×Greece Travel Secrets
Athens, Santorini & Crete Itinerary
A trip by Sandy PapasGreece Travel SecretsAthens, Santorini & Crete Itinerary
Three of the most popular destinations in Greece for good reason. Crete is the largest of the Greek Islands and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean – bigger than many countries, and well worth more days than you think.
Santorini
Days 1–3 of 9 · 3 nightsA bucket-list destination for most people, and for good reason. Despite the cruise ships and the crowds, Santorini still exceeds expectations – and the views are the stuff of legends.
White Pearl Cavalieri Santorini Imerovigli
Restored wine canavas on the caldera rim in Imerovigli, turned into suites.
9.8 Alternative places to stay
SantoriniDay 1
Oia & the sunset
Oia
World’s most iconic sunset on this cliffside village of astounding beauty. Narrow alleys wind their way through whitewashed buildings adorned with blue-domed churches and vibrant bougainvillea, while the island’s caldera and the azure sea, stretching out as far as the eye can see, offer a dramatic backdrop to the scene. Visitors can explore the village's charming streets, lined with boutiques and cafes, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere. Oia was the first village in Greece to become a heritage site as its greatest part has been built below ground level partly hewn within the rock. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a riot of colors, making for an unforgettable experience that will stay with visitors long after they've left this magical place.
Imerovigli
Highest village on caldera rim, 'Balcony to the Aegean.' 300 meters elevation; Skaros Rock volcanic promontory with castle ruins; Theoskepasti Church hiking destination. Skaros Rock hike 45 minutes round-trip from Agios Georgios chapel; proper shoes required; sunset quiet space.
Ammoudi Bay
At the bottom of the scenic village of Oia, lies the charming, small port of Ammoudi. It is a beautiful, tiny cove with crystalline waters and fishing boats lying in the sea. Here there are no beaches, sand, sunbeds and umbrellas but you can have a distinctive experience by swimming from the dock. Nevertheless, it is preferable that you follow the path, past the taverns, that ends up in an awesome diving area with crystal clear waters.
Sunset
Under the red cliffs of Oia, in an idyllic cove that seems forgotten in time, Sunset tavern by Paraskevas serves some of the most tantalizing traditional dishes of Santorini. Right at the edge of Oia's old port, where the fishermen's caiques arrive early every morning with the day's catch is where you will indulge in the most famous lobster spaghetti (top secret recipe) of the Cyclades while gazing at the ever-reaching sea and the breath-taking sunset.Scrumptious appetizers, dishes that embody the true spirit of Santorini made with ingredients from its auspicious land and a wine list that features the finest local labels create a memorable gastronmic experience.
Lauda
Santorinian tradition meets international culinary trends in this award-winning restaurant in a spectacular setting atop the caldera. Cuisine with finesse, precision and impeccable technique. Very good service, impressive wine list. Among its best dishes, the Greek Gamberoni shrimp marinated in soy and cactus, the Scorpion Fish, scorpion biscuit, stonefish foam, and the Iberian pork with dauphinoise potatoes.
SantoriniDay 2
Red Beach & the Sigalas vineyards
Red Beach
A huge attraction of the island and arguably the most famous beach lies on the southernmost part of Santorini. It is located in Akrotiri village, 12 kilometers south west of Fira. Red Beach is without a doubt worth a visit considering that it is a rare sight, probably unique in the whole world, where red is the dominant color. It is enclosed by steep red hills that create a captivating, wild scenery. If you stand on the top you will set eyes on enormous volcanic rocks situated in the sea, small pebbles and sand of various colors, mainly red, all along the beach and appealing dark blue waters. To reach the beach you have to walk a couple of minutes on a downhill path or you can access it by boat from Akrotiri port, Kamari or Perissa. The beach is semi-organized with white sunbeds and umbrellas. There are no facilities (make sure you provide yourself with the necessary supplies from the two canteens you can find right before the beginning of the path) or water sports on this small beach but you can take pleasure in snorkeling as there are interesting rock formations and rich marine life.
