Chrisostomos
Defkalionos & Ikarou str., Chania
Tel: +302821057035

Traditional Cretan cuisine and flavors mainly from the land of Sfakia. Lambs and sheep from Sfakia, fresh dairy products, extra virgin Cretan olive oil, are some of the materials they use along with fresh baked bread in the wood oven. If you are to get into the Cretan “diet”, do not miss the “staka” - fresh hot butter to deep your bread in!

Ginger Concept
St Sarpaki 36, Chania,
Tel: +302821057590

Serving late breakfast and lunch. Great bruschettas, salads, tartare and carpaccio an ideal menu set for any diet. Vegeterian, veggan and gluten-free options to choose from. Or enjoy your cocktail, wine and dinner in the most charming square of the Old City. Busy but relaxing, with cool crowds and happy tunes. 

Salis
3 Akti Enoseon str., Old Harbor,
Tel: +302821043700

Mediterranean and Greek Cuisine. Salis offers a seasonal menu based on Crete’s local production. Menu mostly based in seafood so do not miss the shrimp spaghetti and fresh mussels! Environment is pretty hip and wine list offers a big variety of really good Greek wines and exclusive cretan varieties.

Thalassino Ageri
35, Vivilaki str., Tabakaria,
Tel: +302821051136

The most scenic restaurant in the city of Chania, right on the beachfront. Arriving at the restaurant you will feel you are part of a theatrical scene. Located at the Old Tambakaria, one of the most magical and beautiful places in Chania, which was known during the century for its tanneries. The sea view is magnificent, and the Mediterranean cuisine will tempt even the most discerning guests. Fresh fish, well-cooked octopus and squid, lobster with pasta, whitebait, unique sea urchin salad, bread and salads served amidst the sea breeze provide all those unique details that contribute to a gastronomic experience. Do not miss the fish soup!

Tamam
49 Zambeliou str., Old Harbor,
Tel: +302821052255

An old traditional Tavern with great food. The cuisine style of Tamam is unchangeable since the first pots put in the oven. Traditional Greek food with some Eastern oriented influences by the Ottoman cuisine and the broader Eastern Mediterranean region.

Maiami Art Brasserie
Mesologgiou 11, Akti Miaouli, Koum Kapi, Chania
Tel: +302821020000

In a simple art deco building of the 50s, artist and winemaker Alexandra Manousakis has now opened her new art studio and brasserie in Chania, Crete. Maiami is a welcome addition to the city’s gastronomic scene, serving homemade classics. Stone walls, mosaics, a wooden bar, an impressive green fireplace, and blue retro chairs make the warm Miami lounge a vibrant space, filled with Alexandra’s ceramic and paintings. 

Neoria Fish Tavern
Akti Enoseos, Chania Town,
Tel: +302821052255

Typical Cretan food in a great harborside location.

Ntounias Traditional Slow Food
Drakonas, Chania
Tel: +302821065083

At 600 meters of altitude, the traditional taverna is a center of gastronomy and slow food. The food is all home grown and home cooked and the owner and her husband very proudly share with you the process and the secrets of cooking. Accompany your food with homemade wine and the brilliant homemade raki. An authentic experience you don’t want to miss. Please call ahead to let them know you are coming as it is a small place. The food is good, but the magic of the evening is more the ambiance, view, and the friendliness of the hosts.

The well of the Turk
31 Kallinikou Sarpaki str., Splantzia,
Tel: +302821054547

An eclectic mix of Greek, Turkish and Middle Eastern Cuisine.

The menu is a cut above standard Greek cuisine taking influences from across the Mediterranean.

If you’ve tried any of these, what were your favorites?

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Contact me to help with your custom Greek Itinerary today!

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Anemoloos

Exo Gonia

Tel: +302286033880

A family run business, with outstanding Greek cuisine, serving well-cooked dishes with fresh quality ingredients. The plates are based on meat and vegetables, cheese and herbs, while a lot of olive oil is used. From its terrace, you can admire the beautiful view over Kamari.

Dress code: Casual

 Lunch, Dinner

Armeni Restaurant

Armeni

Tel: +302286071053

In a simple unpretentious and relaxed atmosphere and in absolute faith to Santorinian cuisine, Armeni will captivate you with its delectable dishes that are packed with the flavors of the sun and sea.

Savor delicious, highest quality fresh island seafood, just steps from the ocean at this unique tavern.

Dress code: Casual

Lunch, Dinner

Aktaion Restaurant

Firostefani

Tel: +302286022336

Aktaion Restaurant has more than 96 years of gastronomic tradition. Since 1922, when it first started its operation, Aktaion offers delicious dishes and genuine, Greek hospitality. In its menu you will find Mediterranean flavors and twisted Greek dishes, that satisfy every palate.

Dress code: Casual

 Lunch, Dinner

Amvrosia Restaurant

Oia

Tel: +302286071413

Modern Mediterranean food and the cliff top caldera vista is a winning combination. 

