iLoveItineraries
5 Days in Greece: Two Simple Itineraries That Work
How to spend 5 days in Greece: Athens plus one island, or Athens plus the mainland, without wasting days on transfers.
By the iLoveGreece editorial team · Last reviewed 2026-11
Quick answer
With 5 days, pick Athens plus one island, not more. Spend 2 days in Athens (Acropolis, Plaka, a museum) and 3 days on one island reached by a single ferry or short flight, such as Paros, Naxos, Santorini or Aegina for a calmer option. If you prefer culture over beaches, do Athens plus Delphi or Nafplio.
At a glance
| Day | Athens + island | Athens + mainland |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Athens, Plaka evening | Arrive Athens |
| 2 | Acropolis + museum | Acropolis + museum |
| 3 | Ferry to island | Day trip to Delphi |
| 4 | Island day | Bus to Nafplio |
| 5 | Ferry or fly back | Mycenae or Epidaurus, return |
What to know
- Keep the last night near your departure airport if you fly home early.
- One ferry leg each way is the maximum for a relaxed 5-day trip.
- Ferries can be delayed by wind; flights to Santorini or Mykonos are an alternative.
- Book the Acropolis time slot ahead in busy months.
FAQ
Is 5 days enough for Greece?
Enough for Athens and one island or one mainland area.
Which island is best for a short trip?
One with a direct, frequent ferry or flight from Athens: Paros, Naxos, Santorini, Mykonos or nearby Aegina.
Related guides
- 10 Days in Greece: Itinerary With Athens, Islands and Ferries
- How Many Days in Athens? 1, 2 or 3-Day Plans
- Athens, Paros, Naxos and Santorini in 7 Days: Island-Hopping Itinerary with Ferries
- Athens in 3 Days: Essential Itinerary
- Two Weeks in Greece: A First-Timer's Itinerary with Ferries (Athens, Islands, Crete)
- Athens Riviera Drive: Glyfada to Sounion
Updated 2026-11. General planning guidance. Check with operators and local authorities.