The ULTIMATE 5-Day Greece Itinerary From Athens
Looking for the ultimate 5-day Greece Itinerary from Athens? You’re in the right place!
A 5-day adventure in Greece might sound like a short amount of time, but I promise with this jam-packed 5-day Greece Itinerary you will get to see the best of what Athens has to offer, as well as explore 2 of Greece’s most stunning islands; Milos and Paros.
With this 5-day Greece Itinerary from Athens, you’ll have the chance to explore ancient Greek ruins, meander through charming villages, and most importantly, chill out on some seriously stunning and very unique beaches.
Of course, I can’t forget to mention that you’ll also be eating some seriously drool-worthy Greek food.
In this Greece Itinerary, I will cover exactly where to go, where to stay, what to do, and how to get to where you need to be, so you can rest assured that I have got you covered.
This Greece itinerary is perfect whether you are visiting Greece as a first-timer or are a seasoned Greece traveller. This was one of my favourite trips to Greece, so I hope you enjoy it just as much as I did.
So, what is included in a 5-day Greece Itinerary from Athens? Read on below to find out!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a verified purchase through the links in this post I will earn a small commission. This will be at no extra cost to you. Thank you ?
GREECE AT A GLANCE
? How to get there – Greece is well connected by air, sea, and land. The easiest way to get there is by flying into Athens International Airport (ATH), which has direct flights from major cities worldwide. If you’re coming from nearby European countries, ferries from Italy, road trips through the Balkans, and regional flights are great options. Greece’s islands are well-connected by domestic flights and ferries, making it easy to hop between destinations.
?️ How long to stay – You can see the highlights of Greece in 5-7 days, covering Athens and 1 or 2 islands. However, for a more immersive experience, 10-14 days will let you explore historical sites, charming villages, and stunning beaches across multiple islands and mainland regions like Meteora, Delphi, or the Peloponnese.
? Best time to visit – Greece is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is between April and October. The peak summer months (July and August) are hot and crowded, especially on the islands. For pleasant weather and fewer tourists, visit in May, June, September, or early October. If you enjoy mild weather and a more local experience consider visiting in spring or autumn. Winter (November to March) is quieter, ideal for exploring Athens and historical sites without the crowds.
About this 5-day Greece Itinerary
This 5-day Greece Itinerary from Athens covers the exact route I took from my own 5-day trip to Greece and it is perfect for those who are short on time but are looking for the ultimate Greek experience. With this itinerary, you can enjoy stunning landscapes and iconic Greek history. So, If you are after the perfect mix of culture and beaches then you will love this itinerary
- Day 1 – Athens
- Day 2 – Athens ➝ Milos
- Day 3 – Milos
- Day 4 – Milos ➝ Paros
- Day 5 – Paros
One thing I love about travel is having flexibility so I’ve put together a list of the best things to do in each destination to help you personalise your trip. Whether you are a history buff, a beach lover or a foodie, with this itinerary you’ll be able to mix and match activities to best suit your preferences.
Arriving in Athens: How To Get From The Airport To The City Centre
This itinerary starts in Athens and you can fly directly to Athens Airport from all major European cities. You can also fly directly to Athens from places such as New York and certain parts of the Middle East and Asia. I recommend searching for the best flight deals using Skyscanner.
You can also travel to Athens overland from other cities in mainland Europe such as Sofia, Bulgaria. I recommend visiting the Omio website to discover the best overland routes to Athens.
If you are flying into Athens Airport you’ll be pleased to know it is just a short 45-minute drive from Athens city centre, and there are several easy ways to get there depending on whether you are looking for the fastest, cheapest or most convenient option.
By Metro
Metro Line 3 goes from the airport to Syntagma Square in 40 minutes. Trains run every 30 minutes from 6:30 am to 11:30 pm daily. Tickets are €9 and return tickets are €16.
By Bus
24-hour express buses connect the airport with the city centre. The X95 bus is the most popular, taking you straight to Syntagma Square in about 50 minutes. Buses run daily, including holidays.
You can buy tickets at the Arrivals Hall booth or directly from the driver. Tickets are €5.50.