Wine Tasting Tour
Volcanic soil, sea spray, and 3,500 years of winemaking – Santorini's vineyards produce whites unlike anywhere else. A half-day tour visits two or three estates, sampling Assyrtiko (crisp, mineral, electric), Nykteri (barrel-aged and honeyed), and Vinsanto (sun-dried grapes turned liquid amber). The vines grow pruned into low baskets – kouloura – to shield grapes from the Aegean wind. Santo Wines and Venetsanos have caldera-view terraces; Domaine Sigalas is the serious oenophile's pick. Most tours include local cheese and olive pairings. Book a sunset session if available – the caldera turns gold through a wine glass.
Domaine Sigalas
Named world's top 100 wineries three times since 1994.
Selene
A reference point for Santorini, iconic Selene has contributed significantly to the gastronomic upgrade of the island. In the center of the old town of Fira, in the narrow stone alleys, the old Catholic monastery that still operates today with twelve Catholic nuns, was renovated with respect and impeccable aesthetics, to host the historic restaurant of Santorini "Selini". Its exquisite courtyard with arched arches, pond and palm trees, exceptional art de la table and low lighting, subject the visitor to an exotic allure full of mystery. In this exceptional space with a special atmosphere, Michelin-starred Botrini creates an impressive modern Greek cuisine, with dishes that are original, harmonious, refined, different, with cutting-edge techniques. The very capable chef Vassilis Roussos perfectly executes the conception of Hector Botrini, with lightness and elegance. Among his best dishes, the marinated skaros with fig, strawberry and fennel, the ode to the Santorini tomato meatball, the bonito with tarama herring and katsouni, and the pitsouni with pumpkin and cherry. His vegetarian dishes are also very good. Excellent service, very good wine list.
SantoriniDay 3
Caldera cruise & Pyrgos
Santorini Caldera Cruise
A classic – Red Beach, White Beach, Hot Springs in Palia Kameni, Nea Kameni, swimming, snorkeling, volcanic bath (optional) and a greek meal with beer and wine included on this cruise on a modern catamaran yacht. Capture stunning panoramas of picturesque Santorini and its volcanic lagoon. Transfer from and to your hotel / vacation rental, as well as snorkeling equipment, also included. We will provide full details, and proceed to reservations if you wish, following your booking.
Pyrgos
Pyrgos is a big village, with many mediaeval houses and noteworthy churches offering an excellent view of the island
Kamari beach
Kamari Beach is one of the most popular and most visited beach resorts in Santorini. It is located in the seaside village of Kamari. The beach is composed of black volcanic sand and is 5 kilometers long, among the 3 longest beaches in Santorini, with deep crystalline waters and a series of trees. It is fully organized with hundreds of sunbeds and umbrellas, showers, a lifeguard on duty and numerous facilities.
Argo
Greek taverna elevated to art form, now in village with pool and cooking classes. Constantine chef blends traditional Greek and Mediterranean; Shrimp Saganaki, Santorini Fava with grilled octopus. New Kontochori location (5 min from capital); open 12 PM-11:45 PM; reserve for dinner; 50-70 euros per person.
Chania
Days 4–6 of 9 · 3 nightsChania is where most short Crete trips should start – Venetian harbour, the Old Town, the wild beaches west (Balos, Elafonisi, Kedrodasos, Falasarna), and the famous Samaria Gorge. Three days here is enough for a taste; you'll be planning the return trip before you leave.
Icarus Hotel Chania
A polished beachside stay in Kalamaki, a short drive from the old harbour.
9.3 Alternative places to stay
ChaniaDay 1
The Venetian harbour & the old town
Old Town
One of the best things to do in Chania is wander through the maze of narrow, pedestrian-only streets in the historic old town. An architectural style jumps out at you around every corner. Shops lining the streets and stairways sell souvenirs, and cute restaurants and cafés are tucked into shady patios. As you walk around, you'll come across four distinct areas, each with its own look and feel: Kastelli is hilly and quite old with very narrow, twisty walkways. If you come across a group of tourists, it's often too tight to pass. Topanas is just back from the old port and has narrow roadways. The Jewish District is easily identified by its wider streets. The Splantzia District has the greatest number of outdoor cafés and restaurants, mostly located around a huge plane tree in front of the Church of St. Nicolas.
