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15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece

From charming beach towns to idyllic islands, these places to visit in Greece are all the vacation inspiration you need.

places to visit in greece tourist

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Let’s make one thing clear: No matter where you go in Greece , you’ll have a good time. The Mediterranean nation is filled with spectacular places to explore, from its historically rich cities to its charming inland towns, and, of course, across its famed islands . But if you need a little help narrowing down where to go next, here are 15 best places to visit in Greece. 

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

As both Greece’s capital and the nation’s largest city, Athens deserves at least a day or two of exploration. Visitors can head to popular attractions like the  Acropolis and Parthenon, but more modern neighborhoods like Exarchia, known for its bohemian flair, are worth checking out, too.

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There are hundreds of Greek islands to choose from, but one gaining more attention by the minute is the positively quaint Milos . Accessible via direct flights from Athens, this island is the place to go for total rest and relaxation. Come to explore desolate beaches tucked in between craggy cliffs, dine on octopus in cafes that are sprinkled across the island, and enjoy quiet evenings sipping local wine while watching the sun dip into the azure waters.

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Looking for a more lively atmosphere? Head to Mykonos, an island known for always being a good time. Also accessible via direct flights from Athens, Mykonos is the place to be during the summer for beachside parties that stretch long into the night (and often into the next day, too). Of course, there’s more to the island than just parties. It's home to its fair share of gorgeous beaches and historical sites, including Kato Mili, a row of four massive windmills built by the Venetians in the 16th century.

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History buffs will love the town of Delphi, located about a 2.5-hour drive northwest of Athens. The community was home to the Oracle of Delphi , which people from all over the Mediterranean traveled to see. Here, visitors can still explore the Temple of Apollo's remains, along with several ancient theaters and stadiums preserved through the millennia.

Admire waters a shade of blue you never knew existed in the Halkidiki region, located in northern Greece. This area is best known for its gorgeous beaches, which come with equally alluring soft sand, so you can lounge about all day.

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Find even more historical delights, visit Epidaurus, at the northeastern end of the Peloponnese. It’s beloved by archeology buffs for its Ancient Theatre , built in the fourth century B.C. to honor the god of medicine, Asclepius. And its still a place where visitors can watch live performances in the summer.

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The seaside community of Gythio is admittedly quiet, but it's by far one of the best places to visit when you need to get away from it all. Filled with colorful homes and golden-sand beaches, Gythio is also favored for its sea turtles that come and lay their eggs.

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For unbelievable views, pay a visit to Meteora, located in Thessaly. The area is made up of massive rock formations reaching toward the sky. Inside the gorgeous formations sit several monasteries , which made their way onto the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.

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Sifnos, a small island reachable by ferry from Athens, is another spot known for its relaxing atmosphere. Plus, it's filled with so many beaches, you can find a large patch of sandy shoreline all for yourself, even in the height of summer.

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Mix in island time with a quick geology lesson on Kefalonia. The island, located west of the mainland, is home to the Drogarati Cave , which comes with awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites hanging off the ceiling and jutting out from the sea floor, respectively.

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Want to get a taste of Italy and Greece all in one go? Make your way to the stunning, romantic island of Corfu. Thanks to its proximity to its neighboring European nation, the island comes with plenty of Italian influence, reflected in its architecture, food, and way of life.

Thessaloniki

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Find an urban escape in northern Greece with a visit to Thessaloniki. This port city is filled with historic sites like the White Tower of Thessaloniki and Arch of Galerius, along with world-class restaurants and contemporary art museums that will leave you inspired.

Messolonghi

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Get a different sea view in Messolonghi, located on the western coast of Greece. This town sits on a serene sea lake, with many who live here still making a living off fishing in the area. And though the town has great historical significance (especially around the Greek Revolution), it’s still an under-the-radar gem for international tourists.

Make one more historic stop at Olympia , this time for a lesson in sports history. Located on the western side of the Peloponnese, Olympia was the site of the very first Olympic Games. Visitors can visit the ancient stadium and the temples of Zeus and Hera all in one trip.

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Head to the eastern Peloponnese to the beautiful city of Nafplio. As Visit Greece explains, the myth behind the town is that it was founded by Nafplios, the son of Poseidon. Today, it's filled with ancient sites, including monuments and castles galore, all worthy of exploring on your next Greek vacation. Get packing !

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Aegina, Greece

The 13 best places to visit in Greece

From sprawling cosmopolitan cities to breathtaking beaches, here's where to add to your Greece bucket list

Demetrios Ioannou

There are many beautiful countries in Europe, but there is nowhere like Greece . The white and blue houses. The mountain views. The glistening blue waters and the secret hidden coves. It’s sometimes barely believable that Greece exists, but it does! And the best part? It’s absolutely massive, and there’s so much to explore. 

Different Greek islands do different things, so if you’re making the trip, you should first figure out what kind of holiday you’re after. Are you looking for something beachy, nature-y or a bit more cosmopolitan? Lemon trees, sunset cocktails or pure, unadulterated clubbing? Whatever you're looking for, our local writer has picked the best islands, cities and towns to visit. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏝️  The most  beautiful Greek islands 🏨 The best  hotels in Greece 🏛 The best things to do in Athens 🧿 The best things to do in Mykonos

Demetrios Ioannou  is a writer and photographer from Athens.  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .  This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

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Where to visit in Greece

Athens

1.  Athens

Obviously, if you’ve heard anything about Greece, you know about its beautiful capital Athens. Athens is that perfect mix of traditional but trendy, ancient but modern, full of nature but cosmopolitan at the very same time. Here you’ll find huge, open roads covered in restaurants and bars, but coming off them are tiny little cobbled side streets to explore. Old buildings give way to fascinating galleries. You can grab an ouzo and pitch up at a beautiful outdoor cinema, looking up at the stars. Plus you’ve simply got to see the Parthenon at least once in your life. Athens is a sprawling, incomparable beauty that is like no other. Add it to your bucket list. 

Why go?  Europe’s oldest capital and the birthplace of democracy, Athens is crammed with several thousands of years of history and is as unmissable as any great Euro city. 

Discover Athens: 🧿  How to spend a weekend in Athens 📍  The best  things to do in Athens 🥙  Really good  restaurants in Athens 😎  Explore  Kypseli, Athens’s coolest neighbourhood

Aegina

2.  Aegina

A little over an hour away from the port of Piraeus, the island of Aegina is the closest to the Greek capital and a popular destination for tourists and locals. In 1827, after the Greek Independence War had ended, it served as the first capital of the newly founded Greek state for a while. Today, the island is mostly famous for pistachios, chock-a-block full of pistachio trees, and thought to be the best in the world for the stuff. It’s worth visiting the famous Aphea Temple, dedicated to goddess Athena, the Saint Nektarios Monastery and the nearby uninhabited Islet of Moni, where wild peacocks and deer stroll uninterrupted. 

Crete

3.  Crete

You’ll need a car to explore Greece’s biggest island, but if you’re after golden beaches, crumbly old towns, world-class museums and UNESCO Heritage sites,  Crete  ticks every box. Chania in the west is the liveliest part of the island, while Sitia in the east is famed for its pristine coves and sandy beaches – a perfect rural and picturesque escape. Nature seekers could hike Samaria, Europe’s longest gorge, culture hunters should track down the Minoan palaces, and kids are guaranteed a good time at the island’s countless waterparks.

Why go?  Much more than just an all-inclusive beach holiday hotspot, Crete is a mish-mash of fabulous stuff to see, do, eat and drink. 

Discover Crete:

📍  The best things to do in Crete

Santorini

4.  Santorini

The scenery in  Santorini , one of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea, seems crafted by the Greek gods: whitewashed villages crown the island with views over its majestic coastlines, rural vineyards span huge stretches inland and the beaches are black, red, and out of this world. There’s a ridiculous amount for explorers, foodies and culture vultures to discover, from archaeological sites to swimming spots and brilliant wine and food. And trust us: this place is  even  more beautiful IRL than it looks on the ’gram.

Discover Santorini:

📍  The best things to do in Santorini 🏨  Amazing hotels in Santorini 🏖️  Where to stay in Santorini  

Zakynthos

5.  Zakynthos

Better known as Zante, Zakynthos draws a party-ready crowd to its notorious Laganas nightlife strip, but this sunstruck Ionian isle – known by the Venetians as ‘the flower of the East’ – is also blessed with some of the Med’s most beautiful scenery. This includes the spectacular Shipwreck Beach, whose bright-blue waters hemmed in by sheer white cliffs can only be reached by boat, and Zakynthos Marine Park, home to slippery seals and savvy turtles. It’s truly wild – in multiple senses of the word.

Tinos

6.  Tinos

Famous for its carved marble-fronted buildings – and, increasingly, its burgeoning food scene – Tinos is yet another jewel in the Cyclades archipelago. To get there, you’ll need to fly to Mykonos and catch a ferry. It’s worth the journey: some of the best Greek wines are produced here, and chefs from all over Europe have opened restaurants among its sage-scented hills. Most are situated in the main town of Chora – we recommend the traditional Greek menu at Thalassaki.

Naxos

7.  Naxos

The largest of the Cyclades islands, Naxos is also one of the least explored – which means you can expect secluded sandy beaches and a low-key, laidback atmosphere that’ll make the pressures of everyday life feel worlds away. Packing an incredible amount of variety into an incredibly small space, this is a place where you can venture up into tiny high-flung mountain villages or laze on an endless chain of silky sand beaches away from the madding tourist crowds.

Corfu

8.  Corfu

Italianate villages, ornate palaces and romantic beaches are on the cards if you visit the lush island where the Durrell family once lived. With its sundry influences left by past invaders,  Corfu  is a place where you can drink ginger ale with your Greek salad, stroll streets packed with Byzantine and Venetian architecture and meet modern-day monks in Paleokastritsa’s spectacular medieval monastery. And after a hard day’s sightseeing and stuffing your face, you’ll obviously want to jump straight into the Ionian Sea – never not a stunning shade of turquoise blue.

Discover Corfu:

📍  The best things to do on Corfu

Rhodes

9.  Rhodes

Way back when – and we’re talking way, way back –  Rhodes  was home to the Colossus, one of the world’s Seven Wonders. An earthquake may have destroyed that ol’ thing in 226BBC, but the island’s Unesco world heritage-classed old town is still steeped in charm and history – thanks to a series of dazzling topsy-turvy medieval inns and fourteenth-century knight’s houses that stand to this day. Head outside the city, and the mountain villages and cliff-top towns you’ll come across are just as magical as any fairytale location. And with plenty of chic shops, decent restaurants and lively bars, you’re guaranteed some modern magic, too.

Discover Rhodes:

📍  The best things to do in Rhodes 🏨  Amazing hotels in Rhodes

Kastellorizo

10.  Kastellorizo

At the edge of Greece, right opposite the Turkish coastal town of Kaş, you'll find Kastellorizo (aka Megisti), the island furthest from the Greek capital. It's a flight or a boat ride away from the island of Rhodes in Dodecanese, and though it's a bit of a journey to the island, it's absolutely worth it. This is a remote paradise with colourful buildings, seafood for days and seriously chilled out vibes. Plus, it has a fascinating history – make sure to visit the castle of the Knights Hospitaller overlooking the Aegean Sea, and the glorious 4 th century BC Lycian tomb below it. The fort-monastery of Agios Georgios of the Mountain also boasts one of the best views on the island (you just need to get up 315 steps first).

Thessaloniki

11.  Thessaloniki

Once the second city of the Byzantine Empire – and later a thriving Ottoman port city connecting east and west – Thessaloniki has only been part of Greece since 1912. And that really shows. This place doesn’t feel like Greece you see in tourist brochures: its central market, Kapani, has all the colour and chaos of an Istanbul bazaar, and much Ottoman architecture remains throughout the city centre – you can even visit the house where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the father of modern Turkey, was born. The harbourside Ladadika area hums with some of the wildest, most fun nightlife in the Balkan peninsula, with most bars and clubs open until 6am and beyond. The old town is perfect for the aimless morning-after mooch – and the ouzo and  bougatsa  breakfast pastries in these parts are unrivalled.

Kalamata

12.  Kalamata

The city of Kalamata in the Peloponnese is home to the ancient ruins of Messenia, the picturesque Navarino Lagoon beach, and also those very famous olives you may recognise the name from. Few tourists venture to these parts, which is great news for you. To explore the wider region, base yourself at the Ant Farm – a beautiful farmhouse just outside the city, where you can stay in one of ten treehouses nestled within the olive trees.

Mykonos

13.  Mykonos

Dubbed the ‘Greek Ibiza’,  Mykonos  is where you’ll find world-famous DJs headlining superclubs while a jet-set crowd mingle on yachts and private jets. But this Cyclades island is not just for the uber-privileged: there are plenty of cute hotels, affordable gourmet restaurants and quiet corners still relatively untouched by the tourism industry. So when you’re done hanging out at the beach clubs and traditional tavernas, just follow the tangled web of dirt-smattered backroads – chances are, there’ll be a heavenly beach waiting at the end.

Discover Mykonos: 📍  The best things to do in Mykonos 🏨 Amazing hotels in Mykonos

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PlanetWare.com

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Greece

Written by Michael Law and Jane Foster Updated Sep 29, 2023

Home to some of the world's most important historical sites, along with some 6,000 islands, Greece is known for its natural beauty and fascinating culture. Ancient archaeological sites, cliffs tumbling into sparkling blue water, sand and pebble beaches, and a balmy Mediterranean climate make Greece one of Europe's prime places to visit for tourists .

Besides Athens, some of the top things to see on the mainland include Ancient Delphi and the monasteries of Meteora. But most people come here to catch a ferry or a flight to the islands: Santorini, Mykonos, Zakynthos, Corfu, and Crete are the most popular. Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions in Greece.

1. Acropolis, Athens

2. acropolis museum, athens, 3. santorini, 6. the towns and beaches of crete, 8. metéora monasteries, 9. rhodes town, 10. zákynthos, 11. samaria gorge, 12. nafplio, 13. thessaloniki, 14. corinth canal, 15. mount olympus, 16. palace of knossos, 17. mycenae, 21. víkos gorge.

Acropolis, Athens

Considered the symbol of Athens and Greece, and indeed of Western civilization, the Acropolis is a rocky mound rising in the heart of modern Athens, crowned by three magnificent temples dating from the 5th century BC. The best known and most distinctive is the Parthenon , originally made up of 58 columns supporting a roof and decorated by ornate pediments and a frieze.

Although the Parthenon steals the show, other highlights on the Acropolis hilltop are also spectacular. The ornate Temple of Athena Nike, the Porch of the Caryatids, and the Propylaea are not to be missed. Tear yourself away from the historic sights and wander over to the edge, panoramic views of the seven historical hills of Athens and the city are laid out below you.

Skirting the foot of the Acropolis and connecting it to the city's other major ancient attractions — the Ancient Agora , the Roman Forum , Kerameikos , and the Temple of Olympian Zeus — is a 2.5-kilometer walking path known as the Archaeological Promenade .

Author's Tips: For a fantastic nighttime view of the Acropolis, make your way to one of the rooftop restaurant patios on the pedestrian-only Apostolou Pavlou . Plan on getting to the Acropolis early to avoid ticket lineups, bus tours, crowds, and the heat if you are visiting in summer.

  • Visiting the Acropolis in Athens: The Essential Guide
  • Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens

Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis Museum is one of Athens' most-visited tourist attractions. Designed by Swiss architect Bernard Tschumi, it is an ultra-modern glass and steel structure with light and airy exhibition spaces, built specifically to display ancient finds from the Acropolis.

Top things to see here include the 6th-century-BC Moschophoros (statue of a young man carrying a calf on his shoulders), the Caryatids (sculptures of female figures that held up the Erechtheion), and the highly controversial Parthenon marbles . From the museum's cafe-restaurant terrace, you can enjoy amazing views of the Acropolis itself.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens

Santorini

Stunning Santorini is the most dramatic of all the Greek isles. It is best known for the west coast cliff-top towns of Fira and Oia , which appear to hang over a deep, blue sea-filled caldera. Made up of typical Cycladic whitewashed cubic buildings, many of which have been converted into boutique hotels with infinity pools, both Fira and Oia are considered romantic destinations, popular for weddings and honeymoons.

Things to do in Santorini include sunbathing and swimming at the black volcanic-sand beaches on the south and east coasts and visiting the archaeological site of Akrotiri , an Ancient Minoan settlement buried below lava following the volcanic eruption that created the caldera, some 3,600 years ago. The island has an airport and is served by ferries and catamarans from Athens' port, Piraeus.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Santorini

Mykonos

Many people consider Greece's most glamorous island destination to be Mykonos. After-dark activities center on Mykonos Town, noted for its chic boutique hotels, classy seafood restaurants, and live music venues. Other attractions include Paraportiani (a whitewashed church in Mykonos Town) and numerous sandy beaches along the island's south coast (served both by bus and taxi-boat from Mykonos Town).

The island is particularly popular with international celebrities. Mykonos has an airport and is connected by ferry and catamaran to Athens' port, Piraeus, and Rafina.

Delphi

On the Greek mainland, Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built on the lower slopes of Mount Parnassus, overlooking a dramatic ravine, the site was sacred to the ancients, who came here on pilgrimages to worship Apollo (god of light, prophecy, music, and healing) and to ask advice from the mythical Oracle.

It is made up of the crumbling ruins of numerous temples, a theater, and a stadium, dating from between the 8th century BC and the 2nd century AD. Nearby, stands the Delphi Archaeological Museum , displaying an impressive collection of finds from the site. Delphi lies 180 kilometers northwest of Athens.

Delphi is about a 2.5-hour drive from Athens. It can easily be done as an overnight trip from the city, or even a day trip if you don't mind a long day.

  • Read More: Visiting Delphi from Athens: Highlights, Tips & Tours

The beach fronting the town of Plakias

The massive island of Crete is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Greece. Blessed with some of the best beaches in Greece , the island draws visitors from around the world. Some of the most popular beaches on Crete range from small arcs of sand backed by restaurants and promenades to wide-open natural stretches lapped by incredibly clear waters and endless views across the sea.

But Crete is not all about beaches. It has its fair share of notable archeological sites, including the impressive Palace of Knossos, located near the pleasant city of Heraklion . The historical city of Chania and the laid-back town of Agios Nikolaos have wonderful old waterfront areas perfect for spending long afternoons on a café terrace getting lost in the views.

Get away from the bigger communities, and head to smaller towns like Plakias or Matala on Crete's south coast to find more remote beaches and beautiful mountainous backdrops.

If archeological sites, beaches, and historical towns weren't enough, the island has one of the most impressive hikes in the world : the Samaria Gorge.

Beach view on Corfu Island

One of Greece's top tourist destinations, Corfu sits in the Ionian Sea off the west coast of the mainland. The capital, Corfu Town , is a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to its elegant Italianate architecture — it was ruled by the Venetians for several centuries. Explore its romantic pedestrian-only streets to discover two 16th-century fortresses and the arcaded Liston, lined by old-fashioned cafes.

Away from the main town, the island is lushly beautiful, with rugged limestone rocks tumbling into the sea in its north and velvety green hills in its south. The most popular beach area is Paleokastritsa , on the west coast, about 25 kilometers from Corfu Town. Here, you'll find a collection of deep, curving bays sheltering sand and pebble beaches stretching into a clear blue sea. Corfu is served by an airport and ferries from Igoumenitsa and Patras on the Greek mainland. In summer, ferries sailing from Ancona and Venice also stop here.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do on Corfu Island

Meteora Monasteries

One of the most unusual things to see in Greece has to be the Thessaly Plain, where bizarre rocky outcrops are capped by the centuries-old monasteries of Metéora. On the UNESCO World Heritage list, six of the monasteries are open to the public. You need to climb up several flights of stone steps carved into the rocks to reach each monastery, and inside, you'll find flickering candles, religious icons, Byzantine frescoes, and burning incense.

Opening hours vary, and to see all six monasteries, you need to spend at least one day in the area. The nearest town is Kalambaka . Consider staying here, as it's a pleasant and relaxed place to visit, with small hotels and family-run restaurants serving traditional fare.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Metéora

Rhodes Town

Lying on the Aegean Sea, close to Turkey, Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands. Its capital, UNESCO-listed Rhodes Town, is one of Greece's top tourist destinations. It is enclosed by an impressive fortification system, including monumental towers and gates built by the Knights of St. John after they took control of the island in the 14th century.

The car-free cobbled streets of the old town are a joy to explore on foot. Nearby attractions include the pretty hillside coastal town of Lindos, and Marmaris on the Turkish coast, which can be visited by excursion boat. Rhodes is served by an airport, as well as regular ferries from Athens' port, Piraeus.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rhodes Town

The blue caves of Zákynthos

Home to gorgeous scenery both above and under the sea surrounding it, Zákynthos (Zante) island is another top tourist destination in Greece. It is also easy to access, located just 16 kilometers off Peloponnese's west coast in the Ionian Sea.

Two of the biggest boasts on this geographically intriguing island are its pebble and sand beaches — Shipwreck Beach is the most famous — and stunning sea caves like the Blue Caves , off the island's northern tip. Inside, the sparkling water reflects the color of the blue sky on the cave walls to create a magical glow. The Blue Caves are only one of the many watery attractions around this island. There is also excellent snorkeling and scuba diving.

  • Read More: Top Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Zakynthos

Samaria Gorge

On the island of Crete, the Samaria Gorge is a top attraction for lovers of the great outdoors. Measuring 16 kilometers in length and, at its narrowest point, only four meters wide, it runs from Omalos (1,250 meters) in the White Mountains down to Agia Roumeli , on the Libyan Sea.

Depending on your level of fitness, it will take five to seven hours to walk. It is steep in parts and rocky, so you should wear good hiking shoes and carry plenty of water. The gorge lies within the Samaria National Park , and is on the UNESCO tentative list. Through summer, organized tours depart from Chania and Réthymnon .

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chania

Nafplio

Often cited as Greece's most beautiful city, Nafplio is a popular weekend destination for wealthy Athenians. Built on a small peninsular on the east coast of the Peloponnese, it became the first capital of modern Greece in 1828 before Athens took over in 1834.

Take an afternoon or a day to wander through the old town, this car-free area is filled with Neoclassical mansions and proud churches and overlooked by the 18th-century Palamidi Fortress . Nearby attractions include Tiryns , Epidaurus Theater , and Ancient Corinth .

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki doesn't seem to mind not being on most people's touring list. The locals are happy to have the place and all its sights to themselves. The main sightseeing attractions are its UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches , but worth investigating are several Roman monuments (including the Triumphal Arch of Galerius and the 4th-century Rotunda ), the 15th-century White Tower on the seafront, and an excellent Byzantine Museum .

Overlooking the Aegean Sea in northern Greece, Thessaloniki (Salonica) is the country's second biggest city after Athens. Founded in 316 BC due to its position close to both Bulgaria and Turkey, it has always been a crossroads of various cultures and religions.

One of the top day trips from Thessaloniki is to Mount Olympus , the highest mountain in Greece. Only 80 kilometers away on good roads, this impressive natural sight is well worth visiting. The most popular hiking trails depart from near the town of Prionia.

Corinth Canal

As you drive along the relatively flat highway 8 approaching the Peloponnese Peninsula, be sure to stop in at the lookout over the Corinth Canal. This canal, first dreamed about and attempted in 1 CE, was finally brought to fruition in 1883. Unfortunately for the builders, the canal was never particularly profitable or successful.

Park your car and walk out onto the bridge and give some thought as to how the original builders managed to dig down through the solid rock to carve out the canal.

Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus, famous home of the god Zeus, lies about halfway between Athens and Thessaloniki. Towering over the surrounding countryside at an impressive 2,918 meters, this mountain is a top recreation destination in the summer.

Three hiking trails lead to its summit, although most people take the two-day, one-night Priona trail. From the top, the views are unparalleled and well worth the effort expended to get here. You do not need any special equipment to do this hike, just a good assortment of clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and a taste for adventure.

Palace of Knossos

One of the top archeological sites here in Greece, the Palace of Knossos is a must-see when visiting Crete. The site dates from the Late Minoan time period and has been very well restored. Although the standing buildings give you a real sense of what this place once looked like, as with many archeological sites in Greece, some portions require a bit of imagination.

The site is well laid out, with walking trails that wind their way past the main buildings and plazas. Be sure to check out the colorful paintings on some of the major structures near the end of the walkway.

The Palace of Knossos is located just outside of Heraklion , one of the main gateways to Crete. Tours can be easily arranged.

Lion Gate, Mycenae

The impressive citadel of Mycenae is one of the top archeological sites south of Athens and well worth a visit for those interested in Greek history. Set impressively on a hill, Mycenae dates from around 1350 BCE, the peak of the Mycenaean civilization.

One of the key sights at Mycenae is the impressive Lion Gate. Set into the side of the hill, the gate is composed of perfectly inlaid stones over a rectangular doorway. This is the site where the famous gold mask was found by the explorer Heinrich Schliemann in the late 19th century. If the sun is getting to you, step inside the impressively domed Treasury of Atreus and enjoy some shade.

Naousa village, Paros island

The island of Paros is sometimes overlooked by ferry travelers exploring the Cyclades, intent on visiting the more popular Santorini. However, this is a mistake. This laid-back island has everything that the busier islands offer farther south and north. The same whitewashed towns perched on the waterfront with patios full of laughing and smiling patrons are what you'll find here, but without the crowds.

Paros also has a fine selection of beaches and historical sites to explore. It's also a good spot to go if you are watching your costs; accommodation is cheaper here.

Paradise Beach on Naxos

Another popular destination, Naxos is one of the largest Cycladic islands. This huge island is a fun place to explore, and with fewer tourists than places like Santorini or Mykonos. A couple of must-sees when exploring include the small towns of Filoti, Halki, and Apiranthos.

Take some time to wander through the main town, Chora of Naxos, especially the Kastro district. Here, you'll find a variety of shops selling all manner of souvenirs, along with cute restaurants with inviting patios.

If you want to hit the beach, Naxos does not disappoint. A couple to check out include Paradise Beach, Agia Anna, or Agios Prokopios. If you are into kiteboarding, the windswept Mikri Vigla is the place to go.

Donkeys on  Hydra

For a taste of quintessential Greece that's only a two-hour ferry ride from Athens , consider the delightful island of Hydra. Home to old mansions and white-washed houses adorned with bougainvillea and cobblestone streets the town has been attracting the creative set for decades.

The island is wonderfully car-free so walking is a pleasure, stroll the busy port area and be sure to check out the early 19th-century cannons along the waterfront. Should you need to get anywhere on the island, donkeys are the main mode of transport on land, and water taxis will be more than willing to take you to a secluded beach lapped by crystal-clear water.

Cat lovers will especially enjoy Hydra, it's known for its feline residents who are generally very friendly and always open for a tasty morsel of seafood.

Vikos Gorge in northern Greece

Another one of Greece's premier natural attractions is the Víkos Gorge. Lesser known than the above profiled Samara Gorge on Crete, this incredible natural phenomenon is commonly known as the Grand Canyon of Greece. The gorge is a UNESCO World Heritage site and part of the larger Vikos–Aoös National Park.

An astounding 1,000 meters deep the canyon is one of the most amazing and easily accessible natural sights in the northwest area of Greece. If you want to just see the gorge from a lookout, one of the best is located at Oxya Viewpoint , where you'll be treated to views into the deepest part of the gorge.

For the more adventurous, a well-signposted 13-kilometer hiking trail takes you down into the gorge and back up the other side. The trail starts at Monodendri and ends at Vikos. Halfway through you can go for a dip in the icy cold Voidomatis Springs to cool off. The trail is considered moderately difficult and takes most people 4.5 to 5 hours to complete.

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Greece Travel Guide

Travel the Greek Way

30 Best Places to Visit in Greece in 2024

This post is about 30 of the best places to visit in Greece including both Greek island and mainland destinations. It is fair to say that Greece is a travel destination that ticks a lot of boxes:

  • Magnificent islands, sandy stunning beaches, nightlife
  • Fascinating ancient monuments of many historic eras & civilizations
  • Hiking destinations
  • Traditional mountainous villages and picturesque fishing settlements
  • Bustling cities
  • Top-rate Greek and international cuisine

Best Places to Visit in Greece: Astypalaia island

If you are planning your trip to Greece and this is your first time visiting the country then my post on the top 30 best places to visit in Greece will offer plenty of ideas.

Itinerary tip for the islands : If you only have a week or 2, and you would like to hop around the islands, you better stick to the same group of islands, to save time.

* Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means I may make a commission if you click and buy. The commission comes at no additional cost to you.

places to visit in greece tourist

Here are the best places to visit in Greece, separated for your convenience into regional groups as well as a Google map of the places mentioned. That way you can organize and plan your itinerary for Greece.

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Best Places to Visit in Greece (North)

1. thessaloniki.

Best Places to Visit in Greece: Thessaloniki seaside and White Tower at dusk

Thessaloniki is Greece’s second-largest city and the financial center of the north of Greece. It is built around the Thermaikos Gulf, a modern vibrant city ideal if you love historical monuments and …food-tasting.

Thessaloniki was built in 316 BCE and it was a Byzantine and Ottoman center which is evident in the numerous monuments in the city. It is also one of the most popular and favorite culinary centers in Greece, renowned for its food and wine. Thessaloniki is a great base for visiting Chalkidiki, Meteora, and Olympus Mt.

Related Posts:

  • The Best Hotels in Thessaloniki
  • Top Things to Do in Thessaloniki
  • Open Markets Food Tasting Tour

2. Chalkidiki

Best Places to Visit in Greece: Posidi Beach in Chalkidiki

Chalkidiki is an area with three beautiful peninsulas – Kassandra (great for nightlife), Sithonia (stunning beaches), and the seaside town of Ouranoupoli and the famous monastic state of Mount Athos. It is the favorite vacation destination not only of the whole of northern Greece but also of the other countries of the Balkans.

Best Places to Visit in Greece: Athos Mt Monasteries

Chalkidiki is a stunning area to visit for beaches and history and one of the best places to visit in Greece. The famous Greek philosopher Aristotle who founded the Lyceum in Athens comes from Ancient Stagira in Chalkidiki. As Chalkidiki is quite an extensive area, you will need at least a week to explore and a private car.

Entrance Tip: Women are not allowed in the Athos Mt and Monasteries.

3. Prespes Lakes

Greece in Winter, Prespes Lake

248 km west of Thessaloniki, in the mountainous northwestern Macedonia part of Greece, you will find the National Park of the two Prespes lakes . The Prespes lakes are shared by three countries: Greece, North Macedonia, and Albania.

Greece in Winter, Agios Achilleios

Prespes Lakes is a virgin natural paradise, a beautiful wetland, and one of the best places to visit in Greece for nature, and bird watching (260 species of birds and 23 species of fish). Moreover, the coast of the lakes is dotted with gorgeous small settlements and historical monuments of archaeological interest.

Where Best to Stay in Prespes Dora’s House at Agios Germanos .

Travel Tip : When I visited Prespes we also went to Pisoderi Ski Resort, Florina town, and Nymfaio village where the brown bear shelter is.

4. Mount Olympus National Park

Hike Safely in Greece, Olympus hiking & trek

The National Park of Mount Olympus is probably the most famous Mt in Greece and according to Greek mythology, it was the home of the gods. Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece and the second highest in the Balkans. The highest peaks of the mountain are Mytikas (2.918 m.), Stefani (2.909 m.), Skolio (2.911 m.), and Skala (2.866 m.).

Best Places to Visit in Greece: Olympus Mt in spring with flowers

The National Park of Mount Olympus is not only an international hiking destination that is considered quite demanding in certain areas. It also contains a large diversity of flora and fauna, some of them unique. As it is a highly protected area (no camping or fishing), you can reach its shelters only on foot. If you are planning to reach Mytikas, then I strongly advise you to do so between May and October. Olympos is one of the best places to visit in Greece!

The best place to stay for Mount Olympus is the nearby Litochoro village at Mythic Valley Hotel .

