2 weeks on the Greek Islands
From stunning natural landscapes and an overflow of culture and history, to luxurious party resorts and crystal blue beaches - the Greek Islands have it all. Follow this itinerary with your Eurail Greek Islands Pass and enjoy all good things life has to offer during a memorable trip to paradise.
The Eurail Greek Islands Passes offer you two different ways to explore the majestic islands of the Aegean. One includes transfers to/from Italy and one is strictly for domestic travel between Greek Islands. Both Passes also give you a 30% discount on any additional ferry trips operated by the Attica Group during the validity of your Pass.
Day 1 - 3: Crete (Heraklion)
To start your trip, it would be ideal to fly to Heraklion International Airport in Crete. Spend a few days exploring the "cradle of Minoan civilization”, starting at the awe-inspiring Palace of Knossos. It's the oldest city in Europe and the largest Bronze Age archeological site on Crete.
The Heraklion Archaelogical Museum is a must-see on Crete, as is the Old Venetian Harbor in Chania. You can also find plenty of restaurants and bars here. Take a day trip with the family (or without them) to visit the CretAquarium, the largest complex for marine research in the Mediterranean.
Day 4 - 6: Santorini
With 3 million visitors in the last year and a population of only 10,000, Santorini is popular to say the least. With its white houses and its breathtaking scenery the opportunities for relaxation are endless. Visit the Art Space gallery, go wine-tasting, and stop by at the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, home to a large number of ancient artifacts.
Take a plunge in water that couldn’t get any bluer and experience the luxurious plethora of hot springs and beaches on a Caldera cruise. After a long day of snorkeling and snapping the gorgeous sights, take a moment to appreciate the sunset from Oia, where tourists and locals gather to admire the golden haze.
Day 7 - 9: Ios
Ios is particularly known for its beaches (surprise, surprise!), picturesque landscape and a nightlife that attracts tons of young tourists. However, that does not make it off-limits for those not in it for bars and clubs.
The island is a great place to relax away from the crowds with its winding footpaths of the old town and its isolated beaches. Manganari beach in particular is an absolute must-see. If you’re traveling off-season, you will find Ios is a destination for families and mature travelers, giving it the best of both worlds appeal.
Day 10 - 12: Paros
Paros has a bit of everything you’d expect - whitewashed sweet villages, blue-domed churches, fashionable resort towns and fishing harbours. The island of Paros is basically Mykonos without the hype and the price tag, a jackpot renowned for its cosmopolitan and vibrant nightlife.
Whatever it is you’re looking for you are bound to find in between walks through Paros park or while indulging in various activities from windsurfing to snorkeling in the emerald waters. If you’re in need of some history and architecture, the church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani (literally the Church with a Hundred Doors) - a few meters from the port of capital city Parikia - is one of the best-preserved monuments in Greece.
Day 13 - 14: Athens
You may be on your way home, but this isn't where the fun and games stop. There's plenty of things to see and do in Athens on your last days. Climb the Acropolis, the most important ancient site in the Western world, and marvel over the Parthenon temple that was built for the city's patron, the goddess Athena.
Take a walk through the Plaka neighbourhood and watch a film at Cine Paris, the first outdoor cinema in Athens. For some more history, check out the Kerameikos - the old potter's quarter that's a heaven for archeologists.
Good to know...
Flights
Direct flights to Crete's airports are only available during high season (May/April - September/October)
Santorini and Mykonos airports are an option, but they have less direct international flights than Crete.
International flights are cheaper from Athens, but it will take one of your ferry trips to get back there.
Travel Tips
Recommended to visit around September, when it's not so busy and the water is warmer.
Take a look at the Greek Islands Brochure available on our Greek Islands Pass page.
Check out this article on the Eurail Blog on traveling through the Greek Islands.
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