AN ODYSSEY THROUGH THE CYCLADES

“The unexamined life is not worth living”— Socrates.

As I walk the cobblestone streets of Mykonos, climb the 278 steps to Oia, and hike to the crest of the Acropolis to reach the Parthenon, I can’t imagine a life where I never got to experience this. But the reality is, many of us don’t make it this far. The trip never leaves the group chat, and the excitement slowly fades as financial worry sets in.

So where’s the bright side? Travel doesn’t require luxury priced accommodations or first-class tickets. You don’t need a perfect plan or infinite budget. All you need is a willingness to go.

Here are some tips and tricks for traveling on a budget— because who says you have to break the bank to explore the world?

When you hear “Greece”…

What comes to mind? Exquisite wine, cold-pressed olive oil, whitewashed houses—and a two-thousand dollar flight? One of the biggest misconceptions about Greece is that it’s outrageously expensive. But if you plan smart and take advantage of seasonal lulls, a trip like this won’t be so far out of reach.

Travel during the shoulder season

Off seasons and Shoulder seasons are some of the best times to travel, offering lower costs, fewer crowds, and more authentic experiences. The best time to visit Greece for beautiful weather and smaller crowds is between September and October. Although the ocean may be a bit chilly for some, the temperature—ranging from the high seventies to low eighties— is perfect for sunbathing on black sand beaches or getting lost in picturesque streets.

Islands like Mykonos and Santorini may still boast crowds due to their popularity, but nothing like the chaos of peak summer. For better pricing and a more local feel, consider islands such as Crete, Paros, and Naxos. These lesser visited islands host the same iconic blue and white buildings, cobblestone streets, and breathtaking views at lower prices for food and accommodations.

Flights

Finding a cost-efficient flight can be tricky. The earlier you book the better, as prices tend to rise closer to departure. While third party sites like Expedia can offer decent deals, I recommend booking directly through the airline, as you are at the mercy of those websites in the event of delays or cancellations. Booking direct makes any surprises easier to handle.

I traveled with Turkish Airlines. My round-trip economy ticket was $750. Checked bags
cost extra, but if you pack light enough, everything fits in a carry-on and personal item.

At five-foot-four, the legroom for an eleven-hour flight was manageable—but if you’re taller or generally prefer extra space, consider upgrading. Turkish Airlines also offers an airport lounge with unlimited food and drink (yes, alcohol included), Wi-Fi, showers, TVs, and comfy seating, for about $50 for four hours, if you’re feeling fancy.

First stop: Athens

When arriving, you’ll most likely be landing on the main island of Greece at Athens International Airport. Exploring Athens is a must. The city is overflowing with art, history, and culture.

Kick off your adventure at the Acropolis. It’s best to go first thing in the morning or during the last entry in the evening to avoid larger crowds and peak heat. This is an uphill hike, so bring your walking shoes, and prepare to have your breath taken away by Athena herself when you reach the top. The Acropolis Museum is another great stop. Tickets cost 15- 20 euros and grant you access to statues, busts, and even the underground excavation site.

Next, explore Plaka, Syntagma Square, and Monastiraki Square. These central areas are within walking distance of each other and offer historic neighborhoods, Cycladic architecture, and lively streets. When in Monastiraki Square, make sure to head over to the flea market and grab souvenirs for everyone you promised a keychain to. Prices here are cheaper than most island shops. Some of my favorite treasures include spices, glass plates, and clay vases.

“Belong Anywhere” with Airbnb

Accommodations can make or break your bank account. Instead of expensive hotels, hostels and Airbnb’s are great alternatives. For a week split between three Airbnbs (about two nights at each), I spent $830, which is what some hotels charge for the same amount of time. Most Airbnbs are located right in town centers, making it even more enjoyable to get the full Greek experience. The homes are quaint and charming. Just know: most have washing machines but no dryers (a lesson I learned the hard way). So if you prefer more space and amenities, a hotel might be better. But if you’re like me and
appreciate the simple things in life, you’ll be just fine.

Time to Island Hop

Greece has over two-hundred inhabited islands that offer the perfect vacation destination, so don’t just settle for one. Ferries are a popular and affordable way to travel the Cyclades. Apps like Ferry Hopper allow you to compare times and prices. Ferry rides however can range from three to ten hours, but they include comfy seats, cafés, and Wi-Fi. The ferry experience is perfect if you enjoy sightseeing with a little bit of organized chaos.

If you prefer not to stop and smell the roses, consider flying to your next island. Many islands have airports, and flights can cost around $200. Travel times are typically 45 minutes to an hour—ideal for those who can’t wait to explore the next destination.

Getting around the islands

Transportation can get pricey if you’re not careful. Thankfully, many islands offer public buses for as low as 2 euros per ride—a much better option than taxis or private transfers.

Do you really need a tour group?

If you’re like me and prefer to control where you go, when, and with whom—a little research goes a long way. Watching vlogs on Youtube or TikTok can prepare you with first-hand experience of what to wear, where to eat, and what to expect, all from real travelers.

Winging it is also a great way to soak in the local culture. Exploring with no schedule or expectations can be incredibly rewarding. Get lost in winding alleys of Mykonos Old Town— a walkable maze of white and blue— filled with boutique shops, live entertainment, and authentic Greek cuisine. Or head to Ammoudi Bay in Santorini to enjoy fresh seafood by the water, where the sea sparkles as if touched by the gods themselves.

Because money comes and goes, but adventures last a lifetime

This world is vast and meant to be explored. Don’t let the fear of not being able to afford it hold you back. Traveling isn’t about how much you spend or how perfect you look on Instagram; it’s about experiencing more with what you have. So go ahead—book the trip and satisfy your wanderlust. Lose yourself in ancient ruins, and find yourself in the reflection of the seas. As J.R.R. Tolkien said, “Not all those who wander are lost”.