Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini are often combined into a single trip, especially for first-time visits to Greece.
This route brings together a major city, two very different islands, and a mix of history, beaches, and seasonal travel patterns. The experience can vary significantly depending on timing, transport choices, and how days are structured.
This itinerary can work well if you understand what each stop offers and plan around distances, weather, and travel days.
With realistic expectations, it allows time for sightseeing, swimming, and downtime, while also requiring some planning around heat, ferry schedules, and peak season crowds.
This guide covers what to expect when planning a 10-day trip to Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini, including transport options, timing considerations, the route, and which parts of the trip tend to feel more relaxed or more demanding.
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How to Use This Guide
Use the Contents table below to jump to any section. Click a heading in the guide to return to the top and continue exploring.
Day 1: Arriving in Athens & First Walk Around the City
Your first day in Athens should feel easy, especially after a long flight. If you’re jet-lagged, check in, shower, rest a bit, and go out later.
Where to Stay (So You Can Walk Everywhere)
Pick a central base:
- Plaka (prettiest, close to Acropolis, classic first-timer area)
- Monastiraki (lively, super walkable)
- Koukaki (quieter, local feel, close to Acropolis)
- Syntagma (best transport connections)
You don’t need a car in Athens.
Airport to Center (Metro Option)
If you’re staying centrally, you can take the Athens Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) from the airport to Syntagma or Monastiraki (ticket €9, with return €16) or the Bus (€5.5). There are the easiest options if you don’t want a taxi.
Metro is clean, modern, fast, and safe, but you need to be very careful of the petty thieves.
Easy First Walk: Plaka + Monastiraki
Start in Plaka, wander toward Monastiraki, and keep it simple. You’ll get your first Acropolis views from street level without any effort.
How to Get to the Acropolis (From Central Athens)
If you have energy, you can visit the Acropolis today (General Ticket: €30). You need to have your ticket booked in advance if you travel in peak season.
In this post, you can read everything you need to know before you visit the Acropolis.
- Walking option (best if you’re staying central):
From Plaka/Monastiraki/Koukaki, you can walk to the entrance in about 10–20 minutes (roughly 1–2 km / 0.6–1.2 mi, depending on your hotel). - Metro option:
Take the metro to Acropolis station (Line 2 / Red Line) and walk up from there.
If you feel tired, don’t go up today. Seeing it from below still feels amazing on Day 1.
Summer Tip (Don’t Ignore This)
In summer, Athens often hits 35–40°C / 95–104°F. Don’t climb midday. Go late afternoon or save it for tomorrow morning.
Evening
Have dinner in Plaka/Monastiraki if you love vibrant tourist areas, or go to Petralona for a real Greek tavern experience.
Overnight in Athens. Attalos Hotel near Monastiraki is a popular mid-range choice, but if you are looking for real luxury, Gatsby Athens is the one I love the most.
Day 2: Athens Riviera & Cape Sounion (South of Athens)
Day 2 is an easy escape from the city and one of the best day trips from Athens. A scenic drive by the Athens Riviera to the Temple of Poseidon in Sounion.
Do You Need a Car?
Yes. This day works best with a rental car. Public transport exists, but it’s slow and restrictive.
Route, Distance & Timing
Athens → Lake Vouliagmeni → Cape Sounion → Athens
- Total distance: about 130 km / 81 mi round trip
- Total time: about 5–6 hours, including stops
You’ll drive south of Athens, following the Athens Riviera. The road is coastal, paved, and very easy to drive.
Stop 1: Lake Vouliagmeni
Stop at Lake Vouliagmeni for a break. The lake is a natural thermal lake with year-round warm water, surrounded by cliffs, and it’s one of the most relaxing stops on the Athens Riviera
- Entrance ticket:
- Weekdays: €16 (about $17)
- Weekends: €19 (about $21)
- Swimming is optional. Even a short walk or coffee stop is worth it.
Stop 2: Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon
Continue south to Cape Sounion, passing dozens of beaches and seaside towns along the Athens Riviera.
Walk around the Temple of Poseidon and enjoy the views over the Aegean, especially the beautiful sunset.
