Travel Diaries

Greece is not really a short, easy-on-the-wallet kind of destination, but there are definitely ways to make the most of your trip. This is the reference list — the best of Athens and Santorini, no filler, so you know exactly what’s worth your limited vacation days.

Best ways to get around

1. Walking

This one is a no-brainer. It’s not just good for your wallet (and health), it’s actually one of the best ways to experience a city. You really get to absorb your surroundings — the sounds of traffic, the pace people move at, how locals interact with you. All at no cost. All you need is a decent pair of trainers.

2. Renting a car

My favourite option if you’re leaving the city behind. We had a car to ourselves in Santorini, which let us discover the island at our own pace and stay somewhere quieter, away from the crowds in Oia and Fira. The island is small with very few roads, so getting lost is genuinely hard. In peak season those narrow roads do get congested, so leave yourself extra time — especially heading to Oia for sunset.

3. Cruise

Cruising through the Greek Islands is popular for a reason. I went on a catamaran in Santorini that circled the island and volcano, stopping mid-sea for the famed sunset. Adding some time on the Aegean — cruise, ferry, or private yacht if you’re feeling fancy — is worth it.

Best places to visit in Athens

1. Acropolis of Athens

The historical gem of the city, visible from practically everywhere. Even if you’re short on time in Athens, carve out an hour for this one. I’m usually the last person to willingly enter a museum, but visit the Acropolis Museum first — it makes the climb up top hit different. If you go after sunset, you get the whole city lit up at the Acropolis’s feet.

2. Plaka

Discover Athens on foot: Syntagma Square, Plaka, Ermu Street, the historical neighbourhood of Anafiotika, the central flea market, and Monastiraki Square. Each shows a different shade of the city — together they paint a better souvenir than anything you’ll carry home.

3. Temple of Poseidon

Perched on a cliff at Cape Sounion, with a stunning drive to match. The beach shacks en route are worth a stop for music, food, and a swim. We visited on a cloudy day and missed the sunset behind the columns — so consider this your reminder to check the forecast before you go.

Best sights of Santorini

1. Caldera, Fira

Santorini is the only inhabited caldera in the world, and the touristy towns lining the bay all face an active volcano. Watching the sunset behind it with good wine and better food should be number one on everyone’s list.

2. Amoudi Bay, Oia

Better enjoyed from land than the rocky descent down. What makes Santorini unique isn’t beaches, it’s the jagged cliffs edging clear blue water, dotted with blue-roofed white houses. Reach here early for sunset and grab a seat.

3. Sunset at Oia

There are plenty of sunsets on this planet. You have to experience Santorini’s to know why this one’s different. My honest complaint: it spoiled every other sunset for me, permanently.

Best stuff to eat in Greece

1. Spinach pie (spanakopita)

Forget souvlaki, the pies were the real winners. Versatile enough for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a 4pm panic snack.

2. Wine

Greece takes its local wine seriously, and if you get bored of it there’s sangria made the traditional way, no sprite involved. The only real problem is stopping at one glass.

3. Orange cake (portokalopita)

Orange-y, zesty, sweet, crumbly, and the perfect way to finish a meal. Fin.

Greece earns its reputation — history, beaches, and an absolutely chill vacation all in one place. Only got 6 days to make this happen? I’ve got the actual game plan for that right here.