I mean how could you not? Ancient ruins, delicious baklava, tasty table wine, romantic cobblestone streets, Greek music and dancing, very handsome men, amazing parties, and unimaginable views. There is no denying that outside the major tourist areas and sights, the city has some major improvements to make. It can be outdated and even sketchy in some parts. I imagine people who hate this city fixate on that part and forget to enjoy the good parts.

Today I bring out a quick guide to this amazing city along with some Athens itineraries you can download below. We’ll go over the logistics of visiting this gem, some awesome places to see and tips to make the most out of your stay there.

Quick Athens logistics

Suggested length of stay

Although you can comfortably cover the majority of the popular sights in two days, I would recommend staying a minimum of 3 instead to see everything and not rush. This city has an awesome charm and you’ll want to sit in small cafes for an extended period of time. The evening views of the Acropolis are unlike any others so you’ll need to spend a night there to see it for yourself.

Best time to Visit Athens

The high season in Athens is the summer, so June, July, and August will be the most crowded but also the liveliest. I visited in June and loved this time for the weather as it was warm with minimal rain. However, don’t underestimate the power of shoulder season. May and September are one of the best alternatives if you don’t like the crowds.

While countries like Greece, Italy, or France get the majority of the crowds in the summer, there are less crowded European cities that are worth visiting if you’re hopping around on a cheap RyanAir flight. I would recommend checking out the Paris of the East or Budapest, the cheap but amazing Poland or Stockholm in northern Europe!

Size & Transport

Flying in couldn’t be any easier as flights are abundant even from the states. Since intra-Europe flights are a lot cheaper, my flying hack is to always fly to the cheapest city within Europe and then book a separate flight from there to my city of choice. I saved a bunch of money by flying into Paris from NYC and then to Athens rather than booking a direct flight from NYC.

To get to the city center from Athens airport, you have 3 options:

• For under 10 euros, the Airport Express Bus will take you to Syntagma square in 40 min.
• Metro is also a cheap and easy option but also the longest (1hr).
• Taxis are significantly more expensive but get you to the city center in about 35 mins.

Athens is a medium-sized city in its tourist spot aspect. Walking is possible between most sights but I’d recommend you take advantage of the awesome metro system. It is very easy to navigate and will bring you everywhere you need to be. Buses are a good option as well. Renting a car simply does not make sense here because of parking and the complicated road layout. If you opt for a taxi, it should always have the meters turned on. The take-home is to utilize public transport as much as possible. First, it is very cheap, and second, you get to actually immerse yourself in the day-to-day life of the locals.

When continuing your Greek journey to an island, remember that you have two options, 1) flying out or 2) taking a speed ferry to the islands. The main port has easy connections to other islands with many providers. You can access the port by taking the metro there or a taxi. It is large so make sure to spot your ship correctly when you get there.

If you’re traveling to the islands, make sure to read my Santorini vs. Mykonos guide!

People in Greece

Greek people are amazing. They’re so full of life, so curious about you, and always very very hospitable. As always, be cautious when people are being too friendly, but overall, I loved interacting with almost all people. The staff in restaurants, our hostel hosts, fellow travelers, and the locals were all amazing. The atmosphere there makes you a friendlier person. I wouldn’t hesitate to find a small restaurant and simply have a conversation with the staff there.

Safety in Athens

Let’s be real. Athens can give you some sketchy vibes in certain areas as the city is struggling after the economic crisis. Some streets are a bit messy and broken down. However, I did not feel like I was in danger at any point. Walking down at night with a group of girls, we kept our guard up as the young guys made some comments at us. It was just comments and nothing that made us feel dangerous. Overall, it’s safe but be smart and do not walk down dark alleys at night.

A common problem within the city is gypsies and gypsy children. I struggle with this a lot when I travel because when a 5-year-old kid walks up to me to sell me something, I almost instantly forget about this scheme. If you see two kids approaching you, just remember that when one distracts you, the other is searching your pockets.

Food in Athens

Food is amazing all over the city. It is very cheap as well so dining in fancy restaurants is doable on a budget. I loved the extensive al-fresco dining and the little hole-in-the-wall places that serve you amazing gyros. Speaking of greek street food, you can’t get enough of it.

Drinking is the best part of this city. Table wine tastes amazing and cold beers can be found all over the city. Don’t forget to find a nice bar that gives you night views of the Acropolis at night and spend some time admiring this once-in-a-lifetime view.

Hotels/Hostels

Hostels are crazy cheap. Hotels and Airbnb are even cheaper. You have a ton of options depending on your budget. I stayed at the Circus Hostel and I loved that place! The staff is awesome and it was really cool how they tried to create social events for the guests to get to know each other.

