9 day itinerary for Greece

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Athens

Welcome to Greece! Start your adventure by exploring the vibrant city of Athens. Visit the iconic Acropolis, where you can marvel at the ancient ruins of the Parthenon and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Take a stroll through the historic Plaka neighborhood, known for its charming streets, traditional tavernas, and souvenir shops. Indulge in some delicious Greek cuisine, such as moussaka or souvlaki, and savor the flavors of the Mediterranean.

Day 2: Delphi Excursion

Embark on a day trip to Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 2.5 hours from Athens. Delphi was once considered the center of the world in ancient times and is famous for its archaeological site and the Temple of Apollo. Explore the ruins, including the ancient theater and the Delphi Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from the site. Immerse yourself in the rich history and mythology of Greece.

Day 3: Explore Athens

Spend another day in Athens to delve deeper into its historical treasures. Visit the National Archaeological Museum, which houses an extensive collection of ancient Greek artifacts, including the iconic Mask of Agamemnon. Take a leisurely walk through the charming neighborhood of Anafiotika, nestled beneath the Acropolis, and enjoy the picturesque views. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Greek dinner accompanied by live music and dance performances.

Day 4: Travel to Thessaloniki

Take a domestic flight or a scenic train ride to Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city. Explore the vibrant city center, visit the White Tower, and wander through the narrow streets of the Ano Poli (Upper Town) district. Discover the rich Byzantine history of Thessaloniki by visiting the Rotunda and the Byzantine Walls. Don't forget to try some local delicacies, such as bougatsa (a sweet or savory pastry) and souvlaki.

Day 5: Visit Vergina and Pella

Embark on a day trip to Vergina and Pella, two important archaeological sites near Thessaloniki. Vergina is home to the Royal Tombs of Macedonia, where the tomb of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great, was discovered. Explore the museum and marvel at the intricate gold artifacts. Continue to Pella, the ancient capital of Macedonia, and visit the archaeological site to see the ruins of palaces, houses, and mosaics.

Day 6: Explore Thessaloniki

Spend another day in Thessaloniki to soak up its vibrant atmosphere. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, which houses a vast collection of artifacts from the region's ancient past. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy the stunning views of the Thermaic Gulf. Indulge in some delicious Greek street food, such as gyros or souvlaki, and explore the local markets for unique souvenirs.

Day 7: Travel to Crete

Fly to the beautiful island of Crete, known for its rich history and stunning landscapes. Upon arrival, head to the charming city of Chania. Explore the Venetian Harbor, wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, and visit the Archaeological Museum of Chania to learn about the island's ancient civilizations. Enjoy a traditional Cretan dinner, featuring local specialties like dakos (barley rusk salad) and kalitsounia (cheese pastries).

Day 8: Discover Knossos and Heraklion

Embark on a day trip to the archaeological site of Knossos, located near the capital city of Heraklion. Explore the ruins of the Minoan Palace of Knossos, which dates back to the Bronze Age and is considered Europe's oldest city. Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to see the impressive collection of Minoan artifacts, including the famous Snake Goddess figurine. End the day by strolling along the vibrant streets of Heraklion and enjoying a delicious seafood dinner.

Day 9: Farewell Greece

On your last day, take some time to relax and soak up the beauty of Crete. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast by the beach, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or explore the local markets for some last-minute souvenirs. Bid farewell to Greece with a heart full of memories and a taste for its rich history and delectable cuisine.

Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it based on your preferences and available time. Enjoy your winter adventure in Greece!