By Suburban Railway
The suburban railway (Proastiakos) connects the airport with Larissis Station in 45 minutes. Trains run every 15-25 minutes. You can also transfer to the Metro at Doukissis Plakentias station for easy city access. The cost will vary depending on your end destination. To use this mode of transport make sure to follow signs for the Railway Station inside the airport.
By Taxi
Taxis are outside Exit 3 of Arrivals. A trip to the city centre is €40 from 5 am to midnight, and €55 from midnight to 5 am. Prices include all surcharges. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Uber and Beat to see if you can get a cheaper price.
Day 1 – Athens
Stop 1 on this 5-day Greece itinerary of course starts in Athens. This city is packed with history, culture, incredible food, a buzzing nightlife and incredible views.
Where to stay in Athens
Choosing the right neighbourhood in Athens can make all the difference to your stay. Each neighbourhood in Athens has something for every travel preference and there will be something to suit your needs whether you love history, nightlife or shopping!
Plaka
Plaka is the oldest part of Athens, with a history stretching back about 2,500 years. It’s full of narrow alleys, pedestrian streets, ancient sites, and souvenir shops. You can easily walk to the Acropolis from here. Plaka is perfect for history lovers, first-time visitors and those looking for a traditional Athens experience.
This is where I stayed during my time in Athens and I can highly recommend this area as a great place to base yourself.
?BOOK YOUR PLAKA HOTEL HERE?
Psiri
Psiri is a cool mix of old-school Athens and modern vibes. You’ll find street art and live music bars, and it’s close to the Monastiraki flea market and the Gazi nightlife district. It’s a favourite spot for young locals, nightlife lovers and foodies to hang out at night.
?BOOK YOUR PSIRI HOTEL HERE?
Kolonaki
Kolonaki is a stylish neighbourhood with designer boutiques and fancy restaurants. It also has relaxed bars, tavernas, and cool cafés, perfect for people-watching. Kolonaki is perfect for luxury travellers, boutique shoppers, and café lovers.
?BOOK YOUR KOLONAKI HOTEL HERE?
Exarcheia
Exarcheia is known for its alternative culture and is centred around Athens Polytechnic University. It’s packed with lively bars, vintage stores, interesting food, and affordable places to stay. This area is perfect for budget travellers, creatives, and culture seekers.
?BOOK YOUR EXARCHEIA HOTEL HERE?
How to get around Athens
One thing I love about Athens is how walkable it is. It’s super easy to get around and its charming streets are full of little surprises. Areas like Plaka, Monastiraki, and Syntagma are the most accessible on foot. Many of Athens’ top attractions like the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, and Hadrian’s Library are within walking distance of each other.
If you prefer not to explore on foot, there are a few other handy options you can consider too!
Metro
The Athens metro is the quickest and most affordable way to get around the city. A Metro day pass costs €4.10, giving you unlimited 24-hour travel (except airport routes). The Metro runs from 5:30 AM to midnight and till 2:30 AM on weekends.
Buses and Trams
Athens has an extensive bus and tram network that is perfect for reaching areas that are not covered by the Metro. Your Metro day pass will also give you access to buses and trams.
E-scooters and Bike Rentals
Using E-scooters and bikes is a fun way to explore Athens but the city can be quite hilly, so it’s probably not ideal when visiting certain parts of Athens (like the Acropolis). Prices start from €1 to unlock + €0.15 per minute.
Things to do in Athens
Free Walking Tour
One of my favourite ways to explore a new European city is by joining a free walking tour. I think it’s the perfect way to get your bearings and learn more about the city’s history and Athens is no different. I recommend booking this top-rated free walking tour which is 2.5 hours long and available in 4 different languages.
Acropolis
It would be absolutely criminal to come to Athens and not visit the Acropolis. This ancient citadel is perched 156 metres above the city and dominates the skyline with its Parthenon, Temple of Erechtheion, and Temple of Nike. If you’re visiting in high season I recommend buying your tickets online to skip the long queues and get there early to avoid the midday heat and more importantly the crowds!
Ancient Agora
Just a short walk from the Acropolis is the Ancient Agora which was once a hub of political and social life in Athens. Whilst you are here I recommend wandering through the Temple of Hephaistos and visiting the Stoa of Attalus.
