Athens and the Cyclades
Two days below the Acropolis, then the caldera of Santorini and the Aegean.
The classic Greek route falls in two parts: the city, where antiquity is concentrated, then the islands, where everything else is. Athens takes two days; Santorini needs three or four nights if it is not to come down to one sunset.
The link is by ferry from Piraeus, several hours at sea, or by domestic flight, which is much quicker. The choice depends on the time available and on the season, sailings being less frequent outside summer.
The stops
Length and budget
Length and budget are settled together: this route works over a few days as well as spread across two weeks.
Along the way, in Greece
Frequently asked questions
Ferry or plane to Santorini?
The domestic flight takes under an hour, the ferry from Piraeus several depending on the boat. The ferry shows you the islands on the way; the plane saves half a day.
When is the best time to go?
May-June and September. In July and August both crowds and prices rise sharply; in winter some hotels and sailings close.