Since the city’s accommodations are cheap, I recommend finding an Airbnb with Acropolis views. There are dozens of them and trust me when I tell you that there is nothing better than sitting on a balcony at night with a glass of wine, enjoying a lit-up Acropolis in the background.

Sightseeing

In terms of sights, there is a good amount of things to do there, some of which will take the majority of your day. You’d be living under a rock if you didn’t know that Athens is FULL of history. Seriously, the majority of the places are really old. It’s mind-blowing realizing that you’re seeing objects from B.C.

If it’s going to be any city you visit, Athens should be the one place where you make sure to immerse yourself to the fullest there when it comes to history. Get a guide for the major sights and learn something important. Do a free walking tour to at least get an introduction. In addition to the history, dedicate some time to eating your way through the city and enjoying the little moments in the street cafes.

Perfect Things To Do On Your Athens Itinerary

Athens isn’t a perfect city. It’s a little beaten down in places and you can see serious poverty once you set foot outside the tourist areas. Walking at night as a girl can be annoying as you’ll constantly get cat-called. But despite its flaws, I genuinely had an amazing time there. The locals were super friendly and the city did not fail to deliver on how many things there were to see.

Here are some must-dos in the city and no, I wouldn’t skip any of them no matter how many times you’ve seen them in other guides too!

Walking tour

Unless you’re a complete history nerd that understands the deep history behind this city, this should be the first item on your list when you arrive. I cannot recommend this enough. There are many companies that offer free walking tours on a donation basis or more private paid ones. I’d go with the free option as it offers excellent introductions and other like-minded travelers. Just pick one that doesn’t have a huge crowd following it.

I cannot emphasize how much history this city offers. Getting at least the gist of it is the least you can do to appreciate it. A walking tour should give you a nice layout of this city and also educate you enough to know what you are looking at. If walking tours are absolutely not your thing, grab a history guide and READ it.

Acropolis

It is likely that you’ve heard of the pride and joy of Athens, the Acropolis. But even if you did, you might be asking what exactly is the Acropolis. Don’t worry, it’s not a dumb question and I was genuinely confused too. The Acropolis was a very important area of Athens serving military and religious purposes. Today, the site has an ancient ruin site overlooking this stunning city. It houses temples with the most known one being the Parthenon. Although you can explore the place without a guide, make sure to do some reading on it beforehand, so you can appreciate what you’re looking at when you visit.

Some of the most known landmarks there include:

• Propylaea Gateway
• Temple of Athena Nike
• Parthenon
• Erechtheion
• Dionysus Theater
• Odeon of Herodes Atticus

Since it is one of the most popular attractions in the world, it will also be one of the busiest areas of Athens. It will be hard to avoid crowds, especially in peak season but you have a couple of options to dodge them for a little. First, arrive at the 8 am opening or 2 hours before closing. Second, use the second entrance instead of the main one, and lastly, purchase your tickets in advance online or at one of the other archeological sites. Prices vary depending on the time of year.

While you’ll be touring this attraction during the day, make sure to set time aside to see it from one of the viewpoints in the early evening too. I can’t even describe how amazing it looks at night too. No amount of online pictures captures its magnificence during that time. A lot of the local bars/restaurants offer prime views of it too. I went to 360 Degrees Bar and loved the views. Here is a nice guide from True Voyagers on awesome rooftops with Acropolis views.

Acropolis Museum

To finish your history lesson, visit the Acropolis Museum to learn a little more about this magnificent place. It’s located down the hill in the actual city. Although it houses extremely old objects, don’t be surprised by how modern this building is on the outside. I was a little confused myself as I expected a grand old-style building. The museum has an impressive glass floor through which you can see the remains of the old ruins. Purchase your tickets ahead of time to skip the long lines. The price is 5 euro off-season and 10 in-season.

Mars Hill

Having lived in New Jersey for most of my life, I always tell those who want to visit my next-door neighbor, New York City, that NYC is best seen from across the river. Don’t get me wrong, NYC has its perks for sure, but you really get to see it and understand the feeling it gives when you’re standing in New Jersey looking at its amazing skyline from afar.

Acropolis in my opinion is similar to NYC in that sense. Yea sure, it is an amazing place to visit during the day and see the city from its hills. But when it really hits you is when you’re standing on one of the viewpoints, especially at night looking at it from afar. That’s when you really see its scope and why so many people want to come and see it with their own eyes.

Mars Hills is my pick for that wow factor of all of Acropolis. It is certainly not an easy climb and don’t be surprised by the youths hanging out there too. Oh, and it actually is known for the place where St. Paul preached from. But if you’re not there for St. Paul, grab a 6 pack and enjoy the sunset staying into the evening. Since it’s quite a popular spot, there is a decent amount of people around so it should be fairly safe to explore at that time of the day.

