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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.

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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. 

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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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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

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

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

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. 

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

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  

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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).

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.

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.

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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Home » Travel Guides » Greece » 25 Best Things to Do in Greece

25 Best Things to Do in Greece

The land of Greece is one infused with ancient mythology and if you like archeology, history, art, and philosophy then a trip to this fascinating country is not to be missed. Greece is made up of a series of idyllic islands that are surrounded by jet blue seas and covered in dainty white buildings, and you will also find crumbling ruins, engaging museums, and pretty coastal towns aplenty.

From throbbing cities like Athens to a slower pace of life in little villages by the sea, Greece is a mosaic of different experiences and landscapes, as well as one of the world’s largest open air museums.

Here are the best things to do in Greece :

1. Tour the Acropolis

Dominating the skyline of the capital city of Greece, Athens, is the Acropolis.

If you are in Greece then this is probably the number one attraction not to miss and the complex, made from glittering marble, used to be the site of the famous statue of Athena who was also the goddess of Athens.

Anyone remotely interested in ancient architecture can marvel at the Doric columns and the spectacular temples and the Acropolis is lined with pathways that let you walk around at your leisure and enjoy the highlight of this monument which is the stunning Parthenon.

Highly recommended tour : Acropolis and Acropolis Museum Tour with Entry Tickets

2. Climb Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus is probably one of the most famous mountains in the world and if you are a fan of Greek mythology then this is not be missed off your itinerary.

If you want to climb the mountain then you will need to travel to Litochoro where you can trek part or all the way to the top depending on your ability and fitness levels.

Mount Olympus is known in Greek mythology as the spot where Zeus sat on his throne as well as the place where Hades ruled the Underworld, so as you climb you can imagine the legends that are interconnected with this mountain.

Book online : Mount Olympus: Easy Hiking Tour with Wine Tasting and Food

3. Uncover Lake Plastira

Lake Plastira is something unusual in Greece which is known for being blessed with a plethora of natural beauty.

What makes this lake different is that it is manmade although this doesn’t make it any less impressive.

The lake is surrounded by oak and chestnut trees and you can go canoeing or rafting here as well as horse riding or hiking along the trails around the lake.

Lake Plastira is located in the Larditsa region of Greece and offers an adventure filled afternoon.

4. Admire the architecture in Santorini

Santorini is also known as the island of Thira and is the haven of honeymooners looking to get away from it all in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Santorini is known for its picture postcard good looks which see it covered in traditional Cycladic homes which gleam white under the hot Greek sun and contrast beautifully with the deep blue seas and churches.

Walking around the island gives you the chance to take in all the spectacular architecture here and because the landscape is formed by a volcanic crater you can expect some of the most spectacular views in all of Greece.

Check out this list of the best tours in Santorini

5. Visit the Delphi

Delphi has the claim to fame of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as one of the top attractions in Greece.

Delphi sits on the sides of Mount Parnassus and was a popular pilgrimage spot in the days of old for those who would come here to pay homage to Apollo, the ancient Greek god of healing, music, light, and prophecy.

Followers would come here to seek guidance from the Oracle at Delphi and nowadays you will find temples, an impressive stadium, a theater, and delightful ancient ruins.

Delphi is located around 180 kilometers away from the capital city of Athens, so this makes a good place to come if you want to get out of the city and explore a different area of Greece.

Suggested tour : Delphi Guided Walking Tour

6. Explore the Samaria Gorge

Nestled on the stunning island of Crete is the Samaria Gorge which is a must-visit for any nature lovers to Greece.

The gorge spans 16 kilometers although parts of it are just 4 meters wide.

There are a range of treks available at the gorge although if you want to walk along the entire section then it can take anything up to seven hours.

Guided tour : Full-Day Samaria Gorge Trekking Excursion from Chania 

7. Discover the Acropolis Museum

One of the most popular modern attractions in Athens is the Acropolis Museum which opened in 2009. You will know the building when you see it as it’s made of cutting edge glass and steel and houses some of the most famous artifacts in Greece.

Some of the signature pieces in the museum include the Moschophoros which is a statue of a man with a calf on his shoulders and the Parthenon marbles.

The museum is also known for its cafe which has a terrace that looks across to the breathtaking Acropolis.

Book online : Acropolis Museum Tour

8. Marvel at the Epidaurus Theater

In Epidaurus in the region of Argolis is the Epidaurus Theater, a ceremonial space that is dedicated to the famous god of medicine, Asclepius.

The Sanctuary of Asclepius is located next to the theater, and you can visit both at the same time.

The theater dates from the 4th century and you can sit in the stone tiers and imagine watching a performance here in the years of old.

9. Visit the monasteries of Meteora

Meteora is known for its monasteries that sit on top of towering rock formations.

The monks that live in the area are Eastern Orthodox and fled to Meteora as a result of the invasion of the Turkish army.

There are 6 monasteries in Meteora, although at one point there would have been over 20, and as a result this is one of the most spectacular religious sites in Greece.

Meteora is crowded with ancient boulders and monolithic pillars and this is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site as the rock formations offer one of the most haunting and beautiful landscapes in all of Europe.

Available tour: Meteora Full-Day Trip from Athens by Train

10. Go spelunking at Melissani Cave

Located near to Karavomilo is Melissani Cave which is a craggy cave known for its beauty.

The cave is almost 4 kilometers long and was formed when water eroded the soft rocks over the centuries.

Inside the cave is the equally famous Melissani Lake, an underground body of water that was discovered in 1951. In ancient times the cave was dedicated to the Nymph Melissani who gave the cave its name.

You can go down into the cave via a tunnel and then go out on the lake and glide across the turquoise waters on a boat.

Book online : Melissani Lake and Antisamos Beach Private Tour

11. Admire Hephaestus Temple

Located in the charming Thissio neighborhood of Athens is the Hephaestus Temple.

As with all temples in Greece, this one is dedicated to the gods, in this case Hephaestus who was the god of fire and Athena, the goddess of pottery and ancient crafts.

The temple dates from 450 BC and sits atop Agoreao Koronos Hill.

Designed by the same architect who worked on the Pantheon, Hephaestus Temple is known for its pretty columns and its Pentelic and Parian marble decorations.

You will also find friezes and sculptures dotting the building which is said to be one of the most historically important in all of Greece.

12. Marvel at the Corinth Canal

One of the most amazing feats of engineering in Greece is the Corinth Canal.

It took centuries to build and was started by Nero, the ancient Roman emperor, before finally being finished under the French as late as the 19th century.

The canal is sliced into a section of rock and spans 6 kilometers with sides that soar up to 90 meters.

The canal is still in working order and you can catch ships traveling if you happen to be here at the right time.

One of the other main attractions on the canal is the Zulu Bungy Jump which is certainly not for those who don’t have a head for heights but is also an amazing way to take in all the majesty of the canal.

13. Learn some history at the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

If you are in Thessaloniki then make sure not to miss a trip to the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki which is owned by the Ministry of Culture.

The building it is housed in dates from 1962 and is a modern Greek treasure in itself and is a wonderful example of new architecture in Greece.

At the museum you will find artifacts from Macedonia, an ancient civilization of Greece (not to be confused with the country of the same name!) which are separated into seven sections that you can walk through and tell the story of this part of the country.

14. Get a head for heights at Mount Athos

Sitting on the Chalcidice Peninsula is Mount Athos which has long been considered a place of great importance in Greek history.

The mount is the home of 20 monasteries that dot its scenic slopes and this is a central point of worship in Eastern Christian Orthodox faith.

The most amazing thing about the monasteries here is that they are still in full working order and this makes them the oldest monastic community in the world today.

One thing to note here is that, due to ancient laws that govern the area, only male visitors can enter the monastery areas.

15. Explore the Palace of Malia

The Palace of Malia in Malia dates from 1900 BC although it has been rebuilt several times since then following a range of natural disasters like earthquakes.

There are a variety of exhibitions halls here as well as photographic galleries and scale models of how the complex would have looked in days gone by.

Look out for some of its signature pieces such as the Kernos Stone which is a disk with 24 holes in it.

16. Enjoy Ancient Corinth

Ancient Corinth is even more impressive as it sits in a village that highlights the difference between modern day surroundings and these ancient ruins which are a mix of Roman and Greek relics.

If you like your history then this used to be the home of Jason of the Argonauts (who stole the Golden Fleece). Some of the highlights here are the Temple of Apollo as well as the Peribolos of Apollo and an ancient theater.

There is also a museum where you can learn more about the history.

Much of the complex is Roman but one Greek addition is the Doric Temple of Apollo that dates from the 5th century.

17. Visit the ancient site of Phaestos

Phaestos sits around 60 kilometers from Iralkio and offers you stunning vistas over the Messara Plain and Mount Psiloritis.

Phaestos is a ruined palatial city and the palace here is similar to Knossos.

The big draw here is the fact that the city is still in a mostly ruined state which adds an other-worldly charm to it and you will also find some pretty frescoes here.

The whole site is one big history lesson and you can explore areas such as the theater, the main palace buildings, the storerooms, and even the crypt.

18. Enjoy the myths and legends at Ancient Mycenae

Mycenae is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was made famous in Homer’s the Iliad and the Odyssey.

Homer claimed that Mycenae was built by Perseus who was the son of Zeus and Danae and it belonged to the Royal House of Atreus.

Whatever the real story, we know that Mycenae was founded in the 6th century BC and some of the highlights here include the mighty Lion Gate and the royal cemetery.

You will also find the Agamemnon Palace and the Great Court as well as smaller houses that contained famous artifacts like the Warrior Vase.

19. Learn some history at the Museum of the Kalavryta Holocaust

If you are in Kalavryta then make sure to visit this museum which is also the only holocaust museum in Greece.

The museum is designed to honor the residents of this city who were attacked and killed by the Nazis during the Second World War.

The museum sits inside a former schoolhouse which is where many residents lost their lives and you will find galleries here that include personal possessions of the victims as well as photographs of Kalavryta through the ages.

20. Relax on Balos Beach

Located on the scenic Gramvousa Peninsula on the island of Crete is the legendary Balos Beach which makes one of the best places to relax and enjoy the surf in Greece.

The beach is made up of delightful lagoons that open up onto azure waters and it is so clear here that you will be able to see a plethora of underwater life in the form of fish and shellfish.

You can rent sun beds and parasols and this is one o the prettiest spots on Crete to spend some time sunbathing or swimming.

21. Enjoy the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil

Located in Othonos Amalias in Patras is the delightful Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil which can come as a refreshing change if you have been visiting ruins, temples, and historical museums throughout your time in Greece.

The museum tells the story of the humble olive and how it became one of the most important ingredients in Greek life.

You can visit galleries that will explain how olive oil was used for fuel and in perfume, and there are a variety of ancient oil presses that are still in working order.

22. Visit the Vergina Royal Tombs Museum

The Vergina Royal Tombs Museum in Macedonia is not to be missed if you are in the area as you can visit the tumulus here, which are the ancient burial mounds, and go down into the royal tombs located underground.

