Greece is a land of superlatives when it comes to the beauty of nature and architecture. From swimming in turquoise waters to walking among historic ruins, here’s what you should do during your 5 days in Greece.
With 6,000 islands, this country offers endless options, so it’s key to define your goals for this trip. You could easily spend 4 days in Santorini. But if you’re short on time, we recommend visiting one mainland city and two islands to get a better glimpse of the country.
To visit Greece in 5 days and have a cultural yet relaxing sunny holiday, we will visit the glorious city of Athens, the small cobbled alleys of Mykonos and the wonderful sunsets of the volcanic Santorini.
⭐ Here’s how you should spend your first 5 days in Greece. ⭐
First Time in Greece: Quick to-do list
- Select 2-3 destinations for your 5 days in Greece, as the country offers 6,000 islands and many cities to explore. For a first visit to Greece, we suggest visiting Athens and one or two famous islands.
- Define the best itinerary for you, or copy this one! We got you covered — no need to buy a 5 days Greece package.
- ✈️ Book your flights on Skyscanner.
- 🏨 The next step is to find the best hotel deals on Booking. Are you more into indoor or outdoor jacuzzis? Greece has it all.
- 🚘 Rent a car on Discover Cars, a global platform that compares local and international rental companies to find the best deals in any country.
- Have the time of your life in this welcoming mediterranean country!
Greece travel itinerary 5 days: the Ultimate Guide
First day in Greece: discover the history and magic of Athens
Greece is famous for its ancient history, stunning islands, and rich culture, with Athens being a great starting point. Here are the top things to do in Athens in one day.
🏛️ Visit the Acropolis
The Acropolis is Athens’ most iconic and historically significant site, built by Pericles in the 5th century BC. At the heart of the Acropolis stands the Parthenon, a stunning marble structure offering panoramic views of the city and sea. This architectural masterpiece is Greece’s most famous and visited landmark.
The single-use ticket to enter the Acropolis costs 10€ ($10 USD) and requires selecting a time slot. This ticket grants access to the entire Acropolis site, which is vast and includes much more than just the Parthenon.
✔️ If you’re staying in Athens for 2 to 5 days, you can buy the 5-day combined ticket for 30€ ($31 USD). It grants access to additional archaeological sites, including the Ancient Agora, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Roman Agora, Hadrian’s Library, Kerameikos, and Aristotle’s School.
🥗 Lunch time: where to eat in Athens?
After visiting the Acropolis, one of the most important sights of your 5 days in Greece itinerary, head to the Place Monastiraki to have lunch. Maiandros Restaurant is a good option for both local food and atmosphere. You’ll enjoy Mediterranean delights in a beautiful typical Greek restaurant.
Mount Lycabettus
After lunch, make sure to visit Mount Lycabettus, the tallest of Athens’ seven hills. It’s at 277 meters above sea level, about twice the height of the Acropolis. Enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the city, making it a perfect spot for sightseeing or a sunset picnic later in the evening.
Plaka and Psiri
Now, experience Athens on a more human scale by strolling through Plaka. This charming neighborhood features narrow alleys lined with quaint shops and plants. It’s the best antidote to the crowded streets under the heavy sun.
Plaka is home to family-run stores selling ceramics, handmade jewelry, and local delicacies. Nearby, the National Garden Athens offers a green retreat where locals relax. Just a short walk away, Psiri is the go-to spot for vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and restaurants.
Party at Six Dogs
To end the day on a cool note, head to Six Dogs, a trendy cultural bar featuring live music and art exhibitions. It’s located in a garden in between buildings, creating a great atmosphere where locals and tourists hang out.
Where to stay in Athens?
Acro Urban Suites offer full suites to guests with an incredible view on the Parthenon. In addition to its perfect location, this hotel is modern and well decorated. Perfect value for money!
➡️ Check availability and prices here
✔️ 9,5/10 based on these reviews
The Foundry Suites is literally our dream home 😍. This futuristic building is an architectural beauty, where greenery and graphics are the watchwords! The large industrial glass roofs and the incredible decoration give each of the unique studios an incredible charm.
➡️ Check availability and prices here
✔️ 9,4/10 based on these reviews
Second day in Greece: explore Mykonos
On the second day of this Greece itinerary for 5 days, wander through the charming, picturesque alleys of Mykonos, one of the most famous Cycladic islands.
You’ve probably seen Mykonos instagram spots all over social media—and they’re just as photogenic in real life! While these iconic spots are a must-see, be sure to explore the hidden gems in the quieter, less touristy parts of the island.