Old Venetian Harbour
Dating from the 14th century, the old harbor is ringed by a promenade lined with seafood eateries and cafés; it buzzes with visitors in summer, and is totally enchanting by night. As you wander to the east of the old harbor, you'll pass by the small mosque, erected by the Ottoman Turks after they took Chania in 1645. Today it serves as a small art gallery. Beyond the mosque, stand the arsenals, where the Venetians repaired their galleys, and a yachting marina. This entire stretch of coast is protected by a breakwater, and on its tip stands a lighthouse-it was designed by an Egyptian architect in 1839 and is strangely reminiscent of a minaret. On the point across the water from the lighthouse stands the Maritime Museum and the Firkas Fortress.
Venizelos Tombs
Little known by foreign tourists the graves of Eleftherios Venizelos (one of the most important political figures in modern Greek history serving as prime minister from 1910 to 1920), located in a small park on a hill overlooking Chania are very much worth a visit, if only for the superb view that you get. The graves of Venizelos are located in a very historic location of Chania, next to the Venetian church of Prophet Elias at position Froudia with panoramic views to Chania. The temple was originally dedicated to the Prophet Elisha, while in the 16th century the nave of the Prophet Elijah was added.
Tamam
A Cretan kitchen inside a converted Ottoman hammam – the old town's most reliable table for over forty years. Tamam tucks into Zampeliou, one of the narrow lanes climbing from the harbour into the old town. The room is the original 19th-century bath, low domed ceilings and arched alcoves, candle-warm at night. The food is Cretan with Levantine and Anatolian threads pulled through – eggplant slow-cooked with yoghurt, lamb with cumin and pomegranate, fava with caramelised onions. The menu is long, the portions generous, the wine list well-priced. Vegetarians eat very well here. Reservations are smart in high season, and the back tables in the vaulted room are worth asking for. A short stagger from the Venetian harbour when dinner's done.
Sinagogi Bar
Sinagogi is an open-air bar not far from the Venetian port in the old city of Chania. It first opened in 1995 and has since been serving cool drinks and cocktails. Upon entering the bar, you can feel how unique it is. Sinagogi is built next to Chania’s old synagogue and has no roof inside, apart from a few trees and reeds. The scenery is truly majestic. You will love the mix and variety of cocktails here. And if you appreciate music, you are in for a treat too! The only caveat is that the bar often gets busy with tourists and locals alike. Yet, this proves how special Sinagogi is.
ChaniaDay 2
Balos lagoon & Elafonisi
Balos beach
Balos beach in Chania is the perfect combination of an exotic landscape and wild natural beauty. No wonder why it’s the most photographed beach in Crete! Mesmerizing emerald waters, fine white sand and rock formations create a scenery of unreal beauty. You’ll want to sit there for hours, taking in the scenery. The waters in Balos are warm and shallow, while in some parts of the beach the sand is pink, due to the broken shells covering parts of it. Located near Kissamos, Balos beach can be reached either by car from Chania, either by boat from Kasteli or by a three-hour hike from Kaliviani.
Elafonisi beach
The eternal rival of Balos competing for the prize "the best beach of Crete", Elafonisi is one of the most famous and upvoted beaches in Chania, which stands out for its exotic setting! Elafonisi is basically a sandy peninsula, with many beaches, both organized and unorganized. The eastern part of the beach is organized, thus more crowded, but there are also many quiet coves that reward the traveler with privacy and serenity. The sand in Elafonisi beach is fine and white (pinkish is some parts!), the water is turquoise and shallow, while the landscape is exotic and unbelievably beautiful. What else could one possibly ask for? Keep in mid that Elafonisi is a protected natural reserve, where many plants thrive and rare animal species find shelter.
Kedrodasos beach
Located 76 km south-west of Chania and 1 km away from another favorite Elafonissi beach. It is a secluded beach with white sand and juniper trees. It is ideal for campers and naturists. Kedrodasos is a very nice beach with white sand and some smooth and flat rocks in places. Fortunately, there are no facilities nearby, making this secluded beach (so you should bring a snack, water and an umbrella for the sun- if you are lucky, you will find shade under one of the juniper trees), one of the latest untouched paradises in Europe. That also means that you should keep it clean and not littered. The easiest way to find the beach is with a GPS. There is car parking at the end of the road, leave your car, go down the path, and you are there... in paradise. For those interested, the European path E4 crosses the beach (there are yellow and black signs on the way).
