Planning a 10-day honeymoon in Greece
Ten days is enough for Athens plus two island stays, as long as you keep the plan simple. Most itineraries pair a short history-focused stay in Athens with beach and sunset time on the islands. Moving more often than every three or four nights tends to eat into your holiday, so the itinerary below uses three bases.
What part of Greece is best for a honeymoon?
It depends on the mood you want.
- Santorini. Known for caldera views and sunsets. It is very popular and can be crowded and expensive in summer.
- Mykonos. Beaches, nightlife and restaurants. A good fit if you want a social atmosphere.
- Milos, Naxos and Paros. Often described as more relaxed, with good beaches. Naxos and Paros are generally easier on budgets.
- Crete. A larger island with mountains, beaches and a distinct food scene, which suits a longer or car-based stay.
- Peloponnese and Athens Riviera. Lower-key mainland options.
A sample 10-day itinerary
This is one possible plan. Adjust to your own interests, flight times and ferry schedules.
Days 1 to 3: Athens
Arrive in Athens and settle in. Visit the Acropolis, ideally early in the day to avoid heat and crowds, and the Acropolis Museum. Spend an evening in the Plaka or a rooftop restaurant with an Acropolis view, and consider a half-day trip to Cape Sounion for the Temple of Poseidon at sunset. Booking timed tickets in advance is usually sensible in busy seasons.
Days 4 to 6: A quieter island such as Naxos, Paros or Milos
Take a ferry or short flight. Use these days to rest, swim, rent a scooter or car if you are comfortable doing so, and eat in village tavernas. Boat trips to nearby coves are a popular honeymoon activity.
Days 7 to 9: Santorini
Travel by ferry or flight. Choose where to stay based on whether you want caldera views (Oia, Fira and Imerovigli) or beaches (Kamari, Perissa). Possible activities include a sunset catamaran cruise, a winery visit, and the walk between Fira and Oia, which is longer and hotter than many expect.
Day 10: Return to Athens
Fly or ferry back, and leave a buffer if you have an international flight. Many couples fly directly from Santorini to Athens the day before departure rather than risk a ferry delay.
If you would rather do Mykonos and Santorini, swap one of the island stays. Keep in mind that this pair is among the most expensive combinations.
Getting around
- Ferries. Frequent in summer, less so in the off-season. Schedules change by season and can be disrupted by weather, particularly high winds, so allow slack on days when you must catch a flight.
- Flights. Domestic flights are a quicker option for some routes, though routes and prices vary.
- Local transport. On islands, buses, taxis, scooters and rental cars are common options. Check that your license and insurance cover what you plan to rent.
When to go
Late May, June, September and early October are commonly suggested for warm weather and open facilities, without the peak crowds of July and August. See our honeymoon ideas by month for other timing ideas. Early spring and late autumn can be cooler and some island businesses are closed.
How expensive is a 10-day trip to Greece?
Costs vary significantly by season and island. Hotels on Santorini and Mykonos are generally priced higher than on many other islands, especially in July and August. The main cost drivers are flights, accommodation, inter-island transport, and how often you eat out. For a realistic budget, price flights and accommodation for your dates first, then add ferries, food and activities, plus a cushion.
Is Greece affected by the Iran war?
Geopolitical situations can change quickly, so any assessment written here could be out of date by the time you read it. Before booking, check your government’s official travel advisory for Greece and for the wider region, review airline and ferry notices, and consider travel insurance that covers cancellations. Look at what the policy says about conflict or advisories, since terms differ.
What is not allowed to bring to Greece?
Rules depend on where you are coming from. As a general guide, there are limits on bringing meat and dairy products into the EU from outside it, and restrictions on carrying certain medications, large amounts of cash without declaration, and items such as drones in some areas. Rules change, so verify with official customs and government sources, and carry prescription medicines in their original packaging with documentation.
Practical tips
- Check passport validity and entry requirements through official sources. EU rules for non-EU visitors, including any travel authorization system, are updated from time to time.
- Pack comfortable shoes for steep, uneven paths and stairs.
- Wear sun protection, since the Acropolis and island days can be very hot in summer. Our packing list for a romantic getaway has a longer checklist.
- Book Santorini and Mykonos accommodation early if traveling in summer. Our honeymoon planning timeline shows when to book each piece.
- Consider travel insurance for ferry or flight disruption.
Where this fits
If you are weighing Greece against other options, see our guide to a honeymoon through Europe, or compare it with an Italy honeymoon. For another Mediterranean coast, see romantic places in Croatia, or browse the most romantic vacations in Europe.