Lycabettus Hill

While Mars Hill should be the first place you catch views from, if you have an extra day in Athens, make your way over to Lycabettus Hill too. Its location is a little more distant and you will have to take a short ride from the city center. You have the option to climb it, get a ride there, or take the cable car up. I strongly recommend watching the sunset from there.

Plaka

Plaka is a neighborhood that if you have never been to Greece, you’d imagine Greece would be like. The hanging colorful flowers, street cafes, and tiny roads make it a must-see during your visit. Until this day I romanticize that part of town.

I wish I got better pictures to show you how stunning this area is but I was too busy drinking wine and enjoying the company of my two best friends. Grab lunch at one of the restaurants on Anafiotika street. It’s a very unique experience and you will never forget the magic of this little area.

Since it is a very old neighborhood, you will also find the Agora there or a place of gathering for debates between Socrates and Plato.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

This is a site of what is left of this magnificent ancient structure. This was built about 400 years BC and it’s amazing that it still stands even to the extent today. You need to pay an entrance fee to the sight and you will also see Gate of Hadrian in that area. If you don’t want to enter it, most walking tours stop outside the gates from which you can see the structure.

Monastiraki Square

Monastiraki Square is the main town square situated centrally in Athens. It’s a good spot to grab a Greek coffee during the day and spend some money. It’s an amazing place to pause and people-watch. During the night, you can find a couple of bars here that provide amazing views of the Acropolis.

Syntagma Square

This is the famous spot of the guard change which happens daily at 11 am. Large crowds gather to this spot daily. It is located in front of the Parliament building. While I respect these cultural proud activities, I wouldn’t consider this as a must-see.

National Garden

Nice garden for a small stroll. It’s located near the posh Kolonaki neighborhood so if you have enough time, make a stop there to enjoy the beautiful local flora.

Perfect Athens Itinerary: FREE Downloadable Guides for your stay

Athens is a gem of a city that should be given its deserved time. In my opinion that should be three days. The people are great, the food is absolutely delicious and the wine makes everything even more perfect. I made these three itineraries for you for one, two, and three-day stays. I hope you have the most perfect time in this perfect city.

One Day Athens Itinerary

One day in Athens is just enough to see the gist of the major sites but I would strongly recommend staying a little longer than that. However, if that is all you got no fret, I planned the perfect day for you.

You’ll start your day exploring the Acropolis, learning some history, and seeing the charming Plaka neighborhood. Then, you will spend some time in Monastiraki square and end your stay admiring the sunset views of the Acropolis from afar.

Two Day Athens Itinerary

Two days is a good amount of time to see most of the major sights. For day one, you will start your day with a walking tour which will provide you with a good history lesson. Avoiding history in this city is impossible so you might as well appreciate how old and valuable everything is. The tour will also give you a good overview of everything. The day will end with some panoramic views of the city and cold cocktails on the roof.

On day two, you will explore the impressive Acropolis, the museum, and the local neighborhoods. Once again, you will end the night with some more views of the Acropolis but with a different perspective than yesterday.

Three Day Athens Itinerary

I personally stayed in Athens for two days and until this day, I regret not adding the third. I think this is the perfect combination of history, food, views, and even the beach. When I return there, I will certainly stay longer than my first stay to fully grasp the charm of this city.

My three-day itinerary is very similar to the two-day one, but instead, on the third day, I added a beach day, time for exploring the Glyfada area, and a unique experience in the city.

Tip for the beach: Although you’ll need to pay for the lounge chairs and location of “fancier” beaches, the price is worth the experience.

Map for your Greek Adventure

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Final Thoughts on Athens

Athens is an amazing city and despite its economic challenges, it’s still a perfect travel destination. Although you might not find a ton of things to do in this city, I promise that you will enjoy it for the vibe. I strongly recommend a couple of days in the city and then a nice excursion to the Greek Islands. And speaking of the Greek islands here is a post on how to visit them:

Santorini or Mykonos? Pros and cons of each and how to visit both Greek islands

Greece is truly a once-in-a-lifetime type of destination. And oh yes, everyone knows about its beauty so it will certainly be swarmed…

Continue Reading Santorini or Mykonos? Pros and cons of each and how to visit both Greek islands

Most often when people visit Greece, they do so with the goal of visiting at least one of the Greek islands. Having been to both, I can tell you that they are very different and there are pros and cons to visiting each. With this awesome guide and itinerary, I hope to help you decide whether to visit Santorini or Mykonos or even both! Before you start with the Greek islands though, if you’re flying into Athens, don’t forget to check out my awesome Athens guide too.

