Are you thinking about how to plan the perfect trip to Greece with teenagers and young adults? Then you have landed on the right page. This 8-day Greece itinerary covers the best things to do in Greece with teenagers and young Adults. See how we explored the most popular Greece destinations, Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens.
Visiting these iconic cities is perfect for first-time visitors to Greece. Traveling around Greece with teenagers is such an amazing experience. Not to mention how gorgeous Greece is.
When you think of Greece, you may feel it’s just a honeymoon destination or a vacation for couples. But that’s not true at all. You don’t have to leave the kids at home to enjoy Greece.
There are plenty of things to do in Greece with teenagers and young adults. They will love seeing the stunning Caldera landscape and the Aegean Sea in Santorini. Their jaws will drop while visiting the historic windmills and seeing the gorgeous sunsets in Mykonos.
Plus, they will be so amped while exploring Athens, visiting the iconic ruins, learning about the mythology of Greek Gods, and eating incredible food. Can we say Gyros for the WIN?!
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Is Greece a good place to take kids?
I don’t have any little kids, but my then 17-year-old and 21-year-old daughters thoroughly enjoyed their time in Greece. However, for the little kids, I think Greece is a wonderful vacation for them as well. It’s rather safe traveling around the Greek islands.
However, Santorini has tons of stairs and uphill climbing, so it may be a struggle for younger kids under 10. They may get a little worn down from all the elevation.
Aside from that, your kids, teens, and in-between will love the sunny weather, the beautiful scenery, and splashing in the pools. Additionally, Mykonos is flatter and an easier walk. Plus, the town is pretty small. You can see a lot of things in a short span of time.
Then you have Athens, which is a major city. You have the best of both worlds here since it is full of culture and history. Plus, it’s become more modernized, with plenty of stores, restaurants, cafes, museums, and more.
Therefore, as long as you plan ahead of time and read this post, your time in Greece with teenagers and young adults will be an incredible vacation for everyone.
Let’s jump into How to Spend 8 Days in Greece with Teenagers
Greece 8-Day Itinerary Breakdown
- Day 1 Arriving in Santorini
- Day 2 Santorini Sunset Cruise
- Day 3 Hiking Around Santorini
- Day 4 Travel to Mykonos
- Day 5 Travel to Athens
- Day 6 Athens Historical Walking Tour
- Day 7 Athens Acropolis and then some
- Day 8 Fly Home
Day 1 – Arriving in Santorini Greece with Teenagers
You will start your Greece itinerary by flying into Santorini. We flew into Santorini Airport from London. If you come from other European countries, you can fly directly into Santorini.
However, if you are coming from the United States, you’ll likely fly into Athens first. Then from there, you can fly to Santorini. We liked flying into the island first, then ending our journey in Athens.
Once you fly in, it’ll probably be later on in the day. Once you arrive, you will check into your hotel. Depending on what time you arrive, you can start by getting some grub for lunch or dinner. We arrived in the afternoon, so we had about an hour to explore before having dinner.
To see full details about planning your trip to Santorini, Read: How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Santorini with Teenagers
Where to stay in Santorini
Santorini is a huge tourist bucket list location in Greece. Due to this, there are tons of places to stay in Santorini. A good way to determine where to stay in Santorini is to figure out what part of Santorini will be best for you and the fam.
There are three main areas in Santorini, Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli. Oia is the most famous village and making it the most expensive. Oia village is on the island’s westernmost tip and is the best place to see the magical sunsets.
However, we stayed in Imerovigli, where we could still get spectacular views of the caldera without breaking the bank. Our luxury cave villa, Above Blue Suites, was pretty good for the price. It wasn’t cheap, but it didn’t hit the pockets too hard, either.
There was plenty of room for my family of two adults, one teenager, and a young adult. The Suite is in a wonderful location. We had amazing views of Skaros Rock and the water. When in Santorini, nothing beats staying in a hotel with spectacular views.
Not to mention, our villa had a private pool and a sauna. It has a separate King bedroom, queen bed, loft, and 3 sitting areas! Lastly, I loved how you could have breakfast on your patio while watching the incredible sunrise.
Click here to see rates and availability for Above Blue Suites
Another Incredible hotel
Another highly recommended luxury hotel in Imerovigli, Santorini, is Absolute Bliss. It’s perched on top of the black volcanic rock, and they have rooms with caldera views, suites, and villas with classic Aegean architecture. They book up really fast, so make sure you book early.
Click here to see rates and availability for Absolute Bliss
There are mid to budget-friendly hotels all over Santorini as well. To see other budget-friendly hotel options in Santorini, click here.
