2 Weeks in Greece: A Perfect Island Hopping Adventure

Dreaming of the sun-soaked shores of the Aegean Sea, the charm of ancient ruins, and the unforgettable beauty of the Greek Islands? Well, you’ve come to the right place! This 2-week itinerary is your perfect guide to an unforgettable Greek island-hopping adventure, starting in the historical heart of Athens, before soaking up the beauty of Mykonos, Santorini, and Paros. Ready to take the trip of a lifetime? Let’s dive in!

Day 1-3: Athens, Greece – The Heart of Ancient History

Your journey begins in Athens, the birthplace of Western civilization and a city filled with history, culture, and a blend of the old and new.

Where I Stayed:I stayed at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Athens, a luxurious base from which to explore the city. The hotel boasts stunning views of the Acropolis and the Parthenon from its rooftop pool and terrace. It’s also centrally located, making it easy to access both historical sites and vibrant neighborhoods.

What to Do:

• Visit the Acropolis: No trip to Athens is complete without exploring the Acropolis, home to the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the ancient Agora. These monuments are a must-see for anyone interested in history and architecture.

• Stroll around Plaka: Wander through the charming neighborhood of Plaka, with its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and cute cafés. It’s the perfect spot to get a feel for Athens’ vibrant energy and enjoy some local Greek food.

• Explore the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum: Dive deeper into the city’s rich history and incredible artifacts in these two impressive museums.

Where to Eat:For a delicious dinner with a view, head to Kuzina or Athinaikon, where you can savor authentic Greek dishes with breathtaking views of the Acropolis. Another fantastic spot is Fresko Yogurt Bar, which serves up fresh Greek yogurt and delicious toppings for a light and refreshing treat.

Day 4-6: Mykonos – The Island of Sunsets and Vibrant Nightlife

From Athens, take a ferry to Mykonos, one of the most famous Greek islands. Known for its stunning beaches, charming streets, and lively nightlife, Mykonos is a great mix of relaxation and adventure.

Where I Stayed:In Mykonos, I stayed at the Nimbus Hotel, a charming boutique hotel with a perfect blend of comfort and style. The location was great, providing easy access to the town and beaches, with modern amenities and a friendly atmosphere.

What to Do:

• Mykonos Town (Chora): Stroll through the picturesque streets of Mykonos Town, where you’ll find beautiful whitewashed buildings, vibrant bougainvillea, and tiny boutiques. Don’t miss the Windmills of Mykonos, a famous landmark overlooking the town.

• Beaches: Whether you’re into lively beach clubs or quiet coves, Mykonos has it all. Psarou Beach is perfect for those wanting luxury, while Elia Beach and Super Paradise Beach are popular for their vibrant beach parties.

• Sunset at Little Venice: For an unforgettable experience, head to Little Venice during sunset. Watch the sun dip into the sea while sipping a cocktail at one of the seaside bars.

Where to Eat: For great food with a view, Kiki’s Tavern, or head to M-eating for a mix of traditional and contemporary Greek dishes

Day 7-10: Santorini – The Island of Romance and Epic Views

Next up, hop on a ferry to Santorini, perhaps the most iconic Greek island, known for its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and stunning sunsets.

Where I Stayed:In Santorini, I stayed at The Majestic Hotel and Aqua Luxury Suites. Both properties offered breathtaking views of the caldera and provided the ultimate in luxury and comfort. The Majestic Hotel gave me a traditional Santorini experience, with spacious rooms and amazing sunset views, while Aqua Luxury Suites offered a more intimate, boutique vibe with private plunge pools and an unforgettable ambiance.

What to Do:

• Oia Village: Spend a day exploring Oia, the village famous for its postcard-perfect sunsets. Get there early to secure a good spot for sunset viewing—it’s a magical experience you won’t want to miss!

• Fira: Wander through the bustling streets of Fira, Santorini’s capital. Enjoy shopping, dining, and taking in views of the caldera.

• Rent an ATV to Explore the Island: Rent an ATV to explore the island. It’s a fun way to see the island's stunning views, traditional villages, and hidden gems, all at your own pace.

• Akrotiri Archaeological Site: For history buffs, a visit to the Akrotiri ruins is a must. This ancient Minoan city was buried in ash from a volcanic eruption and is often referred to as the “Pompeii of the Aegean.”

Where to Eat:For a delicious dinner with a view, enjoy a meal at Orkos Santorini, where you can enjoy incredible views of the sunset while indulging in local Mediterranean flavors.

Day 11-13: Paros – A Peaceful Escape

After exploring the bustling Mykonos and Santorini, take the ferry to Paros, a hidden gem of the Cyclades. This smaller, quieter island offers an authentic Greek island experience with fewer tourists and a more laid-back vibe.

Where I Stayed: In Paros, I stayed at Adonis Hotel, a lovely spot that provided a peaceful retreat with great service and comfortable accommodations. It was the perfect place to relax after the more tourist-heavy islands.

What to Do:

• Explore the Town: Wander through Naoussa, where you’ll find charming streets, local shops, and quaint tavernas. The island’s small size makes it perfect for slow exploration.

• Relax on the Beaches: Spend a day lounging at Santa Maria or Monastiri Beach. These quiet, secluded spots are perfect for those who just want to unwind.

• Boat Ride to Antiparos: One of the highlights was taking a boat ride with Michael Zeppos from Paros to Antiparos, where we explored the island’s beauty and the stunning coastline. It was an unforgettable experience!

Where to Eat:Head to Siparos Restaurant for Mediterranean dishes with a fresh twist or check out Tsachpinis for a more traditional Greek meal, offering hearty portions and great flavors.

Day 14: Return to Athens and Fly Home

After a few days of peaceful bliss in Paros, take the ferry back to Athens for your last night in Greece. Spend the evening exploring more of the city or relaxing before your flight home.

Where I Stayed: I made the mistake of staying at Finikas Suites for my last night. While the location seemed convenient near the airport, I felt very unsafe. The town was not for tourists, despite being promoted as such. If I could do it again, I would definitely opt for a more comfortable and reliable option to end my trip on a high note.

Final Thoughts

This 2-week Greece itinerary combines the best of history, culture, and beautiful islands. From the ancient ruins of Athens to the stunning sunsets of Santorini and the peaceful charm of Paros, this trip is perfect for anyone wanting to experience the beauty and magic of Greece.

Pack your bags, book those ferries, and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget. Are you ready to explore Greece?

XOXO,

Travelw.Jenna