Best Places to Visit in Greece (Central)

5. zagori, epirus.

places to visit in greece tourist

Zagorochoria or Zagori may sound like it is one place but actually, it is a cluster of 46 lovely villages! It is located in the northwestern region of Greece amidst the mountains of Pindus in Epirus. In the summer of 2023, the area was listed in the UNESCO monuments list.

Zagorochoria is one of the favorite winter destinations among Greeks and gets busy in December, especially during Christmas. Some of the best things to do in Zagori are:

places to visit in greece tourist

  • Walk the cobblestone villages full of traditional stone mansions. The most popular villages are Monodendri , Mikro, and Megalo Papigko.
  • Hiking at Aoos National Park.
  • Hiking Vikos Gorge (if weather permits it).
  • Hike at the Dragonlake of Tymfi.
  • Try the local cuisine and the famous milk, cheese, pumpkin, or sweet pies.

6. Parga, Epirus

Best Places to Visit in Greece: Parga town general view on a sunny day

Parga town is one of the best places to visit in Greece for couples. It is a beautiful, popular seaside tourist destination in western Greece. It has some lovely beaches like Sarakiniko and during summer, it is connected daily by ferry with Paxos, and Antipaxos , Corfu , and Lefkada.

Fifteen km from Parga lies the most important ancient monument of the region, the Necromancy of Acheron . Here the Ancient Greeks believed that the river Acheron was the Gates of the Underworld.

7. Meteora, Thessaly

places to visit in greece tourist

Meteora is one of the top destinations in Greece for nature and culture!

The rocks are an extensive complex of gigantic sandstone rocks shadowing the local town of Kalambaka, 347 km north of Athens. There were initially 24 Monasteries founded by Greek Orthodox monks in the 14th and 15th century but today only 6 of them are working.

The Meteora Monasteries have been a UNESCO World Heritage Monument since 1988 and it is today the second most important monastic complex in Greece after Mount Athos Monasteries in Chalkidiki.

A monk in Meteora Monasteries

Meteora is one of the best places to visit in Greece if you love impressive natural scenery, monastic life, and religious art. For details on how best to get to Meteora and the schedule of the Monasteries read my dedicated post here.

8. Pelion, Thessaly

What best to do in Pelion Greece, Chorto seaside village

Pelion (or Pilio) is my favorite place in Greece. It is a large mountain (peninsula) between the Pagasetic Gulf and the Aegean Sea located halfway between Athens and Thessaloniki and my favorite place in Greece. It is full of chestnut forests, deep gorges with streams, and stunning beaches with authentic mountainous villages making Pelion one of the best all-year-round destinations in Greece.

places to visit in greece tourist

Because of the dense forests and variety of terrain, Pelion is a paradise for outdoor activities. Its most popular part is the east Pelion facing the Aegean Sea. One of the villages Damouchari was one of the Mamma Mia Film Locations.

  • Related Article: A complete travel guide for Pelion

9. Delphi, Phocis

Best Places to Visit in GreeceL Delphi Oracle Apollo Temple ruins

Delphi is a spectacular, UNESCO-listed archaeological site where the mystical Oracle of Delphi was founded at a strategic point. The function of the site as a cult center of Apollo is archaeologically attested since 860 B.C. Delphi was built on the remains of a Mycenaean settlement. We know that the archaic temple of Apollo was constructed in 510 BCE along with the rest of the monuments.

Best Places to Visit in Greece: Iniochos charioteer Delphi Oracle museum

The Delphi Archaeological Museum houses some awe-inspiring ancient masterpieces. The modern 10-km far picturesque Arachova village offers complete touristic facilities and on top of Parnassos Mt, you can ski in the biggest ski resort in Greece.

Do not miss visiting the nearby UNESCO monument of Osios Loukas Monastery , a Byzantine masterpiece of the 11th century AD. Some call it, the most beautiful church in Greece.

Tour to Delphi & Meteora

Delphi and Meteora are often combined on a 2 or 3-day tour such as 2-Day Delphi and Meteora Tour from Athens . That way, you can see together two of the best places to visit in Greece.

Best Places to Visit in Attika

places to visit in greece tourist

Athens is the ancient capital of Greece and the vibrant financial, commercial, and historical center of the country. It houses the spectacular archaeological site of Acropolis Hill and Ancient Agora, along with dozens of other monuments of all historical eras that you come across as you walk inside the city.

places to visit in greece tourist

One of the best places to visit in Greece, specifically in Athens is Plaka and the Anafiotika. It is called that because they were built by sailors from Anafi island. In Athens, you can also visit two of the most significant museums in the world: the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum.

Related Articles:

  • Best Acropolis View Hotels in Athens
  • The Ancient Agora of Athens
  • The Ottoman Monuments in Athens

11. Athens Riviera, Cape Sounion, and Temple of Poseidon

Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon Evgenia of Travel the Greek Way

Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon is one of the most popular half-day tours from Athens, located at the northernmost point of Athens. You can get there taking the scenic road of Athens Riviera , 65 km by the beautiful Attika seaside.

Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon

There you will reach the Sanctuary of Poseidon and its Temple, built between 444 and 440 BCE. The temple of Poseidon was part of the sacred triangle, along with the temple of Aphaia in Aegina and the Parthenon in Athens.

Cape Sounion is one of the best destinations in Greece to admire an important archaeological site and the spectacular sunset from it.

  • Athens Riviera
  • Athens Beach Hotels
  • Cape Sounion and Sunset Private Tour from Athens

12. Ramnous

Best Places to Visit in Greece: Ramnous archaeological site overview

Ramnous is located in the Marathon area of Attika, 55 km northeast of Athens center. It is one of the top destinations to visit in Greece if you love fortified ancient cities.

Most of the other famous Greek archaeological sites you visit, like the Acropolis of Athens or Epidaurus, were mostly sanctuaries dedicated to gods. Ramnous was a real town, with everyday chambers, soldiers to guard it, and fortifications as it was built at a strategic point, just like Sounion.

Ramnous Archaeological Site Fortess entrance with a sign and a woman

Ramnous offers an amazing opportunity for visitors to see how ancient Greek cities around 500 BC used to be. Furthermore, as the site is divided into two distinct areas, the top site includes the most important Temple of Nemesis in ancient Greece.

Related Article: Travel Guide to Ramnous Site

Best Places to Visit in the Peloponnese

places to visit in greece tourist

Peloponnese is the southern mainland of Greece, home to some of the most impressive archaeological sites, lovely beaches, and authentic villages. Peloponnese needs a lot of time to be explored but as this is not always possible find below some of the best places in Greece for history and beaches!

13. Mycenae, Epidaurus, Nafplion (Argolis)

places to visit in greece tourist

Argolis region is situated in the eastern part of the Peloponnese and contains some very popular and amazing sites:

  • The Mycenean Palace and Domed Tombs of Mycenae (UNESCO-listed)
  • The Sanctuary of Asklepios and the Theater of Epidaurus (UNESCO-listed)
  • The Mycenean Fortress of Tiryns
  • Argos and Tolo
  • Nafplio town, a gorgeous medieval town with 3 castles
  • Porto Heli and Spetses island

14. Monemvasia, Laconia

Best Places to Visit in Greece: Monemvasia rock and town from a drone

Monemvasia is a large Byzantine fortress on a rock that broke away after a great earthquake in 375 CE. Today it is connected to the mainland by a road of about 400 meters.

Monemvasia has medieval houses with arches on cobblestone alleys in front of the Aegean Sea, synthesizing a magical atmosphere.

Best Property to Stay in Monemvasia: Casa Felicia-The Castle Mansion .

15. Mystras, Sparta

Best Places to Visit in Greece: Mystras ruins and mountain views

6 km away from Sparta, the ancient kingdom of Leonidas, lie the Byzantine Castle ruins of Mystras a UNESCO-listed monument. Built in the 13th century AD by the Frankish, Mystras became the capital of the Despotate of Morea and an important center for the next 2 centuries.

Hike Safely in Greece, mystras and taygettus mountain in Greece hiking

The layout of the castle city is in three distinct zones, with a significant difference in altitude: Upper, Lower, and Outer Chora. In addition, there is the Acropolis at the top. Today Mystras is by far the most important Byzantine monument in Greece.

16. Kardamili, Western Mani

places to visit in greece tourist

Kardamili is a beautiful, low-key seaside village with tavernas in picturesque little coves. As you stroll the village you pass by stone-built traditional houses, towers and turrets, cobbled streets and flowered courtyards.

Kardamili, set at the foothills of the Taygettus range is a fantastic destination in Greece, ideal to explore the stark and powerfully wild terrain of the area. Travel south to some spectacular villages such as Limeni, Areopoli, Gerolimenas, Caves of Diros, and Vathia to Porto Kagio.

Best Hotel in Kardamili: Salvia .

17. Voidokilia Beach

4-Day Peloponnese Tour: Voidokilia beach

Voidokilia beach, set on the southwestern Peloponnese on the Ionian Sea is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. Shaped like the Greek letter Omega (Ω) and surrounded by gold, soft sand, and a Natura-2000 lagoon, this is one of the best destinations in Greece.

Best Places to Visit in Greece: The Mycenean Palace of Nestor in Pylos, Peloponnese

Voidokilia Beach is near Gialova town, a popular seaside town, the Mycenean Archaeological site of Nestor’s Palace , beautiful Pylos and Methoni villages.

The best hotel to stay near Voidokilia is Costa Navarino .

  • Related Article: Hiking Voidokilia Beach

18. Ancient Olympia

places to visit in greece tourist

Ancient Olympia is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, another UNESCO-listed site. The ancient stadium marks the site where the ancient Olympic Games and the Heraia were held. The stadium took its final form in the early 5th century BCE when the great Sanctuary of Zeus was built.

In the in-house Museum, you will get the chance to see some masterpieces of the Greek ancient world, such as the Hermes of Praxiteles.

The best hotel to stay overnight in Olympia is Hotel Europa.

Best Islands to Visit in Greece

Greece has about 6,000 islands and islets with about 100 of them inhabited with permanent populations ranging from 680.000 (Crete) and 152.000 (Rhodes) to 2 (Agios Minas Fournoi). That makes it hard to decide which island to go to if you are planning to travel to Greece for the first time.

So let’s jump to the best islands in Greece that I believe are amazing and you should visit:

19. Santorini, Cyclades

places to visit in greece tourist

  • Santorini is a top destination in Greece famous for its stunning caldera views, mesmerizing sunsets, and a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.
  • July and August are the busiest, hottest, windiest, and most expensive months on Santorini island. If possible, avoid those months.
  • There are dozens of things to do in Santorini but 3-4 days is enough to see the best of the island.
  • The best hotel in Santorini is Canaves Oia Suites & Spa .

20. Naxos, Cyclades

places to visit in greece tourist

  • Naxos is ideal for family vacations. It is also large enough to never get bored with so many choices: traditional villages, ancient sites (Portara in the main town), stunning sandy beaches, hiking trails, and glorious food.
  • Check my dedicated post on Naxos’ best attractions here for more details.
  • The best family apartment in Agia Anna Beach is Sunday Studios .

21. Tinos, Cyclades

Best Places to Visit in Greece: A child walking under a dome with flowers in Tinos island

Tinos is a classic Cycladic whitewashed island with some of the most beautiful villages in Greece. It is an important pilgrimage center of Orthodox Greeks and it has 750 chapels and churches, 600 dovecotes, and 34 settlements, both Catholic and Orthodox. It has also the sanctuary of Poseidon, where pilgrims were purified before passing to the important island of Delos in Mykonos .

22. Chios, Northern Aegean Island

Best Places to Go to Greece in April, Chios Mastichochoria

  • Chios island is the home of medieval villages producing the famous mastic, of UNESCO Monastery of Nea Moni of Chios, the Castle City hanging over the cliff, and the spectacular nature and beaches from Kardamyla to Diefha.
  • From Chios, you can hop to Lesvos island which is 3 hours away by ferry.
  • Best medieval property to stay in Chios: St. George Sykoussis Traditional Residence .

23. Patmos Island, Dodecanese

Best Places to Visit in Greece: Patmos island alley with a church and red flowers

Patmos is a small but remarkable island, also known as the Jerusalem of the Aegean. You can visit the dark Cave where Apostle John wrote the Apocalypse and the UNESCO Mοnastery of John the Evangelist. Stroll the medieval villages of Gothic and neoclassic architecture and swim in the impressive Twin or Ligginou beaches.

The best place to stay is at Skala in Patmos at this gorgeous property: Patmos Eye Traditional Luxury Villas .

24. Astypalaia island, Dodecanese

Best Places to Visit in Greece: Astypalaia seaside village with whitewashed houses

Astypalaia is one of the most authentic islands to visit in Greece. Shaped like a butterfly, it will charm you immediately with its whitewashed villages, its picturesque main town laden with bougainvilleas, its Venetian Castle and the old windmills, the turquoise waters, and the peaceful fishing villages. Best place to stay: Ihthioessa Boutique Hotel .

25. Hydra Island, Argo Saronic

Best Places to Visit in Greece: Hydra's scenic port with yachts

Hydra is a cosmopolitan and classy island and a very popular yachting destination. A completely car-free island, it will stun you with its impressive architecture, the stone mansions, and the bougainvillea alleys. Hydra is one of the most romantic destinations in Greece.

26. Skopelos island, Sporades

Mamma Mia Greece Locations, Skopelos beach

Skopelos is one of the greenest islands as most of it is covered by pine forests. It was the main location of the Mamma Mia film in Greece. If you love wonderful sandy beaches with turquoise clear waters and the green of the pine trees surrounding them, this is your island! Skopelos is also famous for its rich gastronomy.

Best place to stay: Villa Glysteri .

27. Lefkada Island, Ionian

Best Places to Go to Greece in April, Lefkada beach

Lefkada is a stunning island famous for its breathtaking beaches like Katsiki Beach (photo on the left) or the Egremni, a long, unyielding wall of cliffs, with bright translucent turquoise waters. It is connected to the mainland with a metallic floating bridge that you can cross by car. Best place to stay: Horizon View Apartment .

Best Places to Visit in Crete

Wherever you go on Crete Island will be stunningly beautiful, and you will have one of the best travel experiences in your life. Crete is the largest island in Greece and even if you spend a month on the island, you would have scratched just the surface.

If I had to choose only three locations in Crete then I would choose spectacular nature such as the Balos beach, the Samaria gorge, and the archaeological site of Knossos Palace.

28. Balos Chania Crete

Best Time to Go to Greece, Balos Lagoon Crete Chania

Balos Beach and Lagoon is located in the Chania region, in the northwest of Crete, and is one of the most impressive beaches in the world. It has white soft sand, but in some places, the sand has a special pink color, due to the crushed shells! Balos is an exotic and spectacular place with turquoise waters and a large variety of rare flora and fauna.

  • Related Post: What to do in Chania Crete

29. Samaria Gorge, Chania

Crossing Samaria gorge in Chania Crete

If you love hiking then Samaria Gorge is one of the top destinations to go to in Greece! The 15,9 km Samaria Gorge is a real gem of hiking. It makes a challenging downhill hike of 5-7 hours and at the end is the scenic seaside village of Agia Roumeli . It is open to hiking between May and November.

If you are traveling with a group of up to 8 people you can stay at the beautiful stone Villa Samaria in Omalos.

30. Knossos Palace, Heraklion

Best things to do on Crete island, Knossos Palace heraklion

The Palace of King Minos in Knossos in the Heraklion region is the largest of the preserved Minoan (2000-1350 BCE) palatial centers. Minoan four wings are arranged around a central courtyard, containing the royal quarters, workshops, shrines, storerooms, repositories, the throne room, and banquet halls. It is also connected with thrilling legends, such as the myth of the Labyrinth with the Minotaur, and the story of Daidalos and Icaros.

  • 12 Best Things to Do in Heraklion
  • The Best Hotels and Villages on Crete Island
  • The Top Sites to Visit on Crete Island

Plan My Trip to Greece

Do you need a custom travel itinerary for Greece? Are you traveling solo, with your family or friends and need a tailor-made multi-day tour or a transfer within Greece?

If yes, please visit my dedicated Plan My Trip Page for a free itinerary!

I’d love to hear about where you’re spending your vacation this year, especially if you have any exciting travel plans! There are so many things to do in Greece and I hope that you get the chance to visit as many as possible. Till next time, Evgenia❤️

How to Get to Athens Port (Piraeus) from Athens Airport

Bus X96 Peiraias Port to Athens Airport

  • Bus: If you are arriving at Athens International Airport you can travel straight to the port by taking the X96 express bus (€5.5, children <6 yo, free entrance) , which departs every 40 minutes and the average trip lasts 1 hour – runs 24/7.
  • Metro : (€9) is easily found across airport arrivals (blue line – M3) going directly to Piraeus port. The average trip to Piraeus lasts 1 hour.
  • Taxis are available in front of the airport (around €40 to Athens, €55-60 to Piraeus (depending on the traffic in Kifisos), and take up to 3 or 4 people with small luggage)
  • Rent a car with Discover Cars to rent reliable new cars at affordable prices
  • You don’t like driving but love hassle-free solutions? Book a Private transfer with an English-speaking driver from Athens International Airport to Piraeus Ferries, or anywhere else in Greece
  • Are you looking for domestic flights in Greece ? Check out the official Aegean Airlines Website.

Greece Travel Guides

  • Greece Packing List – What to pack for a 10-day trip to Greece
  • First Time to Greece – Most Important FAQ
  • Athens Hotels Near Acropolis
  • When is the Best Time to Go to Greece

Travel to Greece Information

  • ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Greek: “Ya sou” and “Efharisto”
  • Booking.com : I use Booking.com because I can get the best deals on hotels and apartments, free cancellations, and great prices!
  • All-Inclusive Resorts in Greece
  • FerryScanner to book f erries to the Greek Islands
  • Rent an Affordable Car in Greece
  • Athens Metro Website (timetables and ticket info)
  • Map of Athens Metro
  • Trains (Hellenic Train)
  • Public Buses KTEL
  • Get Your Guide : For all your day or multi-day tours and city guide needs, I use Get Your Guide
  • Emergency Numbers Anywhere in Greece: AMBULANCE 166 – FIRE 199 – POLICE 100 – EMERGENCY NUMBER 112

All rights reserved © Travel the Greek Way. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (photographs, text, links) is strictly prohibited.

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26 Top Tourist Attractions in Greece

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Rich in ancient history, breathtaking beaches, awe-inspiring scenery, and Greek mythology, Greece is teeming with unique tourist destinations.

Greece is the birthplace of the Olympic Games, theatre, democracy, and famed philosophers, such as Plato and Aristotle. Greece consists of thousands of islands, some of the more well-known vacation spots including Santorini and Mykonos. The country’s cuisine is vibrant and rich. Olives are a popular ingredient in many Greek dishes, which makes sense why Greece is the third-largest producer of olives.

Between history, culture, cuisine, and nature, Greece is an undeniably attractive tourist destination you should not miss out on. It’s one of the sunniest places in the world, with plenty of rays for exploring ancient archaeological sites, tanning on white-pebbled beaches, and adventuring to your heart’s content.

To discover the best things to do in this Mediterranean country, use this list of the top tourist attractions in Greece and create your dream itinerary.

26. Balos Lagoon, Crete

Balos Lagoon

Northwest of Kissamos and Chania, Balos Lagoon is well-known for its stunning natural beauty and perfect photo opportunities. The lagoon is located in Crete , the largest island in Greece , loved for its pristine beaches and ancient ruins.

Balos Lagoon twines between Cape Gramvousa and Cape Tigani. It exudes an unmistakable tranquility, attracting hundreds and thousands of people throughout the year. The white-sugared sands and shallow turquoise waters are ideal for inexperienced swimmers. Near the boundaries of the lagoon are deeper sections of water perfect for snorkeling.

The lagoon is protected under the Natura 2000 program, with rare species of plants and animals inhabiting the area. The monk seal and loggerhead sea turtle are examples of protected species in Balos Lagoon.

25. Naoussa, Paros

Naoussa

A fishing village in the Cyclades on the northeastern section of Paros Island, Naoussa attracts people from all over the world. They came here to admire its white washed buildings and enjoy its beaches for summer vacation.

Naoussa’s dazzling golden beaches, like Kolymbithres Beach and Monastiri, stretch along the natural bay. Many of these beaches, which vary from secluded to crowded, can be accessed on foot. However, some require trips by caiques, small fishing boats, that launch from the local port.

Naoussa is well-known as a summer hotspot but is also famous for its local wine production. It also features impactful historical sites like the Venetian Castle. The castle dates back to the 15th century. It was used to protect the island from pirates and later on as a defensive tower for the Ottomans.

24. Nafplio

Nafplio

A coastal city in the eastern Peloponnese , Nafplio is one of the most romantic cities in Greece. Its historic charm and classic architecture set the scene with flowing Turkish fountains, Byzantine churches, and medieval castles.

Only two hours from Athens, a trip to Nafplio opens up a world of local history to learn more about. The beautiful town was the first capital of the new Greek state until 1834 before the title was passed on to Athens. Walk down cobblestone alleys of medieval Old Town. Head to the Italianate Syntagma Square at the heart of the city. Here you will find two Turkish mosques and the Archaeological Museum, preserving historical artifacts dating back to the Prehistoric period.

Enjoy a stroll through Arvanitia Promenade, a scenic route with viewpoints of Akronafplia, the oldest of three Nafplio castles.

23. White Tower of Thessaloniki

White Tower of Thessaloniki

Located in northern Greece in Macedonia, the White Tower of Thessaloniki is an iconic historic landmark.

Thessaloniki is Greece’s second-largest city. The ancient city is full of history, having played a vital role in the Byzantine period. The White Tower of Thessaloniki was around during a majority of the city’s historical turning points. It was termed “the Red Tower” and “the Tower of Blood” throughout Ottoman history. This was because of the tower’s role as a prison where brutal torture was enforced.

The monument houses a museum depicting the city’s history. At the top of the White Tower are awe-inspiring viewpoints of the Thermaic Gulf and the city. Outside the tower is the promenade, the popular seaside pedestrian street that routes past the White Tower.

22. Old Town of Rhodes

Old Town of Rhodes

Encircled by medieval walls, the Old Town of Rhodes has been inhabited since medieval times. Along the walls are seven gates, said to enter another world, and walking through them, visitors will find one of the best-preserved fortified cities in Europe.

Rhodes was home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Colossus of Rhodes, a statue of the Greek sun god Helios. Unfortunately, the Colossus of Rhodes was disassembled and sold in AD 654 when the Arabs invaded Rhodes.

The main square, right inside Marina Gate, features a central fountain, cafes, and shops to explore. One of the prominent shopping streets, Sokratous Street, heads off from the square. Next, stroll down the Street of the Knights, a cobblestoned street lamp-lit route outstandingly preserved to relieve the days of medieval knights. Finally, visit Our Lady of the Castle, a Byzantine-style church estimated to have been built in the 11th century.

21. Acropolis Museum, Athens

Acropolis Museum

Considered one of the most significant museums on earth, the Acropolis Museum homes the findings and replicas from the Acropolis of Athens .

The museum is only a short drive from the Acropolis archaeological site, where the famous tourist attraction, the Pantheon, sits. The museum features miniature replicas of the Acropolis after each major invasion in Athens, including Roman, Ottoman, and Persian. Continuing on through the Acropolis Museum is the display of the ancient Athenian neighborhood, which was discovered while building the museum.

One of the favorite attractions of the museum is findings from the Parthenon, the historic temple dedicated to the goddess Athena and one of the biggest attractions of Greece. The museum’s third-floor houses artifacts and sculptures from the Parthenon, including original marble inscriptions.

Hydra

One of the Saronic Islands in the Aegean Sea, Hydra, is about a two-hour ferry trip from Athens.

As one of the most popular islands near Athens , the car-free island attracts visitors of all kinds, including famous ones like painters Henry Miller and Leonard Cohen. The island is known for its elegance, history, and it’s main port, surrounded by old churches and 18th-century mansions. Old canon bastions used to defend the island in the Greek War of Independence decorate the port.

The busy harbor is frequented by fishermen heading off to catch a hefty bounty. Some fishermen will use their boats to sell fresh catches after their return. Cats are a standard part of life in Hydra, many of which come to get their morning meal at the harbor.

Just wandering the streets of this enchanting town is one of the most rewarding things to do in Greece. First, have dinner at one of the restaurants for a fresh seafood dish caught locally. Then, stop at a cafe for a quick dessert or refreshing drink.

19. Mount Athos

Mount Athos

Found on the edge of the Athos peninsula in Macedonia, Mount Athos is a holy mountain that has served as an Orthodox spiritual center since 1054. Women and children are forbidden to visit Mount Athos.

Twenty monasteries, including subsidiary establishments, decorate the slopes of Mount Athos. Since Byzantine times, Mount Athos has maintained a self-administered status, with its first constitution signed in 972.

To visit Mount Athos, a permit must be issued. Only ten non-orthodox and 100 Greeks and orthodox visitors are given permits daily, valid for four days. Mount Athos is a well-loved spiritual place where many men come to prioritize spirituality. Arriving at Mount Athos on a permitted visit, one will be overcome by structures that date back centuries on a thousand-year-old site.

Delos

Near Mykonos in the Aegean Sea’s Cyclades archipelago, Delos is the mythological birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis.

The island is an archaeological site featuring ruins of Doric temples, mosaics, and the famous Terrace of the Lions statue. The only inhabitants of the islands are archaeologists and caretakers of the island. There are no hotels or other stays to spend overnight on Delos. Once a religious center and commercial port, the island was quickly abandoned after several attacks and has stayed that way since 7 BC.

Excavations of Delos began in 1872, some of which continues to this day. A trip to Delos is one of the most popular things to do in Mykonos and offers a leap back in time. The island is an archaeological site dating back to the Archaic and Hellenistic periods.

17. Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion

At the southern point of Attica and the end of the Sounio Peninsula stands the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion.

Built in 5 BC to honor Poseidon, the structure was constructed entirely of white marble. The Temple of Poseidon is a renowned monument of the Golden Age of Athens. The Aegean Sea stretches out on three sides of the temple, and the scenery of the sunset descending into the sea is mesmerizing from this viewpoint.

The Temple of Poseidon had 34 columns. Only fifteen are left standing. If you look closely at one of the columns, you’ll find the name, Lord Byron. The famous poet inscribed his name during a visit to the historic site in 1810.

16. Epidaurus

Epidaurus

Once a small city of ancient Greece, Epidaurus is a famous archaeological site found on the northeastern Peloponnese in Argolis.

One of the biggest tourist attractions of Epidaurus is the Ancient Theatre. The theatre was established in 4 BC to host religious ceremonies honoring the god Asclepius. It was also used to host plays and symposia and as a wrestling arena. This is because of the theatre’s outstanding acoustics and symmetry, which are used to host ancient Greek drama performances in the present day.

Epidaurus acted as a health center in ancient times, referred to as “The Asclepion.” Myths accumulated between the ill that stayed in the Asclepion. That the god Asclepius appeared in dreams and cured their ailments.

15. Portara, Naxos

Portara

The Portara is an iconic landmark on the largest Cyclades islands on the islet of Naxos.

A colossal marble doorway acts as the favored jewel and landmark of Naxos . The construction of the Portara began in 6 BC under the decree of tyrant Lygdamis. However, construction ceased when Lydgamis was overthrown, resulting in only the Portara, or “door,” being built. It was believed that the structure was meant to be a temple dedicated to Apollo, but there is some controversy over its original purpose.

The photogenic marble gateway of the Portara illuminates stunningly, whether it be sunset, sunrise, or at night. Stroll up the cobbled pathway to the Portara and explore the ruins and encompassing sights beheld there.

14. Corfu Old Town

Corfu Old Town

The northernmost of the Ionian Islands, Corfu is found in the Adriatic sea near the western coasts of Albania.

Corfu is loved for its captivating architecture and history, with some buildings dating back to the Venetian period. Within Corfu’s Old Town are cobbled streets, old churches, charming shops, and adorable cafes.

For one-of-a-kind local finds, explore the local shops for clothes, sandals, trinkets, and fun souvenirs to take home. Many churches in Corfu’s Old Town are open to visitors looking to take a peek at the intricate design and architecture or simply to light a candle and say a prayer. Listen to live music as performers show off their talent to the crowds. Finally, get a taste of the local cuisine that fuses Greek and Venetian cuisine with an eastern twist.

13. Knossos Palace

Knossos Palace

The largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete, the Palace of Knossos, is the residence of the mythical King Minos, the son of Europa and Zeus.

Southeast of Heraklion in Crete, the palace symbolized the Minoan civilization. It was used as a political and ceremonial center for the Minoans. The palace was inhabited for a few thousand years until its destruction and the end of the Minoan civilization in 1375 BC.

The original Palace of Knossos, not the reconstructed one after its devastation, was four wings of four-story houses centered around a courtyard. A maze, or labyrinth, connected to the courtyard. In Greek mythology, the maze, or “Labyrinth,” was the home of the Minotaur that battled Athenian hero Theseus.

Combine a palace tour with a trip to the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion. Visit the museum first for a deeper understanding of the Palace of Knossos.

12. Ancient Mycenae

Ancient Mycenae

One of the major centers of Greek civilization, Ancient Mycenae is an ancient city and archaeological site and was a military stronghold that strong-armed the Cyclades, Crete, and southern Greece. The old archaeological site is southwest of Athens and north of Argos in the Peloponnese.

The first to speak the Greek language, the Mycenaens thrived until their eventual downfall around 1200 BC. After that, the Bronze-age acropolis was one of the greats, heavily impacting Greek culture and mythology.

Ancient Mycenae was also King Agamemnon’s home, who played a vital role in the Trojan War. Throughout the archaeological site are preserved finds like King Agamemnon’s palace, cisterns, Cyclopean architecture, and tombs. Some other noteworthy points of interest include the Tomb of Clytemnestra (the wife of King Agamemnon), the Museum of Mycenae, the Treasury of Atreus, and the Lion Gate.

11. Vikos Gorge

Víkos Gorge

On the southern slopes of Mount Tymphe in the Pindus Mountains, Víkos Gorge is a favored hiking spot with numerous awe-inspiring viewpoints. It is documented in the Guinness book of records as the world’s deepest canyon in proportion to its width.

Often called the Grand Canyon of Greece, the gorge offers breathtaking views of nature’s wondrous capabilities. One of Greece’s most naturally stunning sights, this gem is a sight to behold.

The most frequently used starting point for trekking the Víkos Gorge is Monodendri, a village in Zagori. Take your time indulging your curiosity with a tour through Monodendri’s snaking alleyways and delectable food options. For a more appealingly gentle descent from hiking Víkos Gorge, take the trailhead at Dilofo, a scenic mountain village.

10. Navagio Beach

Navagio Beach

Commonly called Smugglers Cove or Shipwreck Beach, Navagio Beach is a famous pebble beach on the coast of Zakynthos in the Ionian Islands.

Surrounded by shimmering turquoise water and towering cliffs, the beach is only reachable by boat. The second most photographed site and one of the most popular beaches in Greece , Navagio Beach lives up to its reputation with spectacular scenery that exudes paradise.

On its shores lies a shipwrecked boat, “Panagiotis”. The ship attempted to transport cigarettes in 1983 illegally but washed ashore during a massive storm. Nevertheless, it has become one of the biggest reasons why millions visit Navagio Beach every year.

9 Lindos, Rhodes

Lindos

A town on the island of Rhodes, Lindos preserves Greece’s second most visited archaeological site.

The legend goes that Danaus, the son of the King of Egypt, founded Lindos. Greek mythology believes that when Danaus fled his brother and Hera, he resided on the island before moving to Greece’s mainland.

The Acropolis of Lindos can be seen from every viewpoint in the town. On the first level of the acropolis is a Byzantine church of St. John established around the 13th century. There is also a big Hellenistic stoa and the remains of a temple. On the top of the stairs are the ruins of the Temple of Athena Lindia, a 4 BC sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Athena.

