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Athens, Santorini & Mykonos Itinerary
A trip by Sandy PapasGreece Travel SecretsAthens, Santorini & Mykonos Itinerary
Athens, Santorini and Mykonos are the most popular destinations in Greece for good reason. Nine nights gives you a real taste of each – and you finish in Athens so a flight delay doesn't threaten your trip home.
Santorini
Days 1–3 of 9 · 3 nightsDespite the cruise ships and the crowds, Santorini remains one of those places that not only meets your expectations but probably exceeds them. The views truly 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.
Mykonos
Days 4–6 of 9 · 3 nightsMykonos is a very summer-focused destination – outside those months many things are closed. Three days lets you do both the famous beach clubs and the Town stroll, with Delos in between for a quieter day.
Sugar Blue Mykonos
Three quiet Cycladic apartments above Agia Sofia, five minutes from Mykonos Town.
9.8 Alternative places to stay
MykonosDay 1
Little Venice & the windmills
Little Venice
An 18th century district, dominated by grand captains' mansions with colourful balconies and stylish windows. With balconies perched over the sea, pictures of the famous Italian city spring to mind. Relax at a waterfront café and admire the view of the quaint windmills standing imposingly on the hillside above, set against a luminous blue backdrop
Windmills
South of Chora, between Alefkandra and the district of Niochori, seven mills overlooking the sea dominate the surrounding landscape. There used to be ten of them in the past. They were used to grind cereals until the early 20th century taking advantage of the north winds that blow over the island
Mykonos Town
This is one of the most beautiful towns in Cyclades, one that has maintained its beautiful, unaffected and austere Aegean style intact. Narrow cobblestone-laid streets, small freshly whitewashed houses with blue windows and small wooden balconies, pots filled with multicoloured and fragrant flowers, churches, museums and streets lined with shops with a bustling trade create a remarkable picture. In the summertime the narrow streets are full of people walking about and visiting the luxurious shops and boutiques or having fun in the famous clubs and restaurants. The harbour is equally picturesque and among the multicoloured fishing boats you get a glimpse of Petros, the famous pelican and the mascot of the island.
Kiki's Tavern
Kiki's Tavern is a traditional restaurant on a small hill hidden behind Agios Sostis church, in front of a tiny yet beautiful beach. During high season, you might come across a queue of people patiently waiting to sit and enjoy the excellent food served (no reservations policy). Here you will find fresh seafood and vegetables from Mykonos land, delicious recipes that remind of childhood summer flavors and incredible smells coming out from the kitchen and the charcoal BBQ outside. A few tables on the shaded terrace overlooking the sea from above and tree branches hanging around, declaring the marvelous location in nature. The extra friendly, smiley staff is ready to suggest you the best of Kiki's Tavern and the high quality of the products, as well as the all in all, value for money experience will pay you off for the long hour waiting to catch your table. A hidden gem for your list!
Caprice of Mykonos
The jet-setters choice haunt from dusk until dawn is the Caprice Bar in the Little Venice district of Mykonos. Caprice Mykonos Bar is perched on the seafront of Little Venice with a stunning view of the Aegean Sunset. A traditional-style setting with some of Greece's finest cocktails and laid-back, sun-soaked mood prevails throughout the day and belies the exciting environment that takes over after sunset. Before your night begins and as the evening wanes, listen to the water lap at the stone in a serene setting as the Mediterranean ocean and sky change colors before your eyes.
MykonosDay 2
Delos & Psarou beach
Archaeological site of Delos tour
The birthplace of Apollo – a whole island that is an open-air museum, thirty minutes by boat from Mykonos harbor. The Terrace of the Lions still guards the Sacred Lake after twenty-five centuries. Temples, mosaic floors, a theatre quarter, and a small museum that houses what the wind hasn't claimed. Half-day trips depart mornings from the Old Port; buy your site ticket (€20) on arrival. There's no food, no shade, and no mercy from the midday sun – bring water, a hat, and sturdy shoes. Allow three hours on the island; the afternoon return leaves around 15:00. The mosaics in the House of Dionysus alone are worth the crossing.