Athens to Mykonos
You can fly or take the ferry from Athens to Mykonos. The flight takes 45 minutes, but you have to add security checks and waiting time at the airport. A high-speed ferry from Athens to Mykonos takes around 2 hours. It’s more environmentally friendly and generally less expensive.
Explore Mykonos Town
Now that you’ve arrived in Mykonos and perhaps settled into your accommodation, make your way to Mykonos Town. Known as Chora to the locals, Mykonos’ old town is the epitome of a dreamy Cycladic village.
Its narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with charming whitewashed houses adorned with pink bougainvillea flowers. The island’s architecture blends pristine white with pops of color, featuring wooden doors, balconies, and windows that give the town its unique character.
There is a popular belief that the streets form a kind of labyrinth to confuse pirates. You’ll also find numerous cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops or high-end shopping.
🦤 Keep an eye out, and you might even spot Mykonos’ beloved mascot Petros the Pelican. This friendly, photogenic bird has a fascinating history, dating back to the 1950s when a fisherman discovered him injured. The rest, as they say, is history!
Windmills Mykonos
Perched on the Old Port and offering views of the sea and Little Venice, the Mykonos windmills have been a central part of the island’s history for centuries. Built by the Venetians in the 16th century, they were originally used to grind wheat, which was a major source of livelihood for the locals.
Although they ceased operation in the mid-20th century, the windmills remain an iconic symbol of Mykonos. There are 16 in total, many of which stand proudly on a hill, overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean and the charming houses of Little Venice below.
Little Venice Mykonos
Little Venice is a set of houses hanging over the water of the Mediterranean sea. It is a very picturesque spot as the waves crash against the walls of those houses and sometimes even reach the blue wooden balconies.
Even if the scene is a bit surreal, they are still standing and still! This place is beautiful at any time of day, but a special mention goes to the sunsets.
Yialo Yialo Restaurant Mykonos
After a long day in the charming streets of Mykonos, you deserve to dine in an atypical haven of peace. Yialo Yialo Restaurant Mykonos serves Greek and international dishes in the most charming location overlooking the sea. This intimate setting offers a wonderful atmosphere where guests can relax and eat delicious food.
Where to stay in Mykonos?
The Chill Out Studio is a collection of well-equipped studios just 400 meters from Little Venice, offering stunning sea views. The pool, surrounded by stones, is beautiful, and the friendly host makes you feel like you’re staying at a 5-star hotel—without the high price tag.
➡️ Check availability and prices here
✔️ 9,4/10 based on these reviews
Cavo Tagoo Mykonos is a luxurious cliffside hotel offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Worldly-famous for its incredible infinity pool, stylish design and exceptional service, this hotel was built to offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences to guests.
➡️ Check availability and prices here
✔️ 8,9/10 based on these reviews
Third day in Greece: wander in Mykonos
Halfway through your 5 days in Greece, you may be looking forward to relaxing and soaking up the Greek sun. That’s what’s on the agenda for this third day: walks, beach and party! In other words, a typical day on Mykonos.
Mykonos Churches
There are around 800 churches on the island of Mykonos, and 80 of them are in the town of Mykonos! Even if you’re not Christian or religious, the architecture of Greek churches is something else. These whitewashed sacred buildings are architectural marvels.
Among the most famous are Panagia Paraportiani and Agios Nikolaos. Both are located in Chora. If you’d like to explore the island of Mykonos outside the old town, you can visit the monastery of Panagia Tourliani in Ano Mera.
Super Paradise Beach
To unwind from your last busy days, enjoy an afternoon on the beach at the famous Super Paradise Beach. 5 days in Greece wouldn’t be complete without at least one lazy afternoon in the sun.
The Super Paradise Beach Club is a white-sand beach with warm crystal-clear waters. You can enjoy water sports such as flyboarding, parasailing or boat tours. However, this place is best known for its beach club.
Here, you can drink and dance the day away! What’s even funnier is that its name is a superlative of the competing range: Paradise Beach.
Mykonos nightlife
The sunset on the Greek islands never gets old – be on time to admire it from Mykonos town. Then, you must discover the party part of the island. From late June to September, DJ beach parties are held almost every night. Don’t forget to set an alarm clock so you don’t miss the ferry the next day!
💙 If you wish to spend more time on this fabulous Cycladic island, here is a complete itinerary for 3 days in Mykonos.