- Entrance ticket: €20 (about $22)
- Bring water and sun protection.
Summer Temperatures
In summer, expect 33–40°C / 91–104°F, sometimes even hotter in July–August. There’s very little shade.
Lunch by the Sea
After Sounion, stop at a seaside taverna nearby. Simple Greek food and sea views — nothing fancy needed. Then drive back to Athens in the afternoon.
Private Tour
If you prefer not to rent a car, I recommend booking a private Cape Sounion tour so you can relax and enjoy the drive.
Evening Option: Ancient Agora (Back in Athens)
If you’re not too tired, you can stop at the Ancient Agora of Athens in the evening.
- It’s centrally located, near Monastiraki
- Entrance ticket: €20 (about $22)
- Last entry around 7:30 pm
- Plan about 1 hour to explore
- Very easy to combine with dinner afterward
Then keep the evening relaxed.
Overnight in Athens
Day 3: Athens to Mykonos
Today, you leave the mainland and head to Mykonos. It’s a straightforward travel day if you plan it right.
Ferry vs Flight (What to Choose)
Ferry (most common option)
- Departs from Piraeus Port (southwest of Athens)
- Travel time: 2.5–5 hours, depending on ferry type
- Best if you like sea views and don’t mind a longer ride
Flight (fastest option)
- From Athens International Airport
- Flight time: about 40 minutes
- Best if you want to save time or avoid ferries
Both options work well. Choose based on your schedule, not stress.
How to Get There from Central Athens
- To Piraeus Port:
Take the Metro Line 1 (Green Line) from Monastiraki or Omonia or Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) from Syntagma or Monastiraki to Piraeus (about 30 minutes). - To the Airport:
Take Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) from Syntagma or Monastiraki (about 40 minutes).
Leave early and give yourself buffer time. Greek ports get busy.
Arrival in Mykonos
You’ll arrive either at the new port or the airport.
- Transfer to your hotel (taxi or pre-arranged transfer)
- Check in and slow down
Distances on Mykonos are short:
- Port to Mykonos Town: about 3 km / 2 mi
Easy Afternoon Plan
In the late afternoon, head into Mykonos Town:
- Walk the white alleys
- Stop by the windmills
- Have a drink in Little Venice at sunset
Keep dinner simple tonight. Tomorrow is your first full island day.
Overnight in Mykonos. Ortygia Suites and Numi Suites are solid picks if you want a stress-free base near Mykonos Town.
Day 4: Delos Archaeological Site + Mykonos Beaches
Today combines history in the morning and beach time in the afternoon, without rushing.
Morning: Delos Island
Take a morning boat from Mykonos to Delos.
The island was one of the most important places in the ancient Greek world. It was a sacred island dedicated to Apollo and Artemis, later used as the treasury of the Athenian League, and eventually became a major trading port.
- Boat time: about 30 minutes
- Time needed: A 3 to 4-hour visit is sufficient to see major ruins like the Avenue of the Lions, the theater district, and the museum.
- Flat terrain, but no shade
Delos Boat Tickets
- Adults (13+): €25 / ~$27
- Children (6–12): €12 / ~$13
- Under 5: Free
Boats from Mykonos Old Port
- Mon: Depart 10:00 & 5:00 | Return 1:30 & 8:00
- Tue–Sun: Depart 10:00, 11:30 & 5:00 | Return 1:30, 3:00 & 8:00
Summer Tip
In summer, expect 33–40°C / 91–104°F.
Go early, wear a hat, and bring water.
Afternoon: Beaches (South Coast)
After returning to Mykonos, head to the south coast beaches, which are more protected from the wind, but they are also super popular.
Good options:
- Paradise Beach
- Psarou Beach
- Super Paradise Beach
Most beaches are 5–8 km / 3–5 mi from Mykonos Town. You can get there by bus, scooter, or rental car.
Evening
Head back to Mykonos Town for dinner/ nightlife or keep it low-key near your hotel.
Overnight in Mykonos.
Day 5: Alternative Mykonos Beaches or Food Experience
Use this day to see a different side of Mykonos or slow things down with food.