Dress code: Smart Casual

 Dinner

Beefbar Restaurant

Oia

Tel: +302286186763

To balance with the Greek summer heat, Beefbar menu will offer a selection of fresh, light options including our Leaf & Reef Street food. Picture Fattoush salads with dollops of Stracciatella cheese, tuna ceviche with coconut, and crunchy lobster tacos with Satay sauce.

On the idyllic island of Santorini, a few steps away from the lovely village of Oia, Andronis Arcadia is a secluded luxurious gem which captures the sumptuous views of the Aegean Sea and incredible sunsets.

Dress code: Smart casual

 Dinner

Candouni

Oia

Tel: +30 22860 71616

Tucked into Oia, just off the village’s main thoroughfare, Candouni restaurant offers its guests delicious greek cuisine bursting with extraordinary taste! The traditional 18th century cycladic captain’s house, refurbished into a restaurant, the sophisticated decoration, the charming candle-lit interior and the overhanging bougainvilleas set the stage for a delightful dining experience in this lovely family-run restaurant. The menu comprises of a wide range of delectable dishes from Greece, with fresh local ingredients and exquisite flavor! 

Dress code: Casual

 Lunch, Dinner

Dimitris Ammoudi Fish Restaurant

Ammoudi Bay-Oia

Tel: +302286071606

In a unique spot, the small bay of Ammoudi, you will enjoy the warm hospitality and the delicacies of the tavern “Dimitris- Ammoudi” established in 1989. In this dreamy corner on the extreme, north part of Santorini, below the famous village of Oia, nestled in the imposing red rock, the tavern “Dimitris-Amoudi” prepares fish and sea food dishes inspired by the Mediterranean cuisine to accompany ouzo, beer or the famous Santorini wine.

Dress code: Casual

Lunch, Dinner

Elements Restaurant

Canaves Oia Epitome

Tel: +302286072499

At the recently awarded Elements Restaurant & Bar, local gastronomy scene is taken to the next level. Executive Chef Tassos Stefatos is creating a prolific and sophisticated menu of modern European cuisine with Greek touches, that challenges the palate through different stages.

With the Elements Experience Tables on the floating deck, the sunset views are considered to be among the very best in the world. Local volcanic stone, white Cycladic rendered walls and extraordinary sights attract visitors from all corners of the globe.

Flavors are simple yet complicated, familiar yet extraordinary new. The element of surprise is key to the experience. The sommelier always ready to suggest a glass of wine, cocktail or juice pairing for the dinner.

Dress code: Smart Casual

Dinner

Selene restaurant

Katikies Garden Hotel, Fira

Tel: +302286022249

Selene, with its 36 years of history, has been acknowledged as a gastronomic and cultural landmark of Santorini for defining and constantly reinventing Contemporary Greek & Cycladic Cuisine. Led by Michelin-star rated Ettore Botrini, the most important Greek Chef of our time, Selene is entering its brightest phase yet. Restaurant is located inside a covered monastery within Fira’s hotel, Katikies Garden.

Dress code: Smart Elegant Casual

 Dinner

Kaliya

Fira

Tel: +302286023807

Dishes with respect to wellness, local and sustainable ingredients are meticulously presented so they can finely compliment the promised high quality experience.

When the sun finally kisses the horizon, guests are more than welcome to stay and enjoy the hand-crafted cocktails until the late hours.

Dress code: Smart Casual 

Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Kapari Wine Restaurant

Imerovigli

Tel: +302286021120

Gastronomic pleasures are part of an unforgettable vacation. At Kapari Wine Restaurant, they use the finest ingredients and follow the strictest standards to create healthy and appetizing meals. There are only a few tables so requires a reservation.

Dress code: Casual

Lauda

Andronis Boutique Hotel, Oia

Tel: +302286072182

Lauda Restaurant is committed to honoring the history and tradition of this unique place. Equipped with exceptional local ingredients and our devotion to the volcanic soil, the native grapes, the aromas and the colors of Santorini we strive to offer you an authentic gastronomic experience.

Dress code: Smart Casual

Lefkes Restaurant

Finikia

Tel: +302286072211

In 2016 a group of four food enthousiasts met and a new idea was born. One of the group is the owner of an old winery dating back to 1848 . Another, a renowned restraunteur and chef who over the last 23 years has converted his passion for ‘food’ to a success story at Lefkes in Athens.

In 2017 Lefkes is travelling to Foinikia, Santorini to Taso’s Winery or as the locals call it “Kanava”. Here the gastronomic journey of flavours continues with chef Tasos Doumas opening the doors of the Kanava and welcoming all to this new venture.

Dress code: Casual

Lycabettus Restaurant

Andronis Luxury Suites

Tel: +302286072041

Located in the idyllic Oia, on the northern edge of Santorini, this fine dining restaurant is housed in Andronis Luxury Suites. A few of the reasons to visit Lycabettus is the amazing food, the great selection of wines, the excellent service and the breathtaking view. 

