13 days in Greece & Ionian Islands Itinerary

Few places manage to capture the world's imagination quite like Greece, a land of sun-kissed coastlines, tranquil whitewashed villages, lively seaside towns, and well-preserved ancient sites. One of the world's top tourist destinations since ancient times, the country draws nearly 20 million visitors each year. Athens, the birthplace of Western civilization, continues to attract the biggest crowds and serves as a base for exploring the country and its 227 inhabited islands. Away from its cities, Greece features a picturesque countryside of olive groves, vineyards, and tiny settlements nestled against rolling hills and rugged mountain ranges. Explore the old mainland on foot and discover the islands on a guided boat or ferry tour.

Known for dramatic views and romantic sunsets, the island of Santorini draws visitors with its long string of black, white, and red beaches. The largest and most significant of a small group of volcanic islands located just 200 km (120 mi) southeast of Greece's mainland, Santorini boasts just over 15,000 permanent residents. Created by a massive volcanic eruption that likely destroyed a single large island, the archipelago still features an active volcano, which saw its last eruption in the 1950s. The easiest way to explore Santorini's craggy coastline is on foot. Start by visiting the archaeological sites on the island's southwestern side, which offer a chance to discover the area's ancient past with unobstructed views of the famed volcano.

Local tradition claims that Mykonos, the trendiest of the Cyclades group of islands, came into existence from the petrified bodies of giants killed by the mythological hero Hercules. Named after the grandson of the god Apollo, this cosmopolitan "Ibiza of Greece" offers modern tourists a blend of glamour and simplicity. Be prepared for hip and loud dance clubs along the coastline and quieter areas farther from the water. Avoid cruise ship crowds thronging the narrow streets by exploring the small villages located in the center of the island. The easiest way to discover the island's golden beaches is by guided boat tour, private car, or motorcycle.

To see a greener and less-crowded version of Greece, place the Ionian Islands at the top of your itinerary. Stretching along the west coast of the Greek mainland, this chain of islands boasts villages, rural landscapes, and beaches washed by the crystalline waters of the Ionian Sea. The "Seven Islands," as the locals prefer to call them, often seem far removed from the rest of the country. Greatly influenced by past Venetian, British, and French rulers, the islands retain their distinct atmosphere and boast a rich cultural and architectural heritage. To experience some of that special Ionian culture, head to the smaller islands of Paxi and Ithaki, which offer wild terrain and outstanding local cuisine.