Fourth day in Greece: marvel at the volcanic Santorini
You can’t spend 5 days in Greece without visiting the romantic Santorini. Known as the possible site of the lost city of Atlantis, it is renowned for its stunning white houses on black lava cliffs and breathtaking sunsets.
Mykonos to Santorini Ferry
The best way to get from one Greek island to another is by high-speed boat. Companies like Sea Jets operate one crossing a day from Mykonos to Santorini. They usually leave at 10 a.m. for a two-hour trip, costing 80 USD (69€) per passenger.
Amoudi Bay
Amoudi Bay, a picturesque fishing village in Santorini, is the perfect starting point for your visit. The charming houses and tavernas sit on the edge of crystal-clear blue waters, with the red lava cliffs rising in the background.
From here, you can admire the village of Oia and its iconic windmills perched atop a cliff.
Fishermen bring in fresh fish and octopus daily, making the local restaurants an absolute must-stop. After enjoying a delicious meal, take a stroll past the village to find the swimming and jumping spot.
Oia
Now that you’ve relaxed and eaten fresh food in the village of Amoudi, you’re ready to face the crowds in the touristy but breathtaking village of Oia.
In addition to being a postcard-worthy village, it offers breathtaking ocean and caldera views from every alley.
Arrive at Oia Castle at least one hour before sunset to experience the best view of Santorini. Oia’s sunsets are world-renowned for their beauty.
Dinner in Oia
After this once-in-a-lifetime sunset, head to Lotza Restaurant for a well-deserved dinner. This cliffside restaurant offers a magnificent view of the ocean and typical dishes at a reasonable price. You can enjoy traditional Greek dishes for around $17 USD (14€).
Where to stay in Santorini?
As we’ve been to Santorini several times, we’ve tried different accommodations and two of them stood out. And when we say they stood out, we mean that these are in our top 5 of hotels we’ve tried in our entire lives.
The Langas Villas, located in Imerovigli, offers troglodyte suites with breathtaking views of the caldera. It boasts the highest swimming pool on the island, a jacuzzi carved into the orange rock, magnificent decor… The hosts are the friendliest we’ve had on any of our trips. And by far! I can’t recommend this place highly enough.
➡️ Check availability and prices here
✔️ 9,5/10 based on these reviews
The second-best hotel on Santorini is the Amber Light Villas. This complex offers incredibly luxurious and modern troglodyte suites that face the sea and allow you to enjoy a magnificent sunrise. It’s also located in Imerovigli, but you’ll have a view of the other side of the island.
➡️ Check availability and prices here
✔️ 9/10 based on these reviews
Fifth day in Greece: Santorini
Your 5 days in Greece will fly by, so we’ve planned unforgettable activities for your last day, including ancient history, charming villages, and unique beaches. Let’s make your final day the best one yet!
Santorini Breakfast
Locals don’t mess around with breakfast. While marketing has recently convinced the world that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, the people of Santorini have always believed it. Hospitality is in their veins, and the hotels here place great emphasis on their breakfast menu.
If you’re staying at Amber Light Villas or Langas Villas, get ready for the breakfast of a lifetime. You can have it all: bread, eggs, bacon, sausages, fruit, cheese, cake, yoghurt, cold cuts, coffee, tea, orange juice, champagne… The hosts usually bring it to you on your terrace.
🥐 As all the houses are lined up along the cliff, you can see everyone having breakfast, and it’s quite funny!
Fira
Fira is the island’s capital. Take a stroll through the narrow streets and admire the magnificent views 220 meters above the sea. You’ll come across the finest sea-view restaurants, art galleries and houses. There are churches of all kinds in Fira: Orthodox, Baroque… At the very least, you must visit the famous Three Bells of Fira!
🥙 For lunch, you can choose among the many seaside restaurants, such as Nektar Lounge.
They serve greek food with delicious local wine produced on the island.
Archaeological Site of Akrotiri
In Ancient Greece, Akrotiri was a renowned port on the Aegean Sea. Many merchant ships called here between the various countries of the Mediterranean. A lava eruption completely covered the site in the 17th century BC, greatly preserving the settlement.
Today, you can visit the Akrotiri excavation site, which remains an important part of Greek history. Suspended walkways allow you to visit the site without damaging it. Admission costs $14 USD (12€) per person.
Red Beach
If you only have a limited time of 5 days in Greece, the red beach is certainly the one not to be missed. A trip to Santorini wouldn’t be complete without a visit there!