Dress code: Smart Elegant Casual

Naos Restaurant & Bar

Oia

Tel: +302286072413

Housed in an impressive mansion villa in the town of Oia, built in 1845, Naos Restaurant is dedicated to delivering nothing but the finest dining experiences. The menu is based on the Greek and Mediterranean culinary heritage, and is complemented by captivating views, exceptional aesthetics and impeccable service.

Our philosophy is about gathering gastronomic traditions and authentic recipes from all over Greece and bringing them to the table with a modern twist, while respecting the traditional methods and highlighting the excellent-quality locally sourced products.

Dress code: Smart casual

Spilia tou Nikola

Akrotiri

Tel: +302286082303

Located exactly by the seaside of the archaeological site of Akrotiri, this restaurant offers homemade dishes, all made with ingredients coming from the family farm. Try the vegetarian moussaka with white aubergines, local fava and Greek salad with their fresh cheese! 

Dress code: Casual

Roka Restaurant

Oia

Tel: +302286071896

Roka” Restaurant is settled in an old building of 1912 with interesting architecture –in an area where you can admire old preserved captain houses. The warm colors of the small courtyard filled with trees and flowers give you the feeling of a relaxing and pleasant welcome escaping from the crowd. Inside there are three small charming rooms to sit ideal for some colder nights near the wooden stove and enjoy delicate flavors. On the backside of the restaurant there is wonderful sea view of the northwest side of the island. Hidden and private but only a few minutes away from the main marble walk way.

Dress code: Casual

To Psaraki

Vlychada Marina

Tel: +302286082783

Seafood. The chefs rely on the local production, and the seasonality of Santorinian land for the creation of the menu based on the idea of simple and honest food.

Dress code: Casual

Oia Gefsis

Oia

Tel: +302286071526

Dining at Oia Gefsis is more than just a simple meal. Combining local ingredients, imagination and contemporary techniques, the chef has created a unique menu that will stimulate all your senses and guide you through the gastronomy of Greece.

Dress code: Casual

Oia Vineyart

Oia

Tel: +302286072046

Oia Vineyart is one of the first wine bars on Santorini and opened its doors in the summer of 2015. This beautiful wine bar aims to perfectly pair the unique wines from the local vineyards with the best cuisine of the Cyclades and the rest of Greece, all within a setting that’s off the well-trodden tourist path. The venue is a refurbished old Captain’s house, and its wine cellar is filled with every variety of wine being bottled on Santorini. Here you can enjoy the famous cheeses of the Cyclades, cold delicatessen meats from every corner of Greece, and traditionally smoked and marinated fish.

Dress code: Smart Casual

Omnia Restaurant

Canaves Oia Epitome

Tel: +302286072499

Omnia immerses the guest deep into a cinematic Aegean dining experience, from sunset to late moon. Choreographed around a statement pool ‘stage’, Omnia playfully showcases a breezy fusion of local fresh fish and other treasures from the Archipelago. Generously feeding the eye and the soul, Omnia also stuns with its unobstructed views, its fresh, organic architecture and its unexpected Cycladic backdrop, featuring calming elements like stone, wood, linen and other natural materials that add depth and value to this scenic floating ‘garden’.

Dress code: Smart Casual

Panigyri

Fira

Tel: +302286022595

A yard full of bougainvilleas, a wooden pergola and in the background the magic wood oven. Panigyri’s menu is a narration of Greek gastronomy at its best: local products sourced in Santorini, the Aegean islands and Crete; an exquisite selection of virgin Greek olive oils and Greek wines. In the heart of Fira, only a short walk from the acclaimed Caldera of Santorini lies Panigyri Festival Food. The restaurant welcomes you in its laid-back yard with a seasonally focused Greek inspired menu. Local ingredients and the finest Greek virgin olive oils are the counterpoints of the menu at Panigyri: the sourdough bread proofed for 12 hours, and the fish and meat slow cooked in the wood oven.

Dress code: Casual

Petra Restaurant

Canaves Oia Suites

Tel: +302286071453

Fine dining on the cliffside. Petra Restaurant & Bar serves the finest Greek cuisine with a creative twist. An exceptional dinner menu is paired with an equally exceptional view of the caldera and the stars. Delicious vegetarian options are also available.

Dress code: Smart Elegant Casual

PYRGOS RESTAURANT

Pyrgos

Tel: +302286031346

The unique products of Santorini’s volcanic soil freshly caught seafood and fish from the Aegean Sea, local meat and fresh vegetables are the key ingredients that meet our chef’s talent and result in scrumptious dishes inspired by Santorini, Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.

Dress code: Smart Casual

METAXI MAS

Exo Gonia

Tel: +302286031323

Enjoy the most delicious recipes of the Cretan and Santorinian cuisine, the freshest ingredients from their garden, refreshing raki (the iconic grape-based pomace brandy of Crete) and unique wines.