The highlight here is the tomb of Phillip II which dates from 336 BC and you will also be able to see the items that he was buried with in preparation for the afterlife including a shield made of gold and ivory, a suit of armor, and silver chalices.

23. Hike the Corfu Trail

The stunning island of Corfu is home to the Corfu Trail where you can go hiking, although don’t imagine a leisurely afternoon stroll.

If you want to walk all 220 kilometers of the trail then it will take 8 to 10 days to walk along it and you will pass all kinds of landscapes along the way.

Much of the trail is made up of dirt tracks and you will weave past turquoise lagoons and rise to scenic summits.

24. Museum of Contemporary Art

Greece is often thought of as a place of antiquity, but if you want to explore its modern side then head to the Museum of Contemporary Art in Hora.

Here you will find some amazing galleries that showcase a whole range of world-renowned contemporary artists and there are also exhibits that are dedicated solely to Greek painters, sculptors, and photographers.

25. Sunbathe in style at Psarou Beach

Psarou Beach in Mykonos is one of the most famous in Greece and is known for its signature blue sun loungers.

There is always a strong party atmosphere here and the beach is covered with bars and restaurants so you can order food and drinks and dance the night away.

This is not one of the cheapest places to visit in Greece however and you will be able to get a sense of the kind of clientele from the amazing super yachts that sit just off shore.

25 Best Things to Do in Greece:

• Tour the Acropolis
• Climb Mount Olympus
• Uncover Lake Plastira
• Admire the architecture in Santorini
• Visit the Delphi
• Explore the Samaria Gorge
• Discover the Acropolis Museum
• Marvel at the Epidaurus Theater
• Visit the monasteries of Meteora
• Go spelunking at Melissani Cave
• Admire Hephaestus Temple
• Marvel at the Corinth Canal
• Learn some history at the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
• Get a head for heights at Mount Athos
• Explore the Palace of Malia
• Enjoy Ancient Corinth
• Visit the ancient site of Phaestos
• Enjoy the myths and legends at Ancient Mycenae
• Learn some history at the Museum of the Kalavryta Holocaust
• Relax on Balos Beach
• Enjoy the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil
• Visit the Vergina Royal Tombs Museum
• Hike the Corfu Trail
• Museum of Contemporary Art
• Sunbathe in style at Psarou Beach

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

17 Best Places to Visit in Greece

Sometimes countries simply don’t live up to the picture on the postcard. Sometimes places become overdone and tired. But “sometimes” doesn’t affect Greece.

Greece continues to preserve and showcase its incredible history as the birthplace of modern civilization. Furthermore, its charming islands remain as captivating as ever.

You’ve seen the pictures, the bougainvilleas awash with white, standing alongside domed churches spliced by narrow streets. It’s all placed precariously above azure seas. A place where the view of the town is as good as the one stemming from it.

Map of Places to Visit in Greece

The romanticism is rich. But the history of Greece takes it a step further. From Athens and Olympia to Meteora and Delphi, there’s no escaping it. And nor would you want to.

With the wealth of amazing places to visit in Greece, Europe’s top travel destinations lives up to its reputation. However, as you’ll see, there are still plenty of stunning destinations to discover.

As the largest island in the Cyclades , there’s much to discover on Naxos. Its interiors boast mountainous scenery dotted by lovely villages . As the altitude lowers, larger townships harbor rich history and pave the way to a gorgeous coastline and head-turning beaches.

The hikers among us will have an itch to stretch their legs and can do so with a trek to the summit of Mount Zas. As you savor the panoramic views at the peak, you’ll also be standing on the birthplace of Zeus.

In Naxos Town, you can explore a 13th century Venetian castle that protected the island from pirates. There are several other towns to explore, including the traditional Apeiranthos village and Filoti.

Whatever you decide, you must capture the sunset at ancient Portara, whose stone gateway from 500BC is like a portal into the gorgeous sunset.

16. Thessaloniki

In the Macedonian region of northern Greece, Thessaloniki is a hub of culture. Spread throughout the nation’s second-largest city are exciting festivals and a nightlife that thrills into the early hours.

The old and the new collide gracefully here in Thessaloniki. The modern districts have evolved around the sightly old town. Byzantine walls, the renowned White Tower and revitalizing Turkish baths showcase the city’s ancient past. In the case of the White Tower, it reaches over 30 meters tall along the waterfront.

On the other hand, there is a strong sense of community that spreads through the local (and colorful) food markets. Thessaloniki is celebrated as a foodie hub and one of the best spots in Greece for local cuisine. This is boosted by regional history with flavors stemming from the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman eras.

The good vibes make their way into the afternoon tavernas and eventually Thessaloniki’s breadth of nightclubs and live venues.

15. Zakynthos

Over two dozen beaches line the coast of Zakynthos, in the Ionian Islands . Navagio Beach, aka Shipwreck Cove, is one of the most photographed in Greece. And for good reason. Its marble white cliffs rise out of the ivory sands, providing a warm hug as you soak in the views of the turquoise sea.

This is just a taste of the wider island. Zakynthos’ craggy coastline is in contrast to many Greek islands. Most beaches are found in secluded alcoves, creating a unique experience for all travelers exacerbated by the lingering Caretta caretta turtles.

Further inland are hilltop villages where you can find traditional monasteries. As the sun goes down, head towards Laganas , where you’ll find out why Zakynthos is garnering rep as a nightlife hub.

14. Olympia

As the birthplace of the Olympic Games, Olympia harbors worldwide significance. The town is shrouded in history and mythology, becoming the stuff of legends once the games resumed after 1,500 years.

In the Peloponnese , the original games began in Olympia and became its connection to Zeus. For a millennium, it brought the Greeks together and is now entirely enshrined as a World Heritage Site.

Once Greece fell under the rule of Roman Emperor Theodosius I, the Olympics ended. These grounds lay dormant for centuries until they were re-discovered in the 1700s. Today, you can explore Olympia and be taken back on a remarkable journey that connects the original games with the modern era.

Highlights include the Temple of Hera, which inspired the Olympic flame, the Temple of Zeus and, of course, the ancient stadium.

Rich in ambiance, delectable cuisine and indigo harbors, Milos is a sensory nirvana. Set in the volcanic Cyclades Islands, Milos boasts an authentic charm thanks to its timeless aura.

Life here is laid back. Azure bays feature as many local fishing boats as they do opulent seafarers. This leads to colorful villages that provide warm welcomes and, naturally, some amazing restaurants.

On Milos, your mornings can begin by walking the quiet streets towards the sea. Here you’ll find colorful fishing villages that have been transformed into waterfront accommodations.

Later, complete your wake up with a dip in Sarakiniko beach that’s surrounded by glistening white volcanic rock and crystalline sea. If you’re up for it, jump off the cliffs or explore nearby caves.

Your afternoons can be spent sailing around Milos, which feels as if you’re floating on a cloud. Or you can explore the island’s ancient catacombs or discover the ruins of the island’s marble theater.

12. Vikos Gorge

Just outside of Monodendri, Vikos Gorge is an unspoiled gem. Its remote location and thus absence of human influence has led to one of Europe’s most biodiverse landscapes. It’s home to the exceedingly rare Epirus, along with over 100 bird species, butterflies and an abundance of fish.

This all combines to create a rich living environment that elevates what is already the world’s deepest gorge. The deep division of the earth is almost biblical. Despite all of this, it remains a criminally underrated destination.

Viewpoints of the gorge are set throughout and your photos are made even more majestic by the surrounding peaks. When the water runs low, you can head down into the gorge to explore a place few have been before you. It’s here you can get up close to the electric blue water and nature that runs orange and burgundy in the autumn.

11. Halkidiki

Halkidiki is a trident-like peninsula near the city of Thessaloniki, sporting excellent beaches. The three separate peninsulas can be roughly summarized as follows: Kassandra has the nightlife, Sithonia has the beaches and Athos has the monks.

Being closest to Thessaloniki, Kassandra is more built-up, while the more quiet Sithonia has campgrounds, hidden coves and clear waters. Both are popular with Greek and Eastern European tourists.

In Sithonia, you’ll find an array of bright white beaches where days can wash away under the warm Greek sun. The boats that linger offshore tempt you to sign up for a boat day, so you stick around a little longer.

At night, you can explore the vibrant headland of Kassandra. Here you’ll find a collection of great waterfront restaurants with fresh seafood and northern cuisine, plus some fun nightlife. But don’t go too hard, the third section is Athos.

This traditional region is home to the Mount Athos monastic community, one of the three most important in Greece. It’s accessible by boat and open to male pilgrims only.

10. Mykonos

In the Cyclades Islands, Mykonos looks out to the vibrant Aegean Sea. It’s long been a stronghold of younger backpackers seeking that mix of eye-catching landscapes and plenty of after-hour shenanigans.

But there’s a reason for all of this. Regardless of your age, there’s still an abundance of reasons to visit. Mykonos Town is, after all, one of the most beautiful towns on the Greek islands with it’s white washed buildings and maze-like streets.

The famous golden sands of Mykonos are ever-welcoming. The crystal clear azure seas wash over you. From the water, you can gaze back on the townships laden with traditional Greek architecture and the horde of white that shines even brighter under the open sky.

Taking in the local cuisine, the tavernas, and waterfront bars are what attract most travelers to Mykonos. But the nearby island of Delos provides a contrast. Here you’ll find an archaeological site preserving the birthplace of Artemis and Apollo.

Romance and Nafplio go hand in hand. Honeymooners flock to Santorini, that we understand. But for couples seeking unfettered beauty, Nafplio must be added to the menu.

In the Peloponnese, Nafplio was Greece’s first capital. Understandably, there’s architecture, layers of history, ample culture and now, a laid back atmosphere.

Atop the hills stand medieval castles. These are encased in stunning bougainvilleas that mix in with Byzantine churches, Turkish mosques and fountains and “newer” neoclassical structures. These flow out towards the glimmering water and you can explore them down a narrow maze of cobbled streets.

Along with being great for romantic walks, it’s easy to get around Nafplio on a bike. Traditional tavernas line the streets and with a touch of wine from the nearby Nemea region, it’s the perfect end to your day.

The history in Greece never stops, and Delphi is just another example. But this town, close to the Gulf of Corinth, is different than most.

Located about two and half hours from Athens , Delphi was once revered by the ancient Greeks as the center of the earth. An important oracle, pilgrims and even kings would come from all over the country and trek up the slopes of the awe-inspiring Mount Parnassus.

It was here they would sit and listen to the Oracle of Delphi and the priestess of Apollo. These words remained etched in the timeline of Greece and today, you can discover the amazing remains of this place.

The centerpiece of the Temple of Apollo remains standing thousands of years later. Surrounded by mountains and deep valleys, it’s an incredibly moving sight. Add on the nearby stadium and a theater, the Athenian Treasury, and Delphi encapsulates the beauty of ancient Greece.

In the Ionian Sea, Corfu is a brilliant blend of Venetian influence and Mediterranean sun. The island is flush with green scenery; the beaches are lined with swaying pines and historic sites lay throughout.

