Greece Travel Guide

Whitewashed villages, turquoise beaches, and golden sunsets—this 7-day guide covers the best of the Cyclades. Whether you’re traveling with friends or solo, this route is packed with dreamy stops, beach days, and picture-perfect towns. ✨🍒

TRAVEL GUIDES

5/12/20252 min read

🏛 Day 1: Arrive in Athens – City Sights & Sunset Views

Start your trip with a touch of history. Athens is perfect for a short stay before island hopping.

Stay: Plaka or Syntagma Square
Top sights:

  • Acropolis & Parthenon

  • Anafiotika (a hidden gem in Plaka)

  • Rooftop dinner at Strofi or 360 Cocktail Bar

If you're tight on time, consider heading straight to Milos and saving Athens for your final day.

🌊 Day 2: Ferry to Milos – Chill & Explore

Where to stay: Pollonia for a relaxed beach town vibe or Plaka for traditional charm

Must-visit beaches:

  • Sarakiniko – moon-like rocks, cliff jumping, and insane photo ops

  • Firopotamos – colorful fishing houses + clear water

  • Paleochori – beach bars, warm sand, and volcanic cliffs

💡 Tip: Rent a car or ATV to explore Milos properly—many of the best beaches and coves are remote.

Dinner rec: O! Hamos – local ingredients, family-run, and amazing vibes.

🚤 Day 3: Milos – Catamaran Cruise to Kleftiko

Book a full-day catamaran tour that includes stops at:

  • Kleftiko Caves – once a pirate hideout

  • Sykia Cave – collapsed sea cave, perfect for snorkeling

  • Gerakas Beach – only accessible by boat

Most tours include snacks, drinks, and snorkel gear. You’ll get to see parts of the island that you can’t access by car!

🌴 Day 4: Ferry to Ios – Beach Life & Sunset Vibes

Ios is more than a party spot—it’s full of stunning nature, charming towns, and hidden beaches.

Stay in: Mylopotas Beach for convenience or Chora for charm

Top beaches:

  • Mylopotas – sunbeds, beach clubs, and tons of cafes

  • Manganari – calm, clear water with a more secluded feel

  • Valmas – a quiet cove, ideal for a peaceful swim

💡 Tip: Rent an ATV or small car to reach remote beaches and Homer’s Tomb.

Sunset spot: The hilltop churches above Chora
Dinner: The Nest or Katogi – cozy, local Greek food

🌞 Day 5: Ios – Explore More Hidden Spots

Slow morning at the beach or grab coffee and hike up to Homer’s Tomb for panoramic sea views. Then hop around:

  • Kolitsani Beach – a short walk from town, peaceful vibes

  • Picnic lunch or Drakos Taverna right on the beach

Wrap up with a cocktail at Ios Club Sunset Dining Bar.

🌸 Day 6: Ferry to Paros – Boutique Shops & Beaches

Paros blends trendy with traditional, and the beaches are next level.

Stay in: Naousa – photogenic, walkable, and full of shops/cafés

Best beaches:

  • Kolymbithres – smooth granite rocks and clear water

  • Santa Maria – sandy, great for watersports

  • Golden Beach – windsurfing hotspot

💡 Tip: If you’re into beach hopping or visiting inland villages like Lefkes, rent a car or ATV here too.

Dinner: Siparos – upscale seaside taverna
Night stroll: Explore Naousa’s white-and-blue alleys under the fairy lights

🛍 Day 7: Return to Athens – Chill & Reflect

Catch an early ferry or short flight back. If you have time before your flight:

  • Walk through Monastiraki Flea Market

  • Grab a coffee at Ergon House Rooftop

  • Reflect on your dreamy trip 🫶

🧳 Travel Tips

  • When to go: Late May to early October

  • Getting around: Use Ferryhopper for tickets; rent cars or ATVs for max freedom

  • Packing list:
    ✔ Linen dresses & swimsuits
    ✔ Portable charger
    ✔ Reef-safe sunscreen
    ✔ Light jacket for evenings

Kleftiko, Milos