In a hospitable and relaxing space, reminiscent of an island house porch, and an atmosphere full of the Aegean Sea’s colors and aromas, restaurant serves authentic and original dishes.

Dress code: Casual p

Dress otatoes.

Melitini

Oia

Tel: +302286072343

Melitini, is a traditional “kafenion” (cafe) and restaurant; it typically serves Greek recipes and drinks (from Santorini and entire Greece) which are also made of fresh and local products. The owners place great emphasis on the quality of their food and always select the best ingredients. The dishes served are made according to family recipes which have been passed on from generation to generation. This amazing and friendly restaurant is open throughout the year and its atmosphere is friendly and cozy, inviting you to learn more about the Greek, Mediterranean cuisine. This magnificent little spot is the perfect place in Santorini to taste delicious “mezedes”, which are dishes that contain small portions of food because in Greece is very common to eat lightly while you are drinking. Reservations only 2 - 3 days prior to preferred date.

Dress code: Casual

Botrini’s

Oia, Katikies Santorini Hotel

Tel: +302286186654

Prestigious, multi-awarded and consecutively Michelin-starred Botrini’s Athens-based restaurant just acquired its Cycladic alter-ego, landing on one of the most privileged spots of Santorini Island. Enjoying a mesmerizing Caldera view, the eye-catching dishes of famous Greek-Italian chef Ettore Botrini set the tempo for an unrivalled fine dining experience.

Dress code: Smart Elegant Casual

Athenian House

Imerovigli

Tel: +302286036420

Reinventing Greek traditional recipes. Located in Imerovigli Santorini, this place combines the experience of a relaxed fine dining restaurant, with a breathtaking view over the famous Skaros Rock, recognized worldwide as one of the most romantic and dramatic sunset spots on the island caldera. The restaurant uses new cooking technologies to transform traditional Greek dishes into gourmet creations with a modern twist. As popular for its laidback fine dining atmosphere, as it is for its famous Greek chef's creations, guests come for the signature lamb moussaka with Santorini white aubergine, tahini, feta and bechamel, which is served with two succulent lamb chops. An entirely plant-based menu is available, while the wine list includes a large collection of rare Santorini wines.

Dress code: Smart Elegant Casual

Varoulko

Imerovigli, Grace Hotel

Tel: +302286021300

A Michelin-awarded voyage of sensational taste, at the heart of Santorini’s stunning Imerovigli.Beloved Greek and Mediterranean flavours get an inspired makeover at the hands of culinary genius and Michelin-awarded chef Lefteris Lazarou. In keeping with Greek gastronomic tradition, at Varoulko Santorini wonderful tastes such as the chef’s signature squid with pesto Genovese or the crayfish tartar with fresh basil and zesty yuzu, come alive thanks to the island’s abundant fresh ingredient offering. A veritable journey for the senses begins to unfold at Grace Hotel, boasting the perfect vantage point over the island’s awe-worthy Caldera vistas.

Dress code: Smart Casual

BEACH CLUBS

Forty one 41

Perivolos Beach

Tel: +302286082710

FORTY ONE comes to give a new meaning of quality and luxury, while it has the exclusive privilege to be located on the best beach of the beautiful island of Santorini.

It is the epitome of the good life and it is ideally framed with international and Mediterranean cuisine in combination with unique cocktails which generously offer you what you desire. At the bar, in addition to your meal, you can enjoy, to the sounds of soft lounge music, Greek and foreign wines, but also our delicious cocktails.

Dress code for the beach: beachwear casual

Seaside

Perivolos Beach

Tel: +302286082801

This restaurant and beach bar on bustling Perivolos beach wouldn’t look out of place in Ibiza, with its Moët and oyster bar in the black sand. Waitresses in cut-offs deliver elaborate fruit platters and Champagne cocktails to the cabanas; in the airy restaurant, the volume is loud and the focus is on Med-Asian seafood.

Yalos

Exo Gialos Beach

Tel: +302286025816

Yalos Santorini restaurant is located on the closest beach to Fira, Exo Gialos. The summer-inspired decor with sea life details is done in the earth tones of Santorini, creating the perfect, inviting setting for a delicious lunch or dinner by the sea. In this calm and beautiful atmosphere, you will taste authentic local dishes, fresh fish and mouth-watering appetizers.

Wet Stories

Perivolos Beach

Tel: +302286082990

The hottest beach bar in Santorini is located on the beautiful beach of Perivolos (famous for its black sand). After you dive in the crystal clear waters, you can enjoy and relax at your sunbeds or your cabana right next to the sea, with your ice cold coffee, fresh juice or amazing exotic cocktail and snacks and have a blast with our DJ's music.

The all day bar restaurant is the ultimate proposal for each hour of the day serving delicious Mediterranean dishes and signature cocktails, to deliver a delicious experience! You may also take advantage of our boutique shop, where you may find creations by Greek designers and products from Greek producers.