Through Corfu’s Old Town , you’ll find the influence of Venetian cuisine and the 19th century French rule, which led to the creation of the lively Liston. This is a pedestrian street laden with amazing restaurants along with the largest town square in the country.

Afterwards, head over the water via a bridge to Vlacherna Monastery. On its own isle, the monastery is a small whitewashed structure built in the 1600s. This unique site is rivaled by Palaio Frourio, a historic Venetian fortress.

Days spent on your feet exploring and working off the pasta are rewarded by relaxing beach days. Rovinia and Acharavi are the two top options. The former with wondrous landscapes, azure seas, and pebble beaches. While Archaravi’s calm, shallow waters are the perfect place to lie back and simply float.

6. Epidaurus

Enveloped in peaceful nature and the deep blue waters of the Saronic Gulf, Epidaurus is picturesque from the get go. The town is somewhat remote, especially in ancient times, when Epidaurus blossomed as a hub for progressive medicine.

Epidaurus’ amazingly well-preserved theater dates back to 330 BC and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sanctuary of Asclepius, the god of medicine. At its height, captivating performances would take place and be watched by the patients at the town’s healing center. Tradition rolls on today, with the ancient theater hosting plays through the summer.

When you aren’t taking in the history and splendor, discover the Palaia Epidavros aka the Old Town. The streets guide you down the waterfront, where yachts float on the sea and local tavernas are rife with activity.

The islands off the coast of the mainland receive much adoration. But Meteora offers plenty of reasons to halt your ventures across the Aegean.

This northern town is one of the most unique places to visit in Greece. Here you’ll find the captivating Pindus Mountains where the soaring rock faces create an otherworldly landscape. At its heart is the UNESCO World Heritage Meteora Monasteries .

They were built between the 14th and 16th centuries and the monasteries are set on the precipice of these rock faces. Such are the surroundings, it’s no wonder why settlers felt such a call from God.

Back in the Ottoman era, monks, seeking freedom from religious persecution, would climb ladders and ropes to the monasteries. However, all you’ll have to do is follow a carved path towards the heavens. Great Meteora is the largest and along with its history, offers unforgettable vistas.

Encapsulating all that is good about the Greek Islands, Rhodes is the perfect alternative to Santorini (if you can’t visit both). With its own acropolis, whitewashed homes and domed churches, 300 days of sunshine and mouthwatering cuisine, Rhodes ticks all the proverbial boxes.

All travelers are locked in an elaborate dance with the weather gods throughout their trips. But when in Rhodes, you can all but bank on having a sunny day. Known as the Island of the Sun, you can bathe by the sea and set your watch to the vibrant sunsets.

When you aren’t working on your tan, explore Rhodes’ Old Town . One of the oldest still-inhabited towns in Europe, the streets tell the tales of Italian and Turkish rule. Cobbled streets lead to mosques, chapels and public baths as old as time.

The food here is sumptuous and is matched by the island’s renowned wine. Both combine to top off the day, getting you more excited to explore in the ‘morrow.

One of Greece’s best islands, Crete , is surrounded by heavenly beaches. The golden (and sometimes pink) sands are lapped by turquoise seas and awash you with an immense sense of calm. There are, in fact, some 300 beaches to choose from, including the beloved Elafonissi, Balos and Preveli.

Beyond the beaches are classically gorgeous villages, small towns and dainty cities. The old town of Chania brings you back to the Venetian heyday. In addition, Agios Nikolaos provides a genuine glimpse into the life of locals.

Steeped in history, Crete still bears archaeological traces of the many civilizations that inhabited it down through the centuries. It’s also a spacious island of pleasing contrasts where landscapes range from rugged mountains and rolling countryside dotted with olive trees.

Beyond the objective beauty of Crete, is the handy knowledge that it’s the largest of the Greek’s islands and you can still find your own slice of paradise. That is if you avoid Balos Lagoon at peak hours.

Venture further inland to discover Lassithi, where villages stand alongside prominent archaeological sites and are surrounded by the windmill-laden plateau.

Inhabited for more than 3,000 years, Athens is widely known as the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy. The city presents a confusing blend of historical and modern features. Much has changed since classical times but for us travelers, it’s a chance to see the city as it was.

History abounds throughout Athens and it’s everywhere you look. It took over 700 years to complete the Temple of Olympian Zeus. It’s the largest in Greece and, just like the Parthenon, enough of the enormous columns remain to provide an incredible picture.

Afterwards, follow the footsteps of Socrates and see the Agora. This was the center of Athen’s civic life, where democracy first took flight. But perhaps the city’s best symbol of its past is the Acropolis and its insightful museum.

With its past discovered, it’s time to return to the 21st century. Athens has a burgeoning coffee scene and a youth movement that has shifted the city’s culture for the better. This can be seen in its many cafes, its lively neighborhoods , its fresh galleries and events from outdoor cinemas to the Monastiraki Flea Market.

1. Santorini

Travelers arriving from the water will enjoy the marvelous slow-burn of getting ever-closer to the beauty of Santorini . Vast cliffs roll out of the azure sea and are topped by a delectable spread of whitewashed buildings.

It’s an incredible sight and one that spurs you to explore the alleys that snake through the island’s towns like a thrilling maze. The fact that they all stand on the remains of a volcanic eruption makes the visual even more memorable. But there are many parts to Santorini. There are enchanting beaches, towns straddling the cliffside, captivating ruins and even countryside burned by lava flow.

The good news is, such is the size of Santorini, much can be done in a day. Fira , the island’s main town, is a veritable Greek fantasy. Traditional whitewashed buildings topped with accents of bougainvillea house amazing views, food and nightlife.

For history, you can’t pass up a visit to the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, ancient Thira and, later, Akrotiri. The latter shares similarities to Pompeii.

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Reader interactions.

January 13, 2024 at 6:50 am

The whole of Greece is beautiful, so many historical sites, beaches, hospitality and good food.

April 24, 2018 at 1:53 pm

I’ll be in Greece for 2 weeks to visit my mom and I’ll try to see most of the country, been there once in Athens and it’s gorgeous. Can’t wait to go back . Flying from Florida it’s little long flight but so worthy.

April 8, 2017 at 12:24 pm

Visited Greece with family last November. I fell in love with Greece after this trip. We visited Athens, Crete and Santorini. In Athens we stayed in Plaka and Monastiraki . Both are very central and close to all the sights. Crete is beautiful and a must see island. Santorini is another amazing Island. I would love to visit Greece again in future.

October 21, 2016 at 5:58 pm

My parents were from Greece & we visited many times to visit my relatives. Greece is amazing as is the people food & sights. A must visit country

May 30, 2016 at 9:13 pm

went to Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, Delos and Crete last year… one of the best vacations I’ve ver been on!!!

The most beautiful was the island of Crete. Don’t miss it!

February 24, 2016 at 10:03 am

i cant wait to visit Greece during the summer…it will be my first time… i am so excited to visit all these beautiful lslands….

January 20, 2016 at 9:31 am

I have always dreamed of going to Greece! I love the white buildings and gorgeous blue seas. I’m a huge fan of Ancient Greek mythology so I really want to visit Delphi and Athens!

November 11, 2015 at 6:31 am

There are so many other beautiful places to visit in Greece too. What about Kastoria 52100 in north-west Macedonia ?? It is one of the most beautiful towns of Greece.

September 27, 2015 at 3:42 pm

My wife and I visit Loutraki of Corinth on a regular basis; Beautiful seaside and clean waters to swim in. Easy access to Athens and to Peloponese. Nafplion is also another beautiful city to visit. Ancient Corinth is interesting. Epidavros amphiteater is an architectural wonder because the acoustics are excellent without use of modern electronics.

September 14, 2015 at 7:31 pm

Just recently returned from our first visit to Greece. Did a full day in Athen and then a night in Santorini and a week on the beach at Agios Prokopios on Naxos. Loved every bit of it. Naxos in particular is a perfect blend of beautiful beach, and intimate village with really wonderful restaurants. Quiet, more suited to those looking for a very relaxing visit.

August 6, 2015 at 8:18 am

Greece is not only about beaches and history. There are some hidden gems that are waiting to be explored, You can hike at Zagori mountain as it mentioned, or trekking at Neda river, or cannoning at Samothrace island, or biking in islands or even skiing during the winter! Many and nice choices!

October 5, 2014 at 5:43 am

Loved Corfu and Delphi. Piraeus not so much. Tomorrow in Athens. Will let you know

July 25, 2014 at 4:10 pm

I wanna visit Greece with my hubby for our honeymoon…:)

March 28, 2014 at 6:04 am

I would love to see Delphi and Athens for myself.

December 21, 2013 at 10:49 am

Come and visit Lesvos island.

July 9, 2013 at 7:55 am

Greece is truly a beautiful place filled with history, culture and breathtaking sights. I would love to see myself waking up with a grand view at Meteora.

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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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.).

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.

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:

• 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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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 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.

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

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 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

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)

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

• 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

• 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

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

• 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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: 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 for 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.

Evgenia Mataragka

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16 of the best things to do in Greece

Mar 22, 2024 • 7 min read

Experience the very best of Greece with these top things to do © Johnce / Getty Images

Greece inspires our dreams – we dream about its azure seas, its charming island villages and its myriad beaches , both broad and minute. We dream about the Acropolis, shining on a hill over fascinating Athens. This grand country, from mountaintop to city street, lives up to those dreams. Greece  satisfies travelers looking for adventure , the great outdoors, relaxing seaside vacations and immersive cultural experiences .

Greeks know how to live well. Get involved with our roundup of the top things to do when you arrive.

1. Explore ancient Athens

There’s a reason the  Acropolis remains the quintessential landmark of Western civilization – it is spectacular. In addition to this towering icon, the streets of central Athens are home to many other remnants of civilizations who have marauded through over time. Indeed, any construction project (like the metro!) unearths more finds.

From the Ottoman houses of the  Plaka neighborhood edging the Acropolis, head further back in time to the  Roman Agora with its intricately carved  Tower of the Winds . Afterward, stop off at the  Ancient Agora , the commercial counterpoint to the Acropolis’ religious function.

Planning tip: With more time, other monuments and sites await you, as do world-class museums like the  Acropolis Museum , the  National Archaeological Museum , the  Byzantine and Christian Museum  and the  Museum of Cycladic Art – pick your favorite and just keep exploring.

2. Hop around the Greek islands

You've probably heard of the biggest Greek islands:  Santorini ,  Mykonos ,  Rhodes ,  Crete and  Corfu . But the beauty of the Greek island experience is that each of the 227 major islands (of approximately 6000) that make up the several island chains in Greece has its own distinct character.

Planning tip:  Work out which is the perfect Greek island for you . Pick a zone, say the  Ionian Islands  or the  Dodecanese , and get around by chugging between ports on ubiquitous ferries. If you love a sailboat, charter and sail on your own. You could also pick a theme and explore several islands. Want to party? Head to Mykonos and  Ios . Prefer wild terrain?  Kefallonia ,  Andros and Crete. 