Visit the ancient theatre of Lindos, dating back to 4 BC. The historic amphitheater was used for festivals, plays, and athletic competitions. Admire the Church of Panagia, an elaborately designed chapel with a Rhodian campanile tower and hanging chandeliers.

Delphi

An ancient town in Phocis, Delphi rests between the Phaidriades Rocks of Mount Parnassus.

A major religious center in the 6th century BC, the Panhellenic sanctuary of the god Apollo lies in Delphi. It was the sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, translating to “Athena who is before the temple (of Apollo).” Visitors would first see the sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, then reach the sanctuary of Apollo.

Archaeological finds discovered Mycenaean remains, showing the area was inhabited in 2 BC. The sanctuary was established in 8 BC, its influence extending over Greece. Pilgrims came to Delphi to meet the priestess of Pythia and the Oracle of Delphi, which was widely known for divining the future. Delphi was once home to the Pythian Games, second to the Olympics for Greeks, to honor Apollo.

Now, visitors to Delphi can tour the archaeological sites of these historic religious sanctuaries. Other noteworthy artifacts and educational information can be found at the nearby museum.

Mystras

Referred to as Myzithras in the Chronicle of the Morea, Mystras is a historic town in the southeast of Peloponnese near ancient Sparta.

The settlement of Mystras began in 1249 with the construction of an amphitheater surrounding a fortress overlooking Sparta. However, after multiple attacks and occupations, by the Byzantines, Turks, then Venetians, Mystras was soon abandoned in 1832 with only ruins left behind.

The well-preserved archaeological sites feature Byzantine churches, fortress walls, and palace remains to peer over. The site is split between three sections—the fortress on the summit, the upper town, and the lower town.

Built by the Franks and preserved by the Turks, the fortress is historically outstanding, with stunning scenic opportunities from atop the hill. Within the upper and lower town sections are cobblestone streets worn down after centuries of use and numerous structures dating back to the 12th century.

6. Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge

A part of the White Mountains National Park on the island of Crete, the Samaria Gorge is the longest in Europe.

Home to 70 species endemic to Crete, the gorge is an enriching masterpiece of nature. Thousands of people hike Samaria Gorge every day during its peak month of August. But before beginning your hike of the gorge, take a quick trip to the Museum of Natural History of Samaria Gorge. The museum presents a deeper understanding of the gorge’s historical and natural wealth.

Hiking the gorge is one of the most popular things to do in Greece. Begin your hike at Xyloskalo, or “wooden stairs.” Locals constructed the wooden staircase as an entrance to the gorge.

5. Myrtos Beach

Myrtos Beach

Myrtos Beach is a famous beach found in the northwest part of Kefalonia Island in Pylaros.

Featuring a picturesque position at the base of two mountains, Myrtos Beach is frequently publicized as one of the best beaches in the world. Its breathtaking blue waters and shocking white pebbled shore make it an easy favorite as one of the best tourist destinations in Greece.

Sink your toes in the sand. Go for a swim and suntan on the sand. And take plenty of pictures while relaxing in paradise at Myrtos Beach!

4. Mykonos Town

Mykonos Town

One of the most featured destinations in Greece, the island and town of Mykonos is part of the Cyclades between Naxo and Syros.

The islands of the winds, Mykonos , is a luxurious holiday destination for romantic getaways and group tropical vacations. The town of Mykonos satiates a range of interests, from history and culture to food and nature.

Shop designer clothes at local boutiques around Mykonos Town. Find local pieces at various art galleries. Unwind at the picturesque beaches to catch some sun. Tour the archaeological sites, like the Ancient Delos, scattered with historic structures and ruins. Stroll through the streets surrounded by Cycladic architecture that has made the town of Mykonos well-known and well-loved for its unique setting.

3. Acropolis of Athens

Acropolis of Athens

A historical landmark above the city of Athens, the Acropolis of Athens preserves the remains of ancient structures that hold historical and architectural value.

Now an archaeological site, the military fortress established during the Neolithic period became a religious center dedicated to the goddess Athena. During the battle of Salamis in 480 BC, parts of the Acropolis were damaged. However, the structure was recovered and rebuilt by Pericles, the founder of the Athenian democracy, into the Acropolis observed today.

See also: Where to Stay in Athens

On the grounds of the Acropolis of Athens are different historical structures, including the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion. These buildings are temples dedicated to different elements of the Goddess Athena, each holding its own enigmatic pull. To the northwest of the Acropolis is the Areopagus, which functioned as the high court of appeal for cases of the law, and is now admired for its outstanding viewpoints of Athens.

Meteora

Near the town of Kalabaka in central Greece, the Meteora is a famed rock formation home to one of the largest Eastern Orthodox monasteries. It is only second to Mount Athos.

Six monasteries are stabilized on natural pillars and massive boulders on the rock formations for a truly unique and stunning attraction of Greece. The area of Meteora combines medieval history, impactful religion, and breathtaking nature, having sheltered the monasteries for nearly a thousand years.

Rock climbers crowd from all over the world to take on Meteora. But, if you’re afraid of heights, consider taking Meteora on from the comfort of the ground. There are numerous hiking trail options, including leisurely strolls or strenuous climbs that travel through the refreshing landscapes stacked with towering rock formations. End, or start, your trip at the Natural History Museum of Meteora and Mushroom Museum. It is one of the few museums in the world dedicated to mushrooms.

1. Sunsets at Santorini

Sunsets at Santorini

A famous tourist destination and island in the southern Aegean Sea, Santorini is adored for its unrivaled sunsets.

Created by volcanic eruptions, Santorini has impressively steep cliffs that offer some of the best sunset-viewing opportunities in the world. The two main towns, Fira (or Thira) and Oia have different rewarding perspectives for a romantic and unforgettable sight.

Book an evening cruise for views on the water to lose the bustling crowd and get the perfect spot for sunset viewing. Then, reserve a table at Ammoudi Fish Tavern in Ammoudi Bay for a romantic dinner while basking in bewitching pink and red hues. Atop Skaros is a historic Venetian fortress that avails clear views of the sea and sunsets at Santorini. Another ideal sunset viewing spot is at the 19th-century Akrotiri lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in Greece.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Greece

Map of Tourist Attractions in Greece

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Reader interactions.

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May 28, 2019 at 6:44 am

77 year old USA couple just returned from a 7 week trip to Greece last week. Skipped the tourist spots and concentrated on the historic locations which made Greece a remarkable society for 1000s of years including Cycladic, Minoan, Mycenaean, and Byzantine.

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April 24, 2017 at 12:23 pm

I’m 13years old and I have even been to Greece. It was one of the best places I’ve been in my life and I’ve been to some pretty cool places like Egypt.

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February 2, 2015 at 9:57 am

I need to add Cape Sounion to this! The Temple of Poseidon. A couple of hours by coach from Athens. Absolutely amazing, stunning views and if you stay until sunset really quite breathtaking!!

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December 1, 2014 at 1:28 pm

I visited Santorini in October last year . It is beautiful place to be but unfortunetely even in October overcrowded 🙁 Crete is a better destination in my opinion 🙂

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April 14, 2014 at 8:07 am

I surely hope that I can visit Greece. It is so unbelievably amazing even just the pictures. Parthenon, Mykonos, and definitely Santorini are on top of my list 🙂

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April 10, 2014 at 4:28 am

Sailing Greece in August 2014. Arriving early, where’s the best place to stay and the best things to do?

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March 26, 2014 at 1:14 pm

Greece is so amazing !! I wish i could go there someday 😉

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March 16, 2014 at 1:16 am

I would like to go to Santorini 😀

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December 2, 2013 at 5:56 am

I will recommend you to complete the map of tourist attractions in Greece 2014 Aegina island. Its 1 hour far from peraeus harbour. We have ”flisvos” tavern at aegina ‘s port and we offer eating services for tourists Groups. Please have in your mind aegina island and i am waiting you coming in my taverna. To drink a glass of ouzaki eating octopus on bbq for free (only for you). Thank you very much.

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July 3, 2013 at 6:31 am

Mykonos is the place to be!! I love this island. I ve been to Ornos, Elia and Ag. Sostis beach. Panormos is also great! Great beach and nice waters!Next to the beach there is a pool venue with djs! We went after the beach and they have pool afternoon parties. We had some cocktails and amazing food. Guilty Beach !!!!

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October 23, 2012 at 1:38 am

I love Kefalonia and Myrtos beach is stunning…

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December 9, 2011 at 6:49 pm

Greece is WONDERFUL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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September 11, 2011 at 11:47 am

Greece is wonderful place.Thasos is nice to see also

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August 24, 2011 at 1:15 pm

Absolutely beautiful photos! Greece is a fantastic tourist destination! But I would like to add Sithonia, Halkidiki, to your list – lots of unspoiled nature and beaches, and not spoiled by tons of tourists…

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Visit Greece: Top 21 Things to Do and Must See Attractions

The 21 best things to do in greece (bucket list).

You’re planning to visit Greece during your next holidays? You want to know more about the best places to visit?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, i have prepared this guide of the 21 best things to do in Greece , with all the must-see attractions of the country.

Discover Athens , the Peloponnese , the Cyclades ( Santorini ), the Dodecanese archipelago ( Rhodes ) and many more amazing places to visit during your trip.

So, where to go in Greece? What are the best points of interest?

Let’s find out!

  • 2. Peloponnese

4. Epidaurus

5. monemvasia, 9. the meteora, 10. thessaloniki, 11. the chalkidiki peninsula and mount athos, 12. the cyclades, 13. dodecanese islands, 14. ionian islands, 16. the vikos gorge, 17. euboea and the sporades, 18. the north aegean islands, 19. greece beaches, 20. discover greek gastronomy, 21. renting a boat in greece, greece tours, cyclades (greek islands), visit greece: the 20 best places to visit and must-see attractions.

In order to help you plan your stay in Greece, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

  • Itinerary: 4-5 days in Greece – The perfect itinerary for a short stay in Greece
  • Itinerary: 1 week in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Santorini!
  • Itinerary:  6, 7 or 8 days in Greece  – The definitive guide to visit Athens + Peloponnese in a week
  • Itinerary: 10 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Central Greece in 9-10 days
  • Itinerary: 2 weeks in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Central Greece + Cyclades (Santorini)
  • Itinerary: 3 weeks in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Central Greece + even more Cyclades islands!
  • Itinerary: 1 month in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Greece in a month!

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

Let’s start this Greece travel guide with Athens, the capital city.

As one of the oldest cities in the world, Athens turns out to be surprising. The modern city is built around ancient monuments , so urban atmosphere enthusiasts will find it as enjoyable as history and mythology lovers .

If you want to visit Greece or Greek Islands, there are strong chances you’ll be flying to or from Athens. That’s a good reason to spend 2 days in one of the must-see cities in Greece.

Here are Athens 10 best points of interest:

  • Acropolis:  major and iconic ancient site, it’s also the most visited of the city. Here you can admire the Parthenon, the largest Doric temple in Greece. It was built in homage to the goddess Athena Parthenos, patron and protectress of the city.
  • Acropolis Museum , a must-see to understand the Acropolis History and admire all its treasures.
  • Ancient Agora:  the political, social and administrative center of Ancient Athens.
  • National Archeological Museum  and its collection of Greek antiquities from the Neolithic to the classic period.
  • Panathenaic stadium built in the 4th century and restored in 1895 to host the first modern Olympic Games.
  • National Garden, Athens biggest public park. Relaxing and refreshing !
  • Syntagma   Square, house of the Parliament. There you can see the changing of the guard ceremony every hour.
  • Monastiraki neighborhood, famous for its Sunday flea market and its many souvenir shops.
  • Mount Lycabettus. You can walk or take the funicular to the summit to see a stunning view of Athens and the Acropolis.
  • Ermou street, for shopping lovers !

For more information about Athens, you should read our complete city guide: The 20 best things to do in Athens.  

Athens

2.  Peloponnese

To continue this list of the best places to visit in Greece , you should definitely visit  Peloponnese .

Located west of Athens, the Peloponnese peninsula is full of historical sites and archaeological vestiges. Over the centuries, many civilizations have settled there and shaped a landscape worth visiting.

Peloponnese best destinations:

  • Corinth Canal:  artificially carved into stone, this 6 km long canal connects the Ionian Sea to the Aegean Sea, avoiding a 400 km detour for boats. It separates the Peloponnese from Continental Greece. Don’t miss the souvenir photo.
  • Nemea Wine road:  located  in the South of Corinth, this region produces some of the best red wines in Greece.
  • Nafplio:  b eautiful seaside city overlooked by 3 fortresses. Y ou should definitely visit the fortress of Palameda, a large and well-built site located on a hill above the city . The view over Nafplio and the sea is wonderful! It’s definitely one of my  very good surprises during my trip to Greece .
  • Vouraikos Canyon:  the best and most spectacular way to discover the canyon is the rack-railway that runs daily between Diakopto and Kalavrita.
  • Mani peninsula:  a rural and quite wild area, still spared by mass tourism. You will enjoy splendid views driving on the roads.
  • Elafonisos Island:  on the very South of the Peloponnese, you will find here one of Greece’s most beautiful beach: Simos beach.

I will give you more details about the places from Mycenae to Olympia later in this article.

If you wish to visit Peloponnese, you can read our detailed article: The 15 best things to do in Peloponnese.

Nafplio

You’re looking for more things to see in Greece and more specifically in Peloponnese? Then you should definitely go to Mycenae.

Mycenae is one of the oldest UNESCO World Heritage sites in Greece .   Built on a hill, this antique city is well-known for being the home of the legendary Trojan War hero Agamemnon , considered one of the most powerful king of Ancient Greece .

On the site, you will discover  the heavy stone walls surrounding the city, the royal palace and the tombstones where many gold artefacts and funerary furniture were found.

You can also visit the Mycenae Archaeological Museum to learn more about the Mycenaean civilization and this crucial period of Greek history.

For further informations about rates and schedules, you can visit  the official website.

Mycenae

Epidaurus is also one of the best place to visit in Greece.

Along with Mycenae, it’s one of the two major archaeological sites of Peloponnese and the Argolid region. Epidaurus is also  a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The place is well-known for its ancient theater, built in the 4th century BC . Incredibly well preserved, the Epidaurus theatre could accommodate up to 14,000 people.

  With its amazing acoustic, the theater is still used today for antique Greek plays representations during the Epidaurus Festival (in July and August).

The sanctuary also includes a temple dedicated to the god of medicine Asclepios , a circular building named the tholos , a stadium and a small archaeological museum. There, you can see some of the statues discovered on the site and in the surrounding area.

Epidaurus Theatre

Visit Monemvasia  is another thing to do during your trip to Greece.

This fortified city is located in the south of Peloponnese , on the East coast of Laconia. It has a quite unusual position, located on a huge rock , only connected to the mainland by a small road.

The road to Monemvasia is really unique, as the village is completely hidden by the cliff until you arrive.   The houses will only appear once you’ve passed the wall of the medieval city. Cross the main gate and enter the medieval city to start discovering the village

. You will for sure enjoy walking in the lower town paved alleys: It’s very cute and calm, with many shops and restaurant. Following the main street will take you to the central square, offering a nice view on the sea.

You should also definitely go up to the fortress and the upper city. From there, the view on the cliffs, city and the sea is breathtaking!

Monemvasia

Impossible to talk about the best of Greece without mentioning Mystras . It’s one of the places I enjoyed the most when visiting the country.

The site about 10 kilometres away from Sparta on the slopes of  Taygetus mountain . It’s certainely one of the most beautiful archaeological site of the Peloponnese .

Mystra was once one of the capitals of the Byzantine Empire as well as a major cultural city. Due to its  dramatic History, it has been left in an advanced state of decay for a long time.   Today, after an impressive restoration work (still underway), this UNESCO World Heritage Site is really worth a visit.

There, you will admire the fortress and the Kastro (Castle) as well as many churches and monasteries in a beautiful environment.

The city of Mystras is divided into 2 parts, the upper and the lower city, and therefore has  2 entrances .   If you have a car, you can park in the upper parking lot to visit the upper city, then drive to the lower city to visit it (or vice-versa). Don’t forget to keep your tickets!

Mystras

Also located in the Peloponnese , Olympia Archaeological Site  is a must-see attraction in Greece.

If you want to learn more about Olympia, you definitely have to visit the Olympia Archaeological Museum . The best is to do it before visiting the  Archaeological  Site.

Voyage Tips - Advice   The €12 entrance fee for the ancient site and the Archaeological Museum also includes an access to the Olympic History Museum .

Olympia

You’re travelling to Greece and you’re interested about ancient history? Then you should definitely visit Delphi archaeological site.

In Ancient Greece, this city was considered to be the center of the world and was thus extremely important. It’s is especially famous for being the place where the Oracle of Delphi (also named the Pythia) transmitted Appolo’s directives from the gods to humans.

For over 6 centuries , the Pythia’s prophecies have shaped Greek History: Citizens and kings were coming from all over the country to get answers to their questions.

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Delphi Stands on Mount Parnassus , which adds a stunning natural beauty to the historical remains. The views over the valley and the sea are astonishing!

In the antique area , you can admire the Temple of Apollo  where the Pythia delivered the oracles, the theatre and the stadium that hosted the Pythic Games.

The entrance fee also includes an access to Delphi Museum . The visit will help you understand what the site looked like, and includes many remains and statues found in Delphi.

Delphi

If you are planning a road trip to Greece, and wondering what are the best places to visit, then you should definitely include The Meteora to your journey.  It was literally my biggest crush during my trip.

The Meteora is located in central Greece , 5 hours drive from Athens and 3 hours from Thessaloniki . Despite being far from the two major cities, it is still one of the most visited places in the country. Once you’re there, you will understand why! 

The scenery is extraordinary .   The rock formation of The Meteora results from the erosion due to an ancient inland sea. The name literally means “ rocks suspended in the air “. The rocks are really impressive but the craziest part is that, on the top of some of them, monasteries were built!

Until the 1920s , the only way to access the monasteries was an  ingenious system with cables and pulleys . It was used by  the religious to go to the top of the rocks into nets or baskets .  Nowadays, you can visit 6 monasteries , but don’t worry! Stairs has been carved into stone, and a road connects the monasteries. There, you will enjoy stunning views of the landscape.

Spend at least 1 day on the site, or more if you want to visit the inside of the monasteries  (each entrance fee is €3). The largest monastery,  the Monastery of  Great Meteoron, is really worth a look. As the highest of the 6, it sits on a 610 meters high hill!

The Meteoras is really a must-see tourist attraction in Greece.

The Meteora Greece

During your visit in Greece, you really should go to the city of Thessaloniki.

Located north of Greece , it’s less touristic than some other places, but still the 2nd biggest city of the country.

What are the best things to do in Thessaloniki, Greece:

  • White Tower:  former prison and torture place, it’s the most iconic monument of the city.
  • Thessaloniki Waterfront, where you will find many bars and restaurants.
  • Modiano Market to buy the best local products!
  • Arch of Galerius and Rotunda , 2 Roman monuments
  • Archaelogical Museum of Thessaloniki and its collection of remains from Greek Macedonia (not to be mistaken for the Republic of Macedonia)
  • Take a look at the many Churches: Agios Pavlos, Agios Dimitrios, Agia Sofia, Agios Nikolaos Orfanos, Ossios David
  • Thessaloniki Citadel and its walls  located in the upper city, and famous for its sunsets views.
  • Via Egnatia, a must for shopping-lovers!
  • Visit a Greek Navy helicopter carrier and/or Submarine, if they are docked during your stay.

To plan your trip to Thessaloniki, have a look at our detailed guide: Visit Thessaloniki: Top 12 Best Things To Do .

Thessaloniki

Let’s continue our Greece tourist guide with the Chalkidiki Peninsula.

The Chalkidiki Peninsula regroups, in fact,  3 peninsulas located Southeast of Thessaloniki. 

  • Kassandra peninsula
  • Sithonia peninsula
  • Mount Athos peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The first two peninsulas are well-known for having many luxurious seaside resorts and hotel complexes . There are Spas, casinos, golf and tennis courts, private marinas and luxury shops .  Here, tourists can also enjoy splendid beaches with turquoise water , small coves and the land is covered with pine forests. 

The atmosphere is completely different in the Mount Athos peninsula ! It’s the home of the Monastic State of Agion Oros , an autonomous state inside Greece and Europe.   There are still nearly 2,300 Orthodox monks living in the 20 monasteries located around the Mount.

If you wish to go to Mount Athos on a pilgrimage, please note that the access is highly regulated: only men have the right to enter ,  and you must ask at least 6 months in advance for a special permit to go there.   And still, only 10 non-Orthodox people and 100 Orthodox people per day are allowed on the site.

If you can’t obtain a permits for Mount Athos or for women, cruises departs from Uranupolis (the nearest city). You’ll be able to get a glimpse of some of the monasteries . Tickets costs around €30, for a 3 hour cruise.

Mount Athos

If you plan to visit Greece, you certainly can’t miss its most iconic destination : The Cyclades islands.

When you think of the Cyclades, the island of Santorini is probably the first one you think about!  The picture of the white church with its blue dome, overlooking the sea is famous all over the world. But did you know there are 24 inhabited islands in the Cyclades archipelago? 

  • Santorini:   the romantic island, visited by thousands of people, where the sunsets are magical! If you want to know more about Santorini, you should read our detailed article:  Visit Santorini: Top 12 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions
  • Mykonos: The best place to go if you want to party all night long with world famous DJs.
  • Amorgos:   the island where the movie “The Big Blue” was filmed. It’s also a great destination for hiking lovers!
  • Naxos:  the largest island of the Cyclades. The beaches here are wonderful!
  • Paros:   where you can visit lovely villages and enjoy beautiful beaches. You can read our detailed article about Paros here:  Visit Paros.  
  • Andros:  another great destination for hiking lovers.
  • Delos , for its renowned antique sites.
  • Tinos and its remote mountain villages.

If you want to know everything about the Cyclades, have a look at our definitive guide: The 15 best Cyclades islands to visit.

Santorini

Let’s continue this list of the best things to do in Greece with the Dodecanese Islands.

Rhodes , the largest  of the Dodecanese Islands is famous for its long sand beaches and wooden valleys. When visiting Rhodes, there are 2 things you must see: The old town of Rhodes , with its castle and fortifications and the lovely village of  Lindos . Don’t forget to climb up to Lindos Acropolis , where you’ll have an amazing view over the bay!

Rhodes also has a large number of seaside resorts , making it a very popular destination for all inclusive stays. 

You can read our guide to know everything about Rhodes: How to visit Rhodes?

The other Dodecanese best islands are:

  • Halki, with only 300 inhabitants. A great quiet place to spend the whole day at the beach.
  • Symi  where you will find one of Greece’s most beautiful village. From Rhodes, you can easily access Symi on a daytrip.
  • Karpathos,  an island where traditions and landscapes were preserved from mass tourism.
  • Kos,  the 2nd largest Dodecanese Island, known for its sandy beaches, luxury hotels and nightlife.
  • Tilos  for nature lovers and bird watchers!
  • Patmos  and its impressive hilltop monastery
  • Leros: if you like hiking and quiet places.
  • Leipsoi , one of the smallest and most authentic islands of the Dodecanese!

Rhodes

If you are looking for what to do in Greece , you can definitely add the Ionian Islands to your list!

Located west of Greece, the Ionian Islands are known for having a milder climate and lush green landscapes . You will also find sublime coves and crystal clear water beaches. There, you will find some of the best sights of Greece!

What are the best places to see in the Ionian Islands?

  • The city of Corfu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Throughout its history, Corfu has been occupied by the Venetians, the French and the British. The result is a very interesting mixture of architectural styles, making the city quite unique!  You have to take a walk to the Liston , a pedestrian esplanade with many arcades. You can also discover the Achilleion , a palace built for Empress Sissi of Austria .

You will also find beautiful creeks all over the island. Why don’t you try the famous Glyfada beach , or the west coast creeks near Paleokastritasa ?

  • Cephalonia   is an Island with a beautiful scenery and authentic small villages.

There, you must-see: Argostoli , the capital; the Assos Castle ; Fiskardo and its Venetian houses; the Lake Cavern of Melissani and Myrtos Bay , a cove dominated by high cliffs.

  • Leucadia:  you will find amazing beaches along its west coast.
  • Zante:  home of the first marine National Park in Greece. The protected Caretta-Caretta species of sea turtles come here to nest.
  • Ithaca:  famous for being Ulysses homeland in Homer’s literature masterpiece “The Odyssey”. You won’t find any large beaches here, only small coves that are sometimes only accessible by boat.
  • Paxos (or Paxi): the main attraction here is the Agios Nikolaos, an historical monument said to be designed by Leonardo Da Vinci. You can also visit, by boat, several sea caves.
  • Cythera: According to Greek mythology, the goddess of Love Aphrodite was born on this island.  If you want to enjoy some quiet time on an au thentic island, with no large hotels or beach clubs, you should definitely go there!

Ionian Islands

Our tour of Greece highlights continue with Crete . The largest of the Greek Islands sometimes feels like a small country on its own!

The  best things to do in Crete includes:

  • Heraklion :  the capital and largest city. You should visit the Archaeological Museum!
  • Knossos Palace and Archaeological Site,   residence of King Minos (known for The Legend of the Minotaur). One of Greece most important archaeological site.
  • Balos Lagoon  and its incredible turquoise blue water.
  • Elafonisi beach,  with its pink sand and crystal clear water.
  • The Samaria Gorge is among the longest in Europe. You can explore it through a 16km long hike!
  • Chania with its old town full of historic buildings and local craft shops.
  • Spinalonga, an island north east of Crete. It used to welcome lepers.
  • The Lasithi Plateau also called “the 10,000 mills valley” because its ancient white sails windmills.
  • Dikteon Cave, said to be the birthplace of Zeus.

To learn more about the best things to do in Crete, you should read my detailed article: The 27 Best Things to do in Crete .

Balos Lagoon Crete

The Vikos Gorge is one of the things to see in Greece. If you like hiking, it’s a great destination!

It is located in the Zagoria region , North West of Greece, 2:30 hour drive from The Meteora.

With its nearly 900 metres depth and 12 km length , the Gorge is among the deepest in the world . As it’s very narrow,  you will find it very impressive!

Once there, you can follow several hiking trails and itineraries to admire the preserved landscapes.   In any case, remember that you are in a quite remote area, and be sure to have the right equipment ! Don’t forget to bring hiking shoes, water bottles, sunscreen and hats. You should  also notify your hotel about your itinerary.

The best known hike is 12km long and goes from Monodendri to Vikos , but don’t worry i f you don’t want to walk that much. You will also find shorter itineraries, and sometimes you can even park your car near the view points. I strongly recommend you the one near Oxia!

Vikos Gorge

Euboea and the Sporades won’t be on the first page of a Greece tourist guide. But if you want to travel off the beaten path , that’s a destination you should consider.

Euboea is, after Crete, Greece’s second largest island. On its coast, you’ll find small seaside resorts , mostly frequented by the locals. It’s also a great place for hiking ! The most known place to hike is the Dimosari Gorge , located South of Euboea. There, you can walk for 4 hours on a 10km trail, going down through the forest to reach the sea. That’s a great way to combine hiking and sunbathing at the beach!

You can also climb to the top of Euboea, the 1,743m high Mount Dirfys . The trail starts in the Steni mountain village.

Since the ancient times, Euboea is also famous for the Loutra Edipsou (or Edipsos) Thermal Springs . It’s said that Aristotle bathed in those waters! 

The Sporades are an Archipelago of 4 Islands:

  • Skiathos  i s the most touristic island.  There are more than 60 sand beaches ! As tourism is very developed, you will find plenty of hotels, cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops.
  • Skopelos:   on this island you can enjoy beautiful and less crowded beaches.  Did you know that t he movie “Mamma Mia” was shot here?
  • Alonnisos:  is a must for hiking lovers, with more than a dozen marked trails. The island is also part of a marine National Park, to protect the endangered Monk Seals. During summer, you can also go on a cruise to see dolphins!
  • Skyros   has 2 totally different landscapes.   The north is very green, with fertile valleys and hills, while the south is arid and often beaten by the wind. Skyros is t he largest of the Sporades Islands, but also the most peaceful and the least touristic. A great place for relaxing holidays!

Euboea and the Sporades

You visited all the classics of a stay in Greece? If you believe that you are out of things to see, you should definitely take a tour to the North Aegean Islands!

These islands are the closest to  Turkey.

The North Aegean Islands includes:

  • Chios: an island with many medieval villages and beautiful beaches.
  • Lesbos  and its picturesque villages where you will find beautiful paved alleys or an oriental influence.
  • Samos,   is famous for its sandy beaches and its small coves. T he goddess Hera (wife of Zeus) and the famous mathematician Pythagoras were born on this island.
  • Icaria: Some says  Dionysus, the God of Wine and Pleasure was born on this Island. To honour him, the inhabitants are organizing the Panigyria, a traditional Greek festival with dances and alcohol. Icaria’s beaches are among the most beautiful of the Aegean Sea.
  • Lemnos:  a volcanic island with large beaches.

Chios North Aegean Islands

Where to go in Greece to enjoy beautiful beaches ?

A good thing about Greece is that, wherever you go, there’s a strong chance you can enjoy beaches. Well, as long as you’re traveling on the coast, of course!

So, what is a “beautiful beach”? It’s only up to you! Whether you like large sand beaches , pebble beaches, small coves , luxury beaches with deckchairs and sunshades , or more intimate locations , there will always be a beach you’ll enjoy in Greece.

Here are some of Greece’s best beaches  to help you choose!

  • The Shipwreck Beach (also called Navagio ), on the Ionian Island of Zakynthos
  • The Balos Lagoon  in Crete
  • Myrtos Bay, on the Ionian Island of Kefalonia
  • Elafonisi Beach  in Crete
  • Simos Beach , on Elafonissos Island, Peloponnese
  • Sarakiniko Beach , on Milos Island, The Cyclades
  • St Paul Bay , on the Dodecanese Island of Rhodes
  • Lalaria Beach in Skiathos, The Sporades
  • The Channel of Love  (also known as “ Canal d’Amour” ) in Corfu
  • Voidokilia beach in Peloponnese

You want to explore these beaches the VIP way? Then you should really hire a boat in Greece !

You will notice that I haven’t mentioned Santorini’s 2 most famous beaches: Perissa Beach and its volcanic black sand, and the Red Beach . In my opinion, there are much more extraordinary beaches in Greece!

Greece beach

Another famous Greece attraction is its typical food. So, what will you eat during your stay in Greece?

Let’s look at the traditional dishes you have to try during your trip!

  • Tzatziki is a Greek sauce made with goat’s (or sheep’s) yoghurt and cucumbers. The one we ate also had a lot of garlic!
  • Greek salad : cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, peppers.
  • Moussaka : a dish made of aubergines, minced meat and bechamel sauce.
  • Fasolada , a traditional bean soup.
  • Souvlakis and gyros : a pita filled with chicken or pork, a yoghurt sauce, salad, tomatoes and fries. To tell you the truth, it was our daily lunch!
  • Greek Yogurt  is not only a legend. You will find it in every restaurants, and it’s often served for desert with fruits and honey. It tastes nothing like those you can buy in a supermarket!
  • Portokalopita:  a Phyllo dough cake, made with Oranges. If you don’t like Oranges, you can always try the (as delicious) lemon one. It’s clearly my favorite Greek desert!
  • Ouzo , an anise-flavoured alcohol, served as a digestif.

gastronomie grecque

Greece is the perfect country to enjoy a boat trip!

So why not  rent a boat during your stay?

For a nice day at sea during your trip to Greece, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Greece? 😊

On Voyagetips.com , I give you all my best tips and itineraries to plan your trip to Greece by yourself. (All my Greece articles are here)

However, if you prefer to book a Greece tour with a travel agency , I recommend you to check the 10 best Greece tours by clicking the button below:

And you, now that you know what to see: where do you want to go and what do you want to visit in Greece?

Greece travel guides

  • Buy the Lonely Planet Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
  • Buy the DK Eyewitness Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

You’re traveling to Greece ? These articles will help you !

Discover all my articles about Greece :  All my articles to help you plan your trip to Greece are listed there.