Ntounias
A mountain village tavern where Cretan food is cooked the slow way – wood fire, clay pots, raki at noon. Ntounias sits in Drakona, a hamlet in the foothills of the Lefka Ori, roughly half an hour south of Chania. The drive is half the experience: hairpins through olive groves, the air thinning into pine. The kitchen cooks what the season gives – goat with stamnagathi, lamb antikristo turning by the fire, beans slow-braised in a wood oven. Tables sit under plane trees and the carafes of raki keep arriving. Lunch is the move; late afternoons go drowsy. Cash is easier than card, and the road back to Chania has views you'll want to stop for.
ChaniaDay 3
Samaria Gorge & Seitan Limania
Samaria Gorge
Crete's mountains are cut by deep gorges, the longest of which is the 18-kilometer Samaria. It makes a challenging hike, which you can do independently or as part of an organized day trip from Chania. This is a one-way hike, so you need to consider transport back to your starting point before doing this hike. It can be complex, so a tour is your best option. Entrance to the gorge is at the village of Omalós, 42 kilometers south of Chania. The path is steep and uneven at first, descending through dense pinewoods. Deep inside the rocky gorge, the footpath winds around large boulders, and at its narrowest point, the "Iron Gates" (Sideroportes), the Samaria is only four meters wide. Look out for kri kri, wild goats unique to Crete. One of the great aspects of this hike is the fact that it is almost all down hill. The gorge opens out to the sea at the village of Ayía Rouméli, with a black-sand beach where you can swim at the end of your hike. From here, catch the ferry to Sfakia, then the bus back to Chania (75 kilometers).
Seitan Limania beach
Seitan Limania is one of the best-kept secrets of Chania! This beach is unlike anything you’ve seen before: strips of water enter the rocky land, creating beautiful coves with emerald waters. The scenery will absolutely steal your breath. This beach boasts an amazing wild natural landscape. It is surrounded by steep cliffs, it has fine white sand and mesmerizing turquoise waters. If you are a seeker for interesting natural landscapes, this beach will blow your mind. Keep in mind that Seitan Limania is not organized, so you have to bring your own umbrella and beach essentials.
Thalassino Ageri
Seafood eaten on the rocks of Chania's old tanneries district – the sea reaches the edge of your table. Thalassino Ageri sits in Tabakaria, the strip of 19th-century leather tanneries that line the sea just east of the old town. The dining room is open-air, the building shoulder-to-shoulder with the water; sunset turns the stone walls amber and the bay rose. The kitchen does seafood the Cretan way – whatever came in that morning, simply grilled or baked, dressed with lemon, oil, and not much else. Order the day's catch by weight, add a salad and an ouzo, take your time. Reservations are essential in summer; ask for a table on the edge. The walk in along the seawall is part of the experience.
To Monastiri Tou Karolou
One of Chania’s most surprising places, right opposite a beautiful old minaret, this place is set in the former patio of a gorgeous monastery. Sit by the old well or enjoy a glass of wine in the stunning bars around the central yard. The Monastery of Karolos has been turned into a modern gem. It plays trendy music, it can be loud and crowded, but it’s one of the places you can go for a fun night out in town.
Athens
Days 7–9 of 9 · 3 nightsAthens is one of the oldest cities in the world and home to some of the most iconic historical sites and monuments. Three days at the end of an island trip is the perfect tasting menu – Acropolis, Plaka, the markets, and the rooftop bars.
Noble Suites
A 1901 neoclassical house under the Acropolis – four suites of marble and old wood.
9.7 Alternative places to stay
AthensDay 1
The Acropolis & Plaka
The Ultimate Food Tour
Acropolis
The Acropolis is the symbol of Athens, the sacred rock, linking the fabulous ancient civilisation with the modern city. The monuments on the Sacred Rock date back to the prehistoric era and antiquity. The grandeur and beauty of the Sacred Rock attract Greek and foreign visitors. A visit to the Acropolis is a unique experience.