There is a lot of information ahead for you. In this extensive guide for visiting Santorini and/or Mykonos you will find:

• Some essentials logistics: You’ll get the info on transport, where to stay, food, expectations, and general advice for each Greek island.
• Things to do: Top places actually worth your time and which are overrated like the Red Beach in Santorini for example.
• Downloadable free itineraries for each destination: Why worry about planning if I already planned it for you 🙂 You can print them and your entire trip will be planned.

I always make my itineraries after I visit a destination and optimize them for you based on things I wish I knew or have done differently. No need to make the same mistakes twice! My guides are also best for short and active trips!

So, fellow traveler, let’s go to Greece!

Note that you may encounter some affiliate links in this post. They will not make anything more expensive for you but rather provide a small commission for me should you choose to book it via the link I provide. Since I do not charge for any of my awesome travel advice and don’t make you sign up for anything to download my stuff, I appreciate any link clicks and bookings through here 🙂

Quick logistics of visiting Santorini and Mykonos

General Itinerary for Santorini & Mykonos

In case you already know that you want to see both islands, it really doesn’t really matter which order you visit these in but the route below might be more convenient for the least amount of time dedicated to transport. There are so many connections available simply depending on your outbound destinations. Each island has a ferry port as well as an airport. There are flights in and out from all the major European airports and ferries from other Greek cities. For your reference, this was my plan:

• Flight into Athens with a 2-day stay – See my full Athens guide here and why I wish I stayed much longer! (I recommend at least 3 days instead)
• Speed ferry (5ish hours) from Athens to Santorini – 4 days on the island
• Speed ferry (2ish hours) from Santorini to Mykonos – 3 days on the island
• Flight out from Mykonos to my next destination

Aside from Athens, I was happy with my length of stay on each island so I’d say the ideal time is a 7-day itinerary for Santorini and Mykonos if you’re seeing both.

Best time to visit Santorini or Mykonos

The best time to visit either island is obviously in the summer but expect that time to be pricey and crowded. Visiting between June to August will be the most crowded so if that’s something that could bother you, I suggest the shoulder season in May or September. Keep in mind that any Greek islands are highly seasonal so visiting off-season might restrict you from all the activities. If you’re planning to swim, know that Greek island water is not like the Caribbean island ones with year-round warm waters. The sea is quick to cool in spring and fall.

Getting to Santorini and Mykonos

Reaching either Santorini or Mykonos can be either done via plane or a ferry depending on your origin. The boats can get expensive in the summer, especially the ones with better travel times and faster speeds. Book ahead to secure your spot, pack a motion sickness pill and enjoy a nice nap on the ferry. Note that not all boats are direct so don’t get off at the wrong Greek island 🙂

There are a couple of ferry companies like Blue Star Ferries, or Seajets, which I’d say offer more or less of the same service. Pick one that suits your times best. I also took the speed boat from Athens which at the time of my summer visit cost around 70 euros. I chose a “fast” 5-hour ride compared to the 8+ hour on the cheaper boat. It was a comfortable ride that I slept through after a night of partying in Athens. Make sure to arrive early at the port because as a first-timer, it might be as intuitive to get around.

At the time of my visit, the boat was cheaper than the flight so I opted for it to save some money. Most of the flight connections are out of Athens so make sure to check the routes and prices too.

Travel on the Greek islands

Both islands are pretty small and can be covered in a couple of days. When you get to either Santorini or Mykonos, I strongly recommend renting a car. This will be the first thing people offer you when you arrive at the port. I ended up paying 90 euros for a 3-day rental with insurance in Santorini. I got lucky without pre-booking, but it might be in your best interest to book ahead instead. When renting from these unofficial vendors, always use your travel credit card for the booking for the extra insurance protection it offers. I strongly recommend getting a car to get the most out of the island and have a lot of flexibility with your own schedule.

In Santorini, public transport is widely available but it is slow, not frequent and you will spend a lot of time being restricted by the bus schedules. Note that the roads are borderline dangerous at times with all the twists, turns, and fast drivers but if you’re a mindful driver, you’ll have nothing to worry about. With a car, you will be able to see all the major stops and cover the whole island in a couple of hours if you wanted to. You can easily plan your day trips around the islands.

In Mykonos, I used public transport to get around and although I was content, I regret not renting something to cover more land. The buses are crowded and not often reliable in terms of timing but if you’re on island time, does it really matter what time the bus comes?

Another popular option on the Greek islands is renting ATVs and getting around that way. It’s not a bad option but it will cost you about the same as a car, it’s not as fast and a little less safe.

