Helen of Troy may have made a dramatic exit from Mycenae, but you may find yourself wanting to stay a little longer with this 10-day itinerary packed with historic sites. Whether you're atop the Acropolis, strolling the Venetian streets of Nafplio, or wandering the former palace halls at Mycenae, you'll be surrounded by stories to fuel your afternoon daydreams as you conclude your itinerary with four nights on the island of Zakynthos.

This history-inspired itinerary through the mainland and islands is perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about ancient Greek mythology and culture. Begin your journey in and around Athens, where you'll tour the Acropolis and visit the oracle at Delphi. Then take to the water and explore fascinating historical sites on Delos, Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete. Return to the mainland for one last day of historical adventures and charming Greek towns before you head home.

In the Odyssey, King Nestor receives Odysseus's son, who comes seeking word of his missing father. Join the long list of storied guests to Nestor's palace and others with this 12-day itinerary. Go from the Acropolis through historic sites at Nafplio, Mycenae, Pylos, and Olympia before sailing to the island of Zakynthos to explore its villages and vineyards, then return to watch the sun set over the Athenian Riviera.

Take two weeks to cross the stories of the Peloponnesian peninsula with this 14-day itinerary. Start with the classics on the Acropolis, then make your way down through to the site of the kingdom of Mycenae, ancient vines of Nemea, and stadium at Olympia. Top it off with four days of shipwrecks and sea turtles on the island of Zakynthos before you return to Athens and thank Poseidon for your journey.

Take two weeks to cross the stories of the Peloponnesian peninsula with this 14-day itinerary. Start with the classics on the Acropolis, then make your way down through to the site of the kingdom of Mycenae, ancient vines of Nemea, and stadium at Olympia. Top it off with four days of shipwrecks and sea turtles on the island of Zakynthos before you return to Athens and thank Poseidon for your journey.

Sure, you could channel Odysseus and spend 20 years exploring the thousands of islands, countless beaches and historical sites of Greece. But if you only have seven days, where do you start? Think about what you love—whether that be island hopping or getting to know one main location like a local—and get inspired by these itineraries.

Whether you only have time for a long weekend in Athens, a couple of weeks of island-hopping in the south, or (lucky you!) a good few weeks to explore the country from north to south, it’s impossible to feel like you've been in Greece for too long.

With 10 days to spend in Greece, travelers won't have too many tough choices to make. You'll have plenty of time to island hop around the Cyclades, do a deep dive into ancient history on the mainland, or combine the highlights of both. Check out these 5 itineraries optimized for every type of traveler, from active adventurers and families to those who simply need 10 days of blissful relaxation.

Sure, you could channel Odysseus and spend 20 years exploring the thousands of islands, countless beaches and historical sites of Greece. But if you only have seven days, where do you start? Think about what you love—whether that be island hopping or getting to know one main location like a local—and get inspired by these itineraries.