Plaka
Plaka is one of the cutest neighbourhoods in Athens with lots of traditional Greek narrow, cobbled streets. Here you can find pastel-coloured terraces, souvenir shops and some of the best bars and restaurants in town. Despite being fairly touristy it’s still definitely worth visiting.
Anafiótika
Anafiótika is a quiet neighbourhood near Plaka with whitewashed houses, blue doors and quiet streets that resemble those which you can see on the Greek islands. This area has fewer tourists, which will make you forget you’re actually in a very busy city.
Panathenaic Stadium
Sports fan or not visiting the Panathenaic Stadium is worth visiting to enjoy a piece of Olympic History. This massive marble stadium once hosted the ancient Panathenaic Games and later became the venue for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
Monastiráki
Monastiráki is one of the most buzzing parts of Athens. The area is filled with churches, museums, and the famous Ermou shopping street. If you happen to be in Athens on a Sunday then I highly recommend visiting the Sunday flea market.
Lykavíttós
For the most stunning view of Athens, you’ll want to go up to Lykavíttós Hill which is the highest one in Athens standing at 277 metres above the city. You can hike up or take the funicular, and once you reach the top, you’ll find a picturesque chapel, an open-air theatre, and even a luxury restaurant. The sunset here is absolutely magical too!
Rooftop Bars
One of the best ways to experience Athens is with a cocktail in hand and a view of the Acropolis glowing at sunset. There are so many incredible rooftop bars in the city, but some of my favourites include Thea Terrace Bar, NYX, Point-A, 360 Cocktail Bar, Metropolis, and Attic Urban Rooftop. My personal favourite was Attic Urban Rooftop.
Central Market
If you love exploring local markets then you will love the central market near Monastiráki. Here you can sample delicious Greek foods like olives, cheeses, seafood and so much more!
Philopappos Hill
For one of the best (and free!) views of the Acropolis, take a walk up Philopappos Hill. It’s much quieter than Lykavíttós. At the top, you’ll find the Philopappos Monument and a stunning view of the Acropolis and the city.
Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square is home to the parliament building and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. You can experience a changing of the guard ceremony every hour which is one of those classic Athens experiences you shouldn’t miss!
Where to eat in Athens
There are lots of delicious restaurants in Athens to suit all budgets. Here are some of the best restaurants to visit in Athens:
- Kostas Souvlaki
- Lefteris O Politis
- Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani
- Little Kook
- Kuzina
- Avli Tou Thodori
- Mani Mani
- Spondi
- GB Roof Garden
- Varoulko Seaside
Days 2 & 3 – Milos
Milos is a dream island that is full of breathtaking beaches, dramatic cliffs, and postcard-perfect villages. If you’re looking for hidden gems and unique landscapes then Milos is the place.
How to get to Milos from Athens
There are two main ways to reach Milos, by ferry or plane. However, for this itinerary, you will be taking the ferry as it is the most convenient and affordable option.
Ferry
Milos is well-connected to Athens, Paros, Naxos, Santorini, and Mykonos. You can take a direct ferry from Piraeus Port in Athens which takes approximately 3 hours. Prices start from €58. I recommend using Ferry Hopper to book your ferry from Athens to Milos.
⛴️BOOK YOUR MILOS FERRY HERE⛴️
How to get around Milos
Car Rental
To make the most of your time in Milos and explore its stunning beaches and hidden gems, I highly recommend renting a car.
Public transport is limited, and while there are taxis available these are very expensive. Having your own car gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace and is also the most economical option. Car rentals in Milos are affordable, with prices starting at around €40 per day.
If you’re planning to explore the more rugged western side of Milos, keep in mind that some areas have dirt and gravel roads. Rental companies will advise you on which areas to avoid, as many standard rental cars are not insured for off-road driving. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to venture off the beaten path I would consider renting a 4×4 or an ATV.
?BOOK YOUR RENTAL CAR HERE?
Alternative Travel
If renting a car or ATV isn’t an option, no worries! Milos has a bus service that connects the main towns, beaches, and popular sights. It’s an affordable and convenient option, especially if you’re staying near Plaka, Adamas, or Pollonia. Bus schedules vary by season, so be sure to check the routes and timetables in advance to plan your day.