Day 2 – Photoshoot (POSE)…and Luxury Sunset Cruise
We started our day off by doing a flying dress photoshoot. Yes!! It was an incredible experience with both of my daughters. I suggest you book the photoshoot first thing in the morning. This way, you will still have the rest of the day, plus fewer people will roam around at 0800 in the morning.
Anywho, doing this photoshoot is one of the most unique things to do with teenagers and young adults in Santorini.
For all the details of our marvelous photoshoot, see our Santorini post here.
Baby, Let’s Cruise
After our photoshoot, we went on a wonderful sunset Cruise. Taking a sunset cruise in Santorini, Greece, with teenagers is a must. It’s one of the best ways to see parts of the island from a different view. Here you can relax and enjoy the astonishing views in the middle of the Aegean Sea.
We took this luxury sunset cruise on a catamaran, and it was sensational. On this cruise, you will go to the island’s best spots, such as Red and White Beaches. Then you will stop and have a barbecue lunch with incredible scenery.
Next, you’ll be able to swim in the volcanic Hot Springs. Finally, the last stop in Oia is the best because you will watch the most incredible sunset you will ever see in your life!
Not feeling a Photoshoot? Here’s an Alternative
If you are not game for a photo shoot in Greece with the family, you should still wake up early, have breakfast, and then hike from Fira to Oia. This route is a legendary walk along the caldera to get stunning views over the water.
The hiking trail is about 6 miles long and is one of the most adventurous things to do in Greece with teenagers and young adults. Don’t forget to take breaks along the way. You don’t want to wear the kids out too much.
Plus, let it be a journey and not just a destination. Enjoy the scenery and take in the breathtaking views. Take some pics and vids for the Gram. Then, stop for ice cream, pop into the little shops, and explore.
Day 3 – Take a Hike around Greece with Teenagers
If you didn’t take the hike yesterday, that’s okay because today we are going to Oia. Wake up early and head over to Oia. You can hike to Oia today or grab a Taxi from your hotel.
Once you get to Oia, check out Ammoudi Bay. Ammoudi Bay is popular for its swimming hole in Oia. It’s at the base of Oia, and to get there, you’ll have to climb over some rocks, so make sure you have the proper shoes and attire. We didn’t prepare ourselves, to say the least. We got halfway over and turned around because our shoes weren’t sturdy enough.
Now, once you make it over the rocks, you can jump and swim in the tranquil water for a bit. Or you can watch other people jumping off and enjoying the water. Seeing the landscape in Ammoudi Bay of the dazzling water and Red Cliffs is jaw-dropping.
Next, take a walk around and explore the town a bit. There are plenty of restaurants by the water, but many more in town. You can have a bite here and get lost wandering around Oia. Go shopping for unique souvenirs and enjoy seeing the incredible white-washed houses and the Blue Domes.
To see full details about planning your trip to Santorini, Read: How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Santorini with Teenagers
Day 4 – Island Hopping – Travel to Mykonos
Today we are traveling to Mykonos by Ferry. It is easy getting around Greece on a Ferry. You can book a ferry by going to this link Ferry Hopper. I recommend booking the earliest ferry so you can get to Mykonos earlier in the afternoon. You’ll arrive in Mykonos within 2.5 to 3 hours.
After checking out of your hotel, head on over to the port.
Make sure you are at the port at least 1 hour before departure. Check with the vessel company’s Customer Service to know what ferry you are getting on. It can be a bit chaotic.
There were hundreds of people going to Mykonos from Santorini. So just be prepared for large crowds. Not to mention that we were waiting about 45 minutes in the hot sun while the boat pulled up and let the other people off. It was crazy and cool to see all of those people walking off the ship.
Anyway, our Ferry Seajets was really nice. The vessel is huge, and it’s a comfortable ride. From Santorini to Mykonos, I hardly felt any turbulence or hitting of the waves.
Furthermore, they have drinks and snacks available for you to purchase. The seats are comfortable, and the restrooms are clean. I like that on this boat, you can move around freely. You have more room versus being on an airplane.
Likewise, when purchasing tickets, you can choose what seat you want, whether standard or business class. But the boat is so big, there is plenty of seating. You could practically find any open seat and sit there.
Check the Ferry schedule and rates here
Time to hit these Mykonos Cobble-Stone Streets
Once you get to Mykonos, check into your hotel and hit the streets ASAP. Now, I’m sure y’all are hungry, so the first stop is grabbing lunch.
When in Greece, Eat Greek Food.
Of course, we love eating Gyros, so we headed to Jimmy’s Gyros and got some DELICIOUS yet cheap eats. Chicken Gyros for the win!