Acropolis Museum
It is one of the most important contemporary works of architecture in Athens. Its construction, designed by architects B. Tschumi and Mih. Fotiadis was completed in 2007. Standing only 300m away from the Acropolis, its total area covers 21,000 sq.m, while it offers a display area of 14,000 sq.m. It is made of steel, glass and concrete; it uses natural light efficiently so that its 4,000 exhibits would show off. The last level (The Parthenon room) has the dimensions and the direction of the Parthenon and it has been rotated by 23 degrees in relation to the rest of the building so that the visitor would have an immediate view of the monument. The surrounding area, visible from the glass floor of the ground level, functions as an openair museum-excavation. The main entrance is on Dionyssiou Areopagitou Street. In addition, the imposing Weiller building stands in the vicinity. Having been built by German architect W. Von Weiller, it combines Byzantine style masonry and neoclassical decorative patterns. Initially it was used as a military hospital and later as police unit headquarters, whereas since 1987 it houses the Acropolis Research Centre
Plaka
Plaka, also known as the "neighbourhood of the gods," is the oldest neighbourhood of Athens. Walking on its paved narrow streets you get the feeling that you are travelling back in time. The origin of the name of the neighbourhood is unknown, although theories abound. According to popular belief, Plaka was named after a slab of stone that was found near the church of Ayios Georgios Alexandrias, in the vicinity of the theatre of Dionysos. The beautiful neoclassical style colour of the houses, the architecture, the well-kept gardens, and the beauty and atmosphere of the neighbourhood are enchanting. In Plaka the air you breathe is different; it is lighter, cleaner, and fragrant, like a gift of the gods. When you visit Plaka you should bring a map, because you might get lost in the labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys. In Adrianou Street, the central street of the neighbourhood, as in other streets in the area, you will find shops selling traditional products, souvenirs, Greek folk art and handicrafts, etc.
Anafiotika
On the foothills of the Acropolis, has the charm of a beautiful island village. It was built in the mid 19th century by the renowned builders of the Aegean island of Anafi, who were invited to construct the palace of the first king of the Hellenes, Otto. Feeling nostalgic for their birthplace in their long stay in Athens they recreated it in the upper area of Plaka. They built small, whitewashed houses, reproducing the architectural style of their village. We recommend that you visit Anafiotika, the neighbourhood of the Anafiotes
Lithos Taverna
Tucked into a Psirri side street, Lithos does my favourite Moussaka in Athens – layered the way your grandmother would approve, sitting in front of you within minutes of ordering. The room is stone-walled and unfussy, the wine comes in carafes, and the kitchen turns out the Greek classics with just enough finesse to make the regulars regulars.
AthensDay 2
Syntagma & Monastiraki
Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square is Athens' central square. The name of the square is derived from an uprising on 3 September 1843, of the people and the guard of Athens before the then Royal Palace building, (what is now the Parliament), demanding that King Otto grant a Constitution (Syntagma means Constitution). Syntagma Square and Omonia Square are the two central locations of the city. You should not be surprised when you ask directions if people refer to Syntagma square. Plaka, Acropolis, the Cathedral, the National Garden, Ermou Str, and Kolonaki, are located in the vicinity of Syntagma Square. You will find fashionable cafes and small restaurants located here. The square is busy around the clock. At the kiosks you will find miscellaneous items, ranging from aspirin to souvenirs, newspapers and foreign magazines.
Greek Parliament
Dominating Syntagma Square, the building was the residence of the first king of Greece Otto. The building was constructed from 1836 to 1842. George A', who succeeded Otto on the throne, also resided in the palace. During his reign, two successive fires destroyed the building, making it unsuitable for use as a royal residence. In 1924 the government decided to situate Parliament in the building. Reconstruction work was completed in 1934. The interior was redesigned by architect A. Kriezis. In Parliament you will find national treasures, such as the first Greek Constitution, a collection of valuable paintings and a large library.