3. Eat the very best Greek food

From mornings with a Greek coffee and a Cretan bougatsa (flaky pastry filled with sweet or savory cheese) to nights with ouzo and calamari, Greece offers an astounding range of delectables .

Many of Greece's unique flavors are known for their Mediterranean-diet healthiness: think fresh-pressed olive oil and sweet in-season tomatoes with copious seafood. But there’s also plenty of decadence – slow-cooked roasts, crumbly village cheese and honeyed layered baklava.

Planning tip:  Every region has its specialties, so for the best experience of local dishes, ask what's recommended. Kali orexi!

4. Visit the Sanctuary of Apollo at Delphi

The Sanctuary of Apollo  at the center of the ancient Greek world,  Delphi , perches on a hillside with sweeping views of the Gulf of Corinth. It's where pilgrims would travel to hear prophecies from the god Apollo, voiced through his oracle (a woman from the local area). 

Planning tip:  It’s worth visiting on the fringes of the day to catch the soft light of morning on the temples’ sides or the golden glow of sunset.

5. Climb the stone spires of Meteora

Unbelievable to the eye,  Meteora seems like something from a movie. In fact, it has been featured in flicks like the James Bond epic For Your Eyes Only and used as the backdrop for the Eyrie in Game of Thrones .

Why? Because who can recreate such mind-blowing rock pinnacles topped by 14th-century monasteries? Climb the stairs carved into the edges of the stone spires to explore, and don't forget to bring your camera.

6. Sit back and enjoy Greece's cafe culture

Slow down. One of the great treats of time in Greece is dropping whatever pace you brought with you and merging with the one here. Simply sit quay-side or street-side, sip a coffee by day or a cocktail or glass of local wine by night, and watch the world go by. Better yet, bring friends.

7. Take in a Cycladic sunset

Santorini, with its dramatic volcanic bowl topped by whitewashed villages, is inevitably the belle of the Cyclades , famed for its sunsets. But strike out further to catch equally beautiful views in islands like  Milos , a calmer volcanic isle, or  Naxos , with its untamed coasts and  Temple of Demeter . The holy island of  Tinos is draped in carved marble, and Andros offers a slew of wonderful walking trails.

8. Enjoy culture and history in Thessaloniki

One of the great expressions in  Thessaloniki is halara ,   roughly translated as “take it easy” or “it’s all good.” This laid-back city on the sea unfurls its pleasures with student culture, art and nightlife. The upper town is a Byzantine maze, and lovers of ancient eras can tour the truly magnificent riches of the  Tomb of Philip II of Macedon at nearby Vergina.

9. Celebrate Greek Orthodox Easter

It’s hard to imagine how rich and vibrant the  Greek Orthodox Easter week is until you experience it. Villages, towns and cities come to life in one long crescendo leading up to Easter Sunday, from moody candlelight processions to brilliant fireworks, lamb roasts and dancing in the streets.

Planning tip: This is the biggest religious festival of the year , celebrated with utter reverence and almost total participation. Book well in advance and aim to arrive early in the week – you don’t want to miss a thing.

10. Explore car-free Hydra on foot

Rare is the land without cars. Hydra , with its soft bowl of marble stairways and seafarers’ houses, is one such place. Sail in and stay awhile to people-watch on the chic harborfront, walk on the rough mountain trails and swim in the sea.

11. Solve the mysteries of Knossos and Minoan culture

History loves a mystery. The advanced society of the Minoans is still shrouded in a veil of secrecy, but you can explore what we do have: the  Palace of Knossos , a Bronze Age 4000-year-old capital. It’s best paired with the fascinating treasures showcased in the  Heraklion Archaeological Museum .

12. Relax on Crete's beaches

The grand island of  Crete stands alone, almost a country in itself. As you explore its plethora of villages with unique cuisines, don't miss a day (or several...) on the beach. From the soft cream sands of  Falasarna to the pink, coral-tinged arcs of  Elafonisi , you can’t go wrong with any Cretan beach you pick. Gorgeous  Preveli  is brushed by the Libyan Sea and topped by an elegant monastery.

13. Check out the cute villages of Zagorohoria

If elves lived in Greece, Zagorohoria is where you’d find them. This constellation of quaint stone villages in the mountains lies on the southern edge of the sweeping  Vikos Gorge in the  Northern Pindos National Park . Connected by a network of walking paths, the villages make for superb hiking in the warmer months or cozy snuggling by the fire in winter.

14. Admire the beauty of Corfu’s Old Town

On Corfu , a traveler favorite, a 14th-century  Venetian fortress guards the sea, and the town center is a warren of honey-hued townhomes, hidden plateia (plazas) and exalting  arcades . The Italian-influenced cuisine is another solid incentive to stay a while.

Planning tip:  Stay overnight in  Corfu Town or come early in the morning to avoid the midday throngs.

15. Dive into history in the Peloponnese

The giant  Peloponnesian landmass is somehow missing on most tourists’ radars . Easygoing and interesting, you can explore it for weeks.

Adventure from the lovely seaside Venetian city at  Nafplio to extraordinary and important ruins like medieval  Mystras (Byzantine),  Mycenae (ruled most famously by Agamemnon) and  Epidavros , or head for even lesser-known spots, like the wild  Mani peninsula and the islet-topping  Kastro at  Monemvasia . The Peloponnese are also prime territory for interesting local culture and delicious homemade food.

16. See where the first Olympic Games took place

While you’re in the Peloponnese, don’t miss the site of the first Olympics, held in  ancient Olympia from 776 BCE to 394 CE. Set in a fertile valley, the ruins of the stadium and accompanying buildings where the athletes lived and practiced are particularly lovely in the springtime with the trees in flower.

Planning tip: Swing into the excellent  Archaeological Museum to see monumental sculptures such as Hermes of Praxiteles.

This article was first published September 2021 and updated March 2024

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28 of the best places to visit in Greece

Rub shoulders with the a-list in glitzy patmos, marvel at a volcanic wonderland in milos or simply flop on a deserted sandy beach in naxos — here are the best places to visit in greece.

G reek holidays are more popular than ever, with good reason. Its beautiful seas and beaches, gorgeous islands and mountains, traditional villages, historic cities, superb food and wine, extraordinary archaeological sites and nightlife, clear skies and starry nights all make for a country to return to again and again. Beyond familiar destinations such as Athens, Crete, Mykonos, and Santorini, here are some of the best places to visit in Greece to match whatever kind of holiday you’re after — active or relaxing, as a family or couple, near major attractions or far from the crowds.

Main photo: sunset over Afissos on the Pelion peninsula (Getty Images)

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Best for walking Under the tourism radar, the island of Andros produced some of Greece ’s wealthiest shipping dynasties; its immaculate neoclassical main town, piled on a narrow peninsula, has lanes paved in marble. Beyond are beaches for every taste, some in arid landscapes, and a low-key resort at Batsi. However, the main lure on Andros is its miles of ancient footpaths, winding through the island’s densely wooded hills and mountain villages, all lush with romantic springs and waterfalls.

Best for dramatic landscapes Corfu has holidays covered, whether you want a designer villa on the idyllic northeast coast — the area made famous by the Durrells — or an affordable package break on golden sands. Nature? It has spectacular trails, especially around lush Mount Pantokrator, where the only sounds are bees and goat bells. Culture? Elegant Venetian-French-Georgian Corfu Town is full of it. There’s golf and even cricket, introduced in the 1800s when the Ionian islands were a British protectorate — along with a thirst for tzitzibira, aka ginger beer.

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• Best all-inclusive hotels in Corfu • Best things to do in Corfu

3. Cephalonia

Best for explorers You could just lounge on the broad sands of Lassi beach near Argostoli and drink chilled glasses of Cephalonia ’s crisp Robola wine, but Captain Corelli’s big island cries out for touring, amid vine and cypress-clad landscapes reminiscent of Tuscany. Three musts: drive up through the towering black firs of 1,628m (5,341ft) Mount Ainos and make the short walk to the top for jaw-dropping views; take a boat ride into the iridescent blue-purple cave lake of Melissani; and scramble down to the island’s eye-popping pin-up beach, the incandescently white Myrtos, wedged between soaring cliffs and the cobalt sea.

• Best hotels in Cephalonia • Best villas in Cephalonia

Best for cosmopolitan stays As your boat pulls around the forbidding cliffs into port, the extraordinary vision of Hydra ’s cascade of stone sea captains’ mansions inevitably sets off a selfie scrum. Hydra is poor in beaches (many people swim off the rocks) and has donkeys instead of cars. But it’s been a favourite haven of artists, writers and cool kids — ever since the 1957 film Boy on a Dolphin introduced Hydra, and a young Sophia Loren, to the English-speaking world. Leonard Cohen bought a house here in 1960 and met his beloved muse Marianne — a period beautifully evoked in Polly Samson’s A Theatre for Dreamers .

Best for “Old Greece” The country’s second-largest island, green, mountainous Evia is for explorers and lovers of Old Greece. It’s a mystery even to most Greeks, yet you can drive there in just over an hour from Athens airport. Eretria, one of the island’s top beach resorts and archaeological sites, is ten minutes or so further on. It’s a great base for seeking out old-fashioned villages and spas, including one of Greece’s finest, Loutra Edipsou, where the hot springs spill directly into the sea. Karystos in the south, known for its marble quarries, has splendid hill walks — aim for the mysterious dragon houses on Mount Ochi.

6. Kalymnos

Best for rock climbing The island once famous for sponge fishers, Kalymnos has high-adrenaline thrills embedded in its DNA — they don’t celebrate Greek Easter with fireworks here, but with dynamite. If you’re a rock climber, its world-class precipices need no introduction. There’s superb diving around its reefs, wrecks, underwater volcanic crater and the surrounding islets — including the striking pyramid-shaped Telendos, opposite the beach town of Masouri. Kalymnos has the only fjord on the Greek islands and its big, buzzy capital, Pothia, in an enormous natural amphitheatre, is chock full of old-fashioned shops and kafenions (Greek cafés).

Best for combining with Athens You can see Aegina from the Acropolis — its proximity makes it the perfect island to combine with a city break in Athens . It has all the Greek island must-haves too — including fine beaches at Agia Marina and, on the islet of Moni, a nature reserve — plus something special: the exquisite 500BC Temple of Aphaia. Faded grandeur lingers in Aegina Town, which from 1827 to 1829 was the nation’s temporary capital. Today it’s perfect for sipping an ouzo, scoffing the island’s addictive pistachios and watching the world drift by, so close yet so far from the city.

• Best things to do in Athens

Best for families Sumptuous sandy beaches are the bread and butter for cosmopolitan, family-friendly Kos . But this island, birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of medicine, has been a resort for the world-weary since the 5th century BC, when it opened the Asklepion, its health centre and wellness spa. Even children love Kos Town, with its Crusader castle, Roman villas and an almost unbelievably huge plane tree, said to have been planted by Hippocrates himself. Don’t miss the unusual effervescent Bubble Beach or the sunsets over Zia.

