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d_kakavouli

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I am trying to plan my trip to Greece, and I am curious if people can share their recent experiences. I am considering visiting these places when I do go:

1. Athens
2. Santorini
3. Milos (Saw some pics and the island seems enchanting!)
4. I am wondering if I should also include Mykonos or not?
5. Not sure if I should add another destination?

I should addd that I am planning on only spending about two weeks in Greece for this trip. My goal is to get a nice overview.
 
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I am trying to plan my trip to Greece, and I am curious if people can share their recent experiences. I am considering visiting these places when I do go:

1. Athens
2. Santorini
3. Milos (Saw some pics and the island seems enchanting!)
4. I am wondering if I should also include Mykonos or not?
5. Not sure if I should add another destination?

I should addd that I am planning on only spending about two weeks in Greece for this trip. My goal is to get a nice overview.
Three destinations in two weeks time, is plenty. I think that your first three choices are good. You don’t want to spend all of your time “in transit”; also taking into account your arrival and departure days.

I would choose either Santorini or Mykonos. They are beautiful, but very expensive and crowded. Mykonos has become more of a party place so your decision depends on what you’d most like to do. Milos will be “discovered” soon, but right now I would highly recommend it.

If you do decide to add a 4th place to get an overview, I would recommend looking at a different island group outside of the Cycladic Islands so that you can experience the distinct differences among the groups. For example, Corfu (Ionian Islands) has a totally different ambience, European/Venetian. To add more places though in different island groups, will surely necessitate domestic flights because ferry transfers take time and can be adversely affected by high seas.

If time really becomes an issue, you can always do the islands of Santorini and Milos, and allocate one day in Athens to a day trip (via hydrofoil) to one of the Saronic Gulf islands like Aegina or Hydra. Hope this helps!
 
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Three destinations in two weeks time, is plenty. I think that your first three choices are good. You don’t want to spend all of your time “in transit”; also taking into account your arrival and departure days.
That is a really good point! I have had trips where I tried to do too much, and right when I would get settled into a place, it's time to move on to the next place. It got exhausting and I felt like I was doing more traveling than experiencing. I would recommend if she wants to do all the destinations on the list, two weeks isn't enough time.
 
Thank you, all, for chiming in! I think I might eliminate Milos from the list. If I do that, do you think a week might be enough? Also, I think it does makes sense to eliminate either Santorini or Mykonos from the list. I can't really do a longer trip this time around, but I agree, I don't want to try to do too much. In looking at my original list, it does look like I'd be taking on a bit too much.
 
Based on what you’ve said and your time constraints, my personal opinion would be to visit Athens, Santorini and Milos (both in the same island group so that transportation via the Seajets will be easy) and skip Mykonos. I’d fly from Athens to Santorini, take a ferry to Milos and fly back to Athens a day before your international flight home. Milos has stunning beaches and is not quite yet on the Cycladic Islands mass tourism radar. That would be a very special two week Greek holiday. Be sure to read up on what is most special to see and do so that you can maximize your time in each place.
 
Greece is not all about islands, although in the summer you would not want to miss swimming in the sea. I thoroughly enjoyed traveling the mainland and seeing the countryside. It was beautiful, reminded me a lot of California countryside with much agriculture, (so many olive trees!) as well as mountains and sea to view. Athens, Delphi and Meteora were amazing to see and then to drive up into the little ski villages was a whole new take on the country. I always try to do 3 weeks so I can travel a bit and then spend a week on an island chilling. I would avoid places like Mykonos, beautiful to see but not what I go to Greece for. I've traveled the Ionian islands and the Sporades, opposite side of the mainland and they are all spectacular. Kalo taxidi.
 
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This is some great information - thank you - I think I may have been trying to do too much, and possibly not focusing on the right activities. You have given me a lot to think about! I love the idea of maybe staying in ONE spot. Seems like there's a lot to do in Athens and the surrounding area alone if it is a shorter trip? I think I need to really decide how long I can stay in Greece and go from there. I thought 2 weeks, but maybe not... I might want to stay longer.
 
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I am trying to plan my trip to Greece, and I am curious if people can share their recent experiences. I am considering visiting these places when I do go:

1. Athens
2. Santorini
3. Milos (Saw some pics and the island seems enchanting!)
4. I am wondering if I should also include Mykonos or not?
5. Not sure if I should add another destination?

I should addd that I am planning on only spending about two weeks in Greece for this trip. My goal is to get a nice overview.
I would really recommend to visit Mykonos too!
 

When does tourist season end in Greece?

I am planning my next Greek trip.

I want to go in October but the people I am traveling with - we won't be able to to go until mid-October.

I have been to Crete that late in the year and to Athens, but not anywhere else. On our schedule is to visit some of the smaller islands, like Hydra.