Psarou beach
This small turquoise bay can be defined as the social Mecca of Mykonos. Attracting International and Greek celebrities, Psarou beach offers a 5 star luxury experience, for those who manage to secure the highly desired sun beds. Yachts make Psarou their first anchoring choice, and to eat at the infamous beach restaurant, make sure to reserve well in advance.
Scorpios
For those looking for an alternative to the maddening beach parties, Scorpios is the place to be. Set on Paraga beach, this hedonistic beach club, which also works as restaurant as well, offers laidback beach fun, people watching sessions and excellent cocktails, while at sundown, the line-up of local and international DJs bring their talent to offer memorable parties. Privacy reigns supreme until the Sunset Rituals begin around 18:30 each day, igniting the nocturnal energies of Scorpios Beach.
Jackie O' Beach Club
Located above the dazzling turquoise waters of Super Paradise "hanging" on the cliff, the legendary Jackie O' Beach Club (owned by the duo behind the legendary JackieO' Bar) attracts a diverse crowd of happy partygoers. The restaurant seats 150 people and there is also a large open bar, pool, Jacuzzi and private lounge areas, as well as direct access to the beach. Famous chef Christoforos Peskias blends traditional Cycladic flavours with modern Mediterranean cuisine, while renowned mixologist Giannis Bakos presents a refreshing cocktail menu. This club also has a strong LGBT draw, with drag performances by resident performer Priscilla nightly at 7pm.
MykonosDay 3
Agios Sostis & Super Paradise
Agios Sostis beach
A diamond in the rough, Agios Sostis is located in the Northern part of the island, about 6km from the Chora. Prepare your daily essentials, as there are no bars or sun beds at this boho - retro beach. Preferred by the locals and celebrities, expect ample nudists. The sole tavern at Agios Sostis closes at sunset and offers you the bare essentials; Almost like a glance back thought time, of what Mykonos used to be.
Super Paradise beach
Super Paradise is perhaps the most famous beach in Mykonos. Considered one of the most beautiful, Super Paradise Beach is located 6,5km from the Chora and is accessible by bus, boats from Platis Gialos and Ornos, and provides generous parking. Famous for its beach parties, Super Paradise is a must for party animals. Don't be shocked if you see nudists in the far corners.
Galleraki
Galleraki cocktail bar is an alternative destination in Mykonos, fairly diverse to the mainstream touristy bars of the island. It is housed at a typical white Aegean building dating back to the 19th century with a view of the windmills and Little Venice. Here you will enjoy fresh cocktails, interesting DJ sets and great events.
Cavo Paradiso
Cavo Paradiso is regarded by the music industry community, its artists and clubbers worldwide as one of the most impressive music & entertainment venues on the planet. It is regularly voted in the top club annual lists by international publications. Located on Paradise beach, the iconic nighclub opened in 1993 and has become known for organizing the most amazing & intense house music events ever since with the top EDM DJs. It is currently one of the island's hottest nightlife destinations, with a huge dance floor, a swimming pool and breathtaking views of the Aegean.
Athens
Days 7–9 of 9 · 3 nightsAthens is the capital of Greece and home to some of the most iconic and important historical sites and monuments in the world. You could easily spend a month in Athens and only scratch the surface – but three days at the end of an island trip is the perfect tasting menu.
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 & the Panathenaic Stadium
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.
Panathenaic Stadium
Panathenaikon [Panathenaic] Stadium, a remarkable construction, was made of white marble. The horseshoe shaped stadium faces the National Garden. In 330 BC a stadium made of wood was built at this location. Herodes Atticus constructed a marble edifice, which was the model for the edifice of the stadium that stands today. It was used as a space for athletic competitions, which took place during the Panathenaea festival. The stadium that stands today has a capacity of approx. 60,000 spectators. It was built in 1869-1870 and it was the venue of the first Olympic Games in modern history (1896). Surrounding the stadium is the wooded Ardittos Hill, where locals love to go for a walk.
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.