Wet Stories hosts excellent parties with the biggest DJs from all around the world and organizes any kind of private event or party. 

Dress code for the beach: Beachwear casual

If you’ve tried any of these, what were your favorites?

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Contact me to help with your custom Greek Itinerary today!

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Aggeliki Pastry
Adamas
Tel: +302287023059
For ice cream, waffles and chocolate fondue.
Breakfast, Brunch | Casual

Archontoula
Plaka
Tel: +302287021384
The tavern-restaurant "Archontoula", on a picturesque cobbled street, in Plaka of Milos is an exciting, tasty attraction where tradition meets modern times. Once, in 1855, there was a traditional coffee house here. Today it is one of the most famous restaurants in Milos.

Walk in policy.
Lunch, Dinner | Casual Dining

Astakas
Klima
Tel: +302287088134
Located among the fisheremen's houses, this is a delicious restaurant with beautiful waterfront views. A perfect spot for a romnatic dinner as it commands spectacular views over the harbor and the sunset. Astakas is popular for its fresh fish and seafood. 
Brunch, Lunch, Dinner | Casual Dining

Avli
Plaka
Tel: +302287027590
In the restaurant "Avli Milos" the old forgotten "grandmother's recipes" are revived in the most traditional and handmade way! They may not accept reservations but the experience of waiting to be treated like a friend, brings back the nolstagic old memories of this island.
Lunch, Dinner | Casual Dining

Barrielo
Tripiti
Tel: +306984218360
In the heart of Tripity, at the old traditional square, you will find Barriello restaurant. As it is housed in a very old building with catacombs, its romantic atmosphere and the panoramic view of the sea will make you feel like you live somewhere in the past. Enjoy delicious creations, inspired by the Mediterranean cuisine and accompany your meal with a glass of wine, choosing from the finest Greek labels. The ingredients that are used for the preparation of all meals are always fresh and locally produced.
Lunch, dinner | Casual Dining

Ergina
Tripiti
Tel: +302287022524
A well kept secret of Milos, nestled in one of the traditional houses up in Trypiti and with a balcony view second to none, Ergina offers a traditional menu and are a testament of Milos’ rich culinary heritage.
Lunch, Dinner | Casual Dining

Medusa
Mandrakia
Tel: +302287023670
Greek traditional cuisine arises through the exquisite raw material and the simplicity of its dishes.Medusa restaurant is located in one of the most picturesque areas of Milos, in Mandrakia. Enjoy your meal, while gazing at the endless, turquoise scenery of the crystalline waters of the Aegean sea. Here you will find numerous tasty suggestions, with seafood, ouzo and wine being the most popular choices. Visit Medusa and experience a unique, culinary journey! 

Walk in policy.
Lunch, Dinner | Casual Dining

Sirocco
Palaiochori
Tel: +302287031201
On the beach of Palaiohori you will find Sirocco’s. It is a restaurant of unique and intense personality with an exceptional traditional cuisine, ready to fulfill your gastronomical expectations. At Sirocco’s you will taste fresh Aegean fish and home- made dishes cooked in a wood-fire stove.
Lunch, Dinner | Casual Dining

Galanis
Triovasalos
Tel: +302287028163
Appetizers, specialties and casual atmosphere from another area housed in a grocery store dated since 1969 preserving many elements of the old building. 
Dinner | Casual Dining

Gialos
Pollonia
Tel: +302287041208
“Gialos”, located in one of the most picturesque villages of the island, Pollonia, was first opened in 2007 by a group of friends who had fresh ideas, appetite, and love for “good” food! The tables and chairs by the sea- front offer the desired setting for peace and relaxation, while the magical view of the small port with its colorful boats during sunset naturally marks your palate's experience. 
Lunch, Dinner | Casual Dining

Enalion
Pollonia
Tel: +302287041415
The "Enalion" respects the tradition and offers visitors, authentic food made with fresh, pure, and mainly local ingredients grown in their own farm.
Lunch, Dinner | Casual Dining

Mikros Apoplous
Adamas
Tel: +302287024207
Mikros Apoplous is a unique blend of a sea food restaurant and a bar, which is a culinary landmark in Adamas town, located on the most privileged spot, right on the beach of the coast road of the town. A restaurant with captivating atmosphere, amazing sea food, idyllic views and a salty breeze, make Mikros Apoplous one of the best restaurants on the island of Milos and a great meeting point for locals and tourists from around the world.
Lunch, Dinner | Casual Dining

O Hamos
Papikinou Beach, Adamas
Tel: +302287021672
In this rustic taverna across the road from the beach, sit in the garden and choose from an array of traditional recipes, such as goat baked in parchment. The best picks are cheeses and grilled meats, served with warmth and flair (and on cool branded ceramics), alongside craft beers and local wines.