People & Safety in Greece

I remember very few locals from both islands since it was mostly filled with tourists. My favorite interaction was with one of the waiters in a restaurant in Mykonos that we returned to a couple of times because we loved the food there. He actually got to interact with us and it was nice to get this small immersion on an island full of foreigners. In town, shop owners were very nice but due to the volume of people there, it was hard to actually get to talk to anyone.

Overall both islands are considered safe. Even at night as a girl, I did not feel unsafe or threatened. In Mykonos though, as in any heavy party atmosphere, beware of leaving your drink unattended, and don’t carry valuables with you when going out. The heavy party component of the island is probably your biggest threat. Beware of fake drugs and don’t go too hard.

In the most crowded places like Oia, Santorini, you will find occasional pickpockets like in any other touristy place in the world. People are very nice but use common sense if you’re finding some locals/tourists a little too friendly. Remember not to leave valuables in the car when you park in public parking lots! It’s a common occurrence for thieves to watch tourists parking in lots and leaving their purses and backpacks in their rented cars. The best crimes happen in plain sight (like on my Tenerife trip with a serious car rental break-in) so don’t assume your things will be safe even on the most crowded street.

Food in Santorini and Mykonos

I dream about fresh and authentic Greek food. Seriously, it is probably one of the best memories of being there. Although there are some tourist traps, most of the places serve very fresh ingredients.

In Mykonos, the food was great, especially in town at the outdoor restaurants. I really enjoyed the seafood there and pretty much everything else I ate during that stay. The variety is endless and it really depends on your budget and how well you want to dine. One thing to consider is that prices are not budget travel friendly so always check the menu before you get yourself a 40-euro octopus, like me. Drinking is part of the fun on this island. It is a heavy party spot so prepare to sleep in after a night full of 15-euro vodka clubs on the Mykonos beaches.

In Santorini, the hotel I stayed at (Sea View) had the best little restaurants that would serve delicious fresh seafood, those Greek appetizers we always crave, and some amazing meats. A lot of beachfront hotels serve you food to your lounging chair which makes the stay even more relaxing. Drinking on the island is great. Don’t be afraid of the good old table wine which is cheap and actually amazing. Places for those types of activities are so abundant, that you will never have any trouble finding any. This blog has a great Santorini restaurant guide so if you’re a foodie looking for the next best spot, make sure to check them out.

So now that you have the basics, let’s dive deeper into the highlights of Santorini and Mykonos to help you decide which you’d like to see.

Santorini Guide

Suggested length of stay in Santorini

Santorini has that island pace of life which is usually a lot slower than our rushed in-land life. Whenever I visit islands, I keep that in mind and also account for the extra time needed to absorb everything it has to offer. Santorini deserves at least 3 to 4 days of your attention and an absolute minimum of two. It’s certainly much more chill in my opinion and this is where you’ll want that extra lounge time.

Santorini Hotels

There are SO many options for your stay in Santorini. I personally always start looking at hostels as they provide the most social opportunities and awesome activities if you choose a good one. When first exploring the Santorini options, the couple available hostels did not seem to provide that and they seemed extremely expensive for what they offered. Traveling with two friends, we opted out for a hotel stay instead. If that has changed since my visit, please comment below with some recommendations for other fellow explorers.

Hotels are abundant so choose one based on your budget and preferred area of stay. The Caldera view of the inner “moon” of the island is mostly rocky and city-like, housing the most famous villages you’ve seen in photos like Fira and Oia. This is also the spot for the famous sunset. When going on a honeymoon or another special occasion, this is a place worth splurging on. You will find the cave apartments with infinity pools here but it won’t be cheap.

The other side over by Perissa is more beachy and offers more flat and less crowded sea views. The black sand beaches are just as stunning and being located right on the beach is extremely relaxing. This is where I stayed at Sea View hotel and I was happy to be far away from the crowds. The hotels there are also prettier in my opinion.

Sightseeing Options in Santorini

Honestly, I would be lying if I told you that there is a lot to do in Santorini. Any guide you look at repeats the same couple of options over and over. Let me make your life easier and just summarize a typical Santorini path:

• You visit the touristy villages to get those amazing white house shots
• Then you relax on one of the many stunning beaches
• Obviously, you drink and eat a ton of the most amazing Greek food
• Maybe get your butt on a boat around the island
• Oh and how can I forget, the SUNSET – honestly worth the hype though

Although the options are kinda slim, each of the things is meant to be enjoyed for hours if not days, and not just quickly checked off your Santorini list. They can be repeated as well without necessarily getting sick of them. Most of my trips are very dense in terms of exploring and doing things, so visiting Santorini and allowing myself to take a break from it all, was the best choice I made during that trip.

