Planning a Greece itinerary 8 days in length gives you the perfect balance between exploration and relaxation. With an extra day compared to a week-long trip, you can slow down and dive deeper into both mainland history and island life. Greece’s mix of ancient landmarks, vibrant cities, charming villages, and world-famous beaches makes it a dream destination for travelers seeking variety in a single trip.
Whether it’s your first time in Greece or a return visit, this itinerary blends iconic highlights with moments of calm. You’ll explore Athens, wander through ancient ruins, sail across the Aegean to Santorini, and unwind on a second island such as Paros or Naxos. With eight days, you can fully experience the rhythm of Greek life—from sunlit mornings at seaside cafés to golden sunsets over whitewashed villages.
Day 1: Arrive in Athens – First Glimpse of History
Your Greece itinerary 8 days begins in Athens, the cradle of Western civilization. After arriving at Athens International Airport, head into the city center and check into your hotel near Plaka, Syntagma, or Monastiraki. Spend your first afternoon adjusting to the time zone and getting a feel for the city.
Wander through Plaka, the city’s oldest neighborhood, where narrow lanes lined with neoclassical houses lead to cozy tavernas. Stop for a Greek coffee or a light meal before making your way to the base of the Acropolis. In the evening, enjoy dinner with a view—the sight of the illuminated Parthenon from a rooftop restaurant is the perfect welcome to Greece.
If you have time, visit Anafiotika, a hidden corner beneath the Acropolis that feels like a miniature Cycladic village, with whitewashed walls and flowering bougainvillea.
Day 2: Exploring the Heart of Athens
Dedicate your second day to discovering the city’s ancient wonders and modern charm. Start early at the Acropolis to avoid crowds and explore the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Then, visit the Acropolis Museum, where glass floors reveal ruins beneath your feet and panoramic windows frame the monuments above.
After lunch in Monastiraki Square, wander through the lively flea market and browse shops selling local crafts, olive oil, and handmade jewelry. In the afternoon, explore the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the National Gardens before watching the changing of the guard in Syntagma Square.
End your day in Psiri, one of Athens’ trendiest neighborhoods. Here, street art meets traditional tavernas, and you can enjoy a relaxed dinner with local wine or a refreshing ouzo.
Day 3: Journey to Santorini – The Island of Dreams
On day three, it’s time to head to the islands. Catch a morning flight or high-speed ferry to Santorini, one of Greece’s most iconic destinations. The journey is short—about 45 minutes by plane or around five hours by ferry from Piraeus Port.
Upon arrival, check into your hotel in Oia or Fira, depending on your travel style. Oia is known for romance and postcard-perfect sunsets, while Fira offers a lively mix of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Spend your afternoon strolling through the narrow streets, admiring the cliffside architecture, and soaking in the caldera views.
As evening falls, settle into a terrace restaurant for Santorini’s famous sunset. The sky turns shades of orange, pink, and violet as the sun dips below the sea—a moment that captures the essence of the Greek islands.
Day 4: Volcano Cruise and Wine Tasting
Santorini is more than its views—it’s also an island of geological and cultural wonder. Begin your day with a boat tour around the caldera. Most excursions include stops at the volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni, where you can hike to the crater and swim in the warm sulfur springs.
In the afternoon, visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri, often called the “Pompeii of the Aegean.” This ancient settlement, preserved under volcanic ash, offers a glimpse into Minoan life thousands of years ago.
As the day winds down, head to one of Santorini’s renowned wineries. The island’s volcanic soil produces distinctive wines, especially the crisp white Assyrtiko. Enjoy a tasting session paired with local cheeses and admire the sunset over the vineyards—a serene alternative to Oia’s crowded viewpoints.
Day 5: From Santorini to Naxos or Paros – A Change of Pace
After two days in Santorini, continue your journey to a nearby island for a different kind of experience. Ferries to Naxos or Paros run frequently, and the trip usually takes one to two hours. Both islands offer a more authentic, relaxed atmosphere compared to Santorini’s glamour.