Walk in policy.
Lunch, Dinner | Casual Dining

Paleos Pastry
Plaka
Tel: +302287023490
Neoclassic atmosphere in a traditional building at the centre of Plaka, with spacious interior sitting area, large yards full of flowers and view of the Castle. Paleos is open all day, until late at night waiting to impress you with its rich menu of homemade goodies with pure ingredients.
Breakfast, Brunch

Nostos
Adamas
Tel: +306971964981
The word nostos originated from the Greek word nostimos -which means tasty- and the word nostalgia. The philosophy is to designate Greek cuisine being inspired from tradition and local products, but also from the latest trends in global gastronomy. The products still have the scent of the ocean. Fishermen from the island supply them daily with fresh fish and lobsters.
Lunch, Dinner | Casual Dining

If you’ve tried any of these, what were your favorites?

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Contact me to help with your custom Greek Itinerary today!

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GREECE ITINERARY: ATHENS, NAXOS, PAROS, SANTORINI

Recommended 10-Day Greece Itinerary:

Athens (2 nights)

Naxos (2 nights)

Paros (2 nights)

Santorini (3 nights)

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Total days: 10

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Before I start on this itinerary, I just want to point out that this is very fast paced. Also, it is mostly geared towards US travelers that do not get a ton of time off from work and have expensive flights to the EU. Greece is not like any other European destination. It is about the experience. When you go to Greece, be prepared for down time and relaxation. This can be unlike other European cities where there is so much to see and not a lot of time to do it in so you are go-go-go. If you show this itinerary to a European that has a ton of time off and has 25 euro flights, they will most likely scoff and say that you can easily spend 2 weeks in Naxos alone. That being said, as a US citizen with a full-time job and not as much PTO as is standard for European countries, we don’t have the luxury of flying 14 hours to spend two weeks on one island in Greece.

Any who - off my soapbox! Haha! This is the itinerary that my cousin and I did when we went to Greece this past October. It was amazing and perfect for us! We didn’t feel like we moved too much or too little. This was the end of the season though so a lot of things were beginning to close up for winter. This made visiting the little villages and getting around a lot faster than dealing with the crowds during the high season. It also meant that several of our tours ended up canceling due to weather (too windy). If I were to go back, I would choose to go the first or second week in September when it is the beginning of off-season, but not too windy and you can still swim.

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ATHENS

DAY 1:

Arrive into Athens and get settled into your hotel. If you’re like us, then your flight probably arrives very early in the morning. We were exhausted! I had reserved our hotel room for the night prior so that we could check in and freshen up/nap (who are we kidding?? We we straight to bed haha!) before heading out to explore for the day.

After waking up from our nap about noon, we stopped to grab some lunch at a gyro place (did not disappoint) and then headed straight to the Acropolis to see the famous Parthenon. Fun fact - in Greece, they put fries in their gyros! 😋

The views of the city from the Acropolis are gorgeous! It’s definitely a can’t miss in Athens! We walked straight up and bought skip the line tickets. Although, I’m not sure how necessary that was as we were traveling during COVID so there wasn’t much of a line to begin with. We spent the rest of the time wondering around the city. We tried to go to A for Athens (they have an amazing rooftop bar with great city views) but they were having a private event so we didn’t stay.

We made our way to The Clumsies though which had some super interesting cocktails and tapas options to snack on.

After chilling at The Clumsies and watching the bartenders flare, we walked around and did some light shopping. We had to get a cat shirt. If you’ve ever been to Greece, then you know what I’m talking about! The cats 🐈‍⬛are everywhere! Big ones, small ones, some as big as your head.. 🤪 They are seriously everywhere to the point when we went to Santorini and didn’t really see as many, we didn’t feel like we were in Greece anymore.

For dinner, we were going to head to Cafe Avissinia for meza and live music and then dinner at Kuzina for great city views. We were so exhausted that we decided to have dinner at our hotel that night. We stayed at Academias Hotel Athens and ate at their Nyx Rooftop restaurant, which also has amazing views of the Parthenon. We were not disappointed at all!

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naxos

DAY 2:

The next morning, we woke up bright and early for our quick flight to Naxos. By quick flight, I mean it was about 30 minutes. You land at this tiny airport and walk off the plane via stairs. There is one baggage claim area that is outside. We grabbed our bags and a taxi and made our way to the Naxian Utopia Luxury Villas & Suites. We booked the Two Bedroom Petite Villa Sea View with Private Pool & Outdoor Jacuzzi. This place would be perfect for families as it is a short walk into town and the villa was very spacious.

In order to tour the island, I highly recommend renting a car. The hotel had a local company bring a car over for our stay. This was super convenient as we didn’t have to walk anywhere to pick it up or drop it off.

After checking in for our stay, we walked into town and grabbed lunch at a traditional Greek restaurant called Giannoulis. I had my first real Greek salad. If you didn’t know, traditional Greek salads do not come with lettuce but they come with a huge block of feta cheese. It was yummy!