  • The 15 Best Things to do in Peloponnese – All the must-see attractions
  • Itinerary: 6, 7 or 8 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Athens + Peloponnese in a week
  • Road trip in Greece – The best itineraries for 5, 7, 10, 15, 21 and 30 days.
  • Athens: The 20 Best Things to do and see
  • Thessaloniki: The 12 best places to visit
  • The 15 Best Cyclades Islands to visit – With all the must-see attractions
  • Itinerary: 1 week in Greek islands – How to visit the Cyclades in 6, 7 or 8 days
  • Itinerary: 10 days in Greek islands – The definitive guide to visit the Cyclades in 10 days!
  • Itinerary: Greek Island Hopping routes – The best 2 weeks itinerary to visit the Cyclades
  • Amorgos: The 8 best places to see
  • Andros: The 7 must-see attractions and activities
  • Naxos: Top 10 things to do
  • Paros: The 10 best places to visit
  • Santorini: The definitive guide
  • Tinos: The 10 best things to do
  • Rhodes: Top 12 best places to visit

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Visit Greece

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled

Top 21 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece

The sun-drenched European country is equally as known for its serene sandy beaches as its astoundingly rich ancient history which has had a huge influence on so many aspects of western society. With such a diverse range of destinations on offer, all tastes are catered for – from history fans and nature lovers to serious clubbers and beach dwellers. Here are the places that have left a life-long impression on me…

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1. Santorini

Santorini - the most beautiful places to visit in Greece

Santorini is one of the Cyclades islands nestled in the Aegean Sea. In my opinion, this is one of the most beautiful and romantic islands in the world, it’s popular for a reason!

Spectacular sunsets, traditional whitewashed houses and the breathtaking sights of the ocean are just a few of the reasons that make this island so special.

I would recommend heading to Oia for the iconic village of pastel-washed houses hugging the cliff face. The majority of shops selling postcards all over Greece will have photographs from Santorini and once you visit you’ll realize why this beautiful Greek place is so cherished (like I did)! 

My-must do highlights

  • Seeing world-famous white and blue houses Fira, Santorini’s beautiful capital. 
  • Exploring Oia’s pretty white houses and the famous and very photogenic churches with blue domes and gorgeous views.
  • Taking a one-day cruise around the island. 
  • Exploring the black sand beaches of  Perissa, Perivolos and Agios Georgios. 

Watch a video capturing the beauty of Santorini in 4k 

YouTube video

Mykonos beautiful Greek islands

To me, the island that stands out as one of the most stunning (and Instagrammable!) in the Aegean region is Mykonos. Belonging to the Cyclades group in the Aegean Sea, although Mykonos is a popular party island there is still plenty of natural and traditional beauty on offer.

For starters, it has a collection of unique Cycladic architecture (white-washed cube buildings) set around a picturesque fishing village bay.

The square whitewashed buildings sit closely together forming a maze of narrow alleyways and streets and are highly photogenic! In my experience, the island’s extraordinary beaches also make a perfect backdrop to watch the sunset.

My must-do highlights

  • Taking photos of the famous and very beautiful Mykonos Windmills . 
  • Exploring the Paraportiani Church . 
  • Dancing at Cavo Paradiso Mykonos one of the best clubs in the world home to breathtaking sea views .
  • Relaxing on Platis Gialos Beach one of the best beaches on the island.

3. Zakynthos 

Zakynthos - an amazing place to visit in Greece

This beautiful gem is famous for its crystal clear blue waters, golden beaches, and intense adventures, especially at night. My favourite highlights here include the Shipwreck Beach of Navagio in a secluded cove, as well as Banana Beach, Porto Zoro Beach, Kalamaki Beach, and Gerakas Beach.

Zakynthos Town is home to dozens of museums and an interesting Venetian Castle on the hilltop. Picturesque mountainous villages are scattered across the countryside, including old monasteries easily discovered by car.

Restaurants dot the region offering delicious Zakynthos cuisine with notable must-sees such as Solomos Square, Strata Marina which is home to restaurants, bars and cafes, Stranis Hill for a magical view of the island and remarkable ancient churches such as Aghios Nikolaos.

If you’re more adventurous I would recommend trying surfing or hiring a sailboat, trekking across the scenic mountainous region, going snorkelling, swimming among sea turtles, and scuba diving in underwater caves between rocks in crystal clear surroundings.

  • Head to the iconic and increasingly famous Navagio Beach and surrounding viewpoints to get some truly Instaworthy shots. It’s otherwise known as Shipwreck Beach due to the haunting remains of the ship here.
  • Visit and then relax on the island’s other beautiful beaches such as Banana Beach , Dafni Beach and Gerakas Beach . 
  • Hire a boat and explore the incredible Blue Caves and Keri Caves .

4. Kefalonia Island

Kefalonia - most beautiful places to visit in Greece

The popular Greek holiday island has been made famous by the novel and film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin which was set here. Although there is some development I love that it still retains a traditional Greek way of life.

For all those who wish to know what a beautiful beach looks like, I would say you just need to visit Myrtos located on the island! 

It can be found located in the region of Pylaros, northwest of Kefalonia island. The sheer contrast of the bright blue waters and the sparkling white beach makes an exhilarating scene especially when viewed from the very steep mountains and cliffs! 

My favorite highlights

  • Exploring Assos Village a small and very charming village.
  • Relaxing on Petani Beach and Myrtos Beach which are some of the most beautiful beaches in Kefalonia.
  • Visiting Agios Gerasimos Monastery a 16th-century church complex with a courtyard, gardens and a monastery.
  • Taking photos at the pretty Argostoli Harbour. 

Rhodes Island Greece

Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands and is another popular holiday island. Although it’s home to some lively resorts in my opinion, there are still many areas of outstanding natural beauty to discover and explore!

I would recommend heading for Lindos and St. Paul’s Beaches. Lindos is more popular because of its turquoise waters and the view of the raised white-painted town from the beach. Although I think both beaches are sandy, white and exceptionally beautiful. 

Agathi Beach is another pretty beach on the island known for its soft sand and emerald-green waters. Looking for history? There are many ancient ruins here and also remnants of its occupation by the Knights of St. John during the Crusades.

My favourite highlights 

  • Eating at Rustico Restaurant which is a cute tavern with a modern twist and offers outdoor seating and vegan options too. 
  • Exploring and swimming via a fast boat tour. 
  • Hiking along the coastal trails for stunning views.

6. Parthenon Acropolis and the rest of Athens

A view Peoples at street and rooftops of Parthenon Acropolis city, Athens

There are many breathtaking historical sites to explore in this extraordinary country but this world-famous ancient attraction is considered to be the most important surviving building of Classical Greece and when I visited I was in awe!

It’s located in the Greek capital Athens, it’s ruins of an ancient temple on the Athenian Acropolis dedicated to the maiden goddess Athena and built for a couple of decades starting 447BC.

I would also highly suggest taking the time to explore the city of Athens. It’s a unique city sometimes gritty, but it’s never boring and has many incredible restaurants, rooftop bars and historic attractions to explore. 

My must-do highlights of Athens

  • See the awe-inspiring  ancient monuments – they seem to spring from literally everywhere in the city! 
  • Squeeze in a few great museums too such as the Acropolis Museum , National Archaeological Museum and the beautiful Byzantine and Christian Museum .
  • Explore the hip and lively districts of Athens such as Plaka , Thissio and Syntagma which are filled with great restaurants and bars.
  • Head to A For Athens Rooftop Bar for seriously incredible views of Athens.

Corfu - Greece

I personally think Corfu is a must-see! In my opinion, this is one of the most romantic islands in the Ionian archipelago where you can explore their historic heritage that is inspired by Venetian and Byzantine styles.

I would suggest visiting the Old Town which has been nominated by Unesco as one of the most attractive spots on the Greek islands.

If you want to make the most of the Mediterranean climate, I would suggest going on a boat tour where you will witness one of the most extraordinary breathtaking views! 

Also, check out our guide to The best unspoilt places to visit in Corfu for travel snobs

  • Exploring the quaint gorgeousness of Corfu Old Town which is filled with beautiful old architecture.
  • Relaxing on one of the many stunning beaches, some of the best include Paleokastritsa Beach and the white sand Voutoumi Beach.
  • Visiting the cute residents at the Corfu Donkey Sanctuary . 

Thassos island Greece

Thasos is filled with beauty with contrasting blue sky and blue sea, green flora and stunning sandy beaches. Lying on the North Aegean region, the Greek island offers an alluring traditional taste and beautiful beaches, excellent hotels serving local cuisine, trails for hikers and lots of secrets to discover.

I would personally recommend trying water sports here such as scuba diving, water skiing, windsurfing and boating as well as discovering the rewarding footpaths, cascades, ravines and beaches including Hrisi Ammoudia-Limenas, Kallirahi-Prinos and Maries-Prinos.

In its capital Limenas you can see the Acropolis and a theatre constructed in 5 BC and if you’re looking for beach fun then try Marble Beach and Chrysi Akti which are home to beach bars and tavernas.

  • Going on a sea-kayaking tour ! 
  • Exploring the best beaches the island has to offer – Golden Beach , Paradise Beach, La Scala Beach and Metalia Beach.
  • Checking out the island’s pretty waterfalls .

9. Naxos Island

Naxos Island Greece

This is an island on the southern side of Greece which is home to the myth-surrounded Mt. Zeus. Relatively undiscovered by the tourist masses Naxos is one of my favourite islands. It’s also one of the greenest in the Cyclades with high mountains and fertile valleys.

In my opinion, the beaches here are among the most beautiful in the whole country. They’re long and sandy and perfect for swimming, water sports and relaxing.

The traditional white-painted villages and winemaking factories are also another highlight of mine as well as the picturesque port towns filled with whitewashed, cube-shaped houses and medieval Venetian mansions.

  • Hiring a catamaran with a skipper for the day and seeing the gorgeous surrounding waters in style!
  • Lazing around on the stunning beaches some of the best include Plaka Beach , Agiaanna Beach and Saint George Beach . 
  • Dining out in one of the many cute traditional restaurants with incredible views of the island. 

10. Lefkada

Lefkada - the most beautiful island in Greece

Lefkada can be found towards Greece’s west coast and is connected to Greece’s mainland through a floating bridge and causeway so it’s one of the few Greek islands you can visit by car.

I love it for its crystal blue waters and golden beaches which many are like you’d see in the Caribbean – yes really! 

It’s full of traditional taverns serving fresh fish and lovely villages contrasting with its lush green surroundings. I would recommend heading for Egremni, Kathisma and Porto Katsiki beaches which are perfect photography spots while in my opinion, the Panagia Faneromeni monastery and Nidri waterfalls are must-sees! 

Also, I would suggest not missing the prominent Castle of Santa Maura, discovering the timeless villages concealed by wild olive groves and hills, and the spectacular inlets and little bays towards the south which have perfect conditions for windsurfers and kite surfers.

  • Going beach hopping and try and explore all the incredible beaches here. 
  • Visiting one of the wineries located on the island. 
  • Visiting one of the island’s quirky museums such as the Folklore Museum .

11. Samaria Gorge and the rest of Crete

Samaria Gorge - beautiful scenery in Greece

This is a spectacular tourist attraction which receives more than half a million visitors annually! The Samariá Gorge is a National Park of Greece located on the pretty island of Crete and has been designated a World’s Biosphere Reserve.

People can take a walk through the gorge and pass by breathtakingly high cliffs along the way before the small coastal village of Agia Roumeli emerges.

I would also highly recommend taking the time to explore the rest of Crete which is the largest of the Greek islands. It’s a stunning destination filled with sun-drenched immaculate beaches, ancient sites, incredible scenery, pretty villages, friendly locals, lively nightlife, amazing restaurants and great wine.

We also have a guide on The unspoilt places to visit in Crete for travel snobs !

My favourite highlights

  • Getting to know the locals in the bars, restaurants and cafes – they are seriously friendly! 
  • Visiting the incredible Balos Lagoon for Instaworthy shots. 
  • Visiting Takis Shelter Takis is famous all over the world for rescuing dogs and housing them at his open-air shelter. 

12. Meteora, Kalabaka

Meteora, Kalabaka in Greece

Found in central Greece, this striking and unusual rock formation is home to a monastery founded in the 14 th  century and now has UNESCO World Heritage site status .

The complex of six monasteries is built precariously perched atop 1,300-foot-high sandstone pinnacles, at the northwestern edge of the Plain of Thessaly near the beautiful Pineios River and Pindus Mountains.

The occupants of the buildings located atop vertically steep rocks definitely had a rough time climbing down, but so was their climb up. It is an awesome sight that can leave you speechless and easily deserves a place on this list, especially if you’re looking to explore less touristy areas.

  • Taking a camera and photographing it, this place is about as unique and stunning as you can get!
  • Staying in a nearby guesthouse and making the most of this special place. 

13. Nafplio

Nafplio Greece

Located in the Eastern Peloponnese region of Argolis is Nafplio on mainland Greece, this is a romantic seaport town (which was once the capital of the new state of Greece between 1821 and 1834).

When I visited I was awestruck by the medieval castles, Ottoman fountains, ancient walls, statues, monuments, and neoclassical and Venetian buildings. It’s also easy to get to from Athens which is just 94 kilometres away.

Discover the Turkish fountains and medieval Old Town, preserved neoclassical mansions and narrow cobblestone alleys. I would also suggest stopping by Syntagma Square and taking in the monuments and historic buildings before heading to the Palamidi Castle which stands tall at 216 meters above sea level.

I would also highly recommend taking a boat ride to the Venetian fortress of Bourtzi, visiting the War Museum, Acronauplia view and clock tower, the Byzantine 12th-century church, and discovering the view of the open sea and striking Nafplio from the Palamidi Fortress.

  • Exploring the photogenic and quaint Old Town . 
  • Take a trip to Palamidi Castle and climb all of the 999 steps! 
  • Going for a Greek Coffee at Syntagma Square .

14. Mystras, Peloponnese 

Mystras Greece

Mystras is a mountainous village close to Sparti, Laconia on mainland Greece which is classed as a World Heritage Monument by UNESCO. It is famous for its archaeological site as Mystras used to be a very important medieval town in the Byzantine Era.

The archaeological site consists of well-preserved Byzantine churches and a strong Fortress and I would highly recommend exploring if you want to see an off-the-beaten-track attraction. You won’t find too many tourists here!

  • Exploring all the historic sites . 
  • Paying a visit to the Camera Museum.

15. Delphi Theatre, Phocis

Delphi Theatre Greece

Delphi   is both an archaeological site and a modern town on mainland Greece on the southwestern spur of Mount Parnassus in the valley of Phocis. The Delphi theatre was constructed atop a hill facing the beautiful valley in the 4 th  century and is now classed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Built as the sanctuary and oracle of Apollo, its 35 rows could hold up to 5,000 guests who in ancient times enjoyed plays, poetry readings, and musical events. I personally think this is a stunning historic site and I especially loved the view of the natural unspoilt landscapes below.

16. Mount Olympus National Park

Mount Olympus Greece

Declared a National Park in 1938, Mountain Olympus is Greece’s highest mountain rising 9,573 feet on its highest peak. This is an unspoilt and mostly untouristy area on mainland Greece filled with thick forests, alpine fields, prominent rock peaks and deep gorges. It’s also rich in fauna and flora with rare and typical 1700 plant species spread around the region.

Numerous campsites and inexpensive hotels have sprung up to cater for curious travellers and Litochoro is the main village easily accessed from Athens by train and bus. I personally think the Ancient Dion Archaeological Museum at the base of Mount Olympus is a must-visit.

Mountain refuges, climbing and mountaineering routes are organized for adventure seekers setting off at Litochoro. Private trekking is available too, especially along the Enipeas Canyon which has spectacular hiking trails.

Local cuisine is famous for its traditional tastes and is served with locally produced red or white wine, which I would highly recommend trying!

  • Exploring one of the many hiking trails.
  • Checking out one of the many unspoilt beaches . 
  • Going on a group tour to more thoroughly explore.

17. Lake Kerkini

Lake Kerkini Greece

Located on mainland Greece in the heart of the bird migration route and flyway on their way to the Black Sea this place is home to thousands of protected and rare birds which is an incredible sight! 

You can also see gigantic square meters of water lilies, diverse fish varieties and fantastic vistas of the Krousia and Belasica mountains.

Apart from hosting over 227 non-migratory birds, Kerkini is also the home of exceptional buffalo herds, over 10 species of amphibians, 19 species of reptiles and hundreds of insect varieties.

The extinct-threatened Pygmy Cormorant, Pelicans and heron colonies can be seen making it a true haven for wildlife spotters! Activities on offer here include boat rides, canoeing, 4×4 off-roading, biking and hiking along the mountain range footpaths.

  • Kayaking and exploring the natural beauty spots.
  • Taking my camera and spotting wildlife and capturing the sunset .

18. Monemvasia Fortress 

Monemvasia Greece

Monemvasia Fortress is located along the Peloponnese east coast on mainland Greece with the first settlement traced back to the 6th century.

Both the gigantic Byzantine fortress and superb beaches nearby are open to locals and tourists who can’t seem to get enough of this extraordinary place and with good reason!

The rugged beauty is a refined refreshing escape for anyone and a perfect place to spend idyllic and refreshing days tracing Ottoman, Venetian, Frankish and Byzantine influences across the town courtesy of its impressive history and architecture in almost every place you step on!

I would also recommend visiting the Kastania Cave, the nearby churches and café.

Zagori Greece

In northwestern mainland Greece Epirus is the Zagori municipality in the mountainous region of Pindus. I’ve included Zagori in this list for its remarkable geology, dazzling natural beauty, and two popular National Parks. Zagori is dotted with over 46 villages interconnected with modern roads and here 18th-century stoned arched bridges still stand!

I personally think the region’s beauty comes alive while walking across the divine Vikos Gorge from the Astrakas Mountaintop to the cascades of the Voidomatis River over a backdrop of Mt. Timfi.

I would also suggest visiting the gorgeous Drakolimni Alpine Lake, the traditional Zagorohoria village, the Kalogeriko stone bridge, the swimmable Ovires natural waters in summer, the 15th-century Agia Paraskevi monastery and the spectacular melancholic view from the monastery of Spileotissas on the Viodomatis River! There’s a lot to discover here!

20. Acheron Springs

Acheron Springs - a natural Greek beauty spot

The Acheron River Springs is located off the Glyki and Kanalaki villages bordering Preveza and Thesprotia on mainland Greece. I personally think the crystalline waters, towering cliffs and rich flora make for very stimulating surroundings with water pits and lakes along the river in areas of normal water flow.

Apart from the assured peace and tranquillity and lovely restaurants, there are also river pathways for hiking and rafting adventures so this is one for nature lovers! 

21. Voidomatis River 

Rafting on Voidomatis River Greece

The river is a famously attractive natural site and is popular for kayaking, rafting and other diverse water sports. I also love that Voidomatis is on top of the list of cleanest rivers anywhere in Europe, powered by the Vikos Gorge and Tymfi water currents and run by the Vikos-Aoos National Park.

It’s dotted by diverse stone bridges such as the Kledonas Bridge and Aristi Bridge where kayak and rafting fans meet and begin their cascading adventures down the clear waters!

For five kilometres down the river from Aristi, I would say just expect to be blown away by the sight of the 16th-century Agioi Anargyroi monastery.

You can get there via Epirus and then make Konitsa, Ioannina, or the stone-built charming villages of Zagori your base which is home to lots of beautiful mansions, guest houses, and hotels.

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Scott Balaam

Scott Balaam – writer and photographer

Scott started his travelling life back in 1999, when he headed off on a solo jaunt to South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia with just a backpack, a camera and a spirit for adventure. After that, the travel bug bit hard and now he is always seeking to head off somewhere new. Over the years he has lived in Italy, Qatar, Australia, Ireland, UK and the USA but his spiritual home will always be Rome as this is the city which most satisfies his unrelenting thirst for culture, good food and great football. In his spare time Scott loves nothing better than to be behind the camera and also runs his own blog and Instagram page. He also counts Melbourne, the rest of Italy, Amsterdam, USA, Athens, Cape Town and Tel Aviv among his favourite places. Find Scott on Linkedin , Instagram , or Twitter .

Hotel Reviewing Experience –Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Visit Sweden ,  OET (Spanish Tourism Office) , Sultanate of Oman and  Travel Alberta . Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Also mentioned as a top UK travel journalist .

16 thoughts on “Top 21 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece”

Astypalea is an epic place to visit! Blue & white at its best!

So many great destination ideas! Even though I have already had mine, I still like to get to know some nice destinations, even for holidays with my wife. I would also add one more place that we really like to visit, USA.

Hello, such a great top 10 list! Congrats 🙂 Did you try Greek Island Hopping while in Greece? I see you’ve been to plenty of the islands. Next time around be sure to check Folegandros, Astypalea, Zakynthos and Kythera! One of my favourite places in mainland Greece is Mt. Pelion, a magical place and a true all year round destination <3 You might wanna give it a try as well…

Yes, please. This summer if possible.

i’m dying to get back to Greece. i’ve never seen such beautiful blue skies or gorgeous sunsets. Mykonos is calling Lola’s name!

Love Greece, can’t wait to spend more time there! I’ve wanted to visit Meteora ever since I found out about it, seems so cool. Had a great time in Tessaloniki a few years ago, definitely recommend adding it to the list!

Hello! Do you think it’s good to visit Greece right now? There is so much stuff going on in there…

“breathtaking sights of the ocean” – cute 🙂 actually Greece is quite far away from any ocean. Anyway nice list. Santorini is definitely must see!! Mikonos is also nice. Naxos is more insider tip, not a lot of tourists there!

Nice picture and beautiful place! I have a chance to go to Greece next month, I hope I have the free time to visit all these amazing places.

wow its an amazing place. Visiting Greece provides an opportunity to examine the culture that provided many of the threads woven into the fabric of Western Civilization. However, don’t make the mistake of thinking that visiting Greece is like a tour through a dull, crumbling museum. Greece is a spectacular and scenic country whose inhabitants know how to live life to the fullest.

Is there anywhere in Greece that isn’t picture perfect? Every one of these photos provides inspiration to travel. The architecture of Santorini reminds me of Casa Pueblo in Punta del Este, Uruguay.

I’ve been amazed with Delphi Theatre in Phocis Greece. I wonder what happened at that place many years ago. I imagine great plays, poetry readings and musical events being presented. People watching were applauding for superior presentations.

Your list is amazing. What I like the most among them is the Meteora Kalabaka, Greece. Great to know that these six manasteries site is recognized by UNESCO. By just looking at your photos, it’s like inviting me to visit each one.

These are great! Naxos is my favourite Greek island (that I have been to). I just love the cobbled alleyways and the harbour in the centre and, of course, the beaches are absolutely stunning!

Thanks Lizzie! 🙂

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The most beautiful places in Greece: Santorini, Crete, and more

A couple standing on a rock at Meteora, Greece

Greece is a destination where the beauty of its landscape and the timeless Greek mythologies have captured imaginations and inspired travel for centuries. From the Parthenon to the postcard-perfect Greek islands, Greece has many attractions to tempt you on repeated visits.

Here’s our list of the most beautiful places to visit for your next Greek vacation.

1. The Acropolis, Athens

The Acropolis, Athens

The Acropolis towers over the ageless city of Athens like an enduring beacon of beauty and history. Get lost in the magnificent maze of ancient ruins–the grand Propylaea Gate , Odeon of Herodes Atticus , and Temple of Athena Nike . Join a guided tour to gain more insights into the archaeological sites, especially the Parthenon, which represents the pinnacle of classical Greek architecture.

The Acropolis is always busy so start your exploration early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Combine your tour of the ancient site with a visit to the Acropolis Museum .

2. Santorini, Cycladic Islands

Santorini, Cycladic islands

Santorini is one of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades . From the crescent-shaped caldera to the picturesque villages Fira and Oia studded with white-washed houses, Santorini is stunning from any angle. Spend a few idyllic days enjoying the island’s archaeological sites in Akrotiri , and the unique Red beach and black sand Perissa beach .

Experience a different side of Santorini by visiting the island’s excellent wineries and vineyards or hopping on a sunset cruise . Santorini is famed for its spectacular sunsets so check out our guide for the best spots to view the Santorini sunset . The island is packed during the peak season so book your ferry or plane tickets early. Here are more tips about the best time to visit Santorini .

3. Delphi, Phocis

Delphi, Phocis

Delphi is surrounded by breathtaking Greek landscapes as it sits on Mount Parnassus and offers a sweeping vista of the Gulf of Corinth . Considered by the ancient Greeks to be the center of the world, Delphi is home to the venerated Sanctuary of Apollo and the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia . Pilgrims used to walk the Sacred Way to the Temple of Apollo to communicate with the Gods through the Oracle who shared prophecies.

Join informative tours and visit the Delphi Archaeological Museum to learn more about Greek beliefs and ways of life. Spend a night in the town of Delphi so you’ll have more time to explore the region.

4. Hydra, Saronic Gulf Islands

Hydra, Saronic Gulf Islands

The jewel of the Saronic Gulf Islands , Hydra is the perfect island getaway. After a short two-hour boat ride from Athens, you’ll be transported to Hydra’s iconic curved harbor. Slow down in the traffic-free Hydra and wander through the town’s cobbled streets.

Embark on a scenic hike to Profitis Ilias Monastery and continue your trek to Mount Eros , the island’s highest peak, where you’ll be rewarded with a striking panorama of the island. Hydra deserves more than a day trip from Athens so allocate more time and include other islands like Aegina and Spetses on your itinerary.

Crete

With its sun-kissed coastlines and dramatic cliffs, Crete makes for an unforgettable Mediterranean vacation. The largest Greek island boasts the impressive Palace of Knossos and other important Minoan archaeological sites.

Relax on the pristine, pink-sand Elafonissi beach , one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. For a hassle-free holiday, sign up for a full-day tour to explore the island’s well-preserved port cities like Chania and Heraklion . Crete’s popular Samaria Gorge National Park welcomes you with steep ravines, waterfalls, and rich flora and fauna. The best time to visit Crete is in May when flowers paint the island’s landscape with radiant hues.

6. Meteora, Thessaly

Meteora, Thessaly in Greece

Meteora , with its medieval monasteries built on extraordinary rock formations, is one of the most beautiful places in Greece. The name Meteora means “suspended in the air” in Greek and describes this awe-inspiring place. Today, six monasteries remain, and the oldest and largest building is the Great Meteoron Monastery . Climb the stairs to see the lavish frescoes and mosaics inside the historical buildings.

Base your visit in the neighboring towns of Kalambaka or Kastraki so you can explore the region leisurely. Join a special sunset tour of the monasteries without the daytime crowds.

7. Corfu, Ionian islands

Corfu in greece

The main island of the Ionian islands, Corfu is one of the most beautiful and hidden parts of Greece. The island’s dreamy landscape of lush mountains and cobalt blue waters is believed to have inspired Shakespeare’s last play, The Tempest.

The old town of Corfu charms with its colorful architecture featuring Venetian, French, and English influences. Experience the town’s culture as you stroll through the atmospheric streets and its landmarks— Liston and Spianada Square . The island is filled with other attractions like the Paleokastritsa Monastery and Paleokastritsa Beach . Join an island-hopping boat tour to explore the smaller Ionian islands Antipaxos and Paxos .

8. Mount Olympus, Thessaly

Mount Olympus, Thessaly in Greece

Straddling the regions of Central Macedonia and Thessaly , Mount Olympus is Greece’s highest peak. According to Greek legends, the majestic Mount Olympus is known as the “mountain of the Gods.” Start your expedition from the hiking trail at Litochoro , the gateway to the Olympus National Park .

A full hike usually takes two days so pack proper hiking gear. Along the way, you can cool down and swim in the Enipeas and Orlias waterfalls . If you’re seeking adventures such as canyoning and more, join these outdoor tours .

9. Skopelos, Sporades Islands

Skopelos, Sporades Islands in greece

With its sun-drenched beaches and bright azure waters, Skopelos is such a visual treat. In fact, the island was the setting of the musical film Mamma Mia!. The best thing to do on Skopelos is to laze on the golden beaches dotting its incredible coastlines.

Get up close with dolphins, turtles, and seals at the National Marine Park of Alonnisos Northern Sporades . Don’t forget to visit other Sporades islands like Skiathos and Skyros which are blessed with attractive landscapes, too. Late spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Skopelos when it’s peaceful and flowers are in bloom. If you visit in February, you’re in luck as the islanders celebrate the traditional Carnival.

10. Rhodes, The Dodecanese

 Rhodes, The Dodecanese

The Dodecanese is the southernmost archipelago of the Greek islands. The largest island of the 12 Dodecanese islands, Rhodes is a fairytale-like destination. The old town of Rhodes and the Acropolis of Lindos are characterized by medieval architecture blending harmoniously with the island’s all-encompassing natural landscape.

The glistening waters lapping on Rhodes’ flawless coastlines invite you to hop on boat tours , and swim, snorkel, and even kayak in scenic bays like Anthony Quinn Bay . Plan your island escapade just before or after the peak period in July and August to avoid crowds and still enjoy the warm weather. Check out our guide to the best time to visit Greece to plan your next trip.

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Santorini is an island in the Aegean Sea, which is a part of Greece. It lies 200 Km southeast of Athens and 140 Km north of Crete. Covering an area of 96 square km, Santorini is a part of the Cyclades group of islands, where all the islands have similar characteristics. Everything in Santorini is photogenic, from the churches with their multiple bells to the picturesque whitewashed houses, from the flowers adorning the balconies to the churches with their blue domes. The island features a spectacular volcanic landscape, pristine black sand beaches, charming hidden coves, and stunning sunsets, presenting an otherworldly atmosphere. As you ascend the 587 steps leading to the capital of Thira from Skala, the little old port, you can see the remnants of an ancient volcanic eruption that led to the collapse of the island centre into the sea. The beautiful town of Thira has several shops and restaurants where you can get some refreshments. To know more about the history of the place, head to the archaeological museum or visit the Catholic and Greek Orthodox cathedrals. While the natural beauty and architecture of Santorini are unmatched, there are some great water sports activities available as well. Since the waters around the island are teeming with marine life, you can try out snorkelling and scuba diving activities around here. If diving underwater is not for you, there are jet boats and jet skis for hire. For adrenaline junkies who wish to catch a spectacular view of Santorini, there are kitesurfing and windsurfing activities available. Santorini has a Mediterranean climate, with warm, sunny summers and mild, rainy winters. The heaviest rainfall can be seen during autumn and winter, particularly between October and March.

Top Experiences To Do in Santorini

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Tourist places in Athens garner great appeal and traction by the travellers at large. An ideogram of Western Civilization at its awe-inspiring best, Athens swanks illustriously the rich and glorious history that sweeps back to more than three thousand years. At the time of classical antiquity, the city proliferated to attain the best. The place of birth of Sophocles, Pericles and Socrates, Athens is a destination which more than a relic delineates sublime past and history. The tourist places in Athens that are worth visiting include Acropolis, Benaki Museum, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Byzantine & Christian Museum, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Benaki Museum Pireos Annexe, Museum of Islamic Art Parthenon, Kerameikos, Theatre of Dionysos, Temple of Poseidon, National Archaeological Museum Mt Parnitha National Park and Lykavittos Hill. Athens today is a scurrying and contemporary city portraying distinct vacation experiences. Compensating with all the wonderful charismatic charm, the Acropolis in Athens is considered to be the world’s most astounding and retrospective ruins. The exceptionally alluring archaeological museums’ exhibit captivating artifacts that are represented at local regions. Various other hidden attractions that await discovery are the binding Byzantine churches quarried all-round the hamlets like the neighbourhood and the city of Athens. Tourists visiting Athens generally relish swaddling and scurrying through the Plaka district tapered pedestrian lanes, track lined with picturesque bougainvillea swathed houses and beguiling restaurant terraces.  Athens, Europe’s retrospective capital with it undaunted history, dating since the beginning of the Neolithic age, fascinates the travelers until now. A major historic occurrence of the place has culminated back to Athens’ prolonged and gripping history. In Athens, the tourist is sure to find a wide variety of choices and opportunities ranging from shopping, nightlife, good services, and archaeological artifacts to delectable dining, above all the amiability and hospitality delineated by the inhabitants attracts travelers from afar. Therefore, in a nutshell, Athens is a fascinating city that allures every visitor during all the seasons.

