Planning a Greece itinerary 12 days long gives you the chance to experience the very best of the country — from its ancient heritage to its sun-drenched islands and charming coastal towns. With almost two full weeks, you can explore mainland highlights, hop between a few Cycladic gems, and still have time to relax by the Aegean.
This itinerary is designed for travelers who want a well-rounded Greek adventure: ancient ruins in Athens, scenic drives through Delphi and Meteora, iconic sunsets in Santorini, and the authentic island life of Paros or Naxos. It balances exploration and leisure, ensuring every day feels rich yet unhurried.
Day 1 – Arrive in Athens – Welcome to Greece
Your 12-day Greece itinerary begins in Athens, Greece’s lively capital and the cradle of Western civilization. After landing at Athens International Airport, transfer to your hotel in Plaka, Monastiraki, or Syntagma, all central neighborhoods perfect for first-time visitors.
Spend your first afternoon strolling through Plaka’s cobblestone streets, lined with neoclassical houses and quaint tavernas. In the evening, head to a rooftop bar near Monastiraki for a first glimpse of the Acropolis glowing at sunset — an unforgettable introduction to Greece.
Day 2 – Ancient Wonders of Athens
Dedicate this day to the city’s world-famous archaeological sites. Start early at the Acropolis to visit the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Continue to the Acropolis Museum, whose glass floors reveal ruins beneath your feet.
In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus, stroll through the National Garden, and watch the changing of the guard at Syntagma Square. In the evening, dine in Psiri or Koukaki, two vibrant neighborhoods full of authentic tavernas and live music.
Day 3 – Delphi – The Oracle of Ancient Greece
Leave Athens in the morning and drive (or join a guided tour) to Delphi, about 2.5 hours away. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, Delphi was once believed to be the center of the ancient world.
Explore the Sanctuary of Apollo, the ancient theater, and the stadium. Visit the Delphi Archaeological Museum, home to the famous Charioteer of Delphi statue. Stay overnight in the nearby village of Arachova, known for its stone houses, mountain views, and cozy tavernas.
Day 4 – Meteora – Monasteries in the Sky
After breakfast, continue north to Meteora (about 3.5 hours by car). The journey is scenic, passing through valleys and small towns until enormous rock pillars appear on the horizon — each crowned by centuries-old monasteries.
Spend the afternoon visiting two or three of the six active monasteries, such as Great Meteoron or Varlaam, perched high above the plains. The panoramic views at sunset are breathtaking. Stay overnight in Kalambaka or Kastraki, two welcoming villages at Meteora’s base.
Day 5 – Return to Athens – Evening at Leisure
In the morning, enjoy one last walk among Meteora’s rock formations before returning to Athens. The drive takes about 5 hours, so plan to arrive by late afternoon.
Once back in the capital, unwind with a relaxed dinner in Thissio, overlooking the Acropolis. After several days of mainland exploration, you’re ready to head to the islands for the next chapter of your Greek adventure.
Day 6 – Fly to Santorini – The Island of Dreams
Catch a morning flight (≈45 minutes) or ferry (≈5 hours) from Athens to Santorini, one of the most spectacular islands in the world.
Check into your hotel in Oia for romance and sunsets or in Fira for lively nightlife and shops. Spend your first afternoon exploring the cliffside alleys, stopping for coffee with caldera views. As evening falls, watch the sunset over the Aegean — a quintessential Greek moment.
Day 7 – Exploring Santorini’s Highlights
Devote the day to discovering what makes Santorini unique. Take a boat tour to the volcanic islets of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni to hike the crater and swim in the hot springs.
Later, visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri, a Minoan city preserved under volcanic ash, and relax on Perissa Beach with its black sands. In the evening, visit a local winery for a tasting of Santorini’s crisp Assyrtiko wine paired with regional meze.
Day 8 – From Santorini to Naxos – Island Hopping Begins
After breakfast, board a ferry to Naxos (≈1.5 hours). The largest island in the Cyclades, Naxos offers lush mountains, wide beaches, and authentic village life.
Upon arrival, explore Chora (Naxos Town), walking up to the Portara, the island’s iconic marble gateway. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a seaside taverna — try local specialties like Naxian cheese or citron liqueur.
Day 9 – Naxos Villages and Beaches
Rent a car or ATV to explore Naxos at your own pace. Head inland to the mountain villages of Apeiranthos and Filoti, known for marble lanes and traditional cafés. Stop at the Temple of Demeter, surrounded by fertile fields.
In the afternoon, unwind on Agios Prokopios Beach or Plaka Beach, long stretches of golden sand perfect for swimming. As the sun sets, enjoy dinner in Chora’s Old Town and soak in the island’s relaxed atmosphere.
Day 10 – Paros – Chic and Cycladic
Take a short morning ferry (≈30–40 minutes) to Paros, an island that blends Cycladic charm with a modern, stylish edge. Check into a hotel in Naoussa, a picture-perfect fishing village turned boutique destination.
Spend your afternoon exploring Kolymbithres Beach with its sculpted rock formations, then stroll the narrow alleys of Parikia, the island’s capital. In the evening, dine by the harbor in Naoussa while boats bob gently in the moonlight.
Day 11 – Relaxation and Hidden Corners of Paros
After days of sightseeing, today is about slowing down. Visit the quiet inland village of Lefkes, walk part of the Byzantine Trail, and stop for a coffee in the square. For more adventure, take a short ferry to Antiparos — a tranquil escape known for its crystal-clear waters and laid-back vibe.
Return to Paros in the evening for your final island sunset, enjoying a glass of wine and fresh seafood as the Aegean turns gold and blue.
Day 12 – Return to Athens – Farewell to Greece
Catch a morning flight or ferry back to Athens. If you have a few hours before your international departure, stroll through Monastiraki Market for souvenirs, sip a final Greek coffee in Plaka, and take one last look at the Acropolis.
As your 12-day adventure comes to an end, you’ll carry memories of ancient ruins, volcanic views, and island sunsets — a true tapestry of Greece’s beauty.
Overview: Greece Itinerary 12 Days
| Day | Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Athens | Arrival, Plaka, Acropolis views |
| 2 | Athens | Ancient ruins, museums, city exploration |
| 3 | Delphi | Temple of Apollo, mountain scenery |
| 4 | Meteora | Monasteries, sunset views |
| 5 | Athens | Return journey, evening at leisure |
| 6 | Santorini | Fly/ferry, Oia sunset, cliffside walks |
| 7 | Santorini | Volcano cruise, Akrotiri, wine tasting |
| 8 | Naxos | Ferry transfer, Portara, Old Town |
| 9 | Naxos | Mountain villages, temple, beaches |
| 10 | Paros | Naoussa, Kolymbithres, Cycladic beauty |
| 11 | Paros | Lefkes, Byzantine Trail, Antiparos trip |
| 12 | Athens | Return trip, final sightseeing |
Final Thoughts on a 12-Day Greece Itinerary
Twelve days in Greece offers the ideal blend of culture, nature, and relaxation. You’ll trace ancient history in Athens and Delphi, marvel at the spiritual majesty of Meteora, and then unwind among the Cycladic islands of Santorini, Naxos, and Paros.
This route flows naturally — mainland depth followed by island ease — and offers a true snapshot of Greece’s diversity. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, twelve days will let you see the best of Greece without rushing, leaving you both inspired and refreshed.
Even as you depart, you’ll already be dreaming of your next journey — because in Greece, every trip feels like an invitation to return.
