Imagine strolling among the thousand-year-old columns of the Acropolis without the crowds of tourists, diving into the turquoise waters of Crete with summer temperatures still high, and enjoying souvlaki in a taverna overlooking the sea at sunset. Greece in October is all this and much more: a perfect balance of culture, nature, and authenticity, far from the chaos of the high season.
This 7-day itinerary between Athens and Crete will guide you to discover two different faces of Greece: the historic capital with its archaeological treasures and the archipelago's largest island, where dreamy beaches meet age-old traditions. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking Mediterranean relaxation, this guide will help you have an unforgettable Greek experience.
When to go to Greece
October is one of the best months to visit Greece , and I'll tell you why. As summer gives way to autumn, temperatures remain pleasant: in Athens, they hover around 20-24°C, while in Crete you can still enjoy the sea with water temperatures of 22-23°C.
The low season brings incredible benefits: more affordable airfare and hotel prices, archaeological sites you can explore at your leisure, and restaurants and taverns where the owners finally have time to chat. The climate is ideal for walking among ancient ruins without the scorching August sun, and the days are still long and bright.
Sure, you might encounter a few brief showers, but nothing that will ruin your trip. In fact, the October light gives Greek sunsets a golden hue that photographers adore. If you want to avoid the summer crowds while still enjoying all the beauty of Greece, October is the perfect time to visit.
Why choose Athens and Crete
The Athens-Crete combination is simply brilliant for first-time visitors to Greece. Athens immerses you in Western history: it's where democracy, philosophy, and theater were born. Walking through the ancient Agora or climbing the Parthenon is a soul-stirring experience, a journey through time between myth and reality.
Crete, on the other hand, offers the most authentic and natural Greece. It's an island that has it all: Caribbean beaches like Balos and Elafonisi, breathtaking gorges like Samaria, villages where time seems to have stood still, and a gastronomy that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you'll find the ancient and mysterious Minoan civilization, evidenced by the Palace of Knossos.
From a practical standpoint, Athens and Crete are perfectly connected: frequent direct flights and overnight ferries make travel easy and part of the adventure. In one week, you can enjoy two completely different yet complementary experiences, returning home feeling like you've truly discovered Greece.
7-day travel itinerary in Greece
Day 1: Arrival in Athens and first taste of the city
You land in Athens and your journey begins immediately. After checking into your hotel, take a stroll through the Plaka neighborhood , the historic center at the foot of the Acropolis. Its cobbled streets are a charming labyrinth of artisan shops, traditional taverns, and cafes overlooking the sacred hill.
Stop for a light lunch of tzatziki , dolmades (vine rolls), and an authentic Greek salad. In the afternoon, visit Syntagma Square to witness the changing of the guard in front of the Parliament: a choreographed spectacle that will make you smile with the precision of the movements. End the day with an evening stroll through Monastiraki , where the flea market meets the lights of the modern city.
Day 2: The Acropolis and the Museums of Athens
Wake up early to visit the Acropolis when it opens (8:00 a.m.): you'll find yourself practically alone in front of the Parthenon, with the morning light bathing the marbles in a magical amber hue. Explore the Propylaea, the Erechtheion with its famous Caryatids, and the Temple of Athena Nike.
Descending the hill, visit the Theatre of Dionysus , the cradle of Western theater. Then head to the Acropolis Museum , ultra-modern and perfectly organized: the original sculptures will leave you breathless. In the afternoon, relax in the Ancient Agora , where Socrates walked and debated, and visit the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best preserved in Greece.
In the evening, have dinner in the Psyrri neighborhood , a lively area with excellent restaurants where you can try moussaka , souvlaki and baklava .
Day 3: From Athens to Crete - Arrival in Heraklion
Take a morning flight to Heraklion (about 50 minutes) or, if you prefer a slower experience, the overnight ferry. Once in Crete, pack your bags and spend the afternoon exploring Heraklion.
Visit the Venetian Fortress on the old port, stroll through the historic center, and stop at one of the many pastry shops to sample bougatsa (cream pastries). Don't miss the Morosini Fountain in Lions Square and the lively covered market , where you can buy olives, Cretan honey, and local spices.
Day 4: The Palace of Knossos and the Northern Beaches
The morning is dedicated to the Palace of Knossos , Crete's most important archaeological site and the heart of the Minoan civilization. Strolling among the restored frescoes and red columns, you'll delve into the legend of the Minotaur and Daedalus's labyrinth. I recommend a guided tour to fully understand this place's complex history.
In the afternoon, head to the beaches on the north coast: Agia Pelagia or Ammoudara are perfect for a refreshing dip. The October water is still pleasant, and you'll find the beaches almost deserted.
Day 5: Samaria Gorge or the South Coast
If you love trekking, dedicate this day to the Samaria Gorge , one of the longest in Europe (16 km). It's challenging, but the natural spectacle is worth every effort: rock faces hundreds of meters high, wild vegetation, and the feeling of being completely immersed in nature.
If you prefer something more relaxed, rent a car and head to the south coast: the beaches of Matala (famous for its hippie caves) and Red Beach will leave you speechless. Stop at Kommos , a long, wild beach where it's not uncommon to spot sea turtles.
