Have you ever dreamed of sparkling blue water, ancient ruins, sun-soaked islands, and mouthwatering Mediterranean meals? Dreaming of your next holiday destination? Look no further; Greece trip planning is the go-to place to satisfy your wanderlust. But before packing your bags, planning the trip to Greece can optimize your experience. This all-encompassing guide is everything you need to know — whether you’re planning a family retreat, romantic escape, or solo adventure.
We’ll also meet Greek travel itineraries, people to go to, things to do and see (e.g., what to do in Chania Town), and more. So, let’s get into your dream Greece vacation!
Why Visit Greece?
A veritable treasure chest of beauty, history, and adventure, Greece has it all. With its combination of ancient sites, island getaways, and breathtaking natural scenery, there is something for every traveler. From the infamous white-washed buildings of Santorini to the quaint old harbor of Chania, Greece has the ultimate balance of rest and exploration.
Planning a Trip to Greece
Planning a trip to Greece begins with a handful of important decisions:
1.1 Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October) are the best: fewer crowds, nice weather, and better prices.
- Summer (July–August) is perfect for beaches, but prices are higher and there are many tourists.
- Winter is off-season, and though island life slows down, the mainland still has a lot going on.
1.2 Set Your Budget
Prices differ according to the season, the destinations you choose, and how you travel. On average:
- Budget trip: €50–€80/day
- Mid-range: €100–€200/day
- Luxury: €300+/day
Plan a Trip to Greece – Where to Go?
Greece is a land of diverse personalities; each island and city has its unique flavor. Here’s a roundup of some make-or-break places:
2.1 Athens — Ancient Clash With Contemporary
Begin your itinerary through Greece in the capital. Explore the Acropolis, roam Plaka, and eat Greek street food.
2.2 Santorini – A Romantic Island Getaway
Ideal for a Santorini, Greece getaway, it boasts signature blue-domed churches, cliffside views, and tremendous sunsets.
2.3 Crete – Varied and Authentic
Crete, particularly the region around Chania Town, is an island of beaches, mountains, and culture. Take time to see the Venetian harbor and Old Town.
2.4 Mykonos – Fiesta Y Chic Vibes
- Famed for its nightlife, luxury, and scenic windmills.
- Ideal for lovers of the spiritual, monasteries, and ancient ruins.
Getting around — Greece map tourist & transport tips
Plan your route with a travel map of Greece or/ Greece map tourist app.
Options for Transportation:
- Domestic flights: Fast and cheap from island to island.
- Ferry: It is good for island hopping. Book early in the high season.
- Car rentals: Especially great for exploring mainland areas such as the Peloponnese or Crete.
- Public transport: There are buses, but they can be slow outside major cities.
Greece Itinerary
If you have a week or two, here are some ideas for your Greece trip itinerary:
1 Week Greece Itinerary:
- DAY 1–2: Athens (Acropolis, Ancient Agora)
- Day 3–4: Mykonos (Beaches, Little Venice)
- Day 5–7: Santorini (sunset at Oia, wine tasting)
2 Week Greece Itinerary (Perfect! ):
- Day 1–2: Athens
- Day 3–5: Mykonos
- Day 6–8: Santorini
- Day 9–11: Crete – Chania itinerary: Old Town, Elafonissi Beach, Samaria Gorge things to do:
- Day 13–14: Delphi & Kalambaka, Meteora, or go back to Athens for shopping & nightlife
This itinerary balances culture, history, beach time, and adventure, and for most travelers, it would be the best Greece itinerary.
Things to Do in Chania Town, Crete
One of the loveliest places in Greece is Chania Town. Below is a short list of things to include in your Greece travel plan:
- Venetian Harbor: Beautiful views, cafés, and sunset strolls.
- Old Town: Cobblestone streets filled with boutiques and local restaurants.
- Maritime Museum: For history buffs of the naval variety.
- Elafonissi Beach: Known for its pink sand and shallow turquoise waters.
- Samaria Gorge: A hiker’s paradise set in the White Mountains.
Accommodation – Where to Stay in Greece
- Athens: Plaka or Monastiraki (central and walkable)
- Santorini: Oia (very romantic) or Fira (more lively)
- Chania: Staying in the Old Town or Near Nea Chora Beach
- Budget: Hostels, guesthouses
- Luxury resorts, private villas, and cave hotels in Santorini
Book well in advance when traveling in peak seasons!
What to Eat in Greece
One of the highlights of any Greek vacation is Greek cuisine. Don’t miss:
- Souvlaki and Gyros
- Moussaka
- Dolmades (grapevine leaves stuffed with rice and herbs)
- Fresh seafood
- Baklava
- Local wines and Ouzo
International Travel Tips When Planning a Vacation to Greece
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Language: Greek(English is widely spoken in tourist areas)
- Safety: Greece is extremely safe for tourists.
- Tipping: 5–10% is common in restaurants.
- Travel light: Especially for island hopping!
Fun Tools to Use While Planning Your Greece Trip
- Rome2Rio: Contains a ton of transport options
- Ferryhopper: Easy booking of Greek ferries
- Google Maps — ‘Cause you need a tourist map of Greece
- Booking. com or Airbnb: For accommodations
Use TripIt or Notion to arrange your Greece travel itinerary
Final Thoughts: Plan Your Greece Trip Today!
So if you’re dreaming of a Santorini Greece holiday, meandering through Chania Town, or looking to build the most perfect 2-week Greece itinerary, this guide has everything you need to start planning a trip to Greece.
Whether our interest is in history, beaches, food, adventure, or all of the above, Greece provides bucket-list experiences for every traveler. This Greece trip planner will help you find the perfect itinerary and accommodation and plan it all easily!
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Greece now, and prepare for the Mediterranean getaway of a lifetime!
FAQs About Greece Trip Planning
How to Travel in Greece on a Budget?
Travel in shoulder season (April–June or Sept–Oct), take public transport, sleep in guesthouses, and eat in local tavernas.
Should I go to just the mainland or the islands?
Both have a unique appeal. The mainland is stars like your most interesting history professor, and the islands are a warm, sun-soaked teacher’s pet. A mix is ideal.
Do I need a visa to go to Greece?
Citizens of the EU and the US are exempt from requiring a visa for visits of less than 90 days. If you’re from a different country, look to official sources.
How much time should I spend in Greece?
7-10 days minimum for a well-rounded trip. A 2-week itinerary in Greece allows you to visit more islands + historical sites.
The best mode of transport between islands?
Ferries are scenic and cheap, and flights are faster on longer routes.
Go to the Palace of Knossos, visit the Venetian Harbor, while away an afternoon in the Old Town, and laze on Elafonissi Beach; we hiked Samaria Gorge.