After lunch, wander around the town and enjoy the vibes. Since Mykonos is much smaller than Santorini and mostly flat, walking around is easier.
However, there are picturesque cobbled stone streets but don’t worry; it’s much easier to get around than in Santorini. I think it’s because you’re not constantly climbing up a bunch of stairs.
After exploring a bit, check out the historical Kato Myloi Windmills. Then walk to Little Venice, have a drink, and enjoy the spectacular views over the water.
Make sure you go to a seaside restaurant or bar in the evening to catch the unbelievable sunset in Little Venice. The sunset here is just as astonishing as in Santori. We went to Bao’s Cocktail Bar to hang out, listen to good music, and have drinks.
I’m grown, so we also had Shisha (Hookah) as we kicked back and relaxed by the water…LOL
Party Time?
With that being said, Mykonos is also known as a party island. If your teens are old enough, you can take them out dancing. Although we were tired from wandering all day, the girls still wanted to go and listen to some good music and go out dancing. So we ended our day by dancing the night away.
That was our one-day night in Mykonos. Is one day enough time to explore Mykonos? I would say yeah and no.
I wish we had stayed at least 2 full days in Mykonos. Although it’s a much smaller island than Santorini, I would’ve liked more time to explore. It’s such a beautiful and chill island. I would have loved to go to one of the epic day parties at one of the beach clubs. But we just didn’t have enough time.
There’s always next time, right?
Where to stay in Mykonos
We stayed at this amazing hotel: Absolute Mykonos Suites & More. It’s a gorgeous and quiet hotel in Mykonos.
What I love about this hotel is that it is elegant, classic, and clean. The property is modern and immaculate too. There’s a beautiful pool perched up high on the hilltop overlooking the gorgeous tranquil sea.
Our Hotel room was sparkly clean and had a beachy yet cave vibe. We had the main room with a Queen bed and sitting area, then a separate bedroom for the girls with two full-size beds. It was perfect for our one night there.
Plus, the resort is within walking distance of the town, Little Venice, and the Windmills. However, the one con about this hotel is the limited bathroom privacy. The sink to wash your hands is out in the open, separate from the toilet and shower. But overall, it was a fantastic stay.
Click here to see rates and availability for Absolute Mykonos Suites & More
Day 5 – Travel to Athens, Greece with Teenagers
Time to get back to the mainland. Awwww. I know, but trust me, you will love it here!
We traveled to Athens on yet another Ferry. To book a ferry for Athens, go to Ferry Hopper. Our Ferry was about an hour late, so we got to Athens later than expected, but that’s okay. The fastest ferry to Athens will take about 2.5 hours.
Once you arrive, grab a Taxi and head over to your hotel. It took us about 45 minutes from the port to our hotel. We stayed in the heart of Athens, near most tourist attractions.
After checking into the hotel, it’s time to eat a late lunch/early dinner. I heard so much about this restaurant we checked it out immediately.
So head over to O’Thanasis, a popular restaurant with authentic Greek cuisine. It was a short 10-minute walk for us. Foods you must try here are the Thanasis Kebab, Yogourtlou Beef Kebab, and Beef or Chicken Souvlaki.
After dinner, you can return to the hotel and settle in, or walk around and sightsee some before turning in.
For full details about Athens, Read: 15 Exciting Things to Do in Athens with Teenagers
Where to stay in Athens
We stayed in two different hotels in Athens due to limited availability. However, both of these luxury 5-star hotels are incredible!
Electra Palace Athens
This gorgeous 5-Star hotel is within walking distance of most tourist sites, plus it’s right in the middle of the adorable Plaka neighborhoods. Here you can choose an incredible hotel room with stunning views of the Acropolis. When I say this hotel and its rooms is luxury at its finest. It is da bomb dot com.
In addition to lovely plush rooms, you will get panoramic views of the Acropolis from the terrace while eating a delicious breakfast or dinner. Gaze at the Acropolis from the clear glass windows inside or dine outside in the open air.
For more details and availability for Electra Palace click here
Electra Metropolis Athens
Electra Metropolis is another beautiful 5-Star luxury hotel in the same area as the Electra Palace. Its location makes this the perfect place to stay in Athens. Not only that, but you can get incredible views from the terrace of the Acropolis here too.
Additionally, the rooms are modern, beautifully decorated, and comfortable. They also offer suites with Acropolis views, Superior rooms (what we had), and standard rooms as well.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at both of these hotels. With many types of rooms available, these rooms can fit anyone’s budget.
For more details and availability for Electra Metropolis, click here
Day 6 – Time To learn some Thangs about Athens Historical Sites
Today we will visit some of the historical sites of Greece with teenagers and young adults. There are many sites to see in Athens that are worth your time.