Option 1: Explore Different Beaches
If you want beaches beyond the usual party spots, these are solid choices:
- Paraga Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches on the island, with clear water, soft sand, and beach bars right on the shore. It does get very crowded in summer.
- Psarou Beach
Known for its light blue water and sheltered bay. Great for snorkeling and scuba diving. Expect crowds and higher prices. - Elia Beach
The longest beach on Mykonos and generally less crowded. Popular with surfers and nudists, and in summer it often hosts DJ sets and beach parties. Easy to reach by local bus.
Distances:
All three beaches are about 6–10 km / 4–6 mi from Mykonos Town.
Option 2: Mykonos Food Tour
If you’ve had enough sun, this is a great alternative.
Join a food and wine tour in Mykonos Town and focus on:
- Local cheeses and pies
- Appetizers and wine
- Small family-run spots you’d probably miss on your own
This works especially well in summer when the heat is intense.
Evening
Keep the evening easy. Dinner in town or near your hotel is more than enough before tomorrow’s ferry.
Overnight in Mykonos
Tip: The best time to visit Mykonos to avoid cruise ship crowds is in May and September.
Day 6: Mykonos to Santorini
Today is a travel day, so plan it smart and keep expectations flexible.
Ferry Basics
You’ll take a ferry from Mykonos New Port to Santorini Port.
- Travel time: about 2–3 hours
- Fast ferries are common, but delays do happen, especially in summer
When to Arrive at the Port
- Arrive at the port at least 45–60 minutes early
- Boarding can feel chaotic — this is normal
Important Transport Tip in Mykonos
If you’re staying far from the port:
- Pre-book a taxi or hotel transfer
- Don’t rely on finding a taxi at the last minute; Mykonos taxis are very limited
Prepare for Delays
- Summer winds can delay ferries
- Bring water, snacks, and patience
- Avoid planning anything important on arrival day
Arrival in Santorini
You’ll arrive at Athinios Port, which sits below the caldera.
- The road up is steep and busy
- Always pre-arrange a transfer with your hotel or a driver
- Public buses exist, but get crowded with luggage
- Please DO NOT ride the poor donkeys.
Once you check in, keep the rest of the day light. A sunset walk or relaxed dinner is enough.
Overnight in Santorini.
Day 7: Santorini Volcano & Hot Springs
This is a classic Santorini experience and an easy half-day plan.
Where the Tour Starts
Boats leave from Santorini Old Port (Gialos).
To get there:
- Take the Santorini Cable Car (best option)
- Or walk down (steep and tiring)
- Skip donkey rides
Stop 1: Volcano (Nea Kameni)
The boat takes you to Nea Kameni.
- Time on site: about 1–1.5 hours
- Entrance fee: €5 (about $6)
- Wear sneakers — the ground is rocky and dusty
- Little shade, bring water
Stop 2: Hot Springs
Next stop is Palea Kameni.
- Water temperature: 30–35°C / 86–95°F
- You swim to shore from the boat
- Don’t wear light-colored swimsuits — the water can stain
Summer Tip
In summer, expect 33–40°C / 91–104°F. This tour feels much hotter midday, so bring sun protection.
After the Tour
You’ll return to the Old Port by early afternoon, leaving you time to explore Fira or Oia and watch the famous sunset before a relaxed dinner with caldera views.
Where to Stay in Santorini
In Santorini, I’d go with Danae Villa if you’re on a budget, Aegean Melody Suites for a comfortable mid-range stay, and Canaves Oia Sunday Suites if you want to splurge a bit.
Day 8: Santorini by Area (Oia, Caldera Walk & Beaches)
Today is about seeing different sides of Santorini, but as it is your last full day, you may have to squeeze as much as possible. Here are some of the best things to do in Santorini:
Morning: Oia (North)
Start early in Oia.
- Go before 10:00 am to avoid crowds
- Walk around, enjoy the views, then move on
Late Morning: Caldera Walk (West)
Head to Fira and walk toward Firostefani.