Do places like that shut down? My main concern is, will the tourist shops be closed? I love to browse through them and it's part of my enjoyment.

Last-minute travel tips in Greece

I love to travel to Greece and I do so whenever I can. There's an art to it, though, and I am never really going into it "blind". It's a good idea to start by thinking generally about where you might want to go.

Athens is usually the starting point for most travelers, with its iconic Acropolis offering panoramic views and a history lesson all in one spot. If you're a beach lover, head towards the Cyclades for stunning beaches and the classic, postcard-worthy Santorini sunsets. Or, if it's history you're after, the ruins of Delphi or the ancient city of Mycenae will surely captivate you.

Then, we need to figure out how to get where we want to go. For island hopping, the ferries are an experience in themselves – though if you're time-strapped, consider a local flight to get you to the major islands quickly. On the mainland, a mix of car rentals and public transport can be efficient and economical, especially when visiting sites off the tourist map. Keep an eye on the schedules and book in advance if possible to save time.

Sometimes I rent a car, to be honest it's the easiest for me.

The rest of the details tend to sort themselves out. For example, you can book your lodging as you go along, especially off-peak.

Parnassos Ski Resort in Greece

Believe it or not, I find skiing in Greece to be pleasant. I know Greece isn't thought to have a climate good enough for skiing, but it's good enough. I have to go to Greece soon, and this is one of my favorite places to ski:

The resort offers outstanding skiing opportunities for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. With over 40 kilometers of marked ski slopes, Parnassos Ski Resort is equipped with the newest and most advanced skiing equipment to ensure that customers enjoy an unforgettable experience.

There is also a place to stay here, which is nice, plus activities other than skiing to please the family.

Pack List for Trip to Greece in Spring

I have a trip to Greece planned in the spring. Mainly, I want advice on the weather. In the meantime, I made my best guess and came up with a list. Anything to add or subtract?

Clothing
  • A light rain jacket or windbreaker: For the inevitable April showers
  • A couple of long-sleeve shirts: For those cooler mornings
  • A lightweight sweater: For layering when temperature changes
  • A pair of comfortable pants: Think breathable fabrics like cotton, and a pair of jeans.
  • Shorts and a sundress: For warmer afternoons
  • Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be exploring villages and ancient ruins, so cushioned soles are a must.
Accessories
  • A versatile scarf: Can double as a shawl on cooler evenings
  • A wide-brimmed hat: For sun protection
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen: Essential for beach days
  • Reusable water bottle: To stay hydrated without contributing more waste

Tips for Traveling to Greece on a Budget

Traveling to Greece is a dream for many, conjuring images of stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant Mediterranean culture. However, experiencing the wonders Greece has to offer doesn’t have to break the bank. Let's face it - it can be expensive to get there - especially if you are traveling from outside of Europe and during peak season. Keeping these tips in mind, though, can help you cut costs.

1. Travel During the Off-Peak Season

One of the best ways to save money while traveling to Greece is by going during the off-peak season, which is typically from October to April. Not only will you benefit from lower prices in flights and accommodations, but you'll also escape the heavy tourist crowds, allowing for a more authentic experience of Greece's beauty and culture.

2. Opt for Lesser-Known Destinations

While Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini are must-visit destinations, Greece is filled with hidden gems that are often overlooked. Consider visiting the Peloponnese region, Meteora, or even the northern part of the country, like Thessaloniki and the Chalkidiki Peninsula. These areas offer breathtaking views, historical sites, and genuine interactions with local culture at a fraction of the cost.

3. Use Public Transportation

Greece’s public transportation system is both efficient and affordable. Ferries can take you between islands at a good rate, especially if you book in advance. On land, buses and trains connect major cities and regions. Utilizing these options instead of renting a car or taking flights can significantly reduce your travel costs.

4. Savor Local Eats

Another great way to save while indulging in the richness of Greek culture is through its cuisine. Avoid tourist traps and opt for where the locals eat. Tavernas and street food vendors offer delicious and authentic Greek food for much less than restaurants in high-traffic tourist areas. Don’t skip on trying the gyros, souvlaki, and the myriad of seafood options.

5. Stay in Budget Accommodations

Greece offers a wide array of budget-friendly accommodations, ranging from hostels to budget hotels and Airbnb listings. Booking in advance can secure you a better deal, especially if traveling during the peak season. Consider staying in a location slightly off the beaten path; you might discover a quaint neighborhood or a breathtaking beach that’s not swarmed by tourists.

Traveling to Greece on a budget is more than feasible with a bit of planning and some savvy travel hacks. By following these tips, you can immerse yourself in the rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality Greece is renowned for, all while keeping your expenses in check. Remember, the essence of travel is not in how much you spend, but in the experiences you gather and the memories you create.
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