How many islands should I visit in a week?

Maximum 2-3 islands in 7 days. Each island deserves 2-3 nights minimum. Factor in half-day travel time between islands.

Is it better to fly or take ferries between islands?

Ferries are cheaper (€35-75 vs €80-150) and more flexible, but take 2-8 hours. Flights save time but book up quickly in summer. Weather can cancel both.

Do I need to book everything in advance?

Book Santorini/Mykonos accommodation 2-3 months ahead for April-October. Ferry tickets 1-2 weeks ahead in summer. Athens has same-day availability most of year.

How much cash should I bring?

Most places take cards, but bring €200-300 cash for small tavernas, beach vendors, and ferry port fees. ATMs widely available in tourist areas.

How to Plan a Trip to Greece

Greece works best with 7-14 days, mixing Athens (2-3 days) with 1-2 islands. Visit April-June or September-October for good weather and fewer crowds. Budget $80-120 per day including accommodation, food, and island ferries.

Choose your regions. Pick 2-3 areas maximum. Classic first-timer combo: Athens (2-3 days) + Santorini (3-4 days) + Mykonos or Paros (3-4 days). Alternative: Athens + Crete + one smaller island. Don't try to see everything in one trip.
Book flights to Athens. Athens (ATH) is your main entry point. Direct flights from major US cities run $600-1200 depending on season. Book 2-3 months ahead for summer travel, 6-8 weeks for shoulder seasons.
Plan island connections. Ferry from Piraeus port (1 hour from Athens airport by bus). Santorini takes 5-8 hours by ferry, 45 minutes by plane. Book ferries 1-2 weeks ahead in summer through Ferryhopper or at the port. High-speed ferries cost 2x regular but save 2-3 hours.
Book accommodation early. Santorini and Mykonos fill up April-October. Book 2-3 months ahead for summer. Athens has plenty of options year-round. Consider Plaka or Monastiraki neighborhoods in Athens for walking access to major sites.
Get your documents ready. US passport valid 6+ months. No visa needed for stays under 90 days. Print accommodation confirmations - Greek immigration sometimes asks for proof of stay.

How many islands should I visit in a week?: Maximum 2-3 islands in 7 days. Each island deserves 2-3 nights minimum. Factor in half-day travel time between islands.
Is it better to fly or take ferries between islands?: Ferries are cheaper (€35-75 vs €80-150) and more flexible, but take 2-8 hours. Flights save time but book up quickly in summer. Weather can cancel both.
Do I need to book everything in advance?: Book Santorini/Mykonos accommodation 2-3 months ahead for April-October. Ferry tickets 1-2 weeks ahead in summer. Athens has same-day availability most of year.
How much cash should I bring?: Most places take cards, but bring €200-300 cash for small tavernas, beach vendors, and ferry port fees. ATMs widely available in tourist areas.