Day 6: Chania and Balos Lagoon
Today you'll head west to Chania , Crete's most charming city. Its Venetian harbor is a living postcard, with colorful houses mirrored in the water and the lighthouse dominating the skyline. Spend time wandering the narrow streets of the old town, visiting the historic neighborhoods, and enjoying lunch at a seaside taverna.
In the afternoon, weather permitting, take a boat trip to Balos Lagoon : turquoise waters, pink sand, and an almost unreal beauty. It's one of the most photographed places in Greece, and you'll soon understand why.
Day 7: Relax and return
The final day is dedicated to relaxation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast overlooking the sea, take a final dip, or stroll through the center of Chania or Heraklion, depending on your return flight.
Before you leave, buy some souvenirs: thyme honey, Cretan olive oil, raki (the local liqueur), and some handmade ceramics. You'll retain the flavor of Greece long after your trip.
If you are thinking of taking a trip alone or with friends or for work, do not forget the importance of staying connected wherever you are. For unlimited Internet connection, contact BLIVALE where you can get unlimited Internet according to the destinations:
For unlimited plans like data BLIVALE guarantees free roaming anywhere in the world, no additional or hidden costs. Don't let the lack of connection stop you; get ready to explore the world with freedom and spontaneity.
Culture, language and currency
Greek culture is a fascinating mix of classical antiquity, Byzantine influences, Ottoman domination, and European modernity. Greeks are warm, hospitable, and enjoy conversation, especially if you show interest in their traditions.
The official language is Modern Greek, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic words like kalimera (good morning), efcharistó (thank you), and parakaló (you're welcome) will open many doors and bring you smiles.
The currency is the euro, so no problem for those arriving from Europe. Credit cards are accepted everywhere, but it's helpful to always have some cash on hand for smaller tavernas, markets, and tips.
A word of advice: respect local traditions. In monasteries, cover your shoulders and knees, avoid photographing people without permission, and remember that filoxenía (hospitality) is sacred to Greeks: if they offer you coffee or a cake, accept it gratefully.
What to pack in your suitcase
October in Greece requires a versatile suitcase. Here's the essential list:
Clothing:
Light clothing for the day (t-shirts, shorts, dresses)
A sweater or sweatshirt for cooler evenings
Comfortable long trousers for visits to archaeological sites
Swimsuit (the water is still perfect!)
Comfortable walking shoes (essential for the Acropolis and archaeological sites)
Sandals or flip-flops for the beach
A light jacket or raincoat for possible showers
Accessories:
Hat and sunglasses (the October sun is still strong)
High protection sunscreen
Lightweight backpack for day hikes
Reusable water bottle
Power bank to keep your devices charged
Documents:
Valid identity card or passport
European Health Insurance Card
Hotel and flight bookings (also in digital format)
Travel insurance
Technology:
Smartphone with camera (to capture every moment)
Charger and adapter (even if the sockets in Greece are European, they may be different from yours)
Your BLIVALE eSIM already installed before departure
Stay connected without worries: Blivale's Unlimited eSIM
When you travel, staying connected is no longer a luxury but a necessity. You need to share that breathtaking photo of the sunset over the Acropolis on Instagram, reply to work emails, use Google Maps to navigate the streets of Chania, book a last-minute ferry online, or simply video call home to show them where you are.
The perfect solution for Greece is the BLIVALE eSIM Unlimited : unlimited internet with no GB limits, no nasty surprises on your bill and without the exorbitant costs of international roaming.
Why choose the BLIVALE eSIM for Greece ?
Instant activation: buy online before you leave, scan the QR code and you're connected as soon as you land.
Unlimited data: no more worrying about GB usage, streaming, maps and social media always available
No hidden costs: pay once and you're done, no surprises
Keep your number: the eSIM works in parallel with your country SIM, you receive calls and SMS normally
4G/5G speed: fast browsing for uploading photos, videos and using cloud services
Multilingual support: customer support always available
With the Blivale eSIM, you can use WhatsApp to plan your days, translation apps to communicate with locals, restaurant and tour reservations, and, most importantly, Google Maps to never get lost. Imagine being on your way to Balos and needing to check boat schedules, or wanting to share the excitement of standing before the Parthenon in real time: all this is possible, stress-free and worry-free.
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Conclusion and final recommendations
Greece in October is an experience that exceeds all expectations. Between Athens and Crete, you'll find millennia-old history, picture-perfect landscapes, extraordinary cuisine, and the legendary hospitality of the Greeks. It's the perfect trip for those seeking culture without sacrificing relaxation, adventure with comfort, and authenticity far from mass tourism.
My final advice:
Book your flights and hotels in advance to get the best prices.
Rent a car in Crete to explore the island freely.
Taste it all: from moussaka to raki, every dish tells a story.
Interact with the locals: Greeks love to share stories and traditions
Always carry water and sunscreen with you, even in autumn
Activate your BLIVALE eSIM before leaving to travel connected and worry-free
Greece awaits you with its golden sun, crystal-clear sea, and three thousand years of history. October is the perfect time to experience it to the fullest. Pack your suitcase, download your eSIM, and get ready to fall in love with the ancient land of the gods.
Kalò taxidi! (Have a good trip!)