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For dinner, we ate at Apostolis and ordered entirely too many carbs with cheese haha!

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DAY 3:

Naxos is a great place for people that love to hike! Today, we took our rental car up into the mountains for a quick day hike. We didn’t bring the proper shoes so we didn’t get too far. It had started to rain and the rocks were very slick so we turned around. On the way back into town, we stopped at a restaurant with panoramic views of the valley and watched the sunset. It was gorgeous! If you decide to include Naxos in your Greece Itinerary, make sure to stop here!

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Stay tuned for Part 2 coming soon!

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Contact me to help with your custom Greek Itinerary today!

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Disclaimer: This post contains Affiliate Links for products I’m currently using. By using these links you won’t pay any additional fees, but support me to keep this site running!

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LONDON AND PARIS ITINERARY

Recommended 7-day London and Paris itinerary:

London (3 nights)

Paris (3 nights)

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Total days: 7

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LONDON

DAY 1:

Upon arriving into LHR, grab a taxi, take the tube, or get in your scheduled car service and head to your hotel.

If you arrive early enough, then you have a full day to explore the city! Check into your hotel and drop your bags. If you arrive early enough, then make a reservation at The Gallery for high tea and lunch.

After lunch, check out the London Eye or just walk around and acclimate yourself with the city.

In the afternoon, you could do a Jack the Ripper Tour and learn more about London’s dark past.

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DAY 2:

Grab breakfast at Peggy Porschen and then meet for your tour of Westminster Abby.

Once your tour is complete, grab lunch at Seven Dials Market in Covent Garden.

We opted to see Harry Potter and The Cursed Child in theatre. You can get your tickets here. If you chose to see Harry Potter in theatre, then I would recommend either eating at the theatre or grabbing something quick during intermission between the two parts.

If you chose an alternate day 2 activity, then I would recommend making reservations at Little Georgia (Georgian food- get the hatchapuri!) or Dishoom (Indian food).

ALTERNATE DAY 2 IDEAS:

There are so many options for Day 2. You could do a full day city tour, take a day trip to see stonehenge, see a play at a local theatre (Hamilton or Harry Potter), tour Buckingham Palace and watch the changing of the guards, or do a Harry Potter themed tour.

Whatever you choose, it is sure to be an exhausting fun-filled day!

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DAY 3:

Breakfast at The Parlour before your Harry Potter walking tour. Harry Potter not for you, then, try a half day city tour or another option mentioned above.

Lunch and then you can do a World War II history tour if its up your ally before dinner or just chill and take in the city.

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PARIS

DAY 4:

Spend the morning exploring Notting Hill or chilling at a cafe for your last few hours in London.

Head to the airport to catch your flight to Paris. I find flying is usually cheaper and faster than taking the train. I like to check out low-cost air carriers like Ryan Air or Easyjet for intra-Europe flights.

After arriving and dropping your luggage, jump on with a tour to better acquaint yourself with Paris. We opted for the Hidden Gems of Paris tour. You can then grab lunch near the Effiel Tower and make that your next stop for exploring the city.

Alternatively, you could go to a local market and pick up some stuff for sandwiches and have a picnic lunch by the Effiel Tower instead.

Spend the afternoon exploring the city before having dinner at Juvenilles Wine Bar.

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day 5:

Grab breakfast at FTG Paris before heading to explore the Louvre and Musee d’Orsay. If you start the day early enough, then head to Montmartre for a tour of the area.

Lunch at the famous Pink Mamma.

In the afternoon, spend some time at the Moulin Rouge or catch a show before dinner at Septime.

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DAY 6:

Day trip to the Palace of Versailles.

End the evening with dinner on a Seine River Cruise. For the best view, book either the premier or privilege package.

alternate day 6:

Grab breakfast at HolyBelly before heading to see Notre-Dame and do some shopping in Le Marais. In the afternoon, tour the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower.

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DAY 7:

Say goodbye to Paris and head to the airport for your flight home.

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WHERE TO STAY:

LONDON:

Raddison Blu

The Hoxton

The Strand

PARIS:

Les Bains

Charles V

Hyatt du Louvre

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This itinerary is action-packed! If you prefer a slower traveling pace or just like to get to a place and enjoy the vibe, then that is totally ok too! I usually only go to a place once so I like to hit everything possible in a short amount of time but it is anything but relaxing and I usually need a vacation from my vacation! HaHa!

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ABOUT ME:

I am currently a practicing Inpatient Pharmacist with a love for traveling. I love to get off the beaten path and go places/do things that are not the normal “tourist” thing to do. I love hiking and adventure travel!

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Follow me: @thatblondetravels

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We just returned from our 2 week babymoon to Croatia. What a wonderful country! From the people to the sites, to the food, it was all-around an amazing experience.

While traveling during normal times can have it’s challenges, traveling during a worldwide pandemic can especially be challenging.