• Best hotels in Kos • Best villas in Kos

Best for ravines and waterfalls South of the Peloponnese peninsula, pretty Kythira used to be just too hard to reach for most (even local girl Aphrodite moved to more important Cyprus). Now improved air connections have made it possible to get there from the UK in a day. Go for old-fashioned Greek hospitality and the lovely white Cycladic-style Kythira Town, dotted with Venetian mansions. There are magnificent beaches and wild ravines — and don’t miss bucolic Milopotamos, where you can swim under waterfalls and pretend you’re in a shampoo ad.

• The best quiet Greek islands

10. Kythnos

Best for stepping back in time If you ever wondered what the islands were like in their 1970s backpacking days, head to Kythnos. The little island is as authentic and unspoilt as they come — mainly because the ferries that transport visitors here depart from Lavrio, which is further from Athens than Piraeus. But it has all the Cycladic essentials: a whitewashed main town bathed in radiantly clear light; sandy beaches (Kolona, a delectable isthmus of sand, would be packed out anywhere else); and blazing starry nights.

• Best Greek islands for families

11. Lefkada

Best for water sports Thanks to a causeway, you can drive from Preveza airport in just over an hour into another world that is just as lush, wooded and dramatic as its near-neighbour Corfu. Lefkada has traditional mountain villages, such as lofty Katouna, but is also well endowed with sports-orientated resorts: hire a boat at Nydri to putter around the emerald islets in its bay, swim under towering cliffs at Porto Katsiki and Egremni, and test your windsurfing mettle at Vassiliki, blessed with some of the most reliable big gusts in Greece.

12. Zagorochoria

Best for trekking Western Greece’s Zagorochoria are 46 unique villages all built of stone, surrounding the Vikos Gorge — the second deepest in the world after the Grand Canyon. During Ottoman times, the locals were wealthy merchants; some of their impressive mansions are now charming hotels; their mule paths and fantastical bridges make for beautiful walks in the Tymphi mountains, aka the “Greek Alps”. Don’t miss the spectacular seven-hour trek down the sheer, steep-sided gorge, or bathing in the Papingo rock pools; in autumn the colours are magical.

13. Meganisi

Best for getting away from it all Little Meganisi, where pines grow all the way down to a perfectly transparent sea, is bathed in a mesmerising luminosity. This chic, get-away-from-it-all island, just off the coast of Lefkada, is surrounded by a dozen emerald islets. Meganisi has exceptional seafood tavernas by its two tiny ports, Vathy and Spilia, as well as gentle pebbly beaches and a long, whip-thin peninsula dotted with sea caves, including the yawning Papanikolis, used as a hideout for a Greek resistance submarine during the Second World War.

• Best Greek island hotels

Best for a colourful coast As a volcanic wonderland, Milos rivals Santorini, and although it’s increasingly popular — especially the fashionable seaside village of Pollonia — only a purist would call it spoilt. The island has the only catacombs in Greece. But what steals the show is its extraordinary coast — a photographer’s dream with 70 beaches in all shades (there’s even a sulphur-yellow one, Paliorema). You’ll also see bear-shaped sea rocks, as well as dreamlike caves and formations at Kleftiko and Sarakiniko that seem to be made of meringue. Elsewhere, intimate fishing ports are lined with syrmata — painted boat garages sculpted from volcanic tuff.

• Best Greek islands to visit

Best for beaches and hiking Largest, tallest and greenest of the Cyclades, family-friendly Naxos doesn’t have the hip reputation of its neighbour Mykonos , but is all the better for it. Just beyond the sugar-cube maze of its main town stretch miles of sandy beaches. The hiking is exceptional, taking in lovely early Byzantine churches and Hellenistic towers. The white marble of the north has been quarried for 3,000 years; don’t miss the startling contemporary Cycladic figurines in the archaeological museum and the huge kouros statues at Flerio, Apollonas and Melanes — abandoned because of flaws in the stone.

• Best all-inclusive hotels in Greece

Best for otherworldly atmosphere A dreamy otherworldliness lingers over the craggy little “Jerusalem of the Aegean” — where St John wrote his Book of Revelation. This atmosphere has since made it a bolt hole for anyone who wants to escape the world — Julia Roberts, Tom Hanks and Richard Gere included. Just above the port, Skala, you’ll find St John’s Cave (complete with his stone pillow) and the exceptionally lovely 18th-century main town, built by sea merchants. The fortified 11th-century Monastery of St John the Theologian is filled with rare Byzantine art. Come to Patmos to take quiet walks, swim in crystal waters and refresh your soul.

Best for olive groves and sea caves Just south of Corfu, tiny Paxos is for couples who want to snuggle among the ancient olive groves and lose all track of time. Vertiginous limestone cliffs soar over the west coast; pebbly coves scallop the east. The delightful pocket-sized main port, Gaios, is packed with tavernas and offers boats for touring Paxos’s sea caves, and making the short hop to its vine-covered sidekick Antipaxos, where a pair of outrageously beautiful Caribbean-style white beaches are kissed by a turquoise sea.

• Best adult-only hotels in Greece

18. Spetses

Best for hanging out with the in-crowd Popular with weekending Athenians and the yachting set (its nickname is the “Greek Monaco”), pine-covered Spetses, one of the Saronic islands, is two hours from Piraeus port. The cobbled lanes of Spetses Town are lined with historic mansions that once belonged to leaders of the War of Independence that began in 1821, including the home of the indomitable female admiral Bouboulina. Cars are banned; horse-drawn carriages, bikes and scooters are the transport of choice. By day, hit the beaches along the road that encircles Spetses, passing the lone white villa that inspired John Fowles’s enigmatic novel The Magus . After dark, the seafront esplanade of Dapia sways to the sensuous rhythms of the latest Greek hits.

Best for ancient and medieval sights — and sunshine The Colossus statue, one of the ancient Seven Wonders of the World, may be long gone, but its subject, the sun god Helios, makes his presence felt 300 days a year. Full of gently shelving beaches, fancy resorts and rich history — it was the powerhouse of the Aegean for centuries — Rhodes is a good bet even in winter. That’s the time to explore the island’s atmospheric medieval Crusader-Ottoman town, Grand Master’s Palace and three ancient cities, including exquisite Lindos, its acropolis teetering high over the sea.

• Best hotels in Rhodes • Best villas in Rhodes

Best for foodies When Greeks think of Sifnos, they think of food. Home of countless chefs, including Nikolaos Tselementes, who in 1930 published the influential Cooking and Patisserie Guide , the island is known for its restaurants serving specialities such as mastelo (lamb slow-cooked in a clay pot). But the arty-boho island has other tricks up its sleeve: brilliant-white cubist villages; paths meandering past its ubiquitous domed churches; and Venetian dovecotes and ancient towers. The beaches are divine, from the silky soft sands of Platis Gialos to idyllic Cheronissos way up north, with its two excellent tavernas.

• Best hotels with swim-up rooms in Greece

21. Skopelos

Best for walking and relaxation Skopelos, like its neighbour Skiathos, served as a location for the film Mamma Mia! , but has since reverted to a tranquil way of life amid a thousand blues and greens, from its lofty pine forests to its pebbly beaches. The traditional architecture of red-tile roofs, colourful woodwork and balconies is charming; nightlife means sitting late outside a taverna. Hire a boat to explore the wild northeast coast and don’t miss the walk up the Mount Palouki peninsula, adorned with Byzantine monasteries and commanding spine-tingling views.

22. Skiathos

Best for beautiful beaches Fun-packed Skiathos is rightly renowned for having more than 60 heavenly beaches — the golden pine-backed crescent of Koukounaries and silver-pebbled, cliff-foot Lalaria are often named in Greece’s top ten. But there are secret ones to be found if you take one of the few roads through the island’s wooded interior. While hotels and villas sprawl along the coast (Troulos and Vromolimnos are also among the nicest beaches), Skiathos has only one real town, but it’s a doozy, crammed full of restaurants, bars and clubs for 30-pluses. Look out for Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn, who are frequent visitors.

• Best family hotels in Greece • Best hotels in Skiathos

Best for waterfront lunches Pretty, white Poros Town sidles along Greece’s “Grand Canal” — the hypnotic 365m-wide channel that separates the island from the Peloponnese; lazy boat-spotting from waterfront tavernas is a favourite pastime here. Otherwise you have fragrant pinewoods, little beaches such as the golden Askeli, and Daskalio, the islet where Eros was supposedly born, in Love Bay. For more, take a taxi boat across the channel to Galatas, hire a car and within an hour’s drive you’ll find ancient Troezen, birthplace of Theseus, and the theatre at Epidaurus, which reportedly had the best acoustics in the ancient world.

Best for a picture-perfect port Symi is only a short hop from Rhodes, but couldn’t be more different: small and arid, but endowed with a superb harbour. Here, Symi’s renowned shipbuilders and merchants built a spectacular neoclassical town in shades of lemon, tangerine and cherry-red, rising 500 steps up to a sky so blue that it seems to throb. A bus or taxi boat will take you to the beaches, and at night the lone town sparkles to life; sheltered, it stays warm until late as its lights dance across the still water of the port.

Best for wildlife Little Tilos takes great pride in being the most eco-friendly island in the Med. Located midway between Rhodes and Kos, it made history in 1997 when its environmentalist mayor banned hunting and made it a wildlife reserve, leading to an impressive rebound in its biodiversity. In 2020, thanks to the EU-funded Tilos Project setting up Greece’s first hybrid power station, it is self-sufficient for energy. That’s not one of the reasons you come — those are the birdwatching, the quiet, immaculate beaches and the convivial tavernas dotted around the port, Livadia.

Best for year-round beauty Every season is lovely in Thessaly’s Pelion peninsula. Mythic home of the centaurs and the summer resort of the Greek gods, the Pelion is Greece at its most bucolic, criss-crossed with streams, cobbled mule paths, ancient plane trees and apple orchards, picture-perfect beaches below emerald cliffs and villages of handsome 18th and 19th-century mansions, many of which are now hotels. In spring, go for the wildflowers and apple blossoms; in summer, the beaches; in autumn, the amazing colour of the woodlands; and in winter, snow and winter sports on Mount Pelion and cosy nights by the fireplace.

27. Halkidiki

Best for glamorous resorts The great three-fingered peninsula of Halkidiki is northern Greece’s summer playground, although its easternmost end is anything but: this is Mount Athos, the world’s only monastic republic, off limits to women since AD885 (although everyone can take a cruise and see its fantastical Byzantine monasteries from the sea). Halkidiki’s western “fingers”, Kassandra and Sithonia, are laced with idyllic piney coves and sandy beaches — including 96 beaches flying the blue flag, more than any other municipality in Greece — and are graced with some of the country’s most glamorous resorts.