Perfect Things To Do In Santorini

It might appear that this island isn’t full of things to do, but each of the stops I mention deserves a decent amount of time to spend time in. So enjoy it, don’t rush, and soak in the beauty of this amazing place.

Visit the villages of Oia and Fira

Oia and Fira are famous villages on the caldera side of the island that you see in all the Santorini photos. They’re known for those amazing little streets with crazy views, restaurants, bars, and little shops. And yes, as you might have already guessed, they are also the most crowded places on the island.

Especially in peak season, it will be difficult to walk through the narrow streets. It’s not ideal but if you can stand the crowds, you will eventually find a moment of peace. Pick one day where you’ll commit to exploring Oia and/or Fira and mentally prepare not to be annoyed at the crowds.

Now while the people will make the experience less than ideal, the views and sights will certainly make up for that inconvenience. When I first reached those viewpoints, I was in awe and couldn’t believe how beautiful those surroundings were. It’s just such a unique sight, especially for someone who grew up and lives in New Jersey …

Most people choose these two locations to watch the sunset. I recommend stationing yourself at a restaurant in that area, that offers those magical sunset views but doesn’t come with the crowds that gather in the streets.

Enjoy the sunset from one of the island’s wineries

Santo Winery is simply stunning. It has gotten extremely popular in the past few years, so make sure to make a reservation a couple of days ahead to get better seating for the sunset. It is a little pricey but the wines and snacks are delicious and the views are just breathtaking. They often have live music that makes you feel like you have been teleported to a magical land with out-of-this-world views. As famous as it is, I highly recommend it.

Venetsanos Winery is another amazing place with some sweet sunset views located not that far from Santo. You also have to make a reservation to get a prime spot and entry will cost you. Quality will be top-notch.

Sigalas Domaine does not offer a direct sunset view but here you will focus more on the experience of high-quality wine tasting. It is located in the northern part of the island and might be a good alternative to avoid major crowds.

Wine Tours are also a very popular option for tourists. If you’re staying for a longer period of time, consider doing this activity to see multiple wineries in the area. Santorini Dave has an amazing layout and recommendations for wine tours so make sure to check out his reviews on each.

Enjoy one of Santorini’s stunning beaches

Red Beach

You’ve seen this Red Beach shot on all major travel blogs, websites, and Instagram. You begin to imagine laying on the sand enjoying the red rock and crystal clear waters. Sounds like a dream right? Well …

Ok, let’s get real here. The beach colors are indeed AMAZING from that particular angle. No doubt about that. The actual beach? It’s not great. First, getting there is a pain in the ass. The parking lot is so overpacked and borderline sketchy to park in for the fear of someone breaking in. There are also a ton of vendors selling you things and shoving things in your face as you get distracted. Distracted means target of pickpockets. Then the walk to the actual beach is rocky and narrow, not allowing a proper passage of people. Everyone is taking the same picture on the way too. Once you reach the beach, it’s filled with big rocks and no space to sit.

If you like space, sand, and no crowds, you probably will not enjoy this spot. But should you visit for that particular view? YES! But don’t be surprised about the reality of this place.

Perissa Black Sand Beach

Located on the opposite side of the caldera, this black sand beach is a lot more spacious and a lot less crowded. I walked along its entire length from Perivolos and it was crazy beautiful and relaxing. In the end, you reach a giant rock wall and can finally take a small break to catch some sun. I liked this spot a lot for two things: the walk along it and the ability to relax on the beachfront chairs offer by my hotel. Did I mention the numerous beer spots along the way?

Kamari beach has a similar vibe and it’s a little more north of this one, “behind” the rock that you will reach. This is another alternative to the more crowded places.

Hike the Volcano in Santorini or Take a Boat Tour Around the island

A short boat rides away from Oia, you will find Nea Kameni Island on which you can hike the volcano and get some sweet views. This is something you’d do if you had extended time on the island.I personally did not get to do this as I chose to lounge around by the pool of my hotel but it was on my to-do list for the trip.

The options for boat tours are endless on this island. Based on the type of activity you’d like to do, a sunset ride, a fishing trip, or even a party boat, there is a boat operator for it. Choose one and enjoy the day sailing away not having a worry in the world.

Relax

Wherever you are choosing to stay, either on the touristy caldera side or the more relaxed opposite side of the island, take a day to do nothing. Enjoy your accommodation, order a nice lunch or dinner, lay on the beach in your awesome lounge chair, have a nice cold beer (or five), and just appreciate and soak in the island vibe of Santorini. As active as I am on my trips, this is one of these destinations that’s meant to be enjoyed slowly.

