Greece is a great place for families to visit for many reasons: Children can learn about ancient civilizations like the Greeks and the Romans, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. Greece has many beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, white sand, and plenty of opportunities for water sports and activities. Greek cuisine is known for its fresh, healthy ingredients and delicious flavors. Greeks are known for their hospitality and friendly nature, and families can expect to be warmly welcomed wherever they go.
When is the best time to visit Greece?
The peak tourist season in Greece is from June to August, when the weather is hot and dry. However, this is also when the crowds are the largest and prices are the highest. The shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October offer milder weather and fewer crowds, making it a great time to visit if you want to avoid the heat and crowds.
Here is a 10 Day Itinerary Crete Santorini Athens you can use for your next advenure
Day 1: Arrive in Crete
- There are many ways to get to Crete, including direct flights from Paris, Edinburgh, Berlin, Athens, Cairo, Zurich, Vienna, Munich, Tel Aviv, Amsterdam, London, Frankfurt, Geneva and more. You can also arrive by ferry from Athens (6.5 hours).
- Upon arrival in Crete, settle into your accommodation (check out these awesome hotel options) and spend the day exploring the city of Heraklion. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, one of the largest and most important museums in Greece, which has a vast collection of Minoan artifacts, and stroll through the historic old town which is a charming maze of narrow streets, alleys, and squares, lined with traditional houses and shops. If you have time, your next stop should be Knossos Palace, one of the most important archaeological sites on the island, it was the center of the Minoan civilization and is one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe.
Day 2: Chania and Elafonisi Beach
- Make your way to the charming town of Chania (2 hours drive from Heraklion), where you can explore the picturesque Venetian harbor. The Old Town of Chania is a picturesque and charming neighborhood located on the western coast of Crete. It is characterized by narrow alleys, colorful houses, and traditional architecture, and is home to many shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks. Then, spend the rest of your day at Elafonisi Beach (just over an hour’s drive from Chania), which is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and pink sand.
- If you feel like adding one more thing to this day, check out the stunning hike at Samaria Gorge, which is located in the White Mountains. It can be accessed by heading south from Chania to Xyloskalo where you will find the National park entrance to the gorge.
Day 3: Rethymno and Triopetra beach
- Head over to Rethymno (1 hour drive from Heraklion) and explore its medieval old town, which is filled with Venetian and Ottoman architecture. After this, head one more hour drive to the breathtaking Triopetra beach. Triopetra beach is a stunning stretch of sandy beach located on the southern coast of Crete. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic rock formations, and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great spot for relaxation and swimming.
Day 4: Santorini Arrival and Oia
- Head to Santorini by ferry (about 2 hours) or flight (no direct flights are currently available so you’ll likely have to connect in Athens if flying)
- Head to the most photographed place on the island – Oia. Oia is a picturesque village located on the northwest coast of Santorini, Greece. It is known for its whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and stunning views of the Aegean Sea, making it a popular destination for tourists and honeymooners.
- Pick from one of these great tours of Santorini to get the most of your first day here, they often include transportation from ferry port to your hotel
Day 5: Red Beach and Akrotiri
- Visit the ancient city of Akrotiri (15 min drive from ferry port), which was buried under volcanic ash during the eruption of Santorini in 1627 BC.
- Head to some relaxing time at Red Beach, which is known for its distinctive red sand and cliffs.
Day 6: Fira
- Head to the capital of Santorini, Fira, and explore its narrow streets, churches, and museums. Check out the Santorini Caldera, a large volcanic crater that offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding islands. The Archaeological Museum of Thera is located in Fira and houses a collection of artifacts from ancient Thera. The Fira Old Port is a picturesque harbor located at the bottom of a steep cliff. You can take a cable car or walk down a steep staircase to reach the port, where you can explore the shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Day 7: Athens
- Fly to Athens in the morning and settle into your hotel (check out these hotel options). Spend the afternoon exploring the city’s ancient landmarks, including the Acropolis and the Parthenon, or take an organized tour.
Day 8: National Archaeological Museum and Plaka
- Visit the National Archaeological Museum, which houses some of the most important ancient artifacts in Greece, including the Antikythera mechanism. Afterwards, head to the picturesque neighborhood of Plaka, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and traditional tavernas.
Day 9: Day Trip to Sounion
- Take a day trip to Cape Sounion, which is home to the ancient Temple of Poseidon. From here, you can enjoy the stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding coastline.
- While you are down there, check out one of the beaches in the area: Paralia Pountazeza, Kape Beach, or Charakas Beach.
Day 10: Departure
- Head to the Central Market to pick up souvenirs before you head home. A bustling and colorful market located in the historic heart of the city, you can browse through a variety of stalls selling traditional Greek foods, spices, souvenirs, and antiques. The market is a great place to experience the vibrant atmosphere and culture of Athens.
- If you have time, take a food tour
- Depart Athens for your return home.