There are a couple of taxi services on the island too, but keep in mind they might be extremely busy, especially during high season and you could find yourself waiting a long time to get picked up. Find out more about your taxi options by clicking here.
Where to stay in Milos
There are 3 main areas in Milos that I recommend basing yourself during this portion of this 5-day Greece itinerary.
Adamas
Adamas is the largest village and the main port town of Milos. It’s got a lively atmosphere with plenty of bars, restaurants and activities to keep you entertained.
?BOOK YOUR ADAMAS HOTEL HERE?
Pollonia
Pollonia is a picturesque fishing village that’s perfect if you’re looking for a laid-back vibe. It’s full of bars and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the local cuisine. Pollonia is ideal for a peaceful and relaxing stay, away from the hustle and bustle.
?BOOK YOUR POLLONIA HOTEL HERE?
Plaka
As the capital of Milos, Plaka has a vibrant nightlife and a lively ambience. It’s located at the highest point of the island, so you’re in for some stunning views.
?BOOK YOUR PLAKA HOTEL HERE?
Things to do in Milos
Sarakiniko Beach
In my opinion, Sarakiniko is one of the best places you can visit in Milos. Here you find a stunning landscape of smooth white volcanic rocks and deep blue hues of the Aegean Sea. Walking onto this beach honestly feels like walking onto another planet and it’s often referred to as the “moonscape” for that exact reason.
Tsigrado Beach
If you love a little bit of adventure, Tsigrado Beach will be perfect for you. Getting to this beach involves navigating rocky passages and climbing down a steep wooden ladder but once you see how beautiful the beach is, you’ll know it’s all been worth it.
Fyriplaka Beach
If you’re looking for a lazy beach day then Fyriplaka Beach is the place to come. The beach is surrounded by striking red cliffs which makes for a beautiful contrast against the turquoise waters. At this beach, you’ll also beach bar where you can chill for the day and rent sunbeds.
Trypiti Village
Trypiti is a quaint old village in Milos where you can find old windmills and beautiful panoramic sea views. Also located in Trypiti is the Ancient Theatre of Milos from the Hellenistic period as well as the Catacombs that date back to the 1st-5th centuries (making them one of the top three catacombs in the world).
Kleftiko Caves
One of the best activities to do in Milos is to book a boat tour that takes you around the island and to the famous Kleftiko Caves. Think crystal-clear waters, towering white cliffs, and hidden caves you can swim through. I can personally recommend this boat tour where we had the best day exploring the island at sea and eating a delicious Greek Lunch.
⭐ THE TOP MILOS BOAT TOUR ⭐
MILOS BOAT TRIP AT A GLANCE
⭐STAR RATING: 4.9/5
?PRICE: €110
?DURATION: 10 HOURS
✅INCLUDES: LUNCH, WINE, SOFT DRINKS & SNORKEL GEAR
?IDEAL FOR: EVERYONE
Fishing Villages
Milos is home to many adorable fishing villages that each have their own unique charm. There are 3 villages I recommend visiting; Mandrakia, Fyropotamos and Klima. Mandrakia is perfect for seaside dining, Fyropotamos has a beautiful beach, and Klima is famous for its colourful boathouses.
Plaka Town Centre
Plaka is Milos’ most charming town (and is the island’s Capital). Here you can find colourful alleys, cute shops, and cosy cafés. Make sure to climb up to Plaka Castle for a jaw-dropping sunset view over the entire island.
Where to eat in Milos
On Milos, you can enjoy fresh fish, veggies, pasta, traditional Greek dishes, and incredible wine. There’s something for every budget and every taste. My favourite restaurants include:
? READ MY COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO MILOS HERE ?
Days 4 & 5 – Paros
Paros is an absolute gem in the Cyclades and trust me when I say it’s got a little something for everyone! From its picture-perfect beaches to its beautiful whitewashed villages and buzzing nightlife, you’ll be sure to enjoy your time in Paros.
How to get to Paros from Milos
There is only one way to get to Paros from Milos and that is via Ferry. The journey is 1.5 to 3 hours (depending on the ferry service) and prices start from €60. As always, I recommend using the Ferry Hopper website to plan your ferry journey.