Despite the extra hoops to jump through, my husband and I really wanted to travel somewhere before we welcome our new addition in January. This trip was planned and replanned probably 7 times at least. We started off originally going on safari in Kenya and then ending the trip in Oman. While Kenya reopened to tourists starting September 1, they omitted US citizens coming from Texas and California and a couple other states. Option 2 was Hawaii. I planned a full 2 week itinerary to Kauai as their quarantine was to be lifted on August 31st. Around mid-August, the governor instituted a mandatory inter-island quarantine for anyone traveling from Maui to Kauai. While we were not going to Maui and therefore did not need to quarantine, all the tour companies cancelled our excursions and restaurants began to close.

After planning several extensive itineraries, I began to get discouraged as it didn’t look as if any travel plans that I made were going to come to fruition. I told my husband ok so last ditch effort, we are going to Croatia! If that doesn’t work out, then we’re spending 2 weeks in Tulum in Mexico in a beach house haha. Putting together custom itineraries is a very time consuming process with all the research that goes into it, so as you can imagine, I was getting burnt out.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

I began to research the specifics on what we would need to get into Croatia and how we were going to get there. First off - COVID testing requirements. In order to enter Croatia, you can bypass the mandatory 14 day quarantine by getting a negative COVID PCR test within 48 hours of crossing the border OR you can enter the country with an “expired” negative result and retest on arrival. If you choose option 2, then you have to quarantine until the results are available.

This part isn’t super complicated unless you are leaving on a holiday (Labor Day) and all the labs are closed. Due to our flights, which I will talk about next, we had to take a test and have the results on the day of our flight, which was Labor Day. I had to find a place that offered COVID testing for people that are not experiencing symptoms that also had their own in house lab and that was open on a holiday. Are you overwhelmed yet? LOL. Anything is possible though when you really want to go somewhere!

FLIGHTS

With testing figured out, next up was our flights. Due to travel restrictions and lack of travelers, flights were getting cancelled left and right. There are no direct flights from Dallas to Croatia and all the ones with stops had a very long layover (I’m talking 30+ hours to get there) and were also very expensive. A travel hack that I’ve learned is to find a direct flight into a popular European hub (such as London or Paris) and then search for a flight on a local airline such as Easyjet or Ryan Air. Flights intra-Europe can be extremely cheap if you use this option. For example, our flight from Pula, Croatia to LHR was 8 euro! For a flight that was showing as more than 2k on google flights to fly from DFW to Dubrovnik, I got for 70k AA points (~700 dollars) plus an additional 80 dollars pp.

We had originally booked a British Airways flight from LHR to Dubrovnik on the same day (so arriving on September 8th) but the UK re-instituted their quarantine coming from Croatia for their citizens so BA ended up canceling all of their flights to/from Croatia. Luckily, I was able to get a flight on EasyJet that left on September 9th from Gatwick to Dubrovnik. This is why we had to get our COVID tests the day of our flight to London since we wouldn’t be arriving into Croatia until 2 days later.

Excited about our first flight since February!

With flights booked and COVID test appointments made, the next thing to figure out was if we could transfer airports in London and how to do it. As I said, we were landing into LHR and our flight to Croatia wasn’t until the next day out of Gatwick. Gatwick airport is located south of London and there are several ways to get there during normal situations. One reason that we chose to fly into London was that US citizens can actually enter the UK, whereas, places like France and Germany we cannot. This was a contingency plan in case our flights were cancelled or there was a missed connection. If there is one thing I’ve learned from this experience, it was to have a backup plan for your backup plan. In order to figure out if we could transfer airports, I did a ton of research on my own but eventually resorted to trip advisor for some locals input.

UK BORDER CROSSING

In order to enter the UK, you had to fill out a locator form that had where you would be spending your time quarantining and for how long you would be in the UK. We were just staying for 24 hours so I filled out the paperwork with all of our information and submitted electronically 48 hours prior to arrival. The UK’s quarantine rules stated that you shouldn’t use public transportation in order to get to your quarantine location. When we arrived into London, we checked out prices on taxis (150 pounds is the standard rate) and then I checked Uber which was half the price. We ended up taking an Uber from Heathrow to Gatwick once we landed.

We were very nervous about the whole landing process and going through border control and then taxi-ing to our hotel. Concerns were: how strict will they be? how will we get food? what if our flight is cancelled?. The list goes on as I’m sure you can imagine.

Being nervous about everything, I had made and looked into several options if anything did happen. When landing in LHR, the border crossing was so smooth. It was like pre-pandemic except with less people. All the border guards were super chill. They asked if we’d filled out our locator form and to see it. I showed it to them and they asked where we were headed. We told them Croatia and they got very excited and wished us well on our journey. Like I said super easy! We made it through the border, grabbed our luggage, grabbed a quick breakfast, and then hoped in our Uber to head to Gatwick airport.

Hotels, EasyJet flight, and Croatia border crossing, to be continued in Part 2!