12-Day Santorini Trip: Copy This Itinerary

Day 1 starts in Oia at 9 AM - allow 3 hours to explore the stunning views and charming streets. For the best experience, take a 15-minute bus ride (~€2) to the Santorini caldera, arriving by 12:30 PM; allocate 2 hours to savor the scenery. Finally, travel by taxi (~€15, 15 minutes) to Akrotiri for a 3 PM tour of the ancient ruins, wrapping up your day by 5 PM.

Attractions

Oia

Famous for its stunning sunsets and picturesque white-washed buildings, Oia offers breathtaking views of the caldera and a perfect blend of beauty and charm.

Santorini caldera

This volcanic caldera provides stunning views and unique landscapes, showcasing the dramatic beauty that Santorini is renowned for, ideal for hiking and photography.

Akrotiri

Explore one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, the ruins of a Minoan city preserved by volcanic ash, offering insight into ancient civilization.

Day 2 starts at Red Beach at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to enjoy the stunning views and relax. Travel to Santorini Wine Museum at 11:30 AM via a 20-minute taxi ride (~€20). Explore the museum for 90 minutes. Next, head to the Cable Car of Santorini at 1:30 PM; take a 10-minute taxi (~€15) for breathtaking views. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon after!

Attractions

Red beach

Famous for its unique red volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters, Red Beach is a stunning natural wonder, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

Santorini Wine Museum

Delve into Santorini's rich winemaking history in this unique underground museum, complete with tastings of exquisite local wines.

Cable car of Santorini

Experience breathtaking views while riding the cable car from the old port of Fira to the top of the caldera, offering stunning vistas of the Aegean Sea.

Day 1 starts at the Acropolis of Athens (closest to city center) at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore. After, head to the Acropolis Museum at 11:30 AM (90 mins). Take a 15-minute stroll down to the museum. Finish the day at Mount Lycabettus at 1:30 PM (1 hour) - a 20-minute taxi ride (~€10) or 30-minute walk for stunning views.

Attractions

Acropolis of Athens

Explore the crowning jewel of ancient Greece, featuring remarkable ruins, including the Parthenon, which showcases the grandeur of Athenian architecture.

Acropolis Museum

Delve into the rich history of the Acropolis through fascinating artifacts and exhibits in this stunning, modern museum.

Mount Lycabettus

Hike or take the funicular to the summit for panoramic views of Athens, especially stunning at sunset.

Day 2 starts at the National Archaeological Museum at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore its incredible collections. Afterward, take a 15-minute stroll to Plaka at 11:30 AM for 90 minutes of shopping and dining. Next, head to the Stoa of Attalos - Museum of the Ancient Agora by walking for about 10 minutes, arriving by 1:30 PM; allocate 1 hour here, immersing in ancient history.

Attractions

National Archaeological Museum

Home to an extensive collection of ancient Greek art and artifacts, this museum is a must for history enthusiasts.

Plaka

Wander through Athens’ oldest neighborhood, filled with charming streets, traditional tavernas, and local shops, perfect for tasting authentic Greek cuisine.

Stoa of Attalos - Museum of the Ancient Agora

An impressive reconstruction of a classical stoa, featuring a museum showcasing ancient artifacts, nestled beneath the Acropolis.

Start Day 3 at Kifisia at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore cafes and boutiques. Take a 30-minute metro ride (~€2.20) to National Park of Parnitha, arriving by 11:30 AM for a 3-hour hike amidst nature. Wrap up your day at Benaki Museum at 3 PM, just a 30-minute taxi ride (~€15) for a 90-minute cultural immersion in Greek art.

Attractions

Kifisia

Explore the beautifully landscaped parks and wide avenues of this affluent suburb, perfect for leisurely walks and stunning garden views.

National Park of Parnitha

A beautiful natural retreat, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature, located very close to Athens, featuring diverse wildlife and stunning views.

Benaki Museum

A cultural treasure, showcasing Greek history from ancient to modern times, with a diverse collection of artifacts and artwork.

Day 4 starts at Athenian Riviera Hotel & Suites at 9 AM - allow 4 hours to enjoy the amenities. Take a 30-minute taxi ride (~€20) to Syntagma Square at 1:30 PM for 1 hour, witnessing the changing of the guard. Next, a 10-minute walk leads you to Thiseio by 3 PM - plan for 1.5 hours exploring this vibrant area.

Attractions

Athenian Riviera Hotel & Suites

Discover stunning beaches and coastal scenery along the Athenian Riviera, perfect for a day of relaxation by the sea.

Syntagma Square

The central square of Athens, vibrant with life, featuring the Greek Parliament and a popular spot for events and relaxation.

Thiseio

A picturesque area with ruins and beautiful parks, perfect for a relaxing stroll close to the historic heart of the city.