⛴️BOOK YOUR MILOS FERRY HERE⛴️
How to get around Paros
Car Rental
To fully experience the best of Paros, I highly recommend renting a car. Car hire on the island is quite affordable, with rentals starting at just €40 a day. You will also be able to rent ATVs from certain rental companies if you are looking to venture along dirt roads. Be aware that the roads on Paros are fairly old, so watch out for potholes and ditches.
?BOOK YOUR RENTAL CAR HERE?
Alternative Travel
If renting a car or an ATV isn’t an option, Paros has a reliable bus service that covers most of the island’s top attractions for as little as €1.50 per journey. Click here to learn more about the bus routes.
There are also a few taxi services available on the island, but they can be in high demand, so you might have to wait a while to be picked up from your destination. Click here for more information on taxi services.
Where to stay in Paros
For this itinerary, I recommend basing yourself in either of the 2 towns I have mentioned below.
Parikia
This is the capital of Paros and is home to the ferry terminal. If you want a place full of atmosphere and plenty of restaurants, Parikia is the place to stay.
?BOOK YOUR PARIKIA HOTEL HERE?
Naoussa
Naoussa is a vibrant fishing village with a lot going on. It offers a traditional Greek village experience with a modern, cosmopolitan twist. I stayed here myself and can’t recommend it enough.
?BOOK YOUR NAOUSSA HOTEL HERE?
Things to do in Paros
Kolympethres and Monastiri Beaches
These two spots are a dream for beach lovers. At these beaches, you can expect golden sands and crystal-clear, calm waters. You can get here by car or hop on a water taxi from Naoussa port. When you’re at these beaches you just need to keep an eye out for tiny jellyfish floating by!
Monastery of St. John’s of Deti
Near Monastiri Beach you can find the beautiful Monastery of St. John’s of Deti. Here you can see a classic Greek church with that Iconic blue-domed roof and whitewashed walls that we’ve all come to associate with Greece. This is a super peaceful spot, and it’s also a great place to get some pictures.
Visit some Of The Other Gorgeous Beaches In Paros
There are so many other stunning beaches In Paros, and here are some of the best ones I think are worth visiting during your 2 days in Paros:
- Kalogeros Beach – For a natural clay mud mask experience
- Faragas – For a trendy beach club vibe
- Little Santa Maria Beach – A hidden and peaceful spot
- Parosporos Beach – Best for cocktails & chill beach vibes
Traditional Greek Villages
Paros is home to some gorgeous little villages that are definitely worth exploring. Some of the best ones include; Naoussa, Marpissa, and Lefkes. In these villages, you can expect to find old, colourful doors and buildings covered with vines and bright flowers. My personal favourite was Marpissa where you can visit its iconic pink house!
Sailing Around Paros And Antiparos
If you’re dreaming of the perfect day on the water then booking this sailing cruise around Paros and Antiparos is an absolute must and is the perfect way to waste one of your days on Paros. During this trip, you’ll be able to enjoy sailing through the beautiful Aegean Sea, stopping at hidden coves and snorkelling in crystal-clear lagoons.
Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti Beach)
Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti Beach) is the best spot on the island to go windsurfing, surfing and kayaking. It’s such a good spot for windsurfing that it even hosts international windsurfing competitions each year. Force 7 is one of the best windsurfing schools in Paros so I would check them out if this is something that interests you.
Sunset in Parikia
For the best sunset view in Paros be sure to head to Parikia. You can either visit one of the waterside restaurants along the main road in Parikia or for something a little more special you can head up to Alexandros Cafe where you can watch the sunset from a traditional Greek windmill that has been converted into a cafe.
Moraitis Winery
If you’re looking for a change of pace after all that time in the sun, Moraitis Winery is the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon. Here, you can wander through the vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and, of course, enjoy a tasting of some incredible local Greek wines.
Where to eat in Paros
There are lots of delicious food and drink options in Paros. It’s the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes. Some of the best bars and restaurants include:
? READ MY COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO PAROS HERE ?
