 2.5 and 5 hours, depending on the ferry.

If you choose to fly, the flight time is about 40 minutes, but including airport procedures, the total travel time will be around 3–4 hours.

You’ll likely arrive in Mykonos by the afternoon of the first day, giving you about a day and a half to explore the island. Most of the island’s attractions are in the western, more populated part near the port.

How to spend the evening of the first day in Mykonos:

• Mykonos Town: Start by exploring the lively capital of the island. Walk through the narrow, winding streets of Mykonos Town, known for its whitewashed buildings, boutique shops, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the iconic Mykonos windmills and enjoy the stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
• Little Venice: Head to this picturesque area of Mykonos Town, where colorful buildings line the waterfront. It’s a great spot for photos and enjoying drinks with a view.

Mykonos is a true party island, so make the most of it if you’re in the mood for some fun. Visit a local bar and experience the nightlife in the bustling old town. There are many places with live music in the evenings.

Spend the night in Mykonos and continue exploring the island the next day.

Day 2: Mykonos

Start the second day by going back to Mykonos Town. Explore the shops and take a relaxed walk through the charming streets. Enjoy the atmosphere, and make sure to have a tasty Greek meal at one of the local tavernas.

Spend your afternoon at one of Mykonos’ best beaches. We suggest Agios Stefanos Beach, Paradise Beach, or Ornos Beach. Whether you want to walk along the shore or swim in the clear water, these beaches are perfect for relaxing.

If you want to do more, visit Ano Mera in the center of the island. This quiet village shows a traditional side of Mykonos, where you can see the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

We suggest traveling to Santorini in the evening. Spend the night there so you’ll have plenty of time to explore Santorini’s attractions. The evening ferry from Mykonos to Santorini takes about 3 hours.

Day 3: Santorini

Santorini is our favorite island in Greece, so we think it’s a must-visit if you’re planning a trip to the Greek islands.

Exploring Oia and the beaches of Santorini

Start your day by exploring Oia, the most iconic spot on Santorini. It’s best to arrive early in the morning, as the town gets crowded by 10 AM, especially during the summer. Spend the morning walking through Oia’s picturesque streets, perfect for taking photos and enjoying the views. Stroll along the Nik. Nomikou pedestrian street, check out the local shops, and wander into the narrower alleys to find hidden viewpoints.

Here are some of the best spots in Oia (Google Maps names):

• 3 Domes Viewpoint
• Beautiful Blue Domed Church of Oia
• Church of Agios Nikolaos
• Views of Santorini and Caldera
• Oia Lookout Panoramic Viewpoint
• Two Mill Oia

Oia has plenty of photo opportunities, and you’ll likely find even more as you explore!

In the afternoon, you can either enjoy a scenic lunch in Oia or escape the summer crowds by heading out to the countryside. Whether by car, private transfer, or rented ATV, consider visiting one of Santorini’s beaches, such as Kamari Beach or Perivolos Beach on the southeastern side of the island.

In the evening, it’s worth returning to Oia for the sunset, as it’s a must-see on Santorini. Whether you watch it from one of the viewpoints, a restaurant, or a hotel with a view, the sunset in Oia is a breathtaking experience.

Here are some of the best spots for the picture-perfect Greek sunset:

• Oia Lookout Panoramic Viewpoint: free but crowded
• Old Castle Oia: offers hotel rooms with views, a pool, and private hot tubs
• Lycabettus Restaurant
• Lioyerma Lounge Cafe Pool Bar

Enjoy the magical atmosphere as the sun sets over the Aegean Sea, wrapping up your day in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Day 4: Santorini

The fourth day of the 7-day Greece itinerary focuses on the island of Santorini again.

Exploring Imerovigli and Fira

Start your day in Imerovigli, a small but beautiful village on Santorini known for its amazing views. Parking can be tricky, so get there early to avoid problems. Begin by visiting the Church of the Resurrection of the Lord, a popular photo spot on the island. Then, walk through the narrow streets of Imerovigli towards Skaros Rock. If you’re up for it, you can hike to the rock for even better views.

For lunch, go to Fira, where there are many restaurants with great views. Reserve a table ahead of time since these places are popular. One of the best spots is Kaliya Restaurant, where you can enjoy your meal surrounded by pink flowers. Other good choices with fantastic views include Aris Restaurant and Character.

After lunch, take a walk along Agiou Mina Street in Fira to enjoy more coastal views. This street is also a great place to watch the sunset. While exploring Fira, don’t miss the “I Love Santorini” sign, the Panoramic View Fira point, and the Three Bells of Fira.

If you have extra time in the afternoon, consider visiting Akrotiri to see a lighthouse and an archaeological site.

You could also book a boat tour to see Santorini from the sea. Sunset boat tours are especially popular.

If you’d rather relax, spend the afternoon or sunset at a wine tasting. Santo Wines, near the port, offers one of the best wine-tasting experiences with a great caldera view.

Santorini has many ways to enjoy your time, so make the most of these two days on this beautiful island.

Day 5: Paros

On the fifth day of your Greek island hopping trip, travel from Santorini to the less touristy but very beautiful Paros.

The ferry between Santorini and Paros takes about 2 to 3.5 hours, and there are several ferry options available.