• Best cruises in Greece

Best for something completely different Legend has it that when the Romans invaded Greece, the Spartans took refuge in the Mani, the middle prong of the Peloponnese. And it’s true that throughout history, the Maniots were tough hombres, constantly feuding from their fortified tower houses. In the westerly Outer Mani you’ll find lovely beach resorts such as Stoupa and Kardamili, but the rugged, arid Inner Mani, especially south of the spectacular Diros show caves, is another world altogether — savage and rocky, with villages such as Vathia, a mini San Gimignano of tower houses. And Cape Tenaro, at the Mani’s southern tip, was a main entrance to the Underworld in Greek myth.

• Best holiday villas in Greece

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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.

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

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

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

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.

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 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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 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.

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, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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The Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Visit in Greece

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Have you ever felt the pull of ancient wonders and sun-soaked shores calling your name? If Greece isn’t on your travel radar yet, it should be. But with so many iconic destinations, where should one start?

Problem: Greece, with its vast landscapes and historic locales, can be overwhelming for a first-time visitor. Where should one begin?

Agitate: Imagine landing in Greece and realizing you’ve missed some of its hidden gems or spent too much time at overly crowded tourist traps.

Solve: Fear not! We’ve got you covered with the creme de la creme of Greek destinations.

• The magnetism of Athens
• Santorini’s sunsets are a dream
• Crete: A blend of beaches and history
• Delving into Delphi
• Rhodes: A medieval wonder

A Journey Through Time: Athens

The beating heart of Greece, Athens beautifully melds the ancient with the modern. Its centerpiece, the Acropolis, stands as a testament to Greece’s glorious past and is one of the country’s 18 UNESCO World Heritage sites .

Santorini’s Sun-Kissed Beauty

If you’ve seen a postcard-perfect picture of Greece, chances are it was from Santorini. Famous for its stunning sunsets, blue-domed churches, and white-washed buildings, it’s no wonder it’s one of Greece’s top destinations.

Crete’s Diverse Charm

Crete offers an eclectic mix of beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and lively towns. Don’t miss the Palace of Knossos, a key Minoan site.

Delphi: The Ancient World’s Navel

Once believed to be the center of the world in ancient Greek religion, Delphi offers a spiritual and historical journey like no other.

Rhodes: A Walk Through Medieval Times

Stroll the Street of the Knights in Rhodes and be transported back to the Middle Ages. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts of palaces, towers, and delightful surprises at every turn.

“Greece is a good place to look at the moon, isn’t it?” Hemingway wasn’t wrong. Whether you’re gazing at a starlit sky in a rural village or soaking in the moon’s reflection over the Aegean, Greece’s beauty is truly enchanting.

Kevin’s Insider Tips

For a real treat, visit the lesser-known island of Naxos. With its pristine beaches and ancient temples, it’s a slice of untouched Greece. And when in Athens, seek out the small tavernas where locals dine to enjoy authentic Greek cuisine at its best.

The Essence of Greek Hospitality

There’s an ancient Greek word, philoxenia , which translates to ‘friend to the stranger’ or ‘love of strangers.’ It epitomizes the Greek approach to hospitality, showcasing their warmth and open-heartedness. As you traverse the historic streets of Athens, or meander through the quaint alleyways of islands like Corfu and Paros, this spirit is palpable.

Mythology and Modern Greece

The tales of gods, goddesses, heroes, and monsters have been intricately woven into Greece’s cultural fabric. Every mountain, spring, or grove has its story, its legend. For instance, Mount Olympus is not just a mountaineering marvel; it’s the legendary abode of the gods. The Oracle of Delphi wasn’t just a priestess; she was the voice of the god Apollo, speaking in riddles. In modern Greece, these tales aren’t mere stories; they’re a testament to the nation’s rich history and ethos. While visiting, Kevin Erickson suggests attending a local storytelling session or a mythological tour. It provides an immersive experience, allowing you to view famous sites through the lens of ancient tales.

Local Festivals – A Glimpse into Greek Culture

If there’s one thing that stands out about Greece, it’s the zest for life exhibited by its people. Throughout the year, numerous festivals and events take place across the country. Whether it’s the Carnival with its vibrant parades, the Sardine Festival in Lesvos celebrating the humble fish, or the Athens & Epidaurus Festival showcasing theater, dance, and music – there’s always something happening. For travelers, attending these festivals offers an authentic taste of Greek culture, far removed from the usual tourist traps. Kevin’s pro tip: Always check the local calendar of the place you’re visiting. You might stumble upon a local celebration, providing memories to last a lifetime .

Incorporating these elements into your journey transforms it from a mere trip to a soulful experience, filled with stories, flavors, and the undying spirit of philoxenia . Greece, with its blend of the ancient and the modern, awaits with open arms.

From its iconic sites to its hidden gems, Greece promises an unforgettable journey. So pack your bags , and let the allure of olive groves, ancient ruins, and azure waters draw you in.

When is the best time to visit Greece?

The ideal period is during spring (April to early June) and autumn (September and October) when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists.

Is Greece expensive for tourists?

Greece offers a range of options for different budgets. While some islands like Mykonos can be pricier, there are many affordable destinations and choices.

Do locals speak English?

In tourist areas and cities, many Greeks speak English, especially the younger generation. However, it’s appreciated if you learn a few basic Greek phrases.

Is Greece safe for travelers?

Greece is generally safe for travelers, but as with any destination, it’s essential to take standard precautions.

What’s the local cuisine like?

Greek cuisine is a Mediterranean delight! From moussaka to souvlaki and fresh seafood, there’s a plethora of dishes to try.

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Wow, Deborah Green, your post truly captivates the essence of result-driven team dynamics! Having helmed a startup myself, I resonated with the Ted-Talk-esque wisdom you spilled here! 😄Your strategic pointers surely validated my ‘early morning stand-up meetings,’ any reasons why it didn’t show up in your framework?🧐 Also, your thoughts on “active laughing sessions during intense projects” beautifully hit home, because I’ve found laughter to cut through tension like a proverbial hot knife! Any anecdotes on unexpected team crisis mitigation techniques? Keep on enlightening us, Deborah!

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26 of the Best Places to Visit in Greece in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: March 11, 2024

What are the best places to visit in Greece anyway? It’s a huge task to decide where to go in Greece. It could take a lifetime to discover all of its beautiful islands and astounding archeological sites. Greece is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world with something to suit everyone’s needs. Beach lovers and foodies, culture seekers, and history buffs will all fall in love with Greece.

Table of Contents

Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece

Dating back to 2000 BC, Greece is known as the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of western civilization. Some of the most beautiful places in Greece are the Greek Islands but the mainland houses rugged mountains and fascinating historic sites as well. So we are here to help you decide where to visit in Greece on your next holiday.

From whitewashed villages to its mountains, Greece is a land made for the Gods. There are so many beautiful places to visit in Greece that it really is impossible to show them all, but we are going to give it the old college try. So are you ready to discover Greece with us?

1. Santorini

Santorini is one of the best places to visit in Greece for a Honeymoon or romantic getaway. Of all the places in Greece, this island is certainly the most famous. With its whitewashed villages and blue domes sitting high on sea cliffs, Santorini is postcard perfect. The turquoise waters glisten in the caldera below as the sun sets over the Aegean Sea.

This island paradise with awe-inspiring views overlooking the caldera has it all black-sand beaches, red-sand beaches, and golden-sand beaches. It truly is the most beautiful of the Greek islands and our favorite place to visit. But make sure to pull yourself away from its infinity pools and stunning views to see the cultural side of the island and the archeological site of Akrotiri that dates back to the 16th century BC. Read more: 25 Best Things to do in Santorini, Greece

Where to Stay in Santorini

Where to stay in Santorini – We recommend staying on the west coast of Santorini in the town of Oia or Imerovigli. Two hotels that we recommend are Iconic Santorini in Imerovigli and Adronis Luxury Suites in the town of Oia. We have an entire post dedicated to Santorini hotels. Read more: Where to Stay in Santorini

How to Get to Santorini from Athens – We flew to Santorini from Athens and there are flights daily, but you can also take the Blue Star ferry from the Piraeus ferry port just outside of Athens. It’s about 20 minutes from the city.

Meteora is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Greece that is gaining in popularity. Located in central Greece, this awe-inspiring place is a sea of 9th-century monasteries built atop massive rock monoliths . The Monasteries of Meteora are so impressive that Meteora is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Massive sandstone spires reach 400 meters into the sky. Forming 60 million years ago, the landscape of Meteora is one of the most unique and beautiful we’ve ever seen. Monks built monasteries at the top of these mountains as a hidden retreat where they lived in seclusion and safety scaling the walls with ropes and ladders. Read more about Meteora in our post – Things to do in Meteora Greece – More than Monasteries

Where to Stay in Meteora

Where to stay in Meteora – Stay at  Divani Meteora Hotel situated in the town of Kalabaka right at the base of the massive Meteora Rocks. It has a swimming pool, spa and fantastic view.

You can book this top-rated two day tour from Athens that explores Meteora Monasteries and the Delphi Archaeological Site if you don’t have the time to stay in Meteora, but we recommend at least two nights in this magical part of Greece.

How to Get to Meteora – Meteora can be reached from the city of Athens by Bus, Train, and Car. We recommend renting a car as the best way to see Meteora is to drive around to its many lookouts. Going early in the morning before the tour buses is a must.

When visiting Greece, make sure to give yourself 3 days in Athens before heading off to the golden beaches of the islands. The capital city of Greece has a blend of ancient archaeological sites fitting in harmony with the everyday lives of the people. Few cities can compete with the wonder of Athens. The ancient Acropolis towers over this beautiful city with The Parthenon, built between 447-432 BC standing at its center.

Athens has it all. Tasty cuisine, culture, history, and vibrant nightlife. Athens is one of the best places in Greece for a blend of history and excitement. From the Ancient Agora, the Theatre of Herodes Atticus, and the Temple of Hephaestus to its stunning rooftop patios and delicious food, it is a must-stop on any Greece Itinerary. Read more: The Best Things to do in Athens, Greece

Where to Stay in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens – We’ve stayed in several neighborhoods around Athens, but recommend staying near Syntagma Square or Monasteraki Square.

For luxury accommodations, you can’t go wrong with Hotel Grand Bretagne . This Ultra-luxury hotel with a rooftop restaurant/bar/pool and full-service spa has some of the best views in Athens. Check out Availability & Prices  Trip Advisor  /   Booking.com

This past summer found an affordable hotel with beautiful views of the Acropolis at the Astor Hotel . But we have a full article breaking down Where To Stay In Athens – A Guide To The Best Neighborhoods

One of our favorite places in Greece just so happens to be one of the most recent places we visited. Epirus is located in northwestern Greece, bordered by Albania and the Ionian Sea. This is a huge region of Greece that is perfect for nature lovers. We suggest spending at least a week in Epirus as there is so much to do. Read all about it at Places to Visit in Epirus – The Best Kept Secret in Greece

This incredible region is filled with mountain villages, stunning landscapes, and beautiful beaches, this is a fantastic destination that has yet to be discovered. Making a base in the city of Ioannina we explored the stunning Stone Arch Bridges of Zagori to the most impressive monastery outside Meteora, the Kipina Monastery.