Perfect Santorini Itinerary: FREE Downloadable Guides

Two Perfect Days in Santorini

I normally start these with my One Day Itinerary but I think visiting Santorini in one day would be a waste. Even two days seem short but with this guide, you will be able to see the most popular spots without rushing so much. For the first day, I recommend starting the day slow, absorbing the personality of this amazing island. Then you will head over to the very popular Oia village which should be visited despite the crowds. You will end your day with the sunset everyone’s been talking about. On day two, you will explore some beaches, drink good wine, and explore another beautiful village for dinner.

Three Perfect Days in Santorini

Three days is the minimum amount of time to soak this island in. The first two days are very similar to my two-day itinerary with the second night involving a party option. On day three, you will enjoy a new beach, a water sport, or a relaxing boat tour, ending your stay with a movie under the stars.

Now let’s talk about Mykonos

Mykonos Expectations…

Best parties. Bohemian heaven vibes. Boujee celebrity paradise.

Visiting Mykonos with my two closest girlfriends, we pictured perfect party beaches, cold cocktails, and an unforgettable time. We took a short boat from Santorini eager for our 3-day adventure. Sure, we wanted to stay longer but a backpacker budget can only stretch so long when your hostel costs 60 euros a night per person. To those who never stayed in a hostel, that’s a lot of hostel money! Mykonos’ reputation centers around partying so that is pretty much the only expectation we had.

… vs. Mykonos Reality

To those that don’t mind crowds, obnoxious drunk partygoers, and everyone thinking they’re an insta model in the little colorful streets and extreme wind, Mykonos could be the perfect destination as the views and ambiance override the annoyances. However, if you know that you don’t like this vibe, skip it for a less popular Greek island.

I’m not sure if people go to Mykonos to enjoy themselves or to take the perfect picture and say that went to Mykonos. It’s hard as it was very difficult for us to bond with anyone there compared to Athens or Santorini. However, that did not stop us from enjoying each other’s company and making the most out of this island gem.

Suggested length of stay in Mykonos

How long you stay in Mykonos really depends on what you’re looking for. For example, if you like a relaxing, slow-pace holiday, you need 4-5 or so days there. It will allow you to enjoy Mykonos beaches, see the town and do nothing but admire the beauty of the island. Simply popping in for a weekend? Rent a car and see the whole island in 2 to 3 days. Looking to party? Then I say you need at least 3 days. Mykonos partying is known for a reason. If you’re not sure, my sweet spot suggestion is 3 days to get a taste of everything and then hop on a boat to the next island. Mykonos is a pricey island so staying an extra day is not the cheapest per se.

Mykonos Hotels

Mykonos is expensive. The hotels and hostels will consume your budget especially if you’re a backpacker. Compared to other greek destinations which are incredibly cheap, you’ll feel this price surge in Mykonos. Staying closer to the main town, you can find expensive Airbnbs. The beaches have hotels and resorts but that will also cost you. Where you stay depends on what you’d like to do.

We stayed right in Paradise Beach at the Paradise Beach Hostel simply because we wanted to party. There are three options at the main resort: camping, hostel-like accommodations, and more upscale hotel rooms. Our room had three beds and provided no interactions with other guests. We simply chose that place due to its location but there are also hostels located a short walk from Paradise Beach that looked more fun for day activities.

More and more Airbnb options pop up on the island, so if you’re traveling with a group, it might be worth renting out a whole house.

Sightseeing Options in Mykonos

As simply put as possible, Paradise Beach area is for partying, Mykonos town is for exploring, eating, and shopping while the rest of the island is for relaxing. Although the island is pretty rocky and the beaches have black sand, it’s super beautiful. The famous little blue and white streets and windmills are what the hype is about. If you’re a tourist, there is not much more on this island aside from what I mentioned above.

Now I’m sure you’re tempted to ask, what’s everyone raving about then? Well, Mykonos is a party playground for the rich crowd and celebrities alike. It’s not uncommon for European “elites” to rent out mansions in Mykonos and spend time partying and lounging together. As a poor backpacker like myself, the island will have a very different experience for you 🙂

Some options for things to do in Mykonos

There are not that many landmarks on this island. The best thing you can do there is to relax on the beautiful beaches, shop in the awesome boutiques and obviously party your nights away on the southern side of the island.

Little Venice

This is the area you’ve seen in all the photos. The rocky shore, low-standing houses on the water, outdoor tables with people dining, and sunset views. Along the water, you will get a nice perspective of that strip. It’s worth pausing at one of the numerous restaurants in the area for lunch or a drink. Although crowded, it really has stunning views. Don’t underestimate the wind either!

