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In March, we pulled off an impromptu 8-day escape to Greece—squeezed perfectly between two busy commitments. First stop: Santorini. Then Mykonos. Finally, Athens. 2-3 days in each, and every moment felt like a well-kept secret. We’d heard the horror stories of summer crowds, so we gambled on early April—and it paid off.
With fewer tourists and wide-open views, Greece felt like it was all ours. From empty beaches to quiet alleyways, we soaked in every bit of its charm. It turned out to be the best decision—and easily, our best vacation of the year. Here’s everything we did so you can have a slice of it too.
SANTORINI
If Greece is a dream, Santorini is its most iconic postcard. Whitewashed houses spilling down cliffs, blue domes catching the sunlight, and sunsets that actually live up to the hype—this island felt like stepping into a painting.
Where to stay in Santorini?
Accommodation will likely be your biggest expense in Santorini. If it’s within budget, stay right on the caldera edge for the full wow factor—it’s worth it. For more mid-range options, look around Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli (where we stayed), or Oia. All offer great views and easy access to everything.
Where to eat in Santorini?
Triana Tavern quickly became a favourite—authentic Greek dishes, warm service, and soft romantic lighting with sea views. For another local gem, Kokkalo served up hearty, flavorful meals that hit the spot. And for those slower, lazier moments, Ilios Bakery was our go-to. It’s open 24 hours (yes, really) and has everything from groceries to a restaurant —perfect for a quick bite any time of day.
What to do in Santorini?
The best thing to do in Santorini? Walk the caldera edge and soak in the views—and that’s exactly how we spent most of our time. The Fira to Oia hike was the standout: cliffside paths, quiet chapels, and a perfect finish with Oia’s famous sunset. We rented a scooter (highly recommend!) and zipped around the island with ease.
From the black sands of Kamari to the dramatic cliffs of Red Beach and the charm of Amoudi Bay, every stop felt like a new postcard. It’s a small island, and two days on a scooter are enough to see it all. We’d also suggest checking out the Akrotiri archaeological site and Ancient Thera—though they were closed when we visited, they’re perfect for history buffs when open.
MYKONOS
Known for its whitewashed charm and beach club energy, Mykonos was our next stop, though not quite as planned. Our ferry from Santorini was cancelled due to bad weather, so we rerouted with a flight to Athens and then another to Mykonos—an unexpected detour, but all part of the adventure.
Where to stay in Mykonos?
If it’s your first time, the old town of Chora (Mykonos town) is the place to be. On one side, you’ve got luxury boutiques, trendy bars, and great dining—all within walking distance. On the other hand, narrow alleys lined with classic Cycladic architecture invite you to get lost and explore. For budget options, consider staying a bit outside town where it’s quieter and more affordable.
Where to eat in Mykonos?
For a sit-down dinner with great ambience, we loved Rouvera and Captain’s—both perfect for a relaxed evening. Craving Indian food? Hola Indian is available just around the corner. For dessert, Artisti Pοzymi had amazing cakes and pastries, and for something quick and delicious, Sakis Grill House is your spot—try the chicken gyros!
What to do in Mykonos?
Mykonos is a lively mix of beautiful beaches, charming streets, and a buzzing nightlife—but you don’t have to be a party animal to love it. We wandered through the maze-like alleys of Chora, admired the iconic windmills, and soaked up the atmosphere in Little Venice, where colourful buildings meet the sea.
Beaches like Psarou and Agios Sostis offered the perfect chill spots, and renting a scooter again was our go-to for discovering hidden corners and quieter beaches. Don’t miss the little fishing village of Ano Mera for a taste of local life away from the crowds. Whether you want to relax, explore, or dance till dawn, Mykonos has something for every vibe.
ATHENS
After the quiet charm of the islands, stepping into mainland Athens was a whole different vibe—busy, buzzing, and full of life. We were excited to dive into a city packed with history and energy, ready to explore a new side of Greece.
Where to stay in Athens?
We stayed just a stone’s throw from the Acropolis Museum, which made exploring the city a breeze—everything was easily walkable from there. Plus, if you want to venture further, Athens boasts of a reliable metro and bus network that connects you to all the main sights.
Where to eat in Athens?
Athens is packed with places to eat—seriously, you could spend a month here and still not try it all. But a few spots stood out for us. Greek Stories, just opposite the Acropolis Museum, served some of the most authentic and comforting Greek food we had on the trip. For a fun twist, Mamacita surprised us with amazing Mexican flavours right in the heart of the city. Don’t miss Fresko Greek Yoghurt Bar for a creamy, refreshing snack—it’s a must. And if you’re winding down after a long day of exploring, head to 360 Cocktail Bar for drinks with one of the best Acropolis views in town.
What to do in Athens?
The Acropolis is Athens’ crown jewel—and while it’s the most touristy spot in town, it’s absolutely unmissable. We recommend downloading a free audio guide online so you don’t feel as lost as we did. Right next door is the massive Acropolis Museum, beautifully curated and packed with history—you could easily spend an entire day there.
Other highlights include the Ancient Agora, the changing of the guard at Syntagma Square, the National Garden, and the iconic Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympics were held. And when you’ve had your fill of ancient ruins, take a slow stroll through Plaka and Anafiotika—two charming neighbourhoods where history meets café culture.
Greece completely swept us off our feet. If you’re hoping to explore this beautiful country without the crowds—and don’t mind if a few attractions are closed—April is a great time to go. It’s budget-friendly, peaceful, and the views? Still spectacular at every turn. Greece is a timeless paradise, and one everyone should experience at least once.
KaviNinja 