For our adventures all around Epirus, we used  Alpine Zone  which is the leader in adventure tourism around Epirus.  Check out Alpine Zone  to book your own Epirus, Adventures.

5. Ioannina

The capital of Epirus is the City of Ioannina and this city will surprise you. It is filled with Byzantine history, beautiful monasteries and museums, and lively nightlife. The most important place to see in Ioannina is the seven monasteries on the Island of the Lake.

The Monastery of Philanthropists which dates back to 1204 is one of three very important monasteries in Greece including Meteora and the Mount Athos Monastery. But there is so much more to Ioannina making it a must-visit on a Greek vacation. Read more: Things to do in Ioannina – A Little-Known Greece Escape

How to Get to Epirus : It is a 1h 15 min flight to the capital of Epirus, Ioannina (pronounced, Yo-ah-nah-nah) from Athens or you can rent a car. It is only a 4h 30min drive from Athens to Ioannina and getting to see the Greek countryside is a real treat. We know, we’ve done it!

Where to Stay in Ioannina

Ioannina is a great place to make a base to explore Epirus. Rent a car and do day trips to the surrounding villages and attractions.

Hotel du Lac is one of the best places to stay in Ioannina located within walking distance (20 minutes) of Old Town. See it on  TripAdvisor  /  Booking.com

The Lake Hotel is also a popular conference center with a beautiful pool overlooking Lake Pamvotida. Check rates and availability on  TripAdvisor  /  Booking.com

How to get to Ioannina: You can fly directly to Ioannina from Athens International Airport. There are daily flights to and from Athens. There are also buses from Thessaloniki which is just 3 hours away and long-distance buses from Athens.

This region of Greece has everything from beaches that rival the Cyclades Islands to the Old Town of Parga complete with traditional whitewashed houses and bright blue waters. We fell in love with the town of Parga and were surprised to see that it is one of the most beautiful destinations in Greece!

Parga rivaled the best of the Greek Islands without the over-tourism. Read more: 21 Best Greek Islands to Visit

The main attraction of Parga is Parga Castle where you can hike up for beautiful views of the colorful buildings lining the beach. Parga is located on the mainland, but it certainly feels like a Greek Isle, so even if you don’t make it to nearby Corfu, you will get your feel of what a Greek Island vacation feels like in Parga.

Nearby Valtos Beach which is often named one of the best beaches in Greece and Sivota, Preveza and Plataria have beautiful beaches as well. Make sure to relax at a beach bar to enjoy the local seafood, this part of Greece is famous for its gastronomy, which says a lot since Greek food, in general, is so amazing!

How to get to Parga: The closest airports to Parga are Aktion National Airport in Preveza (65 km) and Ioannina National Airport (103 km). From one of these airports, we suggest you rent a car to explore the area, or  Prime Transfer Services is a superb company owned by our friend Vasili who can get you around from place to place in safety and comfort.  Visit his website  to book day tours and transfers around Epirus, Greece.

Zagori is located just outside of Ioannina and if you have a car it is an easy day trip to enjoy the adventure capital of Epirus, but we suggest making a base in the mountainous village of Metsovo.

There is the Katogi Averoff Hotel and Winery and the beautiful Averoff Gallery to see. It makes for the perfect base to enjoy all the things to do in Vikos from its scenic hiking trails to historic monasteries.

Zagori is most famous for its stone bridges, but the Vikos Gorge is not to be missed. This is one of the natural wonders of Greece and is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the deepest gorge in the world. With hiking trails, scenic lookouts, and rich flora, this picturesque region of Greece is not to be missed.

8. Zakynthos (Zante)

While each and every Greek Island is beautiful, Zakynthos (also known as Zante in Greek) in particular, has a beautiful beach. Navagio Beach is a stunning scene of white sand, with chalky white sea cliffs reaching up from the deep azure waters. Perhaps the most famous beach in the Greek Islands, Navagiao Beach, aka Shipwreck Beach is surrounded by high white cliffs surrounding turquoise waters.

Shipwreck Beach is accessible only by boat tour making it even more pristine. You can book a small private excursion directly to the smuggler’s cove. Zakynthos is also one of the best islands for scuba diving in Greece. If you want to enjoy the water this is the island to do it.

Where to Stay in Zakynthos

Where to Stay in Zanynthos – On the East Coast of Zakynthos is the town of Zante. It is a good place to stay for nightlife and ease of getting around.

Located in the Ionian Sea, Zante is one of the seven Ionian islands. It is known as one of the best places in the Greek Islands for nightlife. But the island has so much to offer with ancient history, some of the country’s best beaches, and fantastic traditional Greek food. Read More: Things to do in Zante Greece

How to Get to Zakynthos – Ferries run to Zakynthos Island from Peloponnese. There are also flights to Zakynthos.

There is nothing better than island hopping when visiting Greece, and the beautiful island of Crete is a must stop on any Greek Vacation. Crete the largest island of all the Greek Islands and it certainly has the best beaches in Greece. You’ll also see the traditional villages and whitewashed houses that we’ve all come to know of the south.

This island has it all with high peaks, deep gorges, and pristine sandy beaches, Crete is the perfect destination for your next Greece adventure! Don’t miss taking a hike through Samaria Gorge, it is certainly one of Greece’s Natural Wonders. This national park is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. And be sure to see Elafonisi Beach which is often considered the best beach in Greece. Read more: 23 Unique Things to Do in Crete

How to Get to Crete – We took a very pleasant ferry ride to Crete from Santorini. There are ferries from Athens to Crete, but it is 7 hours long. I would recommend flying to Crete as there are regular short flights to Heraklion.

10. Knossos

One of the best places on the island of Crete is Knossos. Make sure to get out to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site with your own eyes. This archaeological museum contains the palace of King Minos.

We rented a car to see this and highly recommend being mobile on your Greece Holidays. We always found that having a car rental allowed us to see the everyday life of Greek residents and to get off the beaten path. Compare prices here

Knossos is a 2000-year-old ancient site that dates back to the Minoan civilization. This large bronze age archeological site is one of the best preserved in Greece and is considered one of the best museums in the country.

• This private tour is an excellent way to see the best of Knossos and Heraklion City. Take a guided tour of Knossos, see the highlights of the main city of Crete, tour the old Heraklion, and try some traditional Greek food.

How to get to Crete from Athens – Crete is a long ferry ride from Athens being 5 hours. But if you break it up while you visit other islands in Greece like we did, taking the ferry is a great way to get around. There are also daily flights from Athens to the island of Crete.

Pelion is a beautiful region of Greece, located on the Pelion Peninsula of mainland Greece. Located between Athens and Thessaloniki Pelion is filled with picturesque villages that you must visit including Tsagarada, Makrinitsa, and Milies. Read More: Pelion Greece – Visiting the Unknown Paradise of Greece

Also, if you want to visit the locations of the movie Mama Mia, this is the place to be. Much of the movie was filmed in the coastal village of Damouchari. The coastal city of Volos is a beautiful city was home to  Jason and the Argonauts if you love ancient Greek mythology, this is a must-stop.

Where to Stay in Pelion

Where to Stay in Pelion – We stayed at the 12 Months Luxury Resor t in Tsagarada. There are local shuttles that take you around Pelion if you don’t have a car and this was a beautiful retreat.

How to Get to Pelion: If you are flying, the main hub for Pelion is Volos. It is a five-hour scenic drive north of Athens en route to another major Greek City, Thessaloniki in Northern Greece.

12. Skiathos

Skiathos was a surprising destination that takes you off the beaten path in Greece. With beautiful beaches and a thriving nightlife, Skiathos is popular with local tourists. With our car, we had a chance to explore the island and a highlight was visiting the Evangelistria Monastery founded in 1894.

Located in the northwest Aegean sea, in the Sporades archipelago, Skiathos feels like what Crete or Santorini would have been 20 years ago. This island has the same lovely whitewashed houses, sandy beaches, and the same vibe as the more popular Greek islands.

The best evenings we had in Skiathos were spent relaxing in a beachfront tavern sipping sparkling wine while eating traditional Greek food followed by spectacular sunsets while strolling along the waterfront.

Where to Stay in Skiathos

Where to Stay in Skiathos – We stayed at La Piscine Art Hotel. It was very central to everything.

How to Get to Skiathos: Ferries depart daily from Volos and Agios Konstantinos. You can take your car, (like we did) on the ferries and it is a great way to get around the island to explore its hidden beaches and beautiful villages.

13. Skopelos

Skopelos is a gorgeous island with the typical whitewashed houses with blue doors and terracotta roofs, picturesque monasteries clinging to its coast and stunning beaches. Skopelos wasn’t at the top of our list of wonderful places in Greece until we had the chance to visit this gorgeous Greek island.

Located just a hop skip and a jump from Skiathos, Skopelos is another Mama Mia destination filled with incredible scenery. . There are 360 monasteries and churches, blue waters made for diving and snorkeling, and impressive beaches with white limestone cliffs.

Where to Stay in Skopelos – The Skopelos Holidays Hotel & Spa was a lovely 5-star hotel in the main town of Skopelos where we enjoyed scenic views of the hills and bay.

How to Get to Skopelos – Ferries depart mainland Greece to Skopelos from Thessaloniki and Volos. There are also several ferries a day leaving from Skiathos. We suggest combining a trip with Skiathos, Pelion and Skopelos.

14. Costa Navarino

While the Greek islands are considered one of the best places to visit in Greece for beaches, we feel that Costa Navarino in the Southwest corner of the Peloponnese region on mainland Greece rivals the best of them. Located on the crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea in Messinia, few tourists visit this amazing place in Greece.

Messinia is a destination unto itself with luxury resorts, olive groves, and picturesque villages making it one of our favorite places to visit in Greece. People know of the ancient ruins of Athens, but the city of Messene in the Peloponnese is just as impressive with fewer tourists. Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Costa Navarino, Greece

Where to Stay in Costa Navarino

Where to stay in Costa Navarino – The Westin Costa Navarino Resort

How to get to Costa Navarino – Costa Navarino is a 3-hour drive from Athens. We rented a car from Athens and it was a great way to have the freedom to explore its historical sites on our own

15. Voidokilia Beach

Not far from Costa Navarino is Voidokilia Beach, the most beautiful beach we’ve ever seen. Shaped like the Greek letter Omega, Voidokilia Beach is the place of legends. Homer referenced this beach in the Odyssey and it was believed to be used by King Nestor, the ancient king of Pylos. Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Costa Navarino, Greece

16. Messene

While everyone knows of the ancient ruins of the Acropolis, Temple of Apollo, or the Temple of Poseidon, not many have heard of the ancient city of Messene.

This well-preserved city of ancient Greece is a must-visit to see its ancient stadium and have it all to yourself. Messene is one of the Best Places in Greece Free of Crowds and Filled with centuries of history, it withstood many sieges by both the Macedonians and the Spartans.

It is not nearly as visited as other ancient destinations in Greece but it was definitely one of our favourites. We had the chance to visit Messene free from crowds, walking through the Hellenistic agora, theatre, and stadium with nobody else around. If you visit Costa Navarino, be sure to add the Ancient City of Messene Greek travel list.