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Anthony Quinn Bay, Rhodes.

The 25 best Greek islands to visit in 2023

There’s a Greek island to suit every traveller — if you know where to look.

Greece’s numerous isles are best known for their idyllic beaches, toes-in-the-sand tavernas and laidback pace of life. But for those willing to explore a little further, cloud-circled clifftop villages, local markets stocked with mountain herbs and secret stretches of sand await.  

Walk this way

Crete’s gorges and mountains echo not just with tumbling rocks, but with myth, infusing every realm of Cretan life just as olive oil infuses every Cretan recipe. According to Greek mythology, it was on this island that Zeus was born in a mountain cave and that Theseus braved the Labyrinth to slay the Minotaur. And the fridge of every taverna is well-stocked with Mythos, Greece’s best-selling beer.

The hardy souls who once made Samaria Gorge their home are gone now, moved out to make way for Samaria National Park in 1962. The 10-mile hike through the gorge isn’t particularly dangerous or difficult, but nothing motorised can reach down here and the nearest helipad is several miles down the track — break a leg, and you’re carried out the old-fashioned way: on the back of a mule.  

Trees of cypress and maple shade the path as rock formations rear up on either side, the latter’s faces twisted and deeply ridged like carved flames. The air is heavy with the aroma of mountain herbs: wild thyme, oregano, Jerusalem sage. DANIEL STABLES

2. Kefalonia

Ionia's wine country

The rugged mountains and cream-coloured beaches of Kefalonia have been winning over travellers for decades, but as Greek wine’s international profile grows, the Ionian island’s wine country is providing another reason to visit. Kefalonia is renowned for its signature Robola grape, which is used to produce an excellent, crisp white wine. The grape’s heartland is the Omala Valley, on the western slopes of Kefalonia’s Mount Ainos .  

The vineyards of the Omala Valley benefit from a hillside position and limestone-enhanced soils that account for the grapes’ balanced acidity and rich flavour. At Orealios Gaea , a winemaking cooperative supporting around 300 growers, and at wineries including Vassilakis , you can sample the latest vintages of Robola, as well as other Greek varietals like Mavrodafni and Muscat. Sticking with the wine theme, travellers can spend the night at Gentilini Retreat (from £96, room only), set within a seaside winery. ALEXIS AVERBUCK

Hiking through Samaria Gorge, Crete.

Island-hopping

For the perfect getaway from busy Athens, head to Spetses. It’s a two-and-a-half-hour cruise away, meaning it tends to avoid the bulk of the day-tripping crowds. Piney and beachy, it greets arrivals with a jigsaw waterfront of tile-roofed sea captains’ houses, palms and cypresses. The main square is carpeted in pebble mosaics and overlooked by a statue of a woman, dressed in traditional costume, with a pistol. This is Laskarina Bouboulina, a naval commander and heroine of the Greek War of Independence. Nearby, her family home now houses a small museum dedicated to her legacy.

Author John Fowles taught English on Spetses before writing The Magus , the novel forever linked to the island. Cinematic hits The Lost Daughter , with Olivia Colman, and Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery , with Daniel Craig, were filmed here, and a TV miniseries of The Magus is in the works. Spetses is largely car-free (taxis are permitted), so hire a bike to pedal the 17 miles around the island; don’t miss Zogeria beach, where The Lost Daughter was filmed.  

The best place to stay is the Poseidonion Grand Hotel (from £178, B & B), built in 1914 to lure wealthy Athenians to Spetses and the first Greek island hotel to offer bespoke spa treatments. DANA FACAROS

4. Santorini

Volcano touring

Honeymooners love the Cycladic island of Santorini, where sugar-white villages and bubble-domed churches teeter on blackened cliffs, offering spine-tingling views over the fathomless caldera, formed in around 1620 BC in one of the largest volcanic eruptions of the past 10,000 years. Frescoes from the Late Bronze Age town of Akrotiri that were buried in ash following the eruption are on display at the Museum of Prehistoric Thera and are so charming you’ll wonder if Santorini really was Atlantis. To experience the volcano’s heat and sulphurous smell, sail across the caldera to Nea Kameni island, whose volcano last erupted in 1950.

There’s also the island of Thirasia, where villages delightfully evoke pre-tourism Santorini. The real action, however, is underwater: the submerged volcano Kolumbo, the most active in the Aegean, is rumbling again. The Santorini Paradise Cave Houses in Oia (from £135, B & B) has the frisson-giving views. DANA FACAROS

Spetses island, a filming location for Olivia Colman’s The Lost Daughter.

Sea kayaking

To the west of Santorini, Milos was formed by a volcanic eruption and its 80-mile coastline is scattered with geological wonders. You have to go by sea, ideally in a kayak , to see its highlights, among them the formations of volcanic ash as white and frothy as meringue, the red-and-yellow precipices, and an abandoned sulphur mine with a yellow beach. Also look out for the black basalt cliffs, the towering sea rocks shaped like dancing bears, and the pocket-sized ports with colourful boat garages hollowed out of the stone. Stay at White Rock Milos Suites near the kayak base in Adamas (from £102, B & B).  

For jaw-dropping inland views, hire a quad to tackle the road up Profitis Ilias, whose 2,450ft summit makes it the tallest mountain on the island. In the capital, Plaka, you’ll find the nation’s only catacombs and the Archaeological Museum of Milos, which houses a replica of the Louvre’s famed Venus de Milo sculpture. DANA FACAROS

Artist residency

Just two hours from Athens by boat, car-free Hydra has long been known as an island of artists, with galleries, studios and cultural festivals creating a spirited atmosphere. Gliding into Hydra’s harbour, tiers of stone houses glitter in the soft sunlight, rising up imposing rocky mountains. This car-free island in the Saronic Gulf attracts visitors with its lively port and sense of utter timelessness — there are no billboards or scooters here, and the influence of technology feels very far away.

A visit to Hydra is an immersion in the best of Greek life and art. Start your explorations by strolling beyond the cannons on the point to reach the DESTE Foundation , where an annual installation of art world stars fills a former slaughterhouse on the seafront. For a change of scene, take a walk along Hydra’s marble lanes and onto its rustic coastal trails, which lead to myriad craggy coves with deep cerulean waters. Settle down and enjoy the views over a coffee or cocktail at Hydronetta beach bar before strolling a mile down the northwest coast for a leisurely seafood taverna lunch at Marina in the beachside hamlet of Vlychos, or the Four Seasons — no relation to the large hotel chain — at Plakes Beach for sunbeds and iced cappuccinos.    

For somewhere to stay, try the new Keresbino hotel (doubles from £150, room only) deep in the heart of Hydra town. ALEXIS AVERBUCK

Left: Lazaros Koundouriotis Historical Mansion in Hydra.

7. Kastellorizo

Cultural fusion

‘Airport’ is a grandiose term for the narrow strip of tarmac and shed that greet me on arrival on the island of Kastellorizo. Closer to the Turkish mainland than it is to Athens, it’s the country’s most far-flung island, where permanent residents number just 300 and the only action happens around the harbour, where wild turtles bob sedately between traditional fishing kaikia (boats).

Naturally, it’s there I’m headed. There’s just one taxi on the island and I jump in, bound for the pretty, pastel-hued coast. “Turkey,” says the heavily moustached driver, pointing to the mirage-like stretch of land visible across the sea when we arrive.

I’m here to meet yiadiades (Greek grandmothers) as part of my research for my next book, Yiayia , a collection of their recipes. The reason is simple: Kastellorizo is where Greek and Turkish customs and cultures collide, which means it’s home to some of Greece’s most interesting dishes. ANASTASIA MIARI

Beyond the nightlife

The beaches on Mykonos’s southwest coast are among the Med’s best for parties, but head east to find a different vibe among a rocky, filigreed coastline dotted with sandy coves.

Park your vehicle in the dirt lot and stride over the low dunes to find perfect little Fokos Bay , where deep, sheltered waters offer delightful swimming for all ages. Once you’ve worked up a bit of an appetite, head on over to the renowned taverna overlooking the sand for a lazy seafood lunch.

Stroll west around the headland to the next beach along — the gentle arc of Mersini beach, which is usually the least-crowded on Mykonos. Bring your own sun mat and even an umbrella as this beach is service-free: wild and raw, and perfectly matched to the nakedness of many of the sunbathers who make the pilgrimage out here. ALEXIS AVERBUCK

Kastellorizo island.

9. Karpathos

Traditional ways

Dropped into the inky Aegean between Crete and Rhodes, Karpathos feels like it belongs to a different age. This pristine, far-flung spot in the Dodecanese is locally renowned for its white-sand beaches, hugged by pine trees up until the water’s edge.  

Nestled atop a cliff, you’ll find one of Greece’s best-kept secrets. Olympos has held onto its traditional ways thanks to its remoteness. Here, local women still sport the colourful, traditional folk dress — embroidered waist coats, full skirts and leather boots — that’s long since been abandoned in the rest of the country. It’s a chance to experience a part of Greece as it once was, and worth the drive. ANASTASIA MIARI

10. Kythera

Kythera remains a nugget of Old Greece, isolated south of the Peloponnese, where family-run hotels dot the beaches, welcoming tavernas spill out onto the streets and old-timey kafeneions (coffeeshops) still echo to the click clack of games of backgammon.  

It’s a bucolic island of dramatic landscapes, sacred to Aphrodite, who was born here in sea foam. Stay in the Palaeopoli Villas (from £66, room only) near the fishing village of Avlemonas, and hire a car to explore the pretty castle-topped capital Chora, the waterfall at Milopotamos, the Venetian-era ghost town of Palaiochora and the Sunday farmers’ market in Potamos, where all the locals meet. DANA FACAROS

11. Elafonisos

Simple pleasures

Simos beach, where twin crescents of dunes form an hourglass in the turquoise sea, is irresistible. But you have to work to get there; Elafonisos is in the southeast Peloponnese, a short ferry hop from Pounta, which is a four-hour drive from Athens airport or just under three hours from Kalamata.

All the hotels are small, including the Elafonisos Resort (from £82, B & B). There are other gorgeous sandy beaches but only one ‘sight’, the world’s oldest submerged city, 5,000-year-old Pavlopetri, so bring your snorkel. Elafonisos is no longer a secret, but it’s not spoiled; Elafonisos Eco , the first environmental association on a Greek island, is dedicated to keeping it that way. DANA FACAROS

Left: Making fresh pasta in the small village of Olympos, Karpathos.

12. Agistri

Quick escape

This tiny, pristine teardrop of an island sits a mere 50 minutes from Athens. The high-speed ferry zips first to the island of Aegina and then 10 minutes further to the even more remote-feeling shores of Agistri.

The island is easily walkable, with a dense blanket of pine trees offering welcome shade. In July and August, Agistri’s pair of harbours, Skala and Megalochori, thrum with sunseekers who come for the island’s radiant waters. June and September are the ideal months to visit for fewer crowds and warm seas. Head for beaches such as Draghonera and Aponissos in the west, or closer to Skala there’s clothing-optional Chalikiada Beach, backed by cliffs. ALEXIS AVERBUCK

13. Skiathos

Design hotels

The queen of the Sporades Islands is a magnet for beach lovers. It’s also the ideal option for those looking for alternative accommodation, thanks to its blossoming design hotel scene. Built into the hillside, the Atrium Hotel (from £185, B & B) is top of the list — a rural haven created by a family of architects. Over by the powdery blonde strand of Koukounaries, at the western end of the island, Elivi Skiathos (from £275, B & B) is making a five-star splash with its flowing spaces and calming neutral-toned rooms. Or there’s the adults-only Aegean Suites (from £260, B & B), which has just 20 rooms opposite Megali Ammos beach. ISABELLA NOBLE

Family-friendly

Families are never bored on Rhodes, even during cooler spring and autumn breaks. Young imaginations are fascinated by the Old City, with its walls, moats and Palace of the Grand Masters built by the Knights of St John. A new cinema, the Throne of Helios , brings the island’s action-filled history and famous Colossus to life for little ones.  

Away from Rhodes Town, stroll through the Valley of the Butterflies , or Farma Rhodes where kids can feed ostriches. Near the waterpark in Faliraki, under-12s stay free at the Grecotel LuxMe Dama Dama (rooms for four from £247). DANA FACAROS

Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights, Rhodes.

Island of immortals

Remote and savagely beautiful, Ikaria is one of the world’s five Blue Zones, places with inhabitants of remarkable longevity, with incredibly high percentages of centenarians. Ikaria, which is just 30 miles off the coast of Turkey, in the eastern Aegean, is one of them — alongside Sardinia (Italy), Okinawa (Japan), Nicoya (Costa Rica) and Loma Linda (California). More than 30% of Ikarians live into their nineties, generally free from chronic illness and dementia, and many hit 100.  

One possible reason for this is genes. But Ikarians also benefit from an outdoor lifestyle in tune with nature, a plant-based diet rich in wild herbs, vegetables, pulses, olive oil and natural wine, a lack of stress and tight-knit communities. Today’s centenarians have had tough, self-sufficient lives, working in the fields and tending vines and olive groves, often without roads, phones or convenience foods. In short, the opposite of what the western world perceives as progress. KERRY WALKER

Greece's craft heartland

In the Sporades island group north of Athens, Skyros is a vision of deep-blue bays bordered by pine trees, with a string of chic, laid-back, whitewashed villages. Famously the last home for the endangered Skyrian horse, a miniature Greek breed that roams in the mountains, the island is also unique for its thriving artisanal tradition, stretching back to the Byzantine era.

The island’s living artisanal scene can be experienced on a stroll through the tangled, white-walled streets of the capital, Skyros Town, which cascades down the hillside from a now-restored kastro (fortress) of Byzantine and Venetian origins. From ceramicists and embroiderers to watercolour painters and woodworkers, this is where most of the island’s artisans have their workshops and sell their pieces to people who pop in for a chat. ISABELLA NOBLE

Episkopi church in Chora, the capital of Skyros.

Secret beaches

Dolphin-shaped Kos in the Dodecanese was the 5th-century BC birthplace of Hippocrates, the ‘Father of Medicine’. His followers founded the Asklepieion, the most important healing sanctuary in the ancient world, where relaxation was part of the cure. Today, the ‘cure’ visitors seek in Kos is on the sunbeds of smart beach resorts. When Kos Town seems too busy, head out west to Kefalos and the ‘dolphin’s tail’ for its secret beaches: sandy Agios Theologos, with an excellent taverna and gorgeous sunsets; picturesque and rocky Tripiti, or cliff-backed quiet Kata, at the end of half-a-mile of rough road. For a place to stay, try Kouros Palace in Mastichari (from £99, B & B). DANA FACAROS

Homer's Odyssey

Homer’s adjectives ‘narrow’, ‘rocky’, ‘unfit for riding horses’ describe Ithaca perfectly, but was this Ionian island the kingdom of Odysseus? Some scholars say no, but the locals disagree.

Stay in Hotel Familia in the capital Vathy (from £75, B & B) and seek out the sites where they believe the Odyssey took place. South of Vathy, there’s the field where Odysseus met his father Laertes, the Cave of the Nymphs where he hid his treasure, and the plateau of Marathias, where he stayed with Eumaeus. North of Vathy, Stavros has Mycenaean-era walls identified as Odysseus’s palace and an archaeological collection that includes a 2nd-century BC mask inscribed ‘Pray to Odysseus’. DANA FACAROS

Idyllic escape

Most visitors to Greece’s second-largest island are Greek, but even only a few of them have heard of the Lichadonisia. Lush and volcanic, these seven uninhabited islets off Evia’s northwest coast are nicknamed the ‘Seychelles of Greece’ for the thousands of blue-and-green shades in the shallow sea in which they sit.  

Boats to the islands depart from Kavos on Evia’s Lichada peninsula. While here, stop at the seafood tavernas in the fishing village of Agios Georgios Lichados, take a tour of the Vriniotis vineyards , or brave the dirt road to the often deserted Krokodil beach. Reward yourself with a soak at the Thermae Sylla in the spa town of Edipsos. The Ilia Mare , east of Edipsos, is a great base (from £66, B & B). DANA FACAROS

Right: Private yacht at anchor in a lagoon, Ithaka.

Coming into its own

A short ferry hop from its sister in the Cyclades, Santorini, Ios has been dogged for decades by its reputation as a hippy hangout and party island — the latter acquired in the ’80s, when backpackers flocked here to sleep on its sandy beaches and blast away the cobwebs in the bars along the bougainvillea-lined alleys of capital Chora.

In 2014, though, all that started to change when Greek stockbroker-turned-artist Angelos Michalopoulos and his wife, Vasso, bought a chunk of the island around the ancient Cycladic site of Skarkos and launched the Mediterranean’s largest private conservation project, to be left exactly as nature intended — only with 55,000 new trees.

Vowing to develop only 1% of their land, the couple built their flagship luxury resort, Calilo , comprising a dozen plush suites clad in monochrome mosaics and featuring lagoon-like pools, on a remote plot of land overlooking Papas Beach (suites from £422, B & B), and Pathos Sunset Lounge , a chill-out venue that hosts big-name DJs. Gone are the tacky souvenir shops in Chora’s windmill-studded port, and in are indie boutiques selling Greek designer wear, hyper-local tipples — innovative vintner Georgós Zanganas has just launched the island’s first modern winery — and chic new cocktail bars such as Click. HEIDI FULLER-LOVE

Traditional windmills above the town of Chora, Ios.

22. Alonissos

Underwater museum

Alonissos is a short hop from cosmopolitan Skiathos, but couldn’t be more different: rustic, sparsely populated, forested and tranquil. Queen of its own little uninhabited archipelago, it’s surrounded by the pristine seas of Europe’s largest marine reserve , home to the critically endangered monk seal, as well as Eleanora’s falcons, dolphins and whales. Visit aboard the Stella , from where you may just spot some of the resident wildlife between swims off islands.  

In 1985, Dimitris Mavrikis was fishing off nearby Peristera island when he spotted an ancient, 30-metre-long shipwreck that turned out to be loaded with 4,000 amphorae dating to around 425 BC. Soon the wreck was dubbed the Parthenon of Shipwrecks, and last year it became Greece’s first underwater museum . Divers can book an immersive experience; landlubbers can enjoy a virtual-reality tour at the information centre in Chora, the former hilltop capital. The village was devastated by an earthquake in 1965 but is now mostly restored and famous for its glorious sunsets.    

Most residents live near the port of Patitiri in the south of the island, where the Ikion Eco Boutique Hotel (from £109, B & B) is a great place to stay. DANA FACAROS

An island reborn

Floating between the heel of Italy and the western shores of mainland Greece, close to the border with Albania, the strategic position of Kerkyra (as locals know it) has lured in outsiders since antiquity. It’s this legacy of foreign rule that you can see reflected in every street of the island’s atmospheric Old Town. Its two forbidding forts and patchwork of sinuous alleys, crammed with terracotta-tiled townhouses, are testament to four centuries of Venetian occupation; the elegant arcades and pavement cafes of the Liston extend to a lawned cricket ground left by the British in the 19th century. ZOË MCINTYRE

Left: Alexis dairy shop in Corfu Old Town.

Greek mojitos

Greeks call the big, north-Aegean island of Chios ‘Myrovolos’ (‘fragrant’) for its citrus groves and wild herbs, but above all for the gum mastic trees that grow only here. Even on this island, they only flourish on the hills of the south; evergreen, with trunks that writhe like dancers at a bacchanalia. In summer, the trees undergo the ‘needling’ that will make the trees weep ‘tears’ — the sweet resin that dries and hardens and has been prized since antiquity, used to treat stomach ailments, to make cosmetics, sweets and the liqueur in a Greek mojito, and as a varnish for paintings.  

Chios is made for touring. Don’t miss the Byzantine mosaics at 11th-century Nea Moni monastery (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the ghost town of Anavatos, abandoned since a massacre of the townsfolk by the Ottomans in 1822 (Eugène Delacroix’s famous painting of this, now in the Louvre Museum, rallied international support for the Greek War of Independence). ‘Craggy Chios’, as Homer called it, defines the north of the island — here, aim for the village of Volissos, with its medieval castle, high above beautiful Agia Markella Beach.

The lively capital, Chios Town, rebuilt after an earthquake in 1881, still has its Byzantine castle walls, as well as several museums and four seafront windmills. Just to the north, Vrontados is popular over Greek Easter, when rival churches bombard each other with homemade fireworks. DANA FACAROS

For food lovers

The Cyclades’ largest island has been a celebrated food producer for centuries, thanks to its fertile soil and freshwater springs. The island’s sixth-century Temple of Demeter, built to honour the goddess of the harvest, is a symbol of this prowess. Surrounding it are mountain vineyards, village tavernas and markets.

All of which makes Naxos one of Greece’s most delicious destinations. In the whitewashed capital of Hora, crowned by a hilltop Venetian castle, visitors should try the popular restaurant Doukato , set in a former monastery, for island recipes such as kalogeras (beef, aubergine and cheese). For a more modern spin with small plates and views across the Cyclades, there’s Avaton 1739 , located on the roof of the castle. Escaping town, visitors can join a culinary tour with Vioma to meet local producers and chefs, or learn to make Naxian specialities on one of its cooking classes. Drive inland to sample the island’s signature liqueur, kitron, made from the leaves of the citron fruit, at Vallindras Distillery . ALEXIS AVERBUCK

Getting there & around

Crete, Corfu, Mykonos, Rhodes, Santorini and Skiathos have regular direct flights from the UK in summer. Airlines serving some or all of these islands include British Airways , EasyJet , Ryanair and TUI . All islands, with the exception of the few that lack airports (such as Agistri, Elafonisos, Hydra, Ios, and Spetses), are linked to Athens by regular flights on Aegean Airlines and its affiliate Olympic Airlines , as well as other Greek carriers such as Sky Airlines .

All islands have regular ferry services in high season (July and August) and some, such as Mykonos and Santorini, are ferry hubs with routes that serve many other islands. The boat networks in the Ionian and Aegean Seas have myriad routes and   operators, so consult openseas.gr or ferries.gr . Ferries from Athens leave from the port of Pireaus. The Cyclades has the largest ferry network and is the easiest region to island-hop in. Book via ferryhopper.com or individual ferry companies.  

Average flight time: 4h

The best time to visit is May to September; average temperatures in August are around 30C but it can get much hotter. In April and October, some businesses operate shorter hours or close completely. Some ferry services only run in summer.

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The Crazy Tourist

Home » Travel Guides » 15 Best Places to Visit in Greece

15 Best Places to Visit in Greece

Ranging from the pearly beaches of the Aegean islands to the rugged hills of Crete, the mythical massifs of Olympus in the north to the time-forgotten monasteries of Athos and the pulsing streets of modern Athens, Greece is alive with a truly eclectic range of destinations. Here, we take a look at 15 of the top hotspots that every traveler should have on their Grecian bucket list.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Greece :

Corfu

A dog-leg of an island that bridges the gap between the Albanian Adriatic coast and the Ionian Sea of Greece, Corfu really is the stuff of travel brochures. Along its twisting and turning coastline, alabaster beaches like Pelekas and Chalikounas ooze with isolated beauty, while the likes of the Corfu Old Town and Old Perithia burst with Venetian relics, anti-pirate castles and sun-splashed esplanades.

Inland and the territory gives way to Corfu’s more untrodden reaches, where forests of sharp cypresses and flailing Spanish fir trees rise with the mountains, and charming villages like Lakones offer a dash of whitewash amidst the greenery.

2. Nafplion

Nafplion

The onetime capital of the 19th-century Greek State and a long term favourite of Athens’ moneyed elite (just check the seaside mansions that line the shore and the bobbing millionaire yachts in the harbour!), Nafplion has been shaped over the centuries by Greeks, Ottomans, Byzantines and others. Cue the soaring and formidable bulwarks of the Palamidi Citadel on the ridges above the town; a 17th-century fortification raised by the Venetians.

Then there’s the pretty, marble-clad Constitution Square (a namesake of the national revival that took place here), not to mention the buzzing esplanade along the port – a great place for real, earthy Mediterranean seafood!

Corinth

Straddling the join between ancient Attica and the Peloponnese, amidst the ridges of the Oneia Mountains and the sparkling waters of the Corinthian Gulf, Corinth boomed in ancient times. It was made formidable by its navy and its tactical position on the Isthmus of Corinth, which became an important contact point between the two super powers of Sparta and Athens during the tumultuous Peloponnesian War of the early 5th century BC.

Corinth sided with the winner and was certainly an ally to be wooed, just as those formidable fortifications, the soaring ancient acropolis (perhaps even more striking than its counterpart in Athens) and the wealth of art and culture displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth show today.

4. The Halkidiki Peninsula

Halkidiki Peninsula

Jutting its way out into the Aegean Sea like three arched fingers just south of the lively city of Thessaloniki, the Halkidiki Peninsula comes complete with some of the north’s best beaches and resorts. Golden, powdery sands at Kalamitsi on the end of the Sithonia headland draw a subdued crowd of ecotourists with thier concomitant campsites, while Kassandra knows how to party and comes with seaside cocktail bars and a smattering of swish hotel chains overlooking the Med.

Then there’s mysterious Athos – the easternmost peninsular. Defiant and traditional in the extreme, this is where some of Greece’s most traditional monastic communities make their home, clinging fiercely to the ways of the Greek Orthodox Church from their high-perched cloisters in the hills.

Mycenae

Raised by mythical cyclops (at least if you believe the legends) and the ancestral home of the mighty King Agamemnon (the same of the Trojan Wars), Mycenae can be found draped over the limestone hills and olive-clad ridges of the Peloponnesian Argolid. One of the less-trodden and more off-the-beaten-track regions of Greece, the spot is unquestionably one of the most immersive and awesome of archaeological remains going.

It comes from a much earlier time than the mighty Athenian Acropolis, or the temples of Delphi. In fact, the ruined town here hit its zenith in the 14th century BC with the Atreid dynasty, and it’s from this time that many of its monolith fortifications, striking burial sites and colossal kingly tombs date.

Delphi

Hallowed ancient ground abounds in Delphi, standing on its perch on the edge of Mount Parnassus on the fringes of the Corinthian Gulf. For countless centuries this cascading set of breathtaking ruins and looming peristyles was the veritable religious centre of the ancient world; a place sought out by kings and emperors, demagogues and democrats for the portents of its famous oracle and the auspicious rulings of its Pythian priestesses.

The piece de resistance of the site has to be the crumbling ruins of the Temple of Apollo, which conceals the old rooms of the sages below its hexastyle Doric columns. There are also lines of ancient treasuries to be seen, built by the various city states of the ancient world, along with one glorious theatre and mountaintop stadium.

Rhodes

A teardrop in the Aegean, Rhodes draws booming crowds of tourists each year with its unique combination of shimmering, sparkling beaches, secluded pebble coves, uber-luxurious five-star resorts, fascinating towns and irresistible mountain interiors. Start off with a trip to the ancient settlement of Rhodes city. It clings to the north-eastern coast and was once the home of the mighty Colossus of Rhodes (one of the wonders of the ancient world), although now showcases the beautiful medieval Grand Master’s Palace (a UNESCO site to boot).

Elsewhere and the Valley of the Butterflies blooms with colour, the beaches around Ixia glimmer in the sun, Faliraki’s 18-30 clubs never sleep and the inland villages and castles ooze a more laid-back, Dodecanese charm.

8. Zakynthos

Zakynthos

Rugged and rocky Zakynthos rises like a glimmering pearl from the cerulean waters of the Ionian Sea. Chalk-white cliffs delineate its coast, which loom like bulwarks in the west to hide gems like the iconic Navagio Beach (or Shipwreck Beach, if you prefer) and the deep, dark Blue Caves of the northern shore.

In the middle of the island, hikers and adventure seekers will discover the fir-dotted, cypress-spotted olive groves that are rarely seen by visitors, while famous Laganas beats and booms in the south-west; an 18-30s hotspot of thumping clubs and cocktail bars that goes into overdrive during the summer high-season.

9. Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki

Greece’s second largest city makes its home in a tight-knit inlet on the Aegean Sea in the northern reaches of the country. Part booming commercial port town part elegant historical centre part lively university town (there are more students here than in any other place in Greece), the city offers a real plethora of things to see and do.

The centre was largely rebuilt following a destructive fire in the early 20th century and now mimics the Byzantine style of the east, while the heritage-packed Ano Poli (Upper Town) that was not burned showcases classic Greek and Balkan architecture. Travelers should be sure to delve into the exhibitions of the iconic White Tower, check out the Museum of Byzantine Culture and see the Ataturk House here, all before letting loose in the tavernas and chic bars of Nikis Avenue and Krini.

Chania

Arching its way beautifully along the rugged coastal reaches of northern Crete, Chania conceals tight-knit lanes of Cretan tavernas and salt-smelling fish restaurants aplenty below its terracotta roofs and the stone-clad tower of its Venetian Lighthouse on the edge of the Med. It’s unquestionably one of the most attractive towns on the island, mixing Turkic architecture and Italianate designs along its gorgeous harbourside.

There are Ottoman relics and crumbling forts to see too, not to mention some seriously great dishes to sample – from Crete’s own highland greens to dakos pizza breads, uber-fresh olive oils and – of course – potent homebrewed raki.

11. Knossos

Knossos

Just a short jaunt south out of the Cretan capital of Heraklion , travelers will discover the largest Bronze Age relic in all of Greece: the sprawling Palace of Knossos. Meticulously excavated during the early 20th century and carefully reconstructed in parts, the site reveals many secrets of the ancient Minoans (who dominated this section of the Aegean for almost two millennia). It comes awash with gorgeous mosaics and the famous charging bull frescos, which adorn the central palace structure and the iconic red-painted columns that support it.

There are also the remains of Minoan pottery to see, and the resplendent throne room of the Bronze Age kings, the very place where the famous legend of the Minotaur and labyrinth would have played out.

Athens

Few cities in the world can boast as much history as Athens . Crowned by the great Parthenon and the sprawling remains of the Agora, it was here that figures like Socrates and Plato, Euripides and Pericles would have stood debating and discussing the issues of the day. It was the birthplace of democracy, which came with Cleisthenes in the late 6th century, and the incubator of all great classical tragedy and comedy: Oedipus Rex; The Antigone; The Phoenician Women.

The metropolis remains the largest in Greece too; it’s pulsating, often troubled political kingpin and a place peppered with pretty churches and parliament buildings. Don’t miss the Plaka area, where earthy tavernas cascade through the ancient ruins of the Acropolis hill.

13. Olympia

Olympia

The birthplace of the Olympic Games is without doubt one of the most totemic UNESCO Heritage Sites in Greece today. Hailed as the heart of the so-called Valley of Gods for its mind-boggling wealth of honorific temples and looming monuments to the likes of Zeus and Hera (many of which are preserved in the on-site archaeology museum), the site also shows the excavated Olympic stadium and training grounds, where athletes would have competed for the prestige of their poleis (city states) all those millennia ago.

Nearby, travelers can seek out the natural beauties of the Alfios River valley to boot, and the rugged inland hills of the Peloponnese, complete with hiking and mountain biking trails aplenty.

14. Epidaurus

Epidaurus

Once revered by many as the greatest healing place in the ancient world, Epidaurus and its vast array of crumbling ruins can be found clinging to the edges of the Argolid Peninsula just around the Corinthian panhandle.

The most famous relic here is the old Sanctuary of Asklepios, which boomed with healers and patients alike from the Classical to the Roman eras. That said, many of Epidaurus’ modern visitors come solely for the colossal amphitheatre at the site’s heart; a 4th-century BC masterpiece which has some of the finest acoustics of any outdoor stadium in the world!