We’ve only allocated one day for Paros in our itinerary because it’s a relatively small island with fewer sights. If you need more time, feel free to extend your stay by a few more days.

So as we suggest, this is how to spend a day on Paros:

Morning: Naoussa

• Visit Naoussa Village: Head to the charming village of Naoussa, known for its picturesque harbor and vibrant atmosphere. Stroll through the narrow streets, explore boutique shops, and enjoy the scenic views.

Afternoon: Beach time

• Lunch at a seaside taverna: Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a seaside taverna. Sample fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes while taking in the beautiful views of the Aegean Sea.
• Beach time at Kolymbithres Beach: Spend your afternoon at Kolymbithres Beach, famous for its unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters. It’s an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Evening: Parikia

• Return to Parikia, the island’s capital. Wander through its charming streets, visit the local shops, and enjoy the breathtaking sunset.
• Dinner in Parikia: End your day with dinner at a local restaurant in Parikia. Try some local specialties and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Spend the night in Paros.

Day 6: Naxos

On the sixth day of the 7-day Greek island itinerary, travel to Naxos in the morning.

The ferry from Paros to Naxos takes about 30–40 minutes.

Naxos, one of the largest islands in the Cyclades, offers a mix of beautiful beaches, charming villages, and historical sites.

Here’s how to make the most of your day trip:

Morning: Explore Naxos Town

Start your day in Naxos Town. Begin by visiting the Temple of Apollo, an iconic marble gate on a small island near the port. This ancient site, dedicated to Apollo, offers impressive views of both the town and the Aegean Sea.

After enjoying the view, wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, which is a medieval fortress area.

For lunch, head to one of the seaside restaurants along the waterfront promenade near the port. There are many places to choose from, so you can find something that suits your taste.

Afternoon: Relax on a beach

In the afternoon, relax on one of Naxos’s beautiful beaches. Recommended options include Mikri Vigla Beach or Agios Prokopios Beach.

If you’re not visiting in the summer, you might want to visit the Archaeological Museum of Naxos or see ancient ruins like the Temple of Dionysus and Faragi Kouros.

Evening: Return to Naxos Town for sunset and dinner

As the day ends, go back to Naxos Town to watch the sunset. The area near the Temple of Apollo is a great place to see it. For dinner, pick a seaside taverna where you can enjoy fresh seafood and delicious Greek dishes while looking at the illuminated Temple of Apollo.

Naxos is a pleasant and relaxing island for a one-day trip. Spend the night on Naxos, and then return to Athens the next day.

Day 7: Naxos, Back to Athens

On the last day of your trip, return from Naxos to Athens, as the journey is almost over.

The ferry from Naxos to Athens takes about 4 to 5 hours.

In the evening, if you have some time, enjoy the sights of Athens. If you can, visit the city’s most famous landmark, the Acropolis.

Additionally, if you like, add 1-2 extra days to your itinerary and explore Athens more thoroughly.

This brings the 7-day Greece trip to an end. If you want to see more of the Greek islands, we recommend a few others that could be great additions to extend your journey.

Other Greek islands you can add to your itinerary

Crete

Crete is the largest Greek island and is known for its beautiful beaches, mountains, and ancient history. You can explore the Palace of Knossos, which is linked to the legend of the Minotaur. Crete also has charming villages, tasty food, and warm weather, making it a great place to relax and explore.

Crete is a large island, so it’s worth adding at least 3–4 days to your itinerary if you want to visit the entire island. The easiest way to reach Crete is by flying from Athens or taking a ferry from Santorini.

Milos

The island of Milos is a hidden gem in the Cyclades, famous for its unique landscapes and stunning beaches.

Start your day by exploring the picturesque fishing village of Klima, known for its colorful houses by the sea. Visit the ancient catacombs and the famous Venus de Milo statue’s discovery site. In the afternoon, relax on the famous Sarakiniko Beach, with its white rock formations and crystal-clear waters.

Milos is perfect for those looking to experience natural beauty and tranquility.

For Milos, if you want to add it to your itinerary, plan for 1–2 days, or more if you plan to spend a lot of time at the beach.

Ios

Ios is a vibrant island known for its lively nightlife and beautiful beaches.

You can explore Chora, the island’s main town, with its charming whitewashed houses and narrow streets. Visit the historic Panagia Gremiotissa Church for stunning views. Spend the afternoon at Mylopotas Beach, one of the best in Greece, where you can relax, swim, or try water sports. In the evening, enjoy the island’s famous nightlife, with bars and clubs that stay open late. Ios is a popular choice for younger travelers.

For Ios, we think 1-2 extra days are enough if you want to include it in your Greece itinerary.

This list is, of course, not complete, as Greece has around 6,000 islands and islets, with more than 200 being inhabited. So, there’s plenty to choose from when planning your island-hopping route in Greece.

In summary, a one-week trip to Greece offers the perfect blend of island exploration, cultural experiences, and stunning landscapes.

By following this itinerary, you can make the most of your time and discover the best of the Greek islands and what the Greek islands have to offer.

Whether you’re hopping between islands, relaxing on beautiful beaches, or exploring charming coastal villages, each day brings new adventures.

With travel tips on transportation, accommodation, and must-see spots, planning your trip is made easier. So pack your bags and get ready for a week of unforgettable experiences in this beautiful Mediterranean paradise!