If you choose Naxos, you’ll find fertile landscapes, mountain villages, and wide sandy beaches. The island’s capital, Chora, is home to the impressive Portara—a massive marble doorway that catches the golden light of sunset.
If you prefer Paros, you’ll be drawn to its Cycladic charm and stylish yet laid-back energy. The fishing village of Naoussa combines traditional whitewashed beauty with a touch of sophistication. Both islands offer the perfect setting to slow down, swim, and savor island life.
Day 6: Island Exploration and Hidden Gems
Use your sixth day to explore more of your chosen island. On Naxos, rent a car to discover charming mountain villages like Apeiranthos or Filoti. Visit the Temple of Demeter or spend time at Agios Prokopios and Plaka Beach for a day of sun and sea.
In Paros, start your morning in Lefkes, a quiet inland village surrounded by olive trees and marble quarries. Walk along the Byzantine Trail, then head to Kolymbithres Beach with its unusual rock formations. In the afternoon, relax at a seaside café in Aliki or take a short ferry to the tiny island of Antiparos for a tranquil escape.
Whichever island you choose, spend the evening dining by the water. Order fresh seafood, grilled vegetables, and a glass of local wine while listening to the sound of waves—an essential part of the Greek experience.
Day 7: Relaxation, Local Flavor, and Sunset Moments
By now, you’ve seen much of Greece’s highlights, so day seven is about slowing down. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and spend the morning swimming or walking through your favorite village. Visit local boutiques, pottery studios, or markets to pick up souvenirs like olive oil, honey, or handmade ceramics.
If you’re on Naxos, take a scenic drive to the mountain village of Halki and visit a traditional citron distillery. On Paros, consider a half-day sailing trip around nearby islands or hidden coves.
In the evening, find a quiet spot to watch your final island sunset. The slower pace of your second island offers a different kind of beauty—one rooted in peace and simplicity. Reflect on your journey and savor your last night in the islands.
Day 8: Return to Athens – A Fond Farewell
On your final day, return to Athens by ferry or flight. If you have time before your departure, take a short stroll through Monastiraki for souvenirs or relax in a café with a view of the Acropolis. You might visit the National Museum of Contemporary Art or simply enjoy one last meal of meze and fresh Greek salad before heading to the airport.
As your Greece itinerary 8 days adventure comes to a close, you’ll leave with memories of both the ancient and the timeless—the golden stones of the Acropolis, the blue domes of Santorini, and the tranquil charm of the islands.
This journey is a perfect introduction to Greece’s diversity. In just over a week, you’ve walked in the footsteps of philosophers, sailed across volcanic seas, and experienced island life at its best.
Overview: Greece Itinerary 8 Days
| Day | Destination | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Athens | Arrival, Plaka, rooftop dinner with Acropolis view |
| 2 | Athens | Acropolis, museum, markets, and modern city life |
| 3 | Santorini | Ferry or flight, Oia sunset, cliffside strolls |
| 4 | Santorini | Volcano cruise, Akrotiri, wine tasting |
| 5 | Naxos or Paros | Ferry transfer, explore local villages |
| 6 | Naxos/Paros | Beaches, cultural sites, mountain or coastal drives |
| 7 | Naxos/Paros | Relaxation, local experiences, sunset dinner |
| 8 | Athens | Return journey, last sightseeing, departure |
Final Thoughts on a Greece Itinerary 8 Days
An eight-day trip to Greece gives you just enough time to experience both its ancient soul and island serenity. You’ll see world-famous sites, taste incredible food, and immerse yourself in the relaxed rhythm of Greek life.
From the bustling streets of Athens to the volcanic cliffs of Santorini and the peaceful villages of the Cyclades, each stop offers something unique. The journey flows naturally—history, adventure, and rest woven into one unforgettable itinerary.
Even as your plane departs, you’ll find yourself already planning a return. Because in Greece, one trip is never enough.