15. Meteora

Meteora

Like something plucked straight out of James Cameron’s Avatar, the great bluffs and hoodoos of Meteora are all but guaranteed to draw a gasp. Set right in the heartlands of northern Greece, these dramatic pillars of sandstone play host to some of the country’s most traditional Orthodox monasteries – the Holy Monastery of Rousanou, Varlaam and Great Meteoron – which can be seen clinging tenuously to the precipices in glorious displays of Byzantine and post-Byzantine art and architecture.

UNESCO-attested, these breathtaking structures were raised between the 14th and 16th centuries and dominate the awesome mountain landscape of the region.

15 Best Places to Visit in Greece:

  • The Halkidiki Peninsula
  • Thessaloniki

13 tips to help you plan the perfect trip to Greece and the Greek Islands

Alexis Averbuck

Jun 9, 2023 • 8 min read

places to visit in greece tourist

These top planning tips can help you prep for a trip to Greece, from health and safety to local etiquette © fokkebok / Getty Images

Get out your bucket list; it’s time to cross off a major line item: Greece .

The fabled land remains tops for culture, food, outdoor travel, art  and, of course, beaches and islands . As part of the border-free Schengen Area, it’s also incredibly easy to visit for many travelers worldwide. From advance booking to local etiquette and health and safety issues when you're there, here's everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Greece.

1. Choose your season wisely

Your experience in Greece will be wildly different depending on when you visit . Summer is tops for action, family fun, and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea, but prices are at their highest and pre-booking is necessary for everything since it’s packed. The shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) are a delight – prices are lower, and rooms and resources are more readily available. Winter offers a moody and budget-friendly retreat, great for walking, hiking and sedate travels where you will often be the only visitor around. Bear in mind that some businesses will shut down completely during the low season.

2. Prioritize your wishlist and make a plan

Do you want a grand tour, taking in the not-to-be-missed highlights all over Greece, or would you prefer to focus your time on exploring your favorite islands  or regions, like the Peloponnese ? The best way to choose from the dizzying array of options on offer is to focus on what is important to you – relaxing on beautiful beaches, learning more about Greece's fascinating history and culture , museums and archaeology, off-the-beaten-track wildlife, or partying until dawn – and plan accordingly.

A woman stands on a shingle beach on a sunny day looking out at the turquoise ocean

3. Find the perfect island or region for you

Greece merits multiple trips as every island offers something different , and each of its regions is equally dazzling – you're never going to see everything on your first visit, and you'll ruin your trip if you pressure yourself to do just that. Also, don’t be fooled that the biggies are the only islands worthy of your attention. Though Mykonos , Santorini and the major names have plenty to offer, lesser-known islands (there are hundreds!) like Amorgos or Kythira are also a delight. They've also got the added bonus of smaller crowds and lower prices if that's a key consideration for you.

4. Athens isn't the only gateway to Greece

In many cases, you will find it useful to transit in or out via Athens , as its airport has connections with numerous international destinations, and the city itself is a gem . However, there are other international airports around the Greek mainland (such as in Thessaloniki ) and on some major islands (such as Mykonos , Santorini  and  Corfu ). If you'll need any internal flights to get to your destination of choice, it's worth checking the price of these individually. Due to government subsidies, it can work out significantly cheaper to book each part of your Greek itinerary separately from your international flights.

5. Book everything in advance during peak season

In peak season , prices are high, and demand for car hire, accommodations and ferry tickets is even higher – this is not the time for ad hoc bookings on the fly. Greece is an incredibly popular summer destination, and the best options get snapped up well in advance.

Two women sit on the beach chatting in front of their parked four-wheel drive vehicle

6. Roads in Greece are for confident drivers

No one who has traveled on Greece’s roads will be surprised to hear that the country’s road fatality rate is one of the highest in Europe. Overtaking is listed as the greatest cause of accidents. Heart-stopping moments aside, your own car is a great way to explore off the beaten track if you are confident in your driving and keep a few key points in mind.

  • The road network has improved enormously in recent years; many roads marked as dirt tracks on older maps have now been asphalted, and a lot of the islands have very little traffic.
  • There are regular (if costly) car-ferry services to almost all islands.
  • Greece is not the best place to initiate yourself into motorcycling. If you're not confident on a motorbike, it may be best to park this option until you have more experience.
  • All the big multinational car-rental companies are represented in Athens, and most have branches in major towns and popular tourist destinations. The majority of islands have at least one outlet.

7. Greece is not very wheelchair-friendly beyond Athens

Access for travelers with disabilities has improved somewhat in recent years, but the majority of accessible sights, hotels and restaurants tend to be located in Athens. While improvements are on the horizon for beach access,  much of the rest of Greece remains inaccessible to wheelchairs, and the abundance of stones, marble, slippery cobbles and stepped alleys create frustrating barriers for those with mobility issues. People who have visual or hearing impairments are also rarely catered to.

Careful planning before you go can make a world of difference. There are specific resources online that provide links to local articles, resorts and tour groups catering to tourists with physical disabilities.

8. Pack the right kinds of clothing

Athenians are well-dressed, and the younger crowd is trendy, so keep your smart clothes for the urban catwalk of clubs and bars. Nevertheless, in Athens and other metropolises such as Rhodes , Thessaloniki and Iraklio , everyday attire such as shorts or jeans and casual tops are just fine.

Bars or fashionable restaurants require more effort – the scene is stylish rather than dressy. Think tops and trousers rather than T-shirts and cut-offs. In out-of-the-way places, you can wear casual clothing, and in summer, the heat will make you want to wear the least amount of fabric you can get away with – bring quick-drying tank tops and cool dresses.

Sturdy walking shoes are a must for the cobbled roads, and proper hiking boots are key if you're exploring the countryside on foot . It's considered respectful and polite to cover up before entering churches.

9. Learn some basic Greek phrases

Greek is a tough language to learn thoroughly, but mastering a few basic greetings and niceties will make a world of difference in how Greek speakers receive you. In touristed areas, many people speak English, so rest assured that you can get by as long as you know some key phrases.

A group of people sit around a wooden table at a beachside restaurant

10. Carry cash and don't rely on cards or ATMs

As part of the EU, Greece uses the euro. In restaurants, a service charge is normally included in the bill, and while a tip is not expected (as it is in North America), it is always appreciated, and a few coins can be left if the service has been good. Taxi drivers normally expect you to round up the fare, while bellhops who help you carry your luggage to your hotel room or stewards on ferries who take you to your cabin normally expect a small gratuity of between €1 and €3.

ATMs are found in every town large enough to support a bank and in almost all the tourist areas. Be aware that ATMs on the islands can lose their connection for a day or two at a time, making it impossible for anyone (locals included) to withdraw money. It’s useful to keep some backup cash just in case this happens during your visit.

Credit cards are now an accepted part of the commercial scene in Greece, although they’re often not accepted on many of the smaller islands or in small villages. Don't rely on your cards alone, and check in advance when dining or drinking if it's your only option.

11. Levels of health care in Greece vary

Although medical training is of a high standard in Greece, the public health service is underfunded. Hospitals can be overcrowded, and relatives are expected to bring in food for the patient – often a problem for solo travelers. Conditions and treatment are much better in private hospitals, which are expensive. All this means that a good health-insurance policy is essential.

There is at least one doctor on every island, and larger islands have hospitals. Pharmacies can dispense medicines that are available only on prescription in most European countries. If the situation isn't critical, it's often best to consult a pharmacist first for minor ailments.

12. Stay hydrated and remember how powerful the sun can be

Tap water isn't safe to drink on many islands – ask if in doubt. Keeping a supply of bottled water to hand is essential for hydration as well as safety; many tourists underestimate how hot it can get in Greece, and heatstroke and serious sunburn are common on beaches with little shade. Break up your sun-drenched siestas with time in the shade getting hydrated, and pack plenty of high-factor SPF. Mosquitos are an irritant rather than a danger, but packing insect repellant is recommended.

13. Pickpocketing and other petty crime is common in busy places

The major risks of theft in Greece are pickpockets in the large cities and theft of belongings when lounging on busy, popular beaches (leave passports behind in hotel safes). Never leave your belongings unattended, and don't leave your bags hanging from the back of your seat where you can't keep an eye on them. 

The tourist police work in cooperation with the regular Greek police. Each tourist police office has at least one member of staff who speaks English. If you need to report a theft or loss of passport, go to the tourist police first, and they will act as interpreters between you and the regular police. Some unscrupulous taxi drivers will try to charge you extortionate rates from the airports to the city centers. Always make sure the meter is running or pre-negotiate and agree on the price before you get in.

This article was first published March 2022 and updated June 2023

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Places To Visit in Greece

Here are the top 50 tourist places in greece, 1. santorini.

places to visit in greece tourist

1 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 55 Tourist attractions

Santorini Is one of the most spectacular islands in Greece. It is a part of the Cyclades islands and sits in the Aegean Sea, halfway between Athens and Crete. The crescent-shaped island is famous for its iconic white houses, blue dome churches and windmills. It is the most photographed island in the...

Best Time: June to September

2 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 77 Tourist attractions

Athens is the capital, as well as the largest city of Greece. With its history of about 7000 years, it is one of the world's oldest cities and an amalgamation of historic and modern world that can be seen throughout. It is the birthplace of democracy, arts, science, and Western civilization and...

Best Time: Apr - Jun, Sep, Oct

3 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 48 Tourist attractions

Mykonos, a jewel in the Aegean Sea, is a cosmopolitan Greek island known for its captivating blend of traditional charm and vibrant nightlife. Renowned as the "Island of the Winds," Mykonos boasts whitewashed buildings adorned with blue accents, narrow cobblestone streets, and iconic windmills that ...

Best Time: May - Sep

4 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 51 Tourist attractions

Located in Northwest of Greece, Cofru lies close to the Albanian coastline. It is known for its beautiful pebble-sand beaches with crystal clear waters, luscious green landscapes, and rich history and cultural heritage. Corfu is not a destination for an authentic Greek experience but it is a popular...

Best Time: June to Aug

Greece Travel Packages

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Greece Tour Package with Sunset Viewing at Oia

5 night 6 days greece holiday package with sunset catamaran cruise, greece island hopping holiday package, greece vacation package with santorini sunset catamaran cruise, greece family holiday package with santorini volcano tour, greece honeymoon package with candle-light dinner at caldera facing restaurant.

5 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 69 Tourist attractions

Crete is the largest and most populous of the Greek islands and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, 160km from the Greek mainland, separating the Aegean from the Libyan Sea. Crete is popular for its stunning beaches, wild natural b...

Best Time: May to October

6. Thessaloniki

6 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 29 Tourist attractions

Thessaloniki is the second largest city of Greece, located in the northwestern corner of the Aegean Sea on Thermaic Gulf. It is known for its stunning coastlines, cultural heritage and numerous festivals and events that help designate the city as the cultural capital of Greece. With a rich history, ...

Best Time: August to October

7 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 25 Tourist attractions

The charming cycladic island of Paros is located in the west of Naxos, about 40km south of Mykonos in Greece. Paros is best known for its beautiful white-washed towns, great long beaches and an ecstatic nightlife. It is considered to be the best blend of Mykonos and Naxos as the island offers both c...

Best Time: May-September

8. Zakynthos

8 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 26 Tourist attractions

Zakynthos is located in the west of the Greek mainland and lies to the north of the island of Kefalonia. Zakynthos is also known as Zante, in Italian. It is an exotic island famous for its white cliffs expanding against the sea, dreamy hilltop villages, monasteries, picturesque landscapes, and stunn...

Best Time: March to May and September to November

9. Rhodes Island

9 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 29 Tourist attractions

One of the southernmost islands in the Greek group of islands, Rhodes is locally known as Rodos. It is the fourth biggest island of Greece and is popular for its stunning beaches, fascinating culture and architecture with delicious food. Rhoes island offers an amazing landscape, picturesque countrys...

Best Time: Mar to Oct

10 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 30 Tourist attractions

Chania is the second most popular city and is located in the northwest part of Crete island. Narrow streets with waterfront restaurants, a venetian harbour, family-friendly exotic beaches, the old town and delicious Cretan cuisine make Chania one of the most desirable places to stay in Crete.

11 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 30 Tourist attractions

Largest of Cyclade islands, Naxos is located about halfway between the famous islands of Santorini and Mykonos in Aegean Sea. Underrated island of Naxos is both rich in ancient history and natural beauty with long sandy beaches throughout the coastline and mystical interiors packed with white-washed...

Best Time: June-August

12 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 33 Tourist attractions

Located close to the Turkish mainland, Kos island is nestled between the Greek islands of Kalymnos, Nisyros, and Astypalea in the south-east part of the Aegean sea. It is the second most famous island among the tourists travelling to Dodecanese islands, after Rhodes. Kos is known for its 112 Km long...

Best Time: May to Oct

13. Olympia

13 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 14 Tourist attractions

Olympia, located in the western Peloponnese, is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is about 250 to 300 km from Athens. Olympia is famous as the place where the Olympic games started. These games were held every four year as celebratio...

Best Time: April to June and September to October

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Located just 400 m away west from the mainland Greece, separated by a narrow channel, is the underrated island of Poros. The island is a known day trip or a weekend spot from Athens and is popular for its slow-paced life and sublime beaches with sky-high pine trees.

Best Time: Mar to Dec

15 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 14 Tourist attractions

Hydra is a small saronic island located just south of Athens in Greece. This car-free island is known for its rich history, magnificent port surrounding cute little cafes, hungry cats, and dramatic white-orange roofed house sitting on the island slopes. It is also one of the most romantic destinatio...

16. Kefalonia

16 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 24 Tourist attractions

Located in the west of mainland Greece is the magnificent island of Kefalonia, just near the much popular island of Zakynthos. Although pretty underrated and less touristy, Kefalonia has some of the spectacular views of lush green forests, heart throbbing mountains, and glittering high white cliffs ...

Best Time: Mar to May, Sep to Oct

17 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 21 Tourist attractions

Milos, one of the Cyclade islands, is located in the east of mainland Greece, in the Aegean sea. It is nearby other famous Greek islands like Mykonos, Santorini and Naxos. Milos, also known as Melos, is known for the village communities that sit conveniently right at the waterfront, along with the w...

Best Time: April to May and September to October

18. Skiathos

18 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 15 Tourist attractions

Quite close to the mainland of Greece, Skiathos is located in the northwestern Aegean sea. It is the smallest island in the Sporadic group and also serves as an entry point to it. Although small, Skiathos is known for its sky high pine trees descending from the hilltop till beaches giving the waters...

19. Halkidiki

19 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 28 Tourist attractions

Located in Central Macedonia in Northern Greece, Halkidiki is a trident-shaped peninsula. Home to over 60 exotic beaches, Halkidiki is popular for its lush vegetation, breathtaking landscapes, and cosmopolitan sea resorts. Established as a known summer vacation in Greece, Halkidiki is a perfect blen...

20 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 12 Tourist attractions

Located in eastern Aegean sea just off the coast of mainland Asia Minor or Asian Turkey, is the Greek island of Samos. Often known as the “queen of the Eastern Aegean”, Samos is home to lush greenery, traditional villages, and picturesque beaches, along with rich history. The island is believed to b...

21. Rethymno

21 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 17 Tourist attractions

Located between the prefectures of Chania and Heraklion, Rethymnon is located northwest of the Crete island in Greece. One of the most beautiful places in Crete, Renthymnon boasts some extremely beautiful beaches, stunning gorges, Byzantine churches, and cosmopolitan resort villages as well as undev...

22. Hersonissos

22 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 2 Tourist attractions

Located around 200 miles south of Greece mainland, Hersonissos is located in the north of Crete. It is located very close to Heraklion, the capital of Crete. One of the popular resort villages in Crete, Hersonissos is popular for its magnificent sandy beaches, water parks, archaeological sites, and ...

Best Time: May to September

23. Agios Nikolaos

23 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 18 Tourist attractions

The exotic coastal town of Agios Nikolaos is located on the southern tip of mainland Greece, on the Crete island. This popular tourist town is also the capital of the region of Lassithi and is known for its serene beaches, mild climate with leisure and sleepy vibe. It is also famous for its breathta...

24. Kalamata

24 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 8 Tourist attractions

Kalamata, the capital of Messinia and the second biggest city in Peloponnese, is a significant coastal city. Kalamata is popular for its black Kalamata olive groves,traditional public markets, unique dance festivals, old town and delicious figs. Land of ancient ruins, castles, and beautiful sunsets ...

25. Nafplio

25 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 12 Tourist attractions

Nafplio is a coastal town located in the Eastern Peloponnese area of Greece, about 150 kms away from Athens. Nafplio is known for its neoclassical architecture, cosy streets, and historical and cultural significance. With historical houses, squares and churches, narrow cobbled alleys, and quaint tav...

26 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece

Chios, the fifth largest island in Greece, is located 8km off the Turkish coast, in the Northern Aegean sea. The island is known for its scenery, good climate, incredible views, picturesque villages, and emerald blue sea waters. It is popular for Mastic gum which is exported throughout the world but...

27 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 10 Tourist attractions

Eastern Aegean sea is the small island of Symi or Simi. Dwarfed by Rhodes, Symi is popular for its low-key charm that lies in its picturesque port town, mountainous landscapes, beautiful beaches and mouth-watering food. Symi is also known for its “Symi’s Shrimps”, that is pan-fried to be eaten whole...

Best Time: Mar to June, Sep to Oct

28 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 8 Tourist attractions

Volos, the sixth most populated city of Greece, is located midway between Athens and Thessaloniki on the Greece mainland. It is an important port city and only outlet to the sea in Thessaly, GreeceÍs largest agricultural region. Volos is known for its seafront promenades surrounded by tsipouradiko p...

29 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 10 Tourist attractions

Also known as Syra, Syros is located in the centre of the cyclades island, 144 kms in the south east end of Athens. The island is a pure Greek bliss with lesser tourists, sophisticated landscape, exciting beaches and a great historical and cultural significance. The beaches are well managed with sun...

Best Time: May to June, Sep to Oct

30 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece

Sifnos is a triangular island located 75 nautical miles away from Athens. Small island of Sifnos is popular for its traditional villages, pristine but empty beaches, exquisite gastronomy and local rembetika music. The island boasts typical mountainous villages with characteristic cycladic architectu...

31. Skopelos

31 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 17 Tourist attractions

Located in the east of mainland Greece, between Skiathos and Alonissos, Skopelos is an island in Sporades known for its rich vegetation, exotic beaches, and quaint villages. Some of the towns and villages on the island are popular for their unique architecture and photogenic sceneries. One of the gr...

32. Faliraki

32 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 15 Tourist attractions

A known seaside resort village, Faliraki is located on the east coast of Rhodes which is one of the southernmost and most visited islands in Greece. It is a popular vacation destination and a cosmopolitan resort with a 7 km-long stretch of sand. It is also famous among tourists as a summer destinati...

33 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 10 Tourist attractions

The small fishing village of Lindos is located on the east coast of Rhodes Island and is popular as an archaeological site. A perfect blend of history and beaches, Lindos mediaeval village boasts small white-washed houses situated conveniently on the hilltop. The village is also known for its 16th-c...

34. Heraklion

34 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 20 Tourist attractions

The fourth largest city in Greece, Heraklion or Candia is located in the east of Crete island which is 200 miles south of Greece mainland. Heraklion is the most popular city of Crete as it is also its capital. It is a lively town with some stunning beaches and also a known town to enjoy activities l...

35 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 6 Tourist attractions

Located in Epirus in western Greece, Parga is a famous holiday destination among tourists and is perched on the foot of a hill. The town is settled on the Greece mainland across Corfu. Parga is known for its exotic sand beaches, traditional architecture and natural landscape.

36. Laganas

36 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece

Located in southern Zante or Zakynthos, which is in the west of Greece mainland, Laganas is a resort town famous among youngsters and family alike. Home to the largest beach in Zante, Laganas is a popular nightlife hub.

37. Imerovigli

37 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece

Situated in the central west part of Santorini, about 3.5 Km away from the capital Fira, Imerovigli is popular with honeymooners because of its beautiful breathtaking views of caldera on one side and volcano on the other. Imerovigli is known as one of the most beautiful balconies of the Aegean sea b...

Best Time: July to Aug

38 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece

Kamari is a seaside village, located at the north foot of Mesa Vouno mountain, on the southeastern coast of Santorini. It is just a stoneÍs throw away from the capital Fira. The village is popular for its modern infrastructure and a long-parallel promenade for a leisure stroll packed with shops, res...

39. Perissa

39 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece

Perissa is a known coastal village on the south east coast of Santorini, about 12 km away from the capital Fira. It is known for its stunning long black sand beach with clear waters and an amazing nightlife.

40 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 18 Tourist attractions

Fira, the capital of Santorini, is located at the west crescent of Caldera and hence, offers some of the best views of the volcano. The town is small enough to be covered in about half an hour and is known for its unique blend of nature, social activities and nightlife. With hidden churches, arching...

Best Time: Apr - Jun, Sep - Oct

41 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 3 Tourist attractions

Located on the Southern edge of Corfu in the Lefkimi region of Greece, Kavos is a beautiful seaside city famous among youth. Home to numerous stunning clear-water beaches, seaside resorts, Kavos is a lively place known for its playful bars, clubs with loud music, scenic views and watersports.

42 out of 50 Places to visit in Greece 17 Tourist attractions

Oia is a beautiful coastal town, located on a cliff overlooking the fascinating caldera and the island of Thirassia, on the northwest side of Santorini, about 12 km from the capital Fira. The town is famous for its magical sunsets in the caldera, whitewashed-blue domed houses, traditional architectu...

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Mainland Greece Travel Guide

Greece › Mainland Greece Best Places by Santorini Dave • Updated: April 17, 2023

  • Where to Stay in Athens
  • Where to Stay in Nafplio
  • Where to Stay in Monemvasia
  • Where to Stay in Thessaloniki
  • Where to Stay in Delphi
  • Where to Stay near the Meteora
  • Best Greek Islands
  • Where to Go in Peloponnese
  • Where to Go in Halkidiki

Travel Guide to Mainland Greece

The Meteora monasteries near the village of Kalambaka in central Greece.

The 12 Best Places to Visit in Mainland Greece Athens Greece’s capital and perhaps the most important mainland destination; any trip to mainland Greece requires a stopover for at least a day or two. Delphi One of Greece’s best must-see archaeological sites; located in southern Greece, just across the Gulf of Corinth from the Peloponnese. Ioannina A bustling, picturesque lake town that’s the gateway to northwest Greece and the key to Epirus – the Zagoria villages, Metsovo, the Epirus Riviera (Parga, Preveza, Syvota). Gytheio A small but important port in the South Peloponnese that’s growing in popularity as a destination. Weekly ferry link to Kythira and Crete. Kalambaka The main outpost for visiting the incredible (and must-see) Meteora Monasteries, built on immense rocky pillars. Kalambaka also serves as an important transit link to the mid-north (Grevena, Kastoria, Kozani). Kastoria A beautiful lakeside town similar in style to Ioannina. Great for nature, skiing, and transit connections to Greece’s mid-north and northern border regions. Monemvasia Charming stone village on a small island off the east coast of the Peloponnese (but linked to the mainland by a short causeway). A magnet for painters, writers and readers. Nafpaktos A pretty, breezy, and historically important seaside town on on the north coast of the Gulf of Corinth. Nafplio Classy Peloponnese seaport retreat with neo-classical buildings and many excellent hotels. Olympia Along with Athens and Delphi, Olympia is one of of Greece’s three must-see archaeological sites. A small destination, but well situated for touring the west Peloponnese. Thessaloniki A strategic tourist travel position and airport hub in the central north, gateway to Greece for land arrivals from the Balkans and gateway to the Halkidiki peninsula. Veria A central and sizable northern town close to the Vergina and Pella archaeological sites, as well as the popular escarpment towns of Naousa and Serres.

Map of the top destinations on Mainland Greece.