There aren’t many places in the world where you can see a beach made of flaming red lava. The water is warm and crystal-clear compared to the red and brown lava.
There is also a white beach and a black beach in the area. On the white beach, you’ll find impressive white limestone boulders. The black beach is less frequented, as the other two are distinguished by their original colors.
Santorini Sunset
What better way to end your 5 days in Greece than with one last sunset in Santorini? Return to Oia or Fira in advance to secure a good seat in a bar, restaurant or at the Oia Castle. Imerovigli is the highest point on the island and offers incredible sunsets with views over the whole of crescent-shaped Santorini.
💙 If you wish to spend more time on this magical island, here’s how to fully visit Santorini in 4 days. This includes a visit to the famous volcano, caldera and hot springs that once probably were the lost city of Atlantis…
Greece Travel Tips
How to get to Greece?
Greece is not a landlocked country and can therefore be reached by boat, plane, train or car. The most common way to reach Greece is by plane. Athens airport is the largest in Greece, with many international flights a day.
The larger islands of Santorini and Mykonos also have airports. However, as they are not very far away, we recommend you take the Greek ferries to connect them.
How to get around in Greece?
🚙 Car rental in Greece
Renting a car in Greece is the easiest way to get around! You can do it on Mainland Greece but also on the islands. You won’t need it in Athens and the public transports work fine. In Mykonos, you can stay near the city center and walk around.
We recommend using Discover Cars, an excellent tool for comparing offers from both international and local car companies.
🚕 Uber in Greece
When planning their trip, a lot of travelers ask if there is Uber in Santorini, Mykonos or Athens… Uber only operates in Greece with its “Uber Taxi” service, which redirects customers to local cabs.
🚌 Buses in Greece
Buses are the best way to get around Greece’s major continental cities. Athens’ public transport system covers the whole city and its surroundings. It’s also affordable: a one-way ticket costs $1.58 USD (1.40 €) and is valid for an hour and a half.
You can also take the bus to tourist islands such as Mykonos. But you’ll need a bit more planning, as they’re not as frequent as in the capital!
⛵ Boats in Greece
Fast boats are the best way to travel from island to island. Various boat companies operate daily crossings between the various islands, as well as between the mainland and the islands.
How many days do you need to visit Greece?
Let’s face it. Greece is a huge country with thousands of islands, and you won’t be able to visit them all, even if you make it your home. So it all depends on your preferences and your pace of travel!
5 days in Greece is the ideal time to visit Athens and one or two islands. Two weeks would be perfect to add two more islands.
Is Greece expensive?
Continental Greece is much more affordable than the Greek islands. A budget traveler will spend around $80 USD (70€) per day for a double room, meals and activities in Athens. On an island like Santorini, the same traveler will spend around $140 USD (125€) for a double room, meals, activities and car rental.
Do I need a visa to go to Greece?
Greece is part of the Schengen Agreement, which allows Europeans to travel within Europe as if there were no borders. As a result, US citizens can enter Greece without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
If you are neither European nor American, we recommend that you check the conditions for entering Greece on your country’s national website.
Best time to visit Greece
You can visit Greece all year round, as the temperature never drops below 10°C. However, for warm weather and beaches, we recommend you visit Greece between May and October.
As the busiest months are July and August, the best time to visit Greece and avoid the crowds is May or September.
Do I need travel insurance Greece?
Travelers are not required to buy travel insurance when visiting Greece. However, we cannot stress enough the importance of covering medical expenses in the event of an accident abroad. If you plan to rent a scooter or quad bike, or go hiking, you should buy a travel insurance plan. Better safe than sorry, right?
Where to go in Greece?
Greece is a vast country with much to offer. For a first visit, Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini are must-sees, but other islands like Milos, Zakynthos, Crete, Corfu, Thessaloniki, and Kalamata are also worth exploring.
For history lovers, we recommend visiting the mainland cities of Thessaloniki for its Byzantine history and Kalamata for its ancient ruins.
For crystal-clear water and stunning views, the Greek islands won’t disappoint. Zakynthos and Corfu lie to the west, Milos to the east, and Crete, a large island, is in the south. Each of them is stunning in its own way.
5 days in Greece: Final Thoughts
Your 5 days in Greece will definitely create lifelong memories, from the rich history of Athens to the stunning sunsets in Santorini and the charming streets of Mykonos. Don’t forget to learn a few Greek words to make you trip easier, and get smiles from locals!
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