Getting back to Athens From Paros
To get back to Athens you can hop on a quick 40-minute flight from Paros to Athens, with one-way prices starting at just €50. You can check out the best prices and routes on Skyscanner.
Alternatively, you can catch a ferry from Paros to Athens. Journey times range from 2.5-7 hours (depending on the ferry service). Use Ferry Hopper to plan your ferry journey from Paros to Athens.
A Suggestion For This 5-Day Greece Itinerary
For exploring both Milos and Paros, I recommend renting a car as it is the easiest and most efficient way to explore both Islands. Instead of renting a separate car on each island, it is definitely worth considering renting a car in Athens (on the morning you need to catch the ferry to Milos) and taking it across on the ferries with you to both Islands. This might save you some time and potentially some money in the long run. Just be sure to check the ferries that you want to take allow vehicles on them.
Greece FAQ’s
When is the best time to visit Greece?
The best time to visit Greece is April to June and September to October. These months offer great weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to the peak summer season (July and August), which can be hot and crowded.
If you love beach holidays then visiting between July and August will be perfect for you, but expect to pay a lot more for things such as hotels and also expect to deal with larger crowds.
If you prefer sightseeing with comfortable temperatures then I recommend visiting in the months of April, May, September and October.
Is it worth it to go to Greece for 5 days?
Yes, a 5-day trip to Greece is definitely worth it. It might feel like a short time but as this itinerary proves you can actually see quite a lot in this short space of time.
If you prefer a more relaxed itinerary over a jam-packed one then you could look at visiting just 1 or 2 places during your 5 days in Greece. This would enable you to explore fewer places but on a much deeper level.
Do I Need A Visa For Greece?
Whether you need a visa for Greece depends on your nationality. Here are some of the requirements below:
- EU Citizens: No visa required
- US, UK, Canada, Australia: No visa is required for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period
- Other Nationalities: I recommend checking Greece’s official visa requirements, as some countries may need a Schengen visa (a permit to travel to the Schengen Area, which is made up of 29 European countries including Greece)
What Should I Budget For A Trip To Greece?
The amount you need to budget will depend on your travel style. Here are some suggested budgets below:
Budget Traveler (€50–€100 per day per person)
- Hostel: €20–€40/night
- Street food & budget restaurants: €10–€20/day
- Public transport: €5–€10/day
- Free/cheap attractions: €10–€30/day
Mid-Range Traveler (€150–€250 per day per person)
- 3-star hotels or Airbnb: €70–€120/night
- Dining at good restaurants: €30–€60/day
- Transportation (taxis, ferries, rental cars): €20–€50/day
- Attractions & excursions: €40–€80/day
Luxury Traveler (€300+ per day per person)
- 5-star hotels/villas: €200–€500+/night
- Fine dining: €80–€150+/day
- Private transfers, yacht rentals: €100–€500+/day
- Exclusive tours & activities: €100–€300/day
Prepare for your trip to Greece
?️Accommodation: When you’re hunting for great deals, make sure to check out different sites like Booking.com and Hotels.com! If you’re on a budget then make sure to check out Hostelworld.
✈️Flights: Check out the best flight deals with Skyscanner and Trip.com. I never search anywhere else!
?Transport: Need to book a bus or train whilst travelling? Check out your options on 12goasia.com, Bookaway.com and thetrainline.com.
?Rental Cars: Looking to rent a car for your adventures? Check out prices on Rentalcars.com and Discovercars.com.
?Activities: Check out Get Your Guide and Viator for 100’s of activities whilst travelling.
?Insurance: Make sure you’re covered against any incidents during your trip. Get affordable and flexible insurance with SafetyWing.
?Download an eSIM: Avoid roaming fees, and have peace of mind that you have internet access when WiFi isn’t available. Download sims from either Airalo or Holafly for your time abroad.
You might also enjoy
- 13 INCREDIBLE Things To Do In Paros, Greece (& How To Get There)
- 13 Stunning Things To Do In Milos, Greece (& How To Get There)
- 16 Drool-Worthy Restaurants In Milos, Greece
Happy Exploring
I hope this 5-day Greece itinerary has helped you understand what you can see and do in Greece in just 5 days. If you have any questions about this itinerary or anything else, please do not hesitate to reach out.