Athens Athens is the nation’s capital and heartland, and an essential stop on any trip to the Greek mainland. Though it is a sprawling city of well over half a million, the city center is surprisingly small; all attractions listed here can be visited on foot. It’s also remarkably safe and welcoming, though it may appear chaotic and edgy at first. Athens is a great destination year-round, with the best times to visit being the spring and fall. It’s chilly (but relatively dry) in the winter months; midsummer sees the city emptying itself of locals, and can get unbearably hot. Allow for at least three nights in Athens, and stay as centrally as you can afford. Things to Do in Athens There are many great things to do in Athens , but if you have only 2-3 days, here are some of the highlights. Acropolis and Acropolis Museum : Athens is chock-a-block full of museums and ancient sites. If you must choose, then at least visit the Acropolis and the Parthenon Temple and its accompanying Acropolis Museum. • Map Concert at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus : If you plan to attend a concert in Athens, do it here. The atmosphere is electric. Check the Why Athens website for details of events during your visit. • Map Dining in Plaka or Psyri : A night out dining on the street is a must in Athens. The Plaka is touristy but has the location – right under the Acropolis. Psyri offers a more authentic experience. • Map: Plaka , Psyri Mount Lycabettus : For the highest and most spectacular views of Athens and the surrounding area, ascend to the summit of Lycabettus (Lykavittos) Hill. Take the cable car from the Kolonaki district, have lunch or a drink at the top then walk down. • Map The Changing of the Guard : It’s touristy, it’s a show, and it’s a shame not to see it. The Parliament building on Syntagma Square has two permanent Evzone Guards keeping watch, every hour on the hour, they swap places with new guards. Go on Sunday at 11am for the full show with elaborate costumes and a marching band. • Map Monastiraki Flea Market : Anything and everything can be bought in this chaotic bric-a-brac market that runs from Monastiraki Square westwards. Swords, vinyl records, coffee pots, and a thousand other items can be found here. • Map Recommended Athens Hotels AthensWas Hotel – One of a growing number of small boutique hotels opening in Athens’ inner core. AthensWas combines style, finesse, and spacious comfort with the convenience of a central location. • +30 21 0924 9954 • Map New Hotel – A superbly renovated central downtown hotel two minutes’ walk from Syntagma Square. Great rooftop bar and restaurant. • +30 21 0327 3000 • Map Royal Olympic Hotel – Among the royalty of Athens’ classic luxury hotels, the ROH simply enjoys a stunning location. Panorama rooms are unparalleled for the views over the Temple of Olympian Zeus. • +30 21 0928 8400 • Map Getting To and From Athens As the capital of the country, Athens has the richest and widest choice of transport options in Greece. Offering air, rail, road, and sea links, travelers to Greece will almost inevitably pass through Athens at some stage of their itinerary. Be advised that most areas in Greece, including Athens, have public transportation strikes throughout the year. These strikes can affect all forms of transit, including, buses, trains, ferries, flights, and taxis. During strikes no buses, no ferries, and only a handful of trains and flights will depart on time (or at all); taxis tend to be the least affected mode of transport. Though strikes can occur any time, there is always a huge strike on May 1. Avoid booking any ferries, flights, trains, or buses that day . Ferry : The Piraeus ferry port is about 10 km south of the city center and has direct ferries to most Greek islands (with the exception of the Ionian islands on the west coast of Greece). The most popular routes to Mykonos , Naxos , Paros , Santorini , and Crete have several sailings per day in high season. Air : Athens’ Eleftherios Venizelos Airport is a modern well-run establishment, with connections to all continents. The airport’s 35 km distance from the city center makes for a potentially costly transfer; options to reach the city are the bus, the metro, or taxi. Bus to/from Airport : The cheapest way to get into city center is the dedicated bus service that links the airport with the Kifissos bus station, the port of Piraeus, and the center. A bus ticket from the airport to Athens city center costs €6. Metro to/from Airport : The Athens Metro runs services to city center, Piraeus, and to Kiato in the Peloponnese. A metro ticket from the airport to central Athens costs €10. Taxi to/from Airport : A taxi from the airport to Athens’ city center will cost between €40 and €50. Taxis can be found outside the arrivals area. A good alternative is the Welcome Athens chauffeur service, which can be scheduled in advance. Getting Around Athens Foot : Athens is not a large city to walk around if you stick to the city center. You can cover most of the major sites on foot – use your favorite maps app to guide you accordingly. Buses, Trolleys, Trams, and Metro : Athens’ urban transit service, while efficient, can be crowded and confusing to first-time users. Rechargeable, multi-use Athe.ena tickets can be purchased and recharged at all Athens transport ticket offices, as well as the automatic ticket issuing machines located at transit stops. They can be used to transfer from one mode of transport to another, and are chargeable for 90-minute, all-day, or 5-day increments. Specialized tourist tickets are available that include 1 round trip to/from the airport by Metro or Express Bus, and 3 days of unlimited travel on all other modes. Purchase these before boarding. As mentioned above, transportation strikes are commonly held on May 1 each year, so avoid booking major travel on that date. Taxi : Taxis are cheap here in comparison with the rest of Europe, but hailing one often involves stiff streetside competition with other ride seekers. Drivers will sometimes pick up multiple passengers who are heading in the same direction. A handy smartphone app called Beat is a neat way of getting the cab you want at a time you need one. Suburban train : A wider though still limited service that runs in parallel to some routes to the Metro. Its main difference is that it runs out as far as Corinth and Kiato on the north coast of the Peloponnese. Athe.ena tickets can be used for the urban section of this line. Train : Athens’ main rail hub, Larissa Station , is located 3 km from Syntagma Square, near the M2 line Metro station and reachable by the No 1 or No 790 bus. Another important station is the SKA ( Railways Center of Acharnes ), located near the Attiki Odos ring road and handy if you are taking the Airport Suburban Rail line to connect with a mainline train service. Car : while Athens may look undrivable, it is no worse than any other major city. With the use of a GPS device or Google Maps on your phone, navigating is not difficult. The easiest way to get out of Athens is to make for the toll road known as Attiki Odos and follow it: to the east for the airport, to the west for the Peloponnese and to the main north junction at Metamorfosi for the North. The freeway from Piraeus joins this same junction. Delphi Built next to a cleft in the mountains of Central Greece, with a stunning view to the sea far below, Delphi was thought by the ancients to be the center of the known world. Princes and paupers alike would journey to Delphi to seek counsel from the mystic Delphic Oracle; the ancient temples and adjacent (and enchanting) Greek village have drawn dreamers, philosophers, writers, and hopefuls ever since. Today’s Delphi consists of an extensive archaeological site and museum, along with a couple of smaller, though not unimportant, classical offerings. Delphi village is a busy thoroughfare of two parallel streets crammed with quality hotels , restaurants, cafés and tourist shops. The center is compact and can be easily traversed in an hour or so. Delphi is worth at least a two-night stay to allow for a slow exploration of the Oracle site, and to soak up the still-present mystical atmosphere while watching the sunset over a panoramic dinner. Things to Do in Delphi The Temple of Apollo : This sprawling hillside sanctuary is where the High Priestess (the Delphic Oracle) held court; visitors in antiquity came from far and wide to seek her prophesies. Today, it’s the prime reason visitors come to Delphi. Read up beforehand to understand what it was all about, and come early to avoid the heat and crowds. Entry is €12. • Map The Kastalian Spring and Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia : Of perhaps lesser interest, but interesting all the same, the former is the site of the spring where ritual purification took place. It is best enjoyed late at night or at sunrise. The latter is Delphi’s most famous landmark photo op site (the ruins with the columns in a circle); this would be the first stop by ancient visitors on their pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Apollo. Map: Kastalian Spring , Sanctuary of Athena Delphi Archaeological Museum : The museum complements the Sanctuary site with model reconstructions, helpful historical information, and important artifacts from the site. Visit the museum first to gain context (go early – or late afternoon – to avoid the crowds), and head to the Sanctuary afterward. Your €12 ticket covers both entry fees. • Map Recommended Delphi Hotels Kastalia Boutique Hotel – An airy and friendly establishment with exceptionally comfortable rooms and mind-blowing views. An in-house restaurant and panoramic terrace make for an all-inclusive package. • +30 22 6508 2205 • Map Amalia Hotel – A sprawling hotel set in the hillside just outside of town, with an on-site restaurant and large outdoor swimming pool. • +30 2265 082101 • Map Acropole Delphi Hotel – Cozy, folksy lodging just below the main street in a quieter part of the village. Unparalleled views out over the valley below. • +30 22 6508 2675 • Map Getting To and From Delphi The most common forms of visitor transport to and from Delphi are bus tours and private vehicles. The only other way in and out is by bus. Bus : The main bus route runs back and forth from Athens, leaving Athens from Bus Station B at Liosion. Buses are plentiful along this route, and details are easier to follow at the Fokida KTEL Bus Station website . Travelers wishing to travel from Delphi to Meteora or Olympia will have to make at least one transfer: For Olympia, take a Patra-bound bus (change in Itea on the same ticket). In Patra walk 550m northeast from the arrival bus terminal on the port (corner Gerokostopoulou and Othonos & Amalias) to the Pyrgos bus station. From Pyrgos take a local bus or train to Olympia (see Olympia entry). For Meteora, take a bus to Amfissa (via Itea) and swap for a bus to Lamia. From Lamia you can either train it (from Leianokladi) to Kalambaka, or bus it via Trikala. Taxis : Though the village center is easily traversed on foot, taxis can be helpful in getting to some Delphi’s more distant attraction. They congregate opposite the bus stop at the eastern edge of the village. • Tel: +32 22 6508 2752 Be advised that most areas in Greece, including Delphi, have public transportation strikes throughout the year. These strikes affect all forms of transit, including, buses, trains, ferries, flights, and taxis. Though strikes can occur any time, there is always a huge strike on May 1. Avoid booking any major bus, train, or ferry trips that day. Ioannina Ioannina is the bustling mountain capital of the northwest Greek region of Greece known as Epirus. Think of it as Greece’s Scotland – with soaring, stunning mountains, and a lake with its own inhabited island. Linger and relax with an ouzo on ice by the lakefront, or take a slow boat ride to the Island for a meal of eels, trout, or even frogs legs. Ioannina has had a checkered past, from its founding in the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century AD, through the Ottomans and a bloodthirsty dictator. Today it is an important university town with a lively student café scene. It features a Turkish-inspired Old Town and walled ‘Kastro’ and is the gateway to Epirus’ little known Zagorochoria villages that seem to be straight out of Grimm’s, with fairytale stone houses, stone bridges over rushing rivers, and the awe-inspiring Vikos Gorge (the deepest in the world). Things to Do in Ioannina The Island :The only lake-island in Greece where people live all year round. It consists of a compact village, a monastery, and a shaded walking path around the island. It is home to the Ali Pasha Museum , dedicated to Ioannina’s infamous Ottoman-Albanian despot who ruled with an iron and often vicious hand. A passenger ferry boat leaves from the waterfront by the Kastro every 20 minutes. • Map The Castle/Kastro : More a walled mini-city than a castle the ‘Kastro’ consists of a living community, some small hotels, a large Byzantine museum, and a former mosque. Cobbled streets meander at will, but you will never get lost. • Map The Lake : No tour boats explore the vast green expanse of Lake Pamvotis, but cyclists can circumnavigate the Lake in about an hour and a half (24 km) on quiet rural lanes, a lakeside road, and a dedicated cycle path near the town itself. • Map Zagori Villages and Vikos Gorge : A 45-minute drive to the northeast of Ioannina leads visitors to the stunning scenery and topography of these two chart-topping sights. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring sight of Vikos Gorge from Monodendri. Take in a sophisticated rural lunch in the villages of Papingo or Mikro Papingo. Map: Zagori , Vikos Gorge Recommended Ioannina Hotels Saz City Life Hotel – Re-purposed from tired inner-city office buildings, Saz offers trendy urban accommodation in the heart of Ioannina. • +30 26 5107 8888 • Map Guesthouse Politia – One of the forerunners of the boutique studios scene, this cozy space occupies choice real estate in the Old Town. • +30 26 5102 2235 • Map Villa Vilielmini – Less a hotel and more luxury apartments, Villa Vilielmini enjoys a location close to the lakefront and its café scene. • +30 26 5103 0515 • Map Getting To and From Ioannina Travel to and from Ioannina has been difficult in the past, with air connectivity only to Athens and road transport slowed down by tortuous access routes and the town’s mountain setting. Since the opening of the Ionian Way (south) and the Via Egnatia (east-west), however, road transport to Ioannina is super fast and in 2018 Ioannina opened up international air links with flights to Europe and the Middle East. Bus : Ioannina’s busy bus terminal is located by the lakeside at Georgiou Papandreou 45 ; the KTEL bus website is rather clunky and ageing, but is at least offered in English. Connections are pretty well spread across the country you can even take a bus to Chania in Crete. Air : Air links are mostly still with Athens, but charter companies from places such as Sweden and Israel have recently started flying into Ioannina. The King Pyrros Airport is 4.5 km northwest of the town. Taxi : Order a local taxi by calling +30 26 5104 6777. As with Athens and Delphi, Ioannina is subject to Greece’s public transportation strikes throughout the year, but especially on May 1. Avoid scheduling any flights or buses that day. Gytheio Gytheio is a pretty, laid-back port town with an enticing and genuine Greek atmosphere that’s rare among Greek tourist ports these days. Once the port of Ancient Sparta, Gytheio is now the de facto ‘capital’ of the Laconian Mani region of the Mani Peninsula and primarily makes its living from fishing. Cafés and restaurants line its waterfront where a recently established pedestrian walkway allows for ambling and chatting before dinner. A small islet offshore adds to the mix, while south of the village a long sandy beach provides for swimming and sun-baking. Gytheio also serves as a primary contact point between the Greek mainland and Crete, with options to visit the islands of Kythira and Antikythira in between. Gytheio’s friendly and sunny disposition makes it an excellent choice for a casual sojourn for two to four days while touring the area or while waiting for the boat to Crete. Things to Do in Gytheio Marathonisi Islet : Said to be the ancient Cranae where Helen and Paris of Troy consummated their affair, thus irresponsibly starting the Trojan War. Today called Marathonisi, which means ‘fennel island’, this long, cigar-shaped islet features a lighthouse and a small tower, and is linked to Gytheio by a narrow walkway – perfect for a sunset stroll. • Map The Mani Peninsula : The Mani is the central finger-like peninsula of the Peloponnese and wild both in topography and its people, who are known to be stubbornly and proudly independent. Travel writer Patrick Leigh Fermor was inspired by this region to write his ‘Travels in the Southern Peloponnese;’ he settled and lived in Kardamyli in Messinian Mani. Travel slowly and take in the textures and subtleties of the region. • Map Recommended Gytheio Hotels Olive Yard Boutique Hotel – This small guest hotel north of central Gytheio offers a graceful and relaxing rural space to unwind and watch the sun go down. • +30 27 3302 9210 • Map Saga Pension – Directly over the best restaurant in town, in central Gytheio, right next to the port. • +30 27 3302 3220 • Map Mareggio – Fresh and modern beachfront suites and residences (some with private pools), 5 minutes north of town. • +30 27 3302 1113 • Map Getting To and From Gytheio Gytheio is an outpost, end-of-line destination, linked indirectly by bus to most Peloponnese destinations – typically via Sparti. It also has a little known and useful car ferry to Kissamos in Crete. Bus : The bus stop and ticketing agency is near the junction of Ermou and Vasileos Georgiou, a 650 m hike to the waterfront. Ferry : The car ferry Ionis makes a weekly run to and from Kissamos in Crete, though booking tickets online is next to impossible. See Rozakis Shipping Agency ( Vasileos Pavlou 5 , tel: +30 27 3302 2207) on the waterfront for bookings. Taxi : To get around by taxi call English-speaking Canadian-Greek Angeliki (tel: +30 69 4543 8209) for all the local gossip and lore as well a good way to get to local attractions. As mentioned above, Gytheio is subject to the public transportation strikes held throughout the year, with the largest taking place every May 1. Avoid scheduling any buses or ferries that day. Meteora (Kalambaka) The bright and cheery rural town of Kalambaka is the jumping-off point for visits to the soaring, suspended monasteries of Meteora. These monasteries grew out of a desire for prayerful isloation and the necessity for self-preservation, used by late Byzantine monks and hermits as a refuge and hideout against Ottoman incursions. Over the years, the monastery buildings grew organically and are now quite impressive in their size and appearance. Travelers can spot the tall sandstone pinnacles from afar as they rise unexpectedly from the surrounding plain, and the effect only gets more startling as you draw closer. The smaller settlement of Kastraki – a 15-minute walk west – is actually the heart of the Meteora monasteries and a more charming area to stay, though you can easily access the monasteries via a foot trail from the northern end of Kalambaka itself. While the bulk of visitors come for the monasteries, more athletic visitors come to climb the pinnacles themselves. The Kalambaka-Kastraki combination is a pretty destination package in itself with enticing restaurants , rustic wood and stone hostelries, and a vibrant atmosphere worthy of a day or three of lingering. The area is also an important transit point for travelers to Epirus or Western Macedonia. A winding 36 km road north leads to the junction with the Via Egnatia, where travelers can turn west for Ioannina or East for Kozani and Kastoria. Things to Do in Kalambaka The Meteora Monasteries : There are six major monasteries worth visiting, but unless you are a walker, or really like monasteries, you are better advised to stick with just two or three. Ideally, you will need transport to get around. The Great Meteoron is the biggest and most well-known. Start with that and choose another one or two based on proximity, or love of hiking. A small charge is levied to visit each monastery, and a strict dress code is enforced. Rock Climbing : You will inevitably spot specks of red, yellow and other visible colors edging their way up the vertical rock walls. These are real people doing what they love: climbing. If you climb, Meteora offers some serious challenges, and ClimbGreece can help you out. Hiking : You can enjoy Meteora without the need to actually visit the monasteries by hiking along a pretty well-defined series of hiking trails. Visit Meteora offers some excellent hiking and sightseeing tours. Recommended Kalambaka Hotels Hotel Doupiani House – Beautiful old-world retreat in Kastraki with a classy bar and fireplace lounge, plus a stone garden terrace with amazing views. • +30 2432 077555 • Map Tsikeli Hotel – Eco-friendly and adults-only, this stylish hotel in Kastraki offers e-bike rental and rooms with hot tubs or saunas. • +30 2432 022438 • Map Divani Meteora Hotel – Kalambaka’s more upscale traditional hotel. It offers an airy, modern interior and two swimming pools – one indoors, one in a lovely garden. • +30 24 3202 3330 • Map Getting To and From Kalambaka Kalambaka is a popular entry point for the monasteries of Meteora and is linked by rail and bus. Car : Travelers with cars are advised that the access route from the Via Egnatia to the north is a slow and winding route with many turns and bends – it may not suit people prone to motion sickness. Bus : The centrally located Kalambaka bus station (a simple street corner affair) is a subsidiary to the larger and modern Trikala bus terminal , 23 km away. Most ongoing services will involve a change of bus at Trikala. Trikala is linked to the most important mainland destinations. It takes about 6 hours to get from Athens to Kalambaka by bus (including the bus change in Trikala). Train : Kalambaka also boasts a train station with most services terminating at Paleofarsalos, where travelers can change trains for Thessaloniki or Athens, though there is one daily direct to/from service between Kalambaka and Athens (which takes just under 5 hours). Taxi : Call a local taxi at +30 24 3202 2310. Like all major towns in Greece, Meteora (Kalambaka) holds annual public transportation strikes on May 1 and various dates througout the year. Avoid booking trains, buses, or any major travel on that day. Kastoria Kastoria is a pretty and picturesque town in western Macedonia that perhaps doesn’t receive as many international visitors as it deserves. Similar in many ways to its cousin Ioannina to the southwest, Kastoria features a large lake, as well as a prominent peninsula that juts out into the lake and upon which the Old Town is built. It is renowned for its serenity, beautiful nature, and skiing, with dappled mountain ranges and some of the best old mansion accommodation in the north. Very popular with domestic Greek travelers, Kastoria built its wealth on the fur trade and is still a major sale center for fur coats and fur products. Kastoria is not on any major thoroughfare but can be comfortably reached with an easy 40-minute drive off the cross-country Via Egnatia to the south. Things to Do in Kastoria Old Kastoria : Kastoria’s Old Town is focussed on the Doltso neighborhood, a labyrinthine collection of winding streets and imposing merchant mansions. Wandering this compact area, you will admire some very impressive old buildings, several of which have been turned into hotels for visitors. • Map Byzantine Museum : This impressive collection of Byzantine art and religious exhibits is worth an hour or two of study. Easy to find on Plateia Dexaminis in the center of the Old Town. • Map Cycling : The lake provides for a perfect circumnavigation on two wheels. O Podilatis hires out all kinds of bikes from serious to leisurely. The two and four seaters are great for fun with a group – and everyone gets to pedal. • Map Nestorio River Festival : Rock your socks off at this annual music fest by the river. Now into its 40th year, this five-day rockathon features contemporary and traditional Greek music. It takes place towards the end of July and you can camp. Buses take you there and back from Kastoria. • Map Arcturos Bear Sanctuary : Bears and other wild creatures have existed in this area for centuries, but have not always been appreciated. Located 37 km northeast of Kastoria, this wildlife sanctuary is worth a visit. Stop in the attractive nearby village of Nymfaio for lunch, or even to stay the night. • Map Recommended Kastoria Hotels Hotel Doltso – The best of Kastoria’s old town lodgings. Grandiose décor in a pleasing neutral palette. Cozy, comforting, and calming luxury dressed in stone. • +30 24 6702 2022 • Map Orologopoulos Mansion – This is another popular and spacious choice in old Kastoria. Tradition and luxury blend seamlessly in this striking looking building. • +30 24 6702 1604 • Map Vergoula’s Mansion – Traditional house offering old style comfort, lovingly renewed. Very convenient location in the Old Quarter. • +30 24 6702 3415 • Map Getting To and From Kastoria Car : Kastoria is a little bit ‘out on the edge’ and not on any major road routes, so it really lends itself to being visited by car – especially if you wish to see some of the surrounding countryside and make excursions to sights in western Macedonia. Bus : Nonetheless, it has a good intercity bus network and a centrally located bus station . Check the KTEL website for timetables. Kastoria is directly linked by bus to Thessaloniki, Athens, Volos, Kozani and Ioannina. Air : Kastoria is linked by air to Athens via Kozani with Astra Airlines . Taxi : Call a local taxi at +30 24 6702 1222. Avoid booking flights or buses on May 1, when the annual public transportation strike takes place. Monemvasia A Byzantine fortress town on the southeastern coast of Laconia. Dubbed Greece’s Gibraltar due to its location on the base of a large rock rising from the sea, Monemvasia is quite unique in Greece – a medeival village of picturesque cobbled streets and lovingly restored stone houses. In existence since the 6th Century AD, Monemvasia served as a refuge from mainland invasions (when it was still disconnected from the mainland) and later developed into an important trade and maritime center. Passed from the Franks to the Venetians and the Ottomans and finally to the Greek State after the War of Independence (1821), the village languished in relative obscurity in later years. Recently ‘discovered’ by curious travelers, Monemvasia is now a magnet for painters, writers, and readers – one of Monemvasia’s more famous sons is the Greek poet Yannis Ritsos who was born and lived in the village, and is now interred in the cemetery there. Things to Do in Monemvasia The Kastro : The best thing to do in Monemvasia is amble aimlessly along its Byzantine tangle of alleyways and back streets. The historic village is peppered with little churches, squares, and small restaurants and cafés. • Map Upper Town : From the heart of the village you can walk up to the ruins of Upper Town, now abandoned but once the site of the settlement’s grandest homes and churches – including beautiful Hagia Sophia. Picture-perfect views over the roofs of the houses out to sea make the strenuous climb worthwhile. • Map Yannis Ritsos’ Home : Of interest to poets and the literary-minded, Ritsos’ House is located at the beginning of the village just after the entry gate. Monemvasia’s most famous son, this iconoclastic left wing bard fought dictatorships with words. • Map Recommended Monemvasia Hotels Kinsterna Hotel – 5-star luxury estate with gardens, vineyards, olive groves, and stables. 10 minutes south of the castle. • +30 27 3206 6300 • Map Moni Emvasis Luxury Suites – The best of the romantic and historic castle properties, close to the gate and with excellent views. • +30 27 3206 2122 • Map Likinia Hotel – A newly-built but traditionally-styled hotel in the Old Town of Monemvasia. Rooms and suites have sea views and cooling sea breezes. • +30 27 3206 1939 • Map Getting To and From Monemvasia Because it is a somewhat remote outpost status, Monemvasia is not such an easy place to visit on public transport. Bus : There are buses from Athens, but a bus trip to Momenvasia will likely involve a change in Sparti or Molai. The KTEL Lakonia website goes some way to explaining the links. There are three daily services from Athens and four vice versa. Buses arrive at and leave from Gefyra across the causeway; hike from there to the entrance of Monemvasia, or take the shuttle bus that runs every 30 minutes from Gefyra to Monemvasia. Bus tickets can be obtained from Malvasia Travel in Gefyra. As with all other destinations mentioned, avoid taking public transportation to Monemvasia during the annual strike on May 1. Taxi : Arrivals from Kythira to the Peloponnese port of Neapoli are advised to seek a taxi (approx. €40) to Monemvasia. Call +30 69 3247 6486 (Minas Papoulis) or +30 69 7727 5414 (Ioannis Dertilis) or +30 69 7415 6097 (Georgios Minopetros) to arrange for a taxi to meet the incoming ferry. Nafpaktos Nafpaktos is a pretty, breezy, seaside town in the mostly overlooked mainland corner of Central Greece. A relaxing locale with a totally unpretentious Greek air, it’s worthy of a day or two of traveler time if heading out the little-known region of Greece known as Aitolo-Akarnania. A famous naval battle was once waged here between the Ottomans and a tri-part alliance of the Vatican, Spain, and Venice; today the town is a thriving and non-touristy seaside community with a postcard-pretty harbor full with restaurants and cafés. Nafpaktos is conveniently located halfway between Delphi and Olympia, making for a very convenient break between the two. Top class boutique accommodation rounds off the attraction. Things to Do in Nafpaktos The Harbor : Sitting at a café in this small and lovely harbor with its protective stone wall – sipping an iced frappé, or nursing an ouzo on ice – is a slow and unchallenging activity that nonetheless makes up a big part of the Nafpaktos scene. • Map Nafpaktos Castle : It is a bit of a strength-sapping hike up to the Kastro, but like all walks that involve an uphill climb for an hour or so, the view pays for the effort. The Kastro is in decent condition and its fortifications date back to Doric times. • Map Fethiye Mosque : Built by Sultan Bayezid II when he ruled the Ottoman Empire, this splendid mosque still stands and is open to the public. Exhibitions are held here in summer. • Map Botsaris Tower Museum : This gray-painted tower near the harbor, named after Souliot General Notis Botsaris, houses a small museum with paintings and engravings relating to the Battle of Lepanto. • Map The Nafpaktia Hinterland : Nafpaktos sits at the southern tip of a largely unknown and little-explored mountainous chunk of central Greece where a lot of outdoor activity takes place. A list of some of activities runs as follows: kayaking, climbing, hiking, rafting and paintballing. Driving north with a 4×4 to Karpenisi is a great eye-opener to another Greece. • Map Recommended Nafpaktos Hotels Apollon Library Suites – A modern concept hotel where the theme is artful reading. Twelve lovingly finished suites are fitted out in earthy textures and feature mini-libraries for guests. • +30 26 3403 8615 • Map Arhontiko Pepos – Occupying prime position in the pedestrian zone next to the harbour, Pepos is a sophisticated and elegant guesthouse with five tasteful element-themed rooms. • +30 26 3403 8185 • Map Hotel Akti – The exterior belies the interior in this affordable accommodation choice. Rich furnishing and lush lounges dominate while rooms are all tastefully appointed. • +30 26 3402 8464 • Map Getting To and From Nafpaktos Nafpaktos is on the main highway linking towns along the northern Gulf of the Peloponnese and is easily visited by travellers moving between Olympia and Delphi. (Travelers to Delphi will normally swap buses in the port of Itea.) Nafpaktos’ brand new KTEL bus station is unhelpfully located outside of the main town area , so you will need to take a cab (tel: +30 26 3402 5111) to/from the town center. Avoid bus travel on May 1, during the annual public transportation strike. Nafplio Nafplio is a classy weekend retreat or day trip from Athens for Greeks and travelers looking for a chic getaway close to the capital. Neo-classical and Venetian mansions, polished stone alleyways and thoroughfares, a couple of fortresses, beaches, quality hotels , and a picturesque harbor combine with fashion, gourmet food, and distinguished wines to create a winning destination in one of Greece’s most popular towns – all within easy driving distance to the significant archaeological attractions of the region such as Mycenae, Tiryns, and Epidaurus. Appointed Greek capital for one year after the liberation of Greece in 1821, Nafplio’s role as head city was passed over to Athens by Greece’s first King, Otto. That didn’t deter Nafplio from slowly developing into a swanky retreat for urbanites, artists, merchants and other posh people in later years. Today’s travelers are advised to make plans well in advance. Its gorgeous and sophisticated air ensures there are many visitors year-round – particularly in winter, though high summer sees a lot of northern Europeans drawn by its irresistible pull. Things to Do in Nafplio The Old Town : Nafplio’s primary attraction is the inimitable ambiance and taste of the streets of the traditional quarter. It invites strolling, browsing, shopping, eating, dining, seeing and being seen. Simple as that. • Map The Palamidi Fortress : Guarding the eastern flank of Nafplio town this enormous citadel can be approached by a steep climb, or a rather roundabout (but easier) drive. Go early if you plan to walk. It’s almost 1000 steps to the top. • Map The Bourtzi : Viewable from any part of Nafplio, this mini Venetian fortress sits asea and guards the harbour. Once a prison, it now accepts visitors by tour boat. • Map Archaeological Museum : This museum traces the history of the Argolis peninsula from its earliest days – well worth a pre-lunch, enlightening meander. • Map Akronafplia Fortress : Looming above the town is the unavoidable hulk of this immense natural bastion. Drive, walk or take the lift that’s located in the square near the “Five Brothers” cannons: it’s worth it for the views. • Map Komboloi Museum : Teeny tiny museum dedicated to komboloi ; the traditional worry beads that Nafplio is particularly known for creating. Located upstairs of a small storefront in Old Town – you can buy your own on your way out. • Map Recommended Nafplio Hotels Gambello Luxury Rooms – Utterly charming 11-room boutique hotel in a neoclassical mansion near the Nafplio harbor and waterfront promenade. Excellent views of Bourtzi fortress from some rooms. • +30 2752 023009 • Map 3Sixty Hotel & Suites – Cousin to the Ippoliti Hotel, the funky and elegant 3Sixty offers a modern twist on comfort and hosts a renowned gourmet restaurant. • +30 27 5250 0501 • Map Regno di Morea – Modern boutique hotel in the heart of Old Town Nafplio. • +30 27 5202 2232 • Map Getting To and From Nafplio Nafplio is connected to the rest of Greece by bus only, covered by the Argolis KTEL network . There are between 11 and 14 direct connections with Athens, as well as one or two services between other major Peloponnese towns such as Kalamata, Tripoli, and Patra. The bus terminal is on Andrea Syngrou on the eastern side of the Old Town where there is also a handy taxi stand. (Call +30 27 5202 6300 or get the app to arrange a taxi in advance.) Avoid taking public transportation on May 1, when most buses, trains, ferries, and flights are stopped. Olympia This pleasant, bucolic village in the northwestern Peloponnese is ancient birthplace of the Olympic Games, worth a day or two of traveling time in any trip to Mainland Greece. Olympia is a pleasant place to linger; there is a relaxed ambiance, fine dining, friendly cafés, and feeling that you are at one – if only for a day – with the principles of global harmony promoted by the games for centuries. Things to Do in Olympia Ancient Olympia : See where the Olympic movement started, including the spot where the Olympic flame is lit every two years. The site is enormous and requires some time to see. Start early to avoid the throngs of cruise ship travelers that arrive by bus and train by mid-morning, and read up (or visit the Archaeological Museum) in advance, so you know what’s what. • Map Archaeological Museum : Complementing the site itself is this impressive museum that features finds from the site of Ancient Olympia. It is advised to visit here on a separate day as the site itself, as there is a lot on display to absorb. • Map Museum of the History of the Olympic Games in Antiquity : A separate museum exhibition, this collection focuses on the Games themselves and is best combined on the day with the Archaeological Museum. Entry is on the same ticket as the Ancient Olympia site. • Map Recommended Olympia Hotels Hotel Europa – A grand resort style hotel with a pool and excellent outdoor restaurant. You’ll need a cab to get here as it’s a little outside Olympia village, but worth the effort. • +30 26 2402 2650 • Map Hotel Pelops – A more modest accommodation option for visitors to the village; a small family hotel with all the necessary comforts and a welcoming atmosphere. • +30 26 2402 2543 • Map Central Guest Room – Conveniently-located double rooms & apartments with balconies. • +30 69 3690 7066 • Map Getting To and From Olympia Olympia is not particularly well-connected by public transport to any major destinations, though there are a couple of options to choose from, traveling through Pyrgos. Bus : Olympia is accessible via local bus from the main Pyrgos bus station to Olympia. There are thirteen daily departures, and the trip takes about 45 minutes. Buses leave from platform 1. Train : There is a very good modern train service that links Olympia with the port of Katakolo, via Pyrgos. There are three departures daily from Pyrgos. Taxi : Taxis in Olympia depart from the train station. Avoid taking the bus or train on May 1, when the yearly public transportation strike takes place. Thessaloniki Thessaloniki’s maritime location makes the second-largest city in Greece seem less like a commercial center than a breezy seaside resort. A smoother sibling city to Athens down south, Thessaloniki is immediately likable; the pace is more relaxed and the air seems somehow brighter here. Many great hotels too. An ancient city by any standards (founded in 315 BC), Thessaloniki wears its checkered and multi-cultural past with panache and pride. It was the second-largest and wealthiest city in the Byzantine Empire, home to a large Jewish community under the Ottomans, and became part of the Greek State in 1912. It is now considered to be the cultural capital of Greece, and many would also say culinary capital too – some of the country’s finest dining can be enjoyed here. Fashionistas will find some of the trendiest items of apparel on its chic streets. Things to Do in Thessaloniki Like Athens, there is enough to see in Thessaloniki to keep you occupied for weeks. If you’ve only got two to three days at your disposal, here are some of the must-dos: the best and easiest Thessaloniki attractions and experiences. Archaeological Museum : History buffs will love to browse among this elegant collection of ancient Macedonian and Hellenistic finds from the area. The Vergina Tombs exhibits are located in Vergina (see Veria section). • Map Boat Cruise : Take a free evening boat ride around the waterfront bay and enjoy the lights of the city from the sea. Just buy a drink on board – that’s your ticket (or €3 if you don’t want to order anything). One of Thessaloniki’s best-kept tourist secrets. Look for the boats near the White Tower. • Map Ladadika Quarter : This once tumbled-down industrial district has been the home in recent years to some of the city’s best dining surprises. Buttressing the north-western flank of the waterside, Ladadika is a great place for a drink or for schmoozing around on foot for an hour or two. • Map Shopping : the eastern end of Tsimiski Street hosts a dazzling array of fashion outlets and shoe boutiques. Greece’s latest fashions are debuted here and prices are brilliant – especially during the sales season. • Map The Kastro : backing the modern city are the walls of the Kastro that today constitute the Ano Poli (Upper City). It’s cooler up here and walking its walled streets peppered with battlements and monasteries makes a nice escape from the city, as well as a great spot for a sunset dinner. • Map The White Tower : The ultimate symbol of Thessaloniki, all of the city revolves around this unmistakable landmark. Despite its somewhat gruesome past as a prison and torture house, it’s now a great historical landmark, regional museum, and viewpoint spot. • Map Recommended Thessaloniki Hotels Electra Palace Hotel – Sumptuous, classic 5-star hotel hospitality. The grand dame of the Thessaloniki hotel scene, the Electra Palace towers over Aristotelous Square in the heart of the city. • +30 23 1029 4000 • Map The Trilogy House – A great concept hotel with only seven different and artfully designed rooms, all housed in a turn of the century building. As central as you can get. • +30 23 1023 2305 • Map Blue Bottle Boutique Hotel – Arty, funky, very cool and very central, Blue Bottle offers hip, modernistic rooms at a good price. Coco-Mat beds and large family rooms. • +30 23 1052 0090 • Map Getting To and From Thessaloniki Thessaloniki is a major hub both for ground transport around northern Greece and for international and domestic air connections. Air : Thessaloniki Airport is 16.5 km east of the city center, connected by the No. 78 bus that also links the train station and the main bus station. Bus : Intercity buses leave from the large bus station that’s located 6.2 km west of the city center. Both domestic as well as international routes are serviced here. Buses to Halkidiki leave from a smaller terminal at the 9th km of the Ring Road. Train : The train station is closer to the city center, offering daily departures to Athens and destinations in between, as well as to Alexandroupolis in the east. International routes for Belgrade, Sofia, and Bucharest also pass through here. Car : Drivers planning to circumvent Thessaloniki are advised to the use the outer peripheral ring road to avoid traffic delays in the city center. Thessaloniki generally has great public transportation, but like the rest of Greece it is subject to strikes throughout the year. These strikes affect all forms of transit, including, buses, trains, ferries, flights, and taxis. During strikes no buses, no ferries, and only a handful of trains and flights will depart on time (or at all); taxis tend to be the least affected mode of transport. Though strikes can occur any time, there is always a huge strike on May 1. Avoid booking any ferries, flights, trains, or buses that day. Veria Perched on the south-eastern escarpment of Mt Vermio, Veria is breezy, bright, and very un-touristy. It is popular in winter for skiing on Mt. Vermio, as well as year-round for its amiable charm and as a good base to visit a clutch of important archaeological sites. Veria is an ancient city, first mentioned by Thucydides in 432 BC. St. Paul preached here, and today it is a very popular religious pilgrimage destination for Greeks. It was home to a large Jewish community until WWII and the old neighborhood has been revived. Veria is conveniently located on the Via Egnatia, an hour’s drive west of Thessaloniki. From Veria, travelers can easily drive to the other pretty escarpment towns of Naousa and Edessa. Things to Do in Veria Archaeological Sites : The Vergina Royal Tombs Museum is the star archaeological exhibit in this town. An unearthed burial ground revealed the gold and splendor of Phillip II’s tomb (father of Alexander the Great). The Pella Museum explains the significance of Pella (the ancient kingdom of Macedon) in the ancient world. • Map: Vergina Tombs , Pella Museums : In Veria itself are two museums worth a look-in: The Archaeological Museum with Neolithic figurines and findings from Vergina, and the Byzantine Museum , comprising three floors of excellent Byzantine artifacts. • Map: Archaeological Museum , Byzantine Museum The Old Jewish Quarter : Barbouta, by the river, is the Old Jewish Quarter. Once derelict, it now possesses a classy charm. Next to the Old Synagogue is a scattering of tastefully restored houses, now hosting boutique hotels. • Map Skiing : Pack your woollies and winter gear and take a skiing holiday at Veria’s Seli Ski Resort , or others in Macedonia. There are more options than most would imagine. • Map: Seli Recommended Veria Hotels Kokkino Spiti – The first of the renovated lodgings in the old Jewish Quarter, Kokkino Spiti offers comfort and a well-tailored finesse. • +30 23 3107 4440 • Map The House by the River – Another lovingly restored hotel house on the Tripotamos river, with thoughtfully designed rooms in soft pastel furnishings. Wood and iron feature in the restored architecture. • +30 69 3723 2809 • Map Veritas Boutique Hotel – Tradition and modernity meet in a jazzy, art-inspired hotel in the center of the new town. Dine at the in-house V-Bistro & Bar. • +30 23 3106 8100 • Map Getting To and From Veria Veria is well placed for visitor access on the Via Egnatia (Egnatia Odos) between Thessaloniki and Ioannina in the West. Bus : Buses operate out of the small main bus station in the center of town with regular services to Athens and Thessaloniki and destinations in Western Macedonia. Buses to Ioannina depart from outside the Veria Restaurant at Pierion 155 , 2.2 km on the south side of town. Train : Veria has a train station on the north-east side of town with connections to Florina and Thessaloniki, but it may not be operating due to the ongoing upgrading of the Greece railway system. Check the Hellenic Train website for current updates. Avoid relying on trains or buses to get around on May 1, when the largest public transportation strike is scheduled each year.
  • Athens Travel Guide
  • Peloponnese Travel Guide
  • Crete Travel Guide
  • Halkidiki Travel Guide
  • Mykonos Travel Guide
  • Naxos Travel Guide
  • Paros Travel Guide
  • Santorini Travel Guide
  • Greece – What to Know Before You Go
  • Complete Greece Travel Guide
  • Complete Italy Travel Guide

About Santorini Dave

Santorini Dave Author Bio.