Windmills

The iconic windmills of Mykonos are just around the corner from Little Venice. The area gets extremely crowded, especially during sunset time. Don’t be fooled by my empty picture below. I got lucky at just the right angle in between many many tourists. Oh, it is also very windy. Go figure out why they stuck giant windmills there.

I strongly recommend seeing this place during the day and then once again at night. They offer very different perspectives of the area and you will appreciate them even more.

Mykonos Town

When you’re done exploring the waterfront, I suggest getting lost in the little streets for some (expensive) shopping. The color contrast, the narrow alleys, and the street restaurants are really something worth seeing. Matoyianni Street is a good navigation point as it is the most known one.

Mykonos town is the famous Instagram area where you see people on stairs, walking in the alleys, and posing at sunrise. Note that a lot of the stairwells are people’s homes so don’t be that guy. It is indeed a stunning area but it could get annoying.

Paradise Beach

This is where you come to party. Paradise Beach Club is where the majority of party-goers stay as it has a hotel, hostel, and a camping site. On the same beach, you have Tropicana Club and Cavo up the hill.

At Paraga beach which is a short walk away, you will find more bars and smaller clubs as well. That is also where the infamous Scorpios Club is but reading up on its recent reviews, I wouldn’t even bother. It’s more aimed at celebrities and people with big pockets.

Super Paradise Beach

Known as the gay-friendly – friend of paradise beach for partying. We took a little boat from Paradise to Super Paradise for a couple of euros for a day trip to the beach. Providing a much more quiet atmosphere during the day, I simply loved this beach. It has a small beach bar, lounge chairs, and some water activities. It’s the perfect relaxation after a night of partying.

Beaches & Water Activities

Agios Sostis Beach is a more remote beach without crazy bars, crowds, or lounge chairs. The atmosphere feels more secluded and extremely relaxing. The blue waters, surrounding mountains, and tranquility are perfect for the ultimate day escape.

Elia Beach might be a little nude, but it certainly wows with its beauty! You’ll find stretches of beach chairs and appreciate its relaxing atmosphere. It’s also not too far from the main town.

Lastly, you can snorkel, scuba dive or better yet rent a boat with your friends for the ultimate Mykonos party treat. There are some boat tours offered on the island ranging from party cruises to more PG-rated sunset tours.

Perfect Mykonos Itinerary: FREE Downloadable Guides for your stay

You can easily spend a week in Mykonos partying your ass off or you can explore a little bit and see what else the island has to offer. I partied a little but spent the majority of my time exploring the island. Below you can find one, two, or three itineraries below for your perfect stay in Mykonos. Compared to Athens or even Santorini, this won’t be a place with many things to see. But then again, who goes to Mykonos to sightsee? 🙂

One Perfect Day in Mykonos

One day in Mykonos is enough to see the major highlights of the island. If you plan to visit beaches and the town, make sure to leave some extra time in between the buses. They might not be as reliable when it comes to time, but that’s island time for ya. You will start your morning exploring Mykonos town, then spend the afternoon sipping a drink on the beach. For your evening you will come back to town for a sunset on the water.

Two Perfect Days in Mykonos

Two days is good enough to see the town and party a little at night. The first day will be similar to the one-day itinerary. The next day will be free to spend a lazy day on the beach based on many beach options.

Three Perfect Days in Mykonos

Three days is a good option for those that want to take it slow and save some recovery time after a long night of partying. There aren’t that many options of things to do on this island, but with three days you’ll see the most popular spots, spend quality time on the beaches and not feel rushed. Mykonos is VERY expensive so even for three days, prepare a solid budget. My three-day itinerary is very similar to two days, but on day three you will venture out a little further.

Map for your Santorini and Mykonos Adventure

Should you visit Mykonos or Santorini?

A small reality check first:

Although Santorini is a beautiful, romantic honeymoon and island paradise kinda destination, it is way overcrowded. It’s also physically hard to explore the villages and get places so if you have physical limitations, you won’t be able to explore that side of the island.

Mykonos is also stunning and unique but it’s so Instagram thirsty that if seeing this type of crowd annoys you, you might not enjoy some parts of the island. If you like to party though, it will be a dream destination for you.

Whether you should visit Mykonos or Santorini is the oldest debate among anyone visiting the Greek islands for the first time. I will give you the best advice I can and say, simply visit both! Each is world-famous for a reason and if you’re already in Greece, you might as well see them yourself. Yes, each has its own issues but when I think back on this trip, I don’t first recall the crowds or the other annoyances. I remember the amazing scenery and having an awesome time with my best friends instead.

To this day I look back at my pictures and can’t believe that I got to experience Santorini and Mykonos. But you came here to get a realistic view of what it’s like to travel there. If at any point you felt like this isn’t the spot for you, remember there are 227 Greek Islands 🙂

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