Day 5 starts at Philopappos Hill at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes to enjoy the views. Travel by taxi (~€8, 10 minutes) to Panathenaic Stadium for your 11 AM visit; allow 60 minutes to explore. Head to Ancient Agora of Athens at 12:30 PM via a short 5-minute walk. Spend 90 minutes immersing in history before your afternoon wraps up.

Attractions

Philopappos Hill

Offering spectacular views of Athens and the Acropolis, this lush hill is perfect for hiking and enjoying the great outdoors.

Panathenaic Stadium

This ancient stadium, renowned for its marble architecture, is a significant site in Olympic history and a great place to explore.

Ancient Agora of Athens

Explore the heart of ancient Athenian democracy at this archaeological site, featuring temples and ruins that tell the city's story.

Day 6 starts at Zappeion Hall at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for exploration. Walk 5 minutes to the Athens National Garden (10:30 AM) and enjoy for 1 hour. Next, head to Hellenic Cosmos Cultural Center at 12 PM via a 15-minute taxi (~€8) for a 2-hour visit to the museum and theater complex.

Attractions

Zappeion Hall

A stunning neoclassical building in the heart of the National Garden, used for various exhibitions and ceremonies, ideal for leisurely walks.

Athens National Garden

A beautiful oasis in the heart of Athens, featuring lush greenery, walking paths, and historical features.

Hellenic Cosmos Cultural Center (Museum & Theater complex)

An interactive cultural center showcasing ancient Greek history through immersive exhibits and multimedia presentations.

Day 1 starts at Little Venice at 9 AM - allow 1 hour to enjoy the charming waterfront. Walk 10 minutes to the Windmills of Mykonos by 10:30 AM, spending 30 minutes for photos. After, take a 15-minute local bus to Paralia Platis Gialos, arriving by 11:30 AM. Relax on the beach for 2 hours before lunch at a nearby taverna. Budget around €2 for the bus fare.

Attractions

Little Venice

Stroll through this picturesque area with colorful houses and stunning sunset views, offering the perfect charm of Mykonos' unique architecture by the sea.

Windmills of Mykonos

These iconic windmills are symbols of Mykonos, providing panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's history and charm.

Paralia Platis Gialos

This beautiful sandy beach offers crystal clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation, with delicious restaurants lining the shore.

Start Day 2 at Mykonos Old Port at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes to explore. Next, take a 15-minute bus ride (~€2) to Agios Sostis Beach by 11 AM, where you can relax for 3 hours. Finally, travel by taxi (~€10) for a 10-minute journey to the Windmills of Mykonos, arriving by 2:30 PM for a 45-minute visit. This itinerary balances sightseeing with leisure.

Attractions

Mykonos Old Port

Explore the vibrant heart of Mykonos with its charming shops, cafes, and beautiful views of the harbor.

Agios Sostis Beach

A pristine, more secluded beach known for its natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing day.

Windmills of Mykonos

These picturesque windmills provide a fascinating glimpse into the island's history and stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

Day 3 starts at Super Paradise Beach Club at 9 AM - allow 3 hours to relax and enjoy. Afterward, take a 15-minute taxi ride (~€20) to Ano Mera, arriving by 12:30 PM for a 2-hour visit. Conclude your day at the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos at 3 PM, which is about a 10-minute taxi ride (~€12). Allow 1.5 hours to explore the fascinating exhibits.

Attractions

Super Paradise Beach Club

Famous for its stunning beach and lively atmosphere, Super Paradise offers a blend of relaxation and entertainment on the shores of Mykonos.

Ano Mera

Experience authentic Mykonian culture in this charming village, featuring traditional architecture and local taverns away from tourists.

Archaeological Museum of Mykonos

Explore an impressive collection of artifacts from the island's historical past, providing insight into Mykonos' cultural heritage and ancient history.

Day 4 starts at Elia Nudist Beach at 9 AM - allow 3 hours to relax. Travel by taxi (about 20 minutes, ~$25 EUR) to Anemelia Mykonos Hotel, arriving by 12:30 PM for a leisurely 2-hour stay. Head to Paralia Kalo Livadi at 3 PM - a 15-minute taxi ride (~$20 EUR). Enjoy the balance of beach and comfort!

Attractions

Elia Nudist Beach

A beautiful, long sandy beach suitable for both relaxation and various water sports, known for its clear blue waters.

Anemelia Mykonos Hotel

A serene nature escape featuring beautiful landscapes and diverse ecosystems, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility.

Paralia Kalo Livadi

Kalo Livadi is a beautiful, quieter beach known for its crystal-clear waters and inviting atmosphere, perfect for relaxing and sunbathing.

12 days in Santorini & Athens & Mykonos, Greece: itinerary with Top attractions and Nature and outdoor

Trip Highlights

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Attractions

Oia

Santorini caldera

Akrotiri

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Day 10

Day 11

Day 12