- Distance: about 2 km / 1.2 mi
- Time: 25–30 minutes
Afternoon: Beaches or Akrotiri (Choose One)
Option 1: Beaches (East/South Coast)
Cool off at:
- Perissa Beach
- Kamari Beach
Best for swimming, especially in summer.
Option 2: Akrotiri Archaeological Site (Interior)
Visit Akrotiri, often called the “Pompeii of the Aegean.”
- Entrance ticket: €20 (about $22)
- Shaded walkways make it easier in the heat
- Plan about 1–1.5 hours
Summer Tip
In summer, expect 33–40°C / 91–104°F. Sightsee early, swim later.
Evening
Head back for a relaxed sunset and dinner with caldera views.
Day 9: Santorini to Athens
Today you head back to Athens for your final night.
Flight or Ferry Back to Athens
Both options work — choose based on timing and comfort.
- Flight: about 45 minutes (fastest and easiest)
- Ferry: about 5–6 hours, depending on the route
If you want a relaxed last day, flying makes much more sense.
Arrival in Athens
Once you arrive in Athens, transfer to your hotel.
Good areas for the last night:
- Plaka
- Koukaki
- Syntagma
- Near the airport, if you have an early flight
How to Spend the Evening
Keep it simple:
- Last-minute shopping
- One final Greek dinner
- Short walk around the historic center
No heavy sightseeing today — tomorrow is a travel day.
Overnight in Athens (or near the airport): Here is a list of the 10 best hotels near the Athens Airport.
Day 10: Departure Day
Today is all about getting to the airport without stress.
Getting to the Airport
- Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) connects central Athens to the airport in about 40 minutes
- Taxis and private transfers also work well, especially for early flights
Plan to leave your hotel at least 3 hours before your flight. Athens traffic can be unpredictable.
Final Tip
If your flight is very early, staying near the airport the night before makes this day much easier.
Safe travels and enjoy your trip home!
Additional Days & More Island Hopping
If you want more party vibes, check out Ios, or go for Paros and Antiparos. for a mix of beaches and nightlife.
For something calmer, Sifnos is perfect for traditional villages and great food.
If you have more time, Crete is a whole different experience, with ancient sites, epic hikes, and local culture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the best time to visit Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens?
The best time to visit Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens is from mid-April to October. July, August, and mid-September is considered high season.
During the shoulder months of May and October, you’ll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better deals on accommodations and activities.
Is it safe to visit Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini?
Yes. All three are safe and well-organized destinations. Just use common sense, especially in crowded areas like public transport and busy tourist spots, and keep an eye on your belongings.
Can you visit Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini in one trip?
Yes, and it’s one of the easiest island combinations in Greece. You can move between them by ferry or short flights, and Athens connects well with both islands.
What food should you try in each place?
Santorini: fresh seafood, fava, and cherry tomatoes
Mykonos: Greek meze like fava, tzatziki, saganaki, and local cheeses
Athens: souvlaki, moussaka, spanakopita, and street food around the historic center
Is Mykonos only a party island?
No. Mykonos has a party scene, but you can also enjoy great beaches, good food, and quiet mornings if you plan your days right.
Are there quieter or less touristy spots to visit?
Yes.
Santorini: Pyrgos and Megalochori
Mykonos: Agios Sostis and Fokos Beach
Athens: Anafiotika, right under the Acropolis
Is this itinerary family-friendly?
Yes. While Mykonos has nightlife, Santorini and Athens offer plenty of relaxed, family-friendly activities, from easy sightseeing to beach time.
Final Thoughts
Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini are a great combo for a first trip to Greece if you want history, islands, beaches, and amazing views — without rushing from place to place. The key is pacing your days and keeping some flexibility, especially in summer.
If you want to dive deeper into Athens and really understand the city beyond the highlights, I’ve put together an Athens travel guide ebook with local tips, walking routes, food spots, and practical advice to help you make the most of your time there.
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Essential Travel Info for Greece
- ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Greek: “Ya sou” and “Efharisto”
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- All-Inclusive Resorts in Greece
- Rent an Affordable Car in Greece
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- Get Your Guide: For all your day or multi-day tours and city guide needs, I use Get Your Guide
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