National Garden
The National Garden, open from dawn to sunset, is an oasis in the centre of the city. It has a total area of 160,000 m2. Some five hundred different kinds of plants, bushes and trees from various locations around the world are grown here (in total, it has 7,000 trees and 40,000 bushes). At the same time, it comprises an important natural life reserve in Athens as many different species of birds, hedgehogs, turtles, ducks and even bats are gathered here. The National Garden – which was formerly the palace garden - was laid out from 1838-1860. There are six entrances: at Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, Irodou Attikou Str, Vasilissis Amalias Avenue, and two entrances connecting the National Garden to the Zappeion. You will also find here a small pond, a small zoo, the Botanical Museum, a traditional café, a children's library, a playground, various monuments of antiquity, and the busts of important personalities of modern Greece (among others, politicians and authors).
Monastiraki
A distinctive old Athens area, with narrow, irregularly criss-crossing streets, and small buildings, characteristic of Ottoman and to some extent Byzantine urban planning. On the outdoor stands of street sellers, or the small shops on the central roads you can find anything, such as shoes, clothes, old and new furniture, old books and magazines, souvenirs, jewellery, hats, bronze objects, new and used records and CDs and traditional Greek instruments (bouzouki, touberleki). Shopping or walking in Monastiraki is an unforgettable experience. You will be stunned by the variety and quality of things you can buy in the market
Taverna Ermou
A modern Greek taverna by Ergon House on the Ermou pedestrian street – the lively spine running between Syntagma and Monastiraki. Updated takes on the classics, an excellent Greek wine list, and a buzzy interior in the heart of the city. A reliable lunch or early dinner stop in the heart of Athens.
AthensDay 3
The Archaeological Museum & Psirri
National Archaeological Museum
The completely renovated National Archaeological Museum ranks among the leading archaeological museums in the world. You will be impressed by the treasures of the museum and will want to come back for another visit. However, if you come just once, be sure to have enough time. The museum contains approximately 11,000 masterpieces dating from the 7th millennium B.C to the 5th century B.C which are classified in 7 collections: Prehistoric (Neolithic, Cycladic and Mycenaean antiquities, rooms 3-6 and 48 on the 1st floor), Sculptures (rooms 7-35), Bronze (rooms 36- 39), Egyptian Antiquities (rooms 40-41, of world-wide importance), Stathatou (room 42 with 970 works of art mainly miniatures), Vases and Miniatures (rooms 49-63 1st floor) and Cypriot (room 64 1st floor). In addition to the permanent exhibits, the Museum also holds temporary exhibitions and educational programs.
Central Municipal Athens Market
Varvakeios Municipal (Central) Market is a rectangular building (1886) with a large covered court. There are a total of 73 food stalls (meat market, fish market, vegetable market and groceries) in the interior and exterior sections. The market is covered with a glass and metal roof and has symmetrical windows. You will find here small restaurants (eating-houses) with fresh food, attracting Athenians especially after midnight. There is a small grove on the square (Varvakeios Square) across the street.
Psirri
A colourful neoclassical Athens neighbourhood, encompassed by Athinas Str, Ermou Str, and Evripidou Str. It is a busy neighbourhood, especially in the night. You will find on its narrow alleys a multitude of cafes, small bars, clubs, restaurants, ouzorestaurants, and taverns with live Greek music, theatres, galleries, art galleries, and antique shops. Following the liberation of Greece (1833), veteran freedom fighters and immigrants from the provinces settled in the neighbourhood. They opened cottage industries and workshops, which have given the neighbourhood a distinctive character. In the early 1990s, following a series of construction works, the neighbourhood became a popular nightlife and residential area. The churches in the area are also quite interesting, such as Ayioi Anargyroi, Ayios Demetrios, Ayios Gregorios (Armenian), et al. Iroon square, the central square, is a good place for you to start your walk.
Hoocut
This is not the typical souvlaki; Hoocut prepares and serves the quintessential greek street food, the souvlaki, but in a lustrous make up and in an aesthetically appealing space. Hoocut features a Bakery, Butchery, Grocery and Special meat cutting techniques inviting the visitor to live the experience of the cooking process.
Couleur Locale
Hidden in the back streets not far from Monastiraki Square, you will find what is a very discreet entrance via a small arcade of antiques and bric-a brac shops. Using the elevator towards the 3rd floor, a large magical rooftop terrace appears, illuminated in blue and packed with a fashionable crowd, gathered over small candlelit tables. Couleur Locale's renowned cocktails together with the imposing hill of the Acropolis justify why this place is so popular among locals.