11 things I wish I knew before visiting Greece

Anthony Grant

As the travel industry reopens following COVID-19 shutdowns, TPG suggests that you talk to your doctor, follow health officials' guidance and research local travel restrictions before booking that next trip. We will be here to help you prepare, whether it is next month or next year.

When it comes to deciding where to go next, Greece is a usually a slam dunk. Whether it's a beachy island getaway you're after or an Athens (or perhaps Thessaloniki) city break that blends sightseeing by day with ouzo gulping by night, the mythic Mediterranean country ticks all the right boxes for classic holidays but wait -- there's more. Lots more.

Landing in Athens is the easy bit, but once you're on terra firma you'll find yourself immersed in both an epic history and some rather iconic landscapes, too. How you navigate this richness is largely up to you, but the more you know before you go, the more capably you can decode all those big fat Greek travel mysteries. Keep the following things in mind to help you steer clear of the cliches and make the most out of your experiences in Greece.

1. Don't just make the Acropolis in Athens your priority

Making the Acropolis the focus of a jaunt to Athens is like making a trip to Paris about visiting the Eiffel Tower -- so don't do it. Instead, do like the Athenians do and drink in views of the sacred rock from any number of rooftop bars and restaurants in the vicinity, or better yet wake up to a view of it from your hotel room . And the best views of Athens as a whole are actually from the top of Mount Lycavittos anyway (take the funicular in the Kolonaki neighborhood to the top).

Dodge the tourist crowds marching up to the Parthenon and instead inspect the arguably more evocative ruins at the foot of the Acropolis in the ancient agora area. I'd also suggest skipping the Acropolis Museum and diverting your cultural hours to the National Archaeological Museum across town. It's a bit fusty but still the best museum in Greece. Essential smaller museums include the Benaki Museum and Museum of Cycladic Art, both of which blend ancient artifacts with excellent contemporary exhibitions. If you fancy a Picasso or Van Gogh fix, the brand-new Goulandris museum is a must.

places to visit in greece tourist

2. Don't just feast on gyro

I've seen this over and over (and over) again: tourists who enjoy a hearty international-style buffet breakfast at their hotel and then opt for a gyro or souvlaki platter for lunch and then again for dinner. Don't get me wrong, authentic Greek gyros are pretty scrumptious and at about three euros each are fiscally attractive dining options too. But Greek gastronomy is more diverse than that and experiencing at least some of it can be a highlight of your trip.

To savor a Greek breakfast staple you'll almost never find at a hotel buffet, try strapatsada, a delectable dish made with eggs (usually scrambled), feta cheese, fresh tomato sauce and a dash of olive oil. One of the best is served at the restaurant of the Acropolis Museum (you don't have to pay for museum admission to eat at the restaurant). For the best seafood, shun the touristy tavernas around the Plaka and head instead to Piraeus, where the seafood is generally cheaper, fresher and comes with sea views, too. Vegan restaurants are also taking off, particularly in Athens.

places to visit in greece tourist

3. Find your nearest laiki

The spirit of ancient Greece lives on in the weekly laiki, or outdoor fruit and vegetable market that takes place rain or shine throughout the year on Fridays. A visit to a laiki is a great way to get an eyeful and taste of nature's bounty for which Greece is justly famous for. Every neighborhood in Athens has its own laiki and some are bigger and better than others. One of the best is in Pagrati, on Archimidous Street right behind the Panathenaic Stadium (the world's only stadium built entirely of marble). Besides organic produce you'll find plenty of traditional comestibles like extra-virgin olive oil, halva and honey for sale.

4. Greece isn't just for the summer months

One of the greatest Greek myths is that the many islands are strictly for summertime escapes, but that's far from the case. True, many islands rock their Greek summer vibes best in the peak months of July and August (the months that also pull the most crowds), but swimming season heats up as early as May and in many places doesn't wind down until November. Little islands near Athens like Hydra and Spetses are worth visiting even in winter and big islands like Crete have plenty of cultural attractions and historic sites to keep you busy throughout the year.

places to visit in greece tourist

5. Don't take a three-island day cruise

When you are in the Piraeus port you'll see many advertisements for three-island cruises that promise you a mini-odyssey to a trio of islands close to Athens. Generally these are Aegina, Hydra and Poros. Focus on one island instead. Packing three islands into a single day trip is something that Greeks themselves would never do, it diminishes both the quantity and quality of your time. If you are really into ancient ruins, spend time on Aegina. For dramatic scenery, Hydra's the spot. Among all the islands within an easy ferry journey from Athens/Piraeus, Poros easily qualifies as the quiet charmer where you could linger for hours over Greek coffees and delightful harbor views.

6. Greek islands aren't just for hitting the beach

Greece has some 6,000 islands, of which about 227 are inhabited. That represents a lot of geographical diversity. Some islands have gorgeous beaches -- think Mykonos, Kefalonia and Corfu -- while others have a mix of decent beaches and landscapes that offer up the possibility of more varied activities. Kalymnos is the place for rock climbing and bouldering, Paros is ideal for windsurfing and kite surfing, Sifnos and Tinos (and to a certain extent Santorini) are much favored by foodies and so forth. The shoulder season, April to June and also October, is often ideal for these beyond-the-beach pursuits.

7.  Skipping Santorini is not a sin

Two essential Santorini travel facts: the first is that yes, it's a geologically unique island and the second is that yes, you should probably also skip it. How dare I? Well, due to far too many cruise ships disgorging way too many people onto such a small place, the wisp of an island has degenerated into a sort of hyper-sanitized Selfie Island and really, how much fun is that? The views over the volcanic caldera are cool as are the Minoan ruins at Akrotiri but the beaches aren't great and the good hotels and restaurants tend to be overpriced.

So check it out if you must but make sure you avoid the months of June, July, August and now all of September too. Other Aegean islands beckon with their own brand of gorgeousness, whether that be breezy Andros, volcanic Milos and myriad others.

Read more: Which European countries don't use the euro currency and why?

places to visit in greece tourist

8. You should visit Greece during Easter

Greeks celebrate Easter with a fervor most Europeans reserve for Christmas -- and the enthusiasm has a distinctly noncommercial flavor at that. The Greek Orthodox Church still holds sway over many aspects of contemporary Greek life and Easter week is when some of the more celebratory aspects really kick in, with all manner of feasts and public processions that begin on Palm Sunday and vary from location to location but that are particularly colorful on islands like Corfu.

9. Think of Crete as a separate country

Because in many respects it is. Starting with size: Crete is 160 miles from one end to the other and is the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. That means it's difficult to see it all in a single take, nor should you try. The landscapes are stunningly varied and unlike the more stereotypical Greek island getaways the Cretan economy is not wholly dependent on tourism: historic cities like Heraklion and Chania also have a youthful vibrancy that's hard to resist.

There are numerous nonstop flights from Crete's two major airports in Heraklion and Chania in the peak summer season and year-round connections from Athens. From Athens/Piraeus there are also daily ferry departures, they typically leave around 9 p.m. and arrive in Crete at 6 a.m. While these ferries resemble small cruise ships with plenty of seating options (including cabins), a flight on Aegean will you get from Athens to Crete in just about an hour.

places to visit in greece tourist

10. Remember the mainland

Greece is more than Athens and the islands. The region of which Athens is a part, Attica, is home to some of the most important sites in antiquity from Marathon to Cape Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon. South and east of the Greek capital, the Peloponnese offers a dramatically chiseled coastline and plenty of historical gems too, like the city of Nafplion -- the first capital of Greece -- and the remarkable fortress isle of Monemvasia. The northern city of Thessaloniki, named after Alexander the Great's half-sister, is worth a detour for its history, museums and excellent restaurants.

places to visit in greece tourist

11. You needn't spend a fortune to have a blast in Mykonos

Stick around Greece for any length of time and you're bound to hear Greeks bemoan how Mykonos has become an enclave affordable only for the likes of Arab princes and their consorts (who may or may not include Lindsay Lohan). While there is some truth to that, don't let it put you off a visit because the cosmopolitan Mykonos vibe is something you won't find anywhere else. The small Cycladic island has some of the best beaches, restaurants, hotels and nightclubs in the Mediterranean. July and August are the months to avoid, but if you can manage to hit Mykonos in June or September, you'll probably have a great time and without necessarily breaking the bank.

places to visit in greece tourist

Bottom line

Greece is a country with attractions that are so iconic everybody thinks they already know the place and to varying degrees maybe they do, but not unlike Madonna, there is a lot more to her than meets the eye. It's when you avoid insisting on the cliches -- you probably don't need a whole day to snap selfies at the Acropolis or an overpriced seafood lunch in the touristy center of Mykonos town -- that the colors of Greece really begin to reveal themselves. And if you can avoid those peak crowded months of July (especially the second half) and August you'll very likely have a better holiday experience in Greece overall.

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Older adults who love their life are sharing their best advice every young person needs to hear, 10 restaurant chains that serve the best pancakes, 5 best kettlebell exercises for runners to build and strengthen the glutes, quads and hamstrings, best toys for 3 year old, the best floral perfumes to fall in love with, the best at-home hair glosses and glazes that give you a salon refresh in no time, beautiful european island named best place in world to visit in 2024, the best (& easiest) way to care for dry, wrinkly skin, the 8 best hot chocolate mixes for chilly nights, 15 of the best towns and cities to visit in greece.

places to visit in greece tourist

Greece is a country renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. With its numerous islands and mainland towns, Greece offers an array of destinations for travelers. Here are 15 of the best towns and cities to visit in Greece:

1. Athens: As the nation’s capital, Athens is the heart of ancient history with landmarks like the Acropolis and Parthenon. It’s a city where modernity meets antiquity.

2. Santorini: Famous for its dramatic views, white-washed houses with blue domes, and spectacular sunsets, this island is a must-visit in the Cyclades.

3. Mykonos: Known for its lively nightlife and beautiful beaches, Mykonos also boasts charming windmills and an iconic waterfront.

4. Chania: Located on the island of Crete, Chania features Venetian harbor, narrow shopping streets, and waterfront restaurants.

5. Corfu: With Venetian influence, Corfu Town is characterized by its fortresses, green landscapes, and pristine beaches.

6. Nafplio: A seaport town in the Peloponnese known for its medieval old town, fortifications, and nearby ancient sites like Epidaurus.

7. Rhodes Town: This town offers a medieval old town that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, historical architecture, and delightful beaches.

8. Thessaloniki: Greece’s second-largest city bursts with youthful energy, historical sites like the White Tower and Byzantine walls along with a pulsating food scene.

9. Delphi: Once considered the center of the world by ancient Greeks; Delphi today is an archaeological site surrounded by mountains and a modern village offering spectacular vistas.

10. Oia: This is another gem on Santorini famous for its sunsets — picturesque cave houses are carved into cliffs overlooking the caldera.

11. Rethymno: Blending historical significance with beautiful landscapes on Crete Island; Rethymno’s old town charms with its Renaissance architecture and Fortezza castle.

12. Kalamata: Known for producing world-class olives; Kalamata has an inviting Old Town area featuring churches and museums set against a backdrop of the Taygetos Mountains.

13. Hydra: Just off the Peloponnese coast is Hydra — an idyllic island where no cars are allowed; only donkeys transport people through steep marble-cobbled lanes amid stone mansions.

14. Metsovo: Nestled in the Pindus Mountains is Metsovo — a traditional Epirot mountain town known for local cheese varieties and wine as well as alpine-inspired architecture.

15. Lindos: This scenic village on the island of Rhodes showcases an ancient acropolis atop a hill; inside it combines winding alleys with whitewashed homes leading to a turquoise bay below.

Each of these locations holds unique charm offering cultural experiences, history lessons intertwined with mythologies, culinary delights—framed by scenic beauty—that ensure an unforgettable Greek odyssey.

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  • Last fall, my friend and I chose to visit Crete, Greece , over more popular destinations.
  • The island, known in mythology as the home of the Minotaur, offered plenty of attractions.
  • After visiting Santorini , I think the laid-back vibes of Crete make it a more underrated spot.

Insider Today

Last fall, a good friend and I decided we wanted to go to Greece. But rather than opt for Santorini or Mykonos , we decided to spend a week in Crete.

All I knew about the island was what I had learned from Greek mythology — it was famously the home of the labyrinth that housed the mighty Minotaur.

But I quickly learned that it has a lot more to offer.

Here's what my trip was like, and why I think it's the most underrated spot in the country.

Early fall seemed to be a great time to visit.

places to visit in greece tourist

We visited in October, which ended up being ideal.

Weather-wise, it was still warm enough to swim, but it wasn't terribly hot.

Although there were other tourists, it also didn't feel super packed. The busy season tends to be in the summer months.

Crete is the largest of the Greek Islands.

places to visit in greece tourist

Although places like Santorini tend to get a little more hype in the tourism industry, Crete is actually the largest of the Greek Islands .

I also think it's one of the easiest to get to.

It sits in the Aegean Sea and houses two international airports that run nonstop flights from Paris, London, and Berlin. If you're flying in from somewhere else, you'll probably have a layover in Athens , like I did.

There are also ferries from the other Greek Islands. But it's good to know that they don't run as frequently in the offseason.

Renting a car allowed us to see more of the island.

places to visit in greece tourist

Public transit was available on the island, but we decided to rent a car so we'd have more freedom.

Only certain parts of the island are accessible by car — there are several mountains, making it hard to cross from east to west. On our week-long trip, we only had time to explore the west side.

We ended up getting a Toyota Rav4 outfitted with a tent on top through Lazy Snail Campers and stayed at the many campsites around Crete .

The rental came with sleeping bags, pillows, cooking supplies, towels, tables, chairs, and even a solar shower, so we didn't need to bring anything but clothes and toiletries.

Samariá Gorge was easily the highlight of the trip.

places to visit in greece tourist

One of the island's main attractions is the Samariá Gorge, a 13-mile hike between the White Mountains . It was tough, but there was lots of beautiful scenery and interesting historic settlements along the path.

To avoid having to figure out all the logistics, we decided to book a tour for about 50 euros, or $54. A local tour operator picked us up from our campsite very early in the morning and drove us to the entrance of the gorge.

Luckily, we were able to hike at our own pace. The guide was only there to "sweep" the back and make sure no one got lost.

At the end of the hike, we ended up in the secluded beach town of Agia Roumeli. We didn't bring bathing suits but jumped in the ocean to cool off anyway, which felt incredibly cathartic.

After a few hours, a ferry took us back to Chania, where we could catch a bus to our campsite.

Like the more popular spots, Crete is filled with beautiful beaches.

places to visit in greece tourist

One of the most famous beaches in Crete is Elafonissi, which is famous for its pink sand. But when we went, it was very crowded.

Evidently, there have been issues with people stealing sand from the beach, so the hue wasn't as pronounced.

My favorite beach was Falasarna, sometimes spelled Falassarna.

It was busy, but the occupants mostly seemed to be Greek families and not tourists. We spent the day after the gorge hike there so we could have some time to sit and relax.

Many of the campsites were also along the water, making for a more secluded beach experience.

But there was plenty to do in the cities as well.

places to visit in greece tourist

Crete has several sizable cities sprinkled around the island.

We started and ended in the largest city, Heraklion, which has a cool fortress along its old port.

Before our gorge hike, we spent a day in Chania, exploring the city's old town and Venetian Harbor. We also visited the old-town section of Rethymno.

Paleochora, which was more of a town than a city, had a really beautiful traditional Greek church that I'm glad we saw.

The food was fantastic.

places to visit in greece tourist

This goes for all of Greece, but the food is amazing.

We tried many traditional dishes , but I especially loved the moussaka, Greek salad, and spanakopita.

Most restaurants also gave complimentary shots of raki, an anise-flavored spirit, and some sort of dessert.

As fans of Greek mythology, we made sure to visit the Minotaur.

places to visit in greece tourist

Knossos is a Minoan palace that's believed to have been the site of the Minotaur's labyrinth from Greek mythology.

Unsurprisingly, it was filled with tourists — it was probably the busiest attraction we visited.

I can't wait to go back to Crete.

places to visit in greece tourist

I was so pleasantly surprised by everything that Crete had to offer. And, for the most part, the crowds were pretty calm during our week-long trip.

When I traveled to Santorini right after, I longed to be back on the more laid-back island.

I can't wait to return to Crete and explore the east side of the island.

places to visit in greece tourist

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Reader's Digest

The Best Time to Visit Greece, According to a Local

T hink of a Mediterranean vacation, and Greece is sure to make your list of must-visit destinations. Its blend of seaside escapes, history, culture and mouthwatering cuisine make it one of the best places to travel for all types of tourists. And let's not forget its islands! They're prime honeymoon hot spots, consistently serving up some of the most romantic getaways . I can fully appreciate the draw—I loved it so much that I moved here, after all. And I'll tell you this: It pays to know the best time to visit Greece before booking your trip.

Greek vacations are more popular than ever. In fact, a recent report from Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union, found that Greece was one of only six member countries to receive more flights in September 2023 than it did in September 2019. In other words, Greece is bouncing back to pre-COVID-19 levels. And that means you'll have to contend with other tourists if you take a trip here.

As a local who's lived in and written about this eclectic country for more than a decade, I know from experience that it's impossible to avoid tourists entirely. It's all about timing. Whether you want to beat the crowds, bask in the best weather imaginable or travel on the cheap , here's the best time to visit Greece for the ultimate European vacation.

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What is the best time of year to visit Greece?

It's hard to pinpoint a single best time to visit Greece, and that's because it all depends on your priorities and how you weigh crowdedness, cost and climate. To spend the least amount of money, you may need to visit when temps are on the cooler side. For peak sunbathing weather, you'll shell out more cash and contend with greater crowds.

If you want to avoid a Greece overrun by tourists, skip the summer months. In June, July and August, beaches are typically crowded, though it's possible to find hidden coves even during this peak season—especially if you take a small boat tour from or around some of the islands or the Athens coastline.

No matter when you land on Greek soil, you'll have to deal with some tourists. According to Bank of Greece data, 5.76 million international travelers visited the country in the first five months of 2023, proof of Greece's ever-growing popularity. Still, there are quieter times to explore the country, such as during the shoulder-season months of September and October, early November and late March through May. Whether you're discovering ancient ruins, exploring mainland destinations or bopping around little-known islands, you'll find fewer crowds, mild temps and cheaper-than-high-season prices.

For me, the best time to visit Greece is from September until the end of October. The weather on a lot of the southern islands, such as Rhodes and Crete, is still warm enough to swim, with average daytime temperatures of 75 and 73 degrees respectively. Plus, the crowds are gone, as children have headed back to school.

Springtime is also a great option, and I recommend timing your visit so you can experience Greek Orthodox Easter. It usually falls in April or May (in 2024, it occurs on May 5), and it's the most important holiday on the Greek calendar—more so than Christmas even. Expect to eat plenty of delicious lamb and join in neighborhood celebrations and street processions to the local church.

What time of year is the cheapest to visit Greece?

While a Greek getaway isn't necessarily cheap, there are ways to save money when traveling to the country. For starters, avoid the high-season summer months of June, July and August. The winter off-season sees prices drop considerably, and this tends to be the best time to find hotel deals. On Tripadvisor, for instance, the same Athens hotel costs about $52 more in April than in January—and though summer rates aren't available yet, it's safe to bet that the price will rise in June, July and August.

Traveling during the winter will serve you well when booking your flight too. The cheapest airfare from the United States tends to occur during the winter months. When I searched Expedia for flights for a two-week vacation, I found a round-trip ticket from Newark, New Jersey, to Athens in early December going for $473. A round-trip ticket from Newark to Athens in June comes in at $992.

When is the weather the best in Greece?

Best weather is subjective, depending on where you're traveling from and if you like your vacation to be hot. Without a doubt, the summer of 2023 set records. As the Guardian reported, the country had the hottest July in 50 years, with temperatures in Athens repeatedly exceeding 104 degrees. So if you're here for the Mediterranean island sunbathing, you'll need to account for these levels of heat (and maybe plan some indoor activities, just in case).

As a local, I think the best time to travel to Greece for great weather is September, when daytime temperatures are a balmy 82 degrees and sea temperatures 77 degrees, making swimming still possible. The fall months of October and early November average 64 to 72 degrees, so it's pleasant to sit outside at a cafe, sipping the staple drink of a Greek frappe (cold coffee milkshake).

December through February are the country's coldest months, with daytime temperatures averaging 54 to 57 degrees. Thanks to the Mediterranean climate, winters can be mild—but they're also wet. You may even see snow on the mainland in the mountainous areas to the north and on some of the islands, such as Crete. It creates good skiing opportunities, and while they can't compete with some of the world's more famous ski resorts, there are a handful of ski resorts in the country that locals (and in-the-know tourists) use yearly.

When packing your suitcase , think layers for all seasons. And be prepared for high humidity, which makes it feel sticky in the summer and chilly in the winter.

What is the best time of year to go to Athens?

The best time to visit Greece if you're planning to stop in the capital city is during the fall or spring shoulder seasons. In April, May, September and October, daytime and nighttime temperatures aren't uncomfortably hot or too cold. The spring and fall months offer plenty of opportunity to wander the Athenian streets, discovering the small neighborhoods. Plus, the cooler weather makes climbing up to the Acropolis a much more pleasurable experience.

It's also worth mentioning that crowds in the shoulder season and off-season are considerably smaller, so lines to enter the Acropolis are shorter. In fact, the wait to view this ancient monument gets so long in the summer that Greece had to set a cap of 20,000 visitors daily to shorten lines during the dangerous heat. By visiting in the off-season, you won't be waiting in line in the sweltering heat, and there won't be a mad rush to buy a ticket before the cap is reached.

If you're looking for even more things to do in Greece , visit on Ohi Day. The national holiday occurs on Oct. 28 and commemorates the day in 1940 when Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas rejected Mussolini's ultimatum to have free passage through Greece for his Italian troops. You'll find street parades all over the country on this holiday, but the one in central Athens is particularly impressive, with its added military parade and marching band.

What is the best time to visit Santorini and the other Greek islands?

Greece is famous for its islands, especially Santorini, with its blue-domed churches and sugar cube houses, so atypical for the Cycladic island chain it's located within, and Mykonos, with its cosmopolitan atmosphere, cobbled alleyways and hidden coves. They tend to attract visitors during the summer months, but that may not be the ideal time to vacation here.

If you're looking for a beach vacation away from the crowds, my advice would be to book a trip for September. It'll still be warm enough to swim and get a nice tan, but you won't have to deal with a ton of tourists.

Don't rule out wintertime for your trip to the Greek islands. Admittedly, much shuts down in the off season, but you'll get to experience the real Greece, have frequent sunny days and still find places to eat traditional Greek food, such as souvlaki (the locals need to eat too!). The lack of crowds allows you to roam the islands at your own pace.

Besides, temps aren't too bad even in the winter. Santorini's caldera entices with morning mists floating over its surface. And with average winter temperatures of 55 degrees, it's not too chilly.

There are several flights from mainland Greece to the islands that are cheaper during the spring and fall, but my favorite way to travel is by ferry. The lack of competition on ferry routes means this method of transportation isn't cheap at any time of the year, but Greek ferries resemble mini cruise ships and offer lovely cabins on longer routes. Make it a part of the whole experience: Take a weekend break in Athens followed by a journey by ferry to the islands. Note that ferries have a reduced schedule in the spring and fall months, with more connections in the summer.

How many days in Greece is enough?

Just as you would when planning a trip to destinations like London and Hawaii , start by considering where you'll be flying out of. The ideal number of days to spend in Greece depends on where you're traveling from. If you're flying from the United States, you probably want to spend longer in the country than if you're adding a stop in Greece after visiting nearby Italy.

Also consider how much of the country you want to see and the type of tourism you're interested in. Do you want to stick to a few days in Athens exploring the ancient sites, then head to an island for some fun in the sun? Do you want to just connect in Athens before flying immediately to a Greek island, or would you rather make the city your home base for the entire trip? Or are you interested in heading to the Greek countryside to experience traditional villages?

Most trips start and end in Athens, where you can experience the city in at least three full days. Visitors then tend to hop on a ferry or fly to a popular Greek island like Santorini or Mykonos, either basing themselves there or ferry-hopping between two or three others. You can reach mainland destinations by train or by hiring a car—factor in travel times between destinations when planning your vacation.

For a decent taster of the country, plan for a 10-day trip: Athens, plus one or two islands. Two weeks can provide a lovely combination of a city break and countryside getaways, plus swimming and sunbathing around the Greek coast.

One thing's for sure: Don't try to see it all in one trip. Greece is a country to savor and explore at leisure, with time to wander the charming cobbled streets and sip a frappe in a local cafe, watching local life unfold around you. Greece and its monuments have been around for centuries—they're not going anywhere.

Places to stay in Greece

Most vacations in Greece will commence in Athens, and there are many neighborhoods to choose from when booking a stay. While not a sprawling city by U.S. standards, it is one of the bigger European cities.

If you've never visited Athens before, a hotel located smack dab in the center, near the Acropolis and its accompanying museum, is a great choice. The upscale Herodion Hotel attracts visitors with its rooftop-bar views of the famous monument. Plus, it offers airport transfers.

Boutique hotels such as Asomaton (don't miss its relaxing plunge pool) and Altar Suites have cozy vibes in lovingly renovated centuries-old buildings. They're within walking distance of all Athens's main sites, as well as the contemporary old gasworks district of Gazi, where you'll find nightlife, tavernas and the industrial museum.

Heading to Santorini, base yourself at either Voreina Gallery Suites or Zannos Melathron Hotel . Both properties were renovated to their former splendor in the less-busy village of Pyrgos. You still get the magnificent Caldera sunset views without the crowds.

In Mykonos, Mykonos Town makes the best base if you don't mind being in the thick of it all. Hotels such as Semeli and Myconian Korali Relais & Chateaux have sleek Grecian lines and unfussy furnishings. Both have pools and airport transfers.

Book your visit

  • Eurostat : "Commercial flights in the summer still below 2019 level"
  • Enterprise Greece : "Greek tourism on track for record-setting year"
  • Schengen Visa News : "Greece to Introduce Caps on Daily Visitors to Acropolis"
  • The Guardian : "Heatwave set to be Greece's longest as extreme weather continues in Europe"
  • World Bank Group : "Climate Change Knowledge Portal–Climatology; Greece"
  • Greek National Tourism Organisation : "Athens"

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When is the best time to visit Greece?

  • Month-by-month

The best time to visit Greece is outside the busy summer peaks, during spring (April to June) and early fall (September and October). Temperatures are warm but not stifling, and you’ll find that destinations are open but still relatively quiet.

The period from November to February tends to be colder, but city attractions remain open and are pleasantly quiet. Summer brings steamy, hot weather and hordes of visitors at the main sights and on the islands.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Greece

Meteora in winter, Greece

Visiting Greece in January - February

The year in Greece begins with cool temperatures and damp weather in some areas. Meteora and the Delphi area can even see snow. For the most part, seasonal destinations such as the Greek islands are closed down for the winter. But, cities like Athens remain open for business, and major sights are pleasantly uncrowded.

Events & Festivals

  • Epiphany on January 6 is celebrated by local priests blessing major bodies of water, and a chill-inducing tradition in which adventurous Greeks leap in to retrieve a cross thrown in by the priest in the hope of good fortune for the coming year.

Changing of the Guards, Athens

Visiting Greece in March

March marks the beginning of spring across the country. Although it’s still low season in most places, and many island destinations are yet to open, attractions across the mainland are open and much quieter than they will be in a few weeks’ time.

  • Greek Independence Day is celebrated on March 25 throughout the country with military parades and traditional folk dress and music.
  • March usually falls almost entirely within Lent and, starting with Clean Monday at the end of February or beginning of March, Orthodox Greeks traditionally observe this time by abstaining from meat, fish, dairy and eggs.

Greek Easter bread, Greece

Visiting Greece in April

Most years, the highlight of April is Greek Orthodox Easter, which occurs near the end of the month or in the first few days of May. The weather at this time is excellent for sightseeing or hiking, with plenty of sun and mild temperatures averaging around 68°F.

  • The celebrations of Holy Week and Easter, culminating on Easter Sunday, are usually the highlight of the month and mark the most important holiday of the year.

Local taverna, Greece

Visiting Greece in May

One of the best times to visit Greece, May is a good month to travel if you’re looking to experience both the cities and the islands. While sea temperatures can still be chilly, the weather is usually warm enough for swimming, and it’s not too hot for touring the cities. May marks the month when all the island destinations open fully for the summer season.

Theatre of Epidavros, Greece

Visiting Greece in June

June sees temperatures rising and crowds increasing but, overall, it’s a very pleasant time to be in Greece. Everywhere is open, the sun is warm, and plenty of festivals are taking place across the country.

  • Beginning in June and lasting throughout the summer, the Athens and Epidavros Festival showcases performances, including Greek plays, in ancient and modern venues across both cities, including the Theatre of Epidavros.

Kleftico, Milos

Visiting Greece in July - August

The heat of summer in July and August brings temperatures that can run north of 100°F and plenty of sunshine with very little rain. At this time of year, the cities can feel oppressive under the unrelenting sun and sights get extremely crowded, but it’s a good time for water activities, if you don’t mind the coastal towns and islands being busier.

  • The Feast of the Assumption on August 15 is a national public holiday, when people return to their hometown to enjoy the festivities.

Nafplio, Greece

Visiting Greece in September

September is a great time to visit Greece. The weather remains hot throughout the month, sea temperatures stay warm, and visitors start to thin out as children go back to school. While the main sights are still busy, September is usually better for touring compared with hotter and more crowded July and August.

Meteora, Greece

Visiting Greece in October

Visiting in October represents a good-value time to go, when you can enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds. The islands start to wind down ahead of winter, but usually stay open until the end of the month. In central and northern areas, leaves turn to their autumnal hues.

  • Ochi (or Ohi) Day on October 28 commemorates the date in 1940 when the Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas said ohi (no) to Mussolini’s demand for the Axis forces to occupy parts of Greece.

Galaxidi, Greece

Visiting Greece in November - December

The final two months of the year bring cooler temperatures to Greece. Island destinations close down for the winter, while historical sites across the mainland remain quietly open.

  • Christmas, while not as important as Easter, is celebrated on December 25 as a joyful holiday shared with family.

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    Better still, having a guide gives you a chance to catch our breath as they pause to explain things on the way up. On the advice of a friend who had traveled to Athens a few weeks before us, we booked an evening tour.After 5:00, the day starts to cool off and the crowds start to thin.

  27. Skip Santorini and Go to Crete in Greece, From a Frequent Traveler

    The views from Chania Harbor were incredible. Hannah Docter-Loeb Although places like Santorini tend to get a little more hype in the tourism industry, Crete is actually the largest of the Greek ...

  28. The Best Time to Visit Greece, According to a Local

    For me, the best time to visit Greece is from September until the end of October. The weather on a lot of the southern islands, such as Rhodes and Crete, is still warm enough to swim, with average ...

  29. Best Time To Visit Greece

    Visiting Greece in January - February. The year in Greece begins with cool temperatures and damp weather in some areas. Meteora and the Delphi area can even see snow. For the most part, seasonal destinations such as the Greek islands are closed down for the winter. But, cities like Athens remain open for business, and major sights are pleasantly uncrowded.