Greece is a country that has it all!
Ancient ruins, sun-soaked islands, and views that feel like they belong on a postcard. On my trip, I combined the best
of all worlds: the cultural richness of Athens, the romantic beauty of Santorini,
and the authentic charm of Naxos. In just over a week, I discovered how each
destination has its own personality and together they create the perfect
Greek adventure.
Whether you’re planning a 7–10 day Greece itinerary or simply dreaming about
island-hopping, this trip shows how to balance history, relaxation, and
breathtaking landscapes.
Quick Snapshots of My Greece Trip
Length of Stay: 9 days (Athens 3, Santorini 3, Naxos 3). Route: Athens → Santorini → Naxos → Athens.
Highlights: The Acropolis, rooftop dinners in Athens, Santorini sunsets, volcanic
beaches, buggy adventures in Naxos, Koufonisi lunch stop.
Best Time to Visit: May–October.
Getting Around Greece. Transportation Tips
Greece makes island-hopping simple with a combination of ferries and flights.
On this trip, I used both:
Athens (Piraeus) → Santorini: We traveled with SeaJets, one of the fastest
ferry companies. The trip took about 4.5–5 hours, with stunning views of the
Aegean along the way.
Santorini → Naxos: A short ferry ride of about 2 hours, also with SeaJets —
smooth and efficient, perfect for hopping between Cycladic islands.
Naxos → Athens: For our return, we flew from Naxos back to Athens. The flight
was quick (about 40 minutes) and a great time-saver compared to the 5+ hour
ferry.
Helpful booking links:
- SeaJets
- FerryHopper
- Aegean Airlines
- Sky Express
Tip: If you’re short on time, flying back to Athens is the best option. For the full
Greek island experience, ferries are scenic and enjoyable.
Stop 1: Athens — Where Modern Meets History
Athens was the perfect introduction to Greece. From the grandeur of the
Acropolis to vibrant neighborhoods full of cafés and street art, the city is a mix
of old and new. I spent three days exploring historic sites, enjoying traditional
Greek food, and watching sunsets from rooftop bars with views of the
Parthenon.
Stop 2: Santorini — Where Sunsets Paint the Sky
Next came Santorini, the island of dreams. With cliffside villas, blue-domed
churches, and volcanic beaches, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most
famous islands in the world. We split our time between relaxing at our villa,
visiting the dramatic Red Beach, and savoring long seaside lunches. And of
course — every evening ended with an unforgettable sunset.
Stop 3: Naxos — The Island of Hidden Gems
Finally, I visited Naxos, a more authentic and laid-back island. Here, we rented
a buggy to explore remote beaches, wandered through charming villages, and
even took a ferry to Koufonisi for a memorable seaside lunch. Naxos offered a
glimpse of everyday island life — less polished than Santorini, but just as
beautiful in its own way.
Final Thoughts
What makes Greece so special is its diversity. Athens brings history to life,
Santorini offers romance and iconic views, and Naxos reveals the authentic
soul of the islands. Together, they created a journey that felt balanced, exciting,
and unforgettable.
If you’re planning your first trip to Greece, I highly recommend combining at
least one city and two islands. That way, you’ll experience the full spectrum of
what Greece has to offer — from ancient temples to island sunsets.
Note; these recommendations are based on my personal experiences during my trip. Prices,
opening hours and conditions may change, so always check official websites or local sources
before your visit. Don’t forget to stay aware of safety guidelines. Local regulations, and seasonal
weather when planning your trip.
Connect with me on Instagram @vistabyilse I’d love to hear about your Greece experience!