Since you will be visiting other archaeological sites besides the Acropolis, you could purchase a combination ticket.
So what is a combination ticket, you ask?
A combination ticket will get you into all of the 7 archaeology sites: the Acropolis, Roman Agora, Ancient Agora, Hadrian’s Library, Temple of Zeus, Aristotle’s School, Kerameikos Ancient Cemetery,
I know everyone is excited about visiting the Acropolis first thing! Since it is one of the most popular monuments to see in Greece. However, we are starting off by going to one of the smaller sites first.
We went to the Roman Agora first to activate the combination ticket that we purchased online here. We did this because the lines won’t be that long like it is at the Acropolis. There wasn’t even a line at the Roma Agora, we activated our ticket, and we were good to go to enter every site without standing in another ticket line to enter.
For price and details for this Acropolis and 6 Archaeological Sites Combo Tickets click here
Yummy Greek Pizza
After some exploring, it’s time to take a break. Go and have some lunch. One quick and cheap place to eat is at Smak. Smak is a quaint restaraunt that serves traditional Greek Pizza shaped like a boat. It is so good, and I know the kids will enjoy it.
Walking and Admiring Gorgeous Neighborhoods
After lunch, finish up your historical monuments tour. Then head on over and walk through some of the most charming neighborhoods of Athens. Some of the neighborhoods you should seek out are Plaka, Anafiotika Village, and Psyrri neighborhoods. These are some of the most beautiful places in Athens.
Additionally, you should seek out the famous Monastiraki Square. Here you can sit and people-watch, then walk around and find unique souvenirs from the street vendors.
Are we Eating Again? Well…DUH
After that, don’t forget to have dinner. Athens has tons of restaurants, from cheap eats to fine dining. However, I recommend eating at Misafir. We stumbled across the beautiful restaurant while walking around Athens and decided to eat there.
It was nothing short of amazing. The food was incredible. We sat on the rooftop and had good views and good vibes.
Day 7 – More sight-seeing: The Acropolis, Shopping & Free time to wander
Today is perfect for climbing the Acropolis. Wake up first thing in the morning, have breakfast, and head straight to the Acropolis. The Acropolis is a famous landmark you must visit while in Greece with teenagers.
On the hill, you will see several remarkable landmarks, such as the Temple of the Athena Nike, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Erechtheion, Theater of Dionysus, and the Parthenon.
Walk around these captivating ancient ruins and bask in the beauty of the monuments. There are placards in front of each landmark explaining some history and facts about the buildings.
However, you will get much more information on an Acropolis guided walking tour. Learn first-hand from an archaeologist expert about all the history, Greek life, and the stories of the mythology behind the Greek gods.
Did somebody say FREE time?
After visiting the Acropolis, you’ll have some free time to do other things. You can get out of the beating sun and visit the Acropolis Museum. Learn some history and see ancient artifacts excavated from the Acropolis and surrounding areas.
Next, a fun activity to do in Athens is visiting the Museum of Illusions in Greece with teenagers and young adults. The entire family will love taking a break from a history lesson and having fun with the optical illusions at this museum.
Also, don’t forget to shop for some unique souvenirs and crafts. You must go and shop around the Flea Market in Monastiraki. Shopping in Greece with teenagers and young adults is a perfect way to end the trip. They can find quirky gifts to bring back for friends and family.
Lastly, have your final dinner in Athens. Pick one of the rooftop restaurants to watch a fabulous sunset over the Acropolis.
For full details about planning your trip to Athens Read: 15 Exciting Things to Do in Athens with Teenagers
Day 8 – Fly Home
Our flight wasn’t leaving until later in the afternoon, so we had more time to explore. YAY!!
We woke up early and ate breakfast while getting our last views of the Acropolis from the hotel’s terrace. Then we set out to do a bit of window shopping and get last-minute souvenirs.
Before heading back to the hotel, we grabbed one last gyro to hold us over until we got home, and it was scrumptious!
Greece Itinerary with Teenagers Final Thoughts
Our travels throughout the beautiful country of Greece to Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens were incredible. Traveling in Greece with teenagers and young adults is a wonderful place to take a vacay with your family. And, if we are lucky, we’ll take another trip to Greece and visit some of the other islands to enjoy this country even further.
I hope you enjoyed our Greece with Teenagers post. I’d love to hear how you spent your time in Greece. Let me know in the comments below.
Are you looking for further reading about Greece? Check out these posts below.
- 15 Exciting Things to Do in Athens with Teenagers
- How to Plan the Perfect Trip You’ll Love in Santorini with Teenagers
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