Where to stay in Messene – We stayed at the Westin Costa Navarino and took a day trip to Messene, but there are plenty of places to stay nearby. You can browse them all here on TripAdvisor .

17. Kalamata

The port city of Kalamata is also the capital city of Messinia. This is a great place for fans of theatre and the arts to visit. That’s because the main draw here is the Castle of Isabeau. The International Dance Festival is held here annually. 

This site is a massive amphitheater that offers a view of the entire city. You will also get to see the various influences both the Venetians and the Turks had on the architecture of the structure. And of course, there are plenty of museums to visit while you’re here as well. Therefore, you should be sure to take your time exploring this city.

18. Thessaloniki

While we are in the area, be sure to keep driving to visit Thessaloniki. Thessaloniki is the capital of Greek Macedonia in Northern Greece. It has a feel of being in Turkey with Turkish Baths and monuments from the Byzantine and Roman eras.

Be sure to walk around the old town to see ancient sites like the Roman Market, Hammams, and Byzantine Churches. Don’t miss the White Tower which is the symbol of Thessaloniki, the 15th-century tower reaches 33 meters into the air.

Where to Stay in Thessaloniki

Where to Stay in Thessaloniki – Electra Palace is a luxury hotel overlooking Aristotelous Square, facing the Thermaikos Gulf.

How to Get to Thessaloniki – The international airport of Macedonia welcomes flights from several countries around the world. Being a major city in Greece, it is easy to get to Thessaloniki by air, train, bus, and ferry. It is also a popular cruise destination in Greece.

19. Mount Olympus National Park

When we hiked Mount Olympus, I couldn’t believe that we were actually on this mythical mountain. Located in Thessaly, Mount Olympus stands 2,917 m (9,570 ft) high and its natural beauty is not to be missed. Passing through waterfalls and dense forests, the mythical mountain feels worlds away from civilization.

Even if you only climb a portion of the Mountain of the Gods, do it. A good place to start is at the nearby town of Litochoro. We entered at the Prionia trailhead and walked down from there on this lovely day trip in Greece. If you are a fan of ancient Greek mythology, you must see Mount Olympus with your own eyes.

How to Get to Mount Olympus – As you have probably guessed, we feel that the best way for getting around Greece is by car and highly recommend a car rental . But you can also get there by public bus from Thessaloniki and Athens.

How to Get to Messene – You can take a bus from Athens which is approximately 3 1/2 Hours. Buses also run from Kalamata and Costa Navarino organizes day tours to Messene.

20. Mykonos

Mykonos belongs to the Cyclades Islands group in the Aegean Sea and has long been one of the most popular places in Greece for twenty-somethings getting away from it all.

It is the second most visited place in Greece right after Santorini and with good reason. This beautiful island is world famous golden sand beaches falling into crystal clear waters attract people to its shores for beach time and nightlife. Read more: 22 Best Things to do in Mykonos, Greece

But there is more to the island than partying and nightlife. There are many historic places. Be sure to visit the archaeological site of Delos the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.

Mykonos is best known for its beautiful windmills lining the shore which have become the symbol of the island. Built by the Venetians in the 16th century, they are incredibly well preserved.

It is fitting that the town of Alefkandra is known as Little Venice. With its charming wooden balconies hanging over the sea, it was once home to rich merchants of Venice .

How to Get to Mykonos – Like all the Greek islands, it is easy to get there by ferry from the other islands. It is possible to take the ferry from Athens as well. You can also fly directly from Athens or your home country.

Known as Knights Island, Rhodes is a Greek Island on the Aegean Sea that is draped in history and natural beauty. Inhabited since prehistoric times a visit to Rhodes offers the perfect blend of history and beautiful scenery. The medieval town of Rhodes and its ancient ruins makes Rhones one of the best islands to visit in Greece for History

Notable in Rhodes is the Acropolis of Lindos, Rhodes Old Town, Palace of the Grand Master, and relaxing at Lindos Beach (aka Limanaki Agios Pavlos). Rhodes was an important location for the Trojan War in 1184 BC where the Dorians were. It has survived centuries of earthquakes and wars making it one of the most interesting places to visit in Greece. Read more: 21 Best Greek Islands to Visit

Combined with ancient history, great beaches, and nightlife, it is also one of the most popular places to visit in Greece. A part of the Dodecanese Islands, Rhodes (like many other Greek Islands) has golden sandy beaches and crystal clear azure waters.

How to Get to Rhodes – Piraeus port Airport on Rhodes is one of the busiest airports in Greece and regular flights fly to Rhodes from several destinations. Regular ferries from Athens Piraeus port to Rhodes.

Corfu is hardly a hidden gem, and, in peak season, the island does get a little swamped by mass tourism. However, Corfu is one of the best Greek islands to visit if you are visiting off-season or in the shoulder seasons.

Corfu is Greece’s greenest island. It also has lots of historical sites dotted around the island. Corfu Town is perhaps the epicenter of history in Corfu and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How to Get to Corfu: Corfu International Airport is situated within a short taxi ride (or half an hour’s walk) of Corfu Town, and it has regular flights from many major European cities.

Delphi Archaeological Site is a famous place to visit in Greece. This ancient temple located at the top Mount Parnassus dedicated to the Greek God Apollo is awe-inspiring. The ancient Greeks, revered Delphi s their center of worship.

One of the best things to see in Greece is Delphi. Why? because of its history and setting. With the Temple of Apollo standing all at is center. Delphi dates back to the 8th century BC and is one of the top destinations in Greece for beauty and history. The ancient temple complex of Apollo sitting atop the high mountain makes for an incredible scene.

Book this highly rated private day tour from Athens to Delphi where you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed Delphi Archaeological Site and marvel at ancient statues of the Charioteer and the Sphinx of Naxos at the Delphi Archeological Museum

How to Get to Delphi – Delphi is a popular day tour from Athens that you can organize an easy excursion to. You can also take a bus to Delphi. It is 3 hours from Athens. We highly recommend renting a car.

24. Halkidiki

Halkidiki is an area located in the northern part of Greece . It is famous for its three peninsulas known as “the three legs” – Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos. One of the most interesting places in Halkidiki is Mount Athos Monastery. Mount Athos Monastery is one of the three important monasteries in Greece. The others are Meteora and Ioannina in Epirus.

Halkidiki is probably one of the best places to visit in Greece that you’ve never heard of. Compared to the thousands of islands in Greece, tourists have yet to discover Halkidiki. It is popular with neighboring Bulgaria and Romanian sunseekers but it will soon catch on with the rest of Europe I am sure. Read more about Halkidiki here .

How to Get to Halkidiki – From Thessaloniki,  a car transfer  can be arranged to the hotel or even a car rental. Once you get to your hotel there are several options to rent a car in the main resorts, but probably it is better to get one at Thessaloniki airport. You will need it anyway to explore the area!

25. Athens Riviera

If you are visiting Athens and don’t have time to make your way to the islands, the Athens Riviera is a great place to visit in Greece. We spent a long weekend enjoying the stretch of the Athens Riviera just a short drive outside the city. You can hire a taxi from Athens or rent a car. Our hotel the Vincci Ever Eden Hotel offered discounted transfers from Athens International Airport.

26. Poseidon’s Temple – Cape Sounion

Even if you don’t stay overnight on the Athens Riviera, a day trip from Athens to see Poseidon’s Temple is a must. It took us several trips to Greece before seeing this imposing temple on the shore of the Ionian Sea and it is worth the trip.

The ancient world loved honoring its Greek Gods and Poseidon’s Temple is the most impressive simply due to its location. You can book this day tour from Athens.

Where Should You Go in Greece for the First Time?

When visiting Greece for the first time, we suggest flying into Athens and spending three days exploring the ancient ruins, the Acropolis, and National Archaeological Museum and enjoying its fun nightlife. After getting acquainted with Athens, we then suggest moving on to Santorini, Mykonos , or Crete to enjoy a taste of the Greek Islands.

What are the Most Beautiful Places in Greece?

There are many beautiful places in Greece from the monasteries of Meteora to the rugged beauty of Epirus , but we think that the most beautiful place in Greece is Santorini.

This beautiful island lives up to the hype with traditional whitewashed villages lining the slopes of the high seacliffs overlooking the caldera. While it is very busy with day tours and cruise ships in peak season, we suggest spending 5 days to a week in Santorini in shoulder season to really get a feel for this Cyclades Island.

And these are the best places to visit in Greece. We love exploring this incredible country and going back to Greece again and again, so we want to know where to go next. Where have you been in Greece? Is there a place we should add to our list? Let us know in the comments below.

With each visit to a new destination in Greece, we are mesmerized by its beauty. There are so many places in Greece, it could take a lifetime and we are okay with that. We look forward to going back to Greece again and again.

Plan Your Next Trip to Greece With These Resources

• 25 Interesting and Fun Facts About Greece
• Best Greek Islands to Visit
• Ultimate Greek Food Guide – Traditional Dishes to Eat in Greece
• Halkidiki Greece – The Complete Travel Guide
• Things to do in Zakynthos, Greece
• The Best Honeymoon Destinations in the World
• Bucket List Travels – 52 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

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6 thoughts on “26 of the Best Places to Visit in Greece in 2024”

I’m surprised you left out Hydra. The town is quaint and car-free so pedestrian and donkey travel is it (unless you can take a water taxi there). It’s very beautiful! We loved it on our trip in Sept.

A very informative read. Thank you for this good quality knowledge, great work done. I will tweet your post and share this information with the world.

This is a precise, clear, and yet informative read. Thank you for this, Cudos to you for this information,great work done.

Santorini and Mykonos are beautiful places. They have been on my bucket list for so long. God knows when wil I get the chance to visit them.

Evia Island – the second largest island in Greece. It’s about an hours train ride from Athens. Beautiful place.

The guidelines of train schedule is very awesome and really helpful to me about the Greece

Adventures of Alice

16 Best Places to Visit in Greece: The Most Beautiful Destinations

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Greece is one of those destinations that everybody dreams of visiting. Sailing through turquoise waters, hopping from island to island, taking the perfect pics in front of whitewashed buildings and blue domes, eating delicious gyros underneath the Acropolis… There is a pretty much never-ending list of wonderful places to visit in Greece. But, I’ve tried to narrow it down to those that are truly spectacular. 

So, whether you’re interested in sun-soaked beaches, mythical stories of gods and heroes, or mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine, Greece offers a pretty diverse package of wonderfulness.

What are the best places to visit Greece for the first time?

For a first-time visit to Greece, you’ll most likely want to visit some of the ‘classics’; the most popular spots in Greece that constantly attract attention. In my opinion, the best places to visit in Greece for a first-timer are Athens , Santorini (but during the off-season), Rhodes , and Crete.

These destinations will allow you to see a diverse range of Greece’s attractions. From the historical Acropolis in the capital to the largest island, to the typical whitewashed island, to the most historic island, these destinations offer a little bit of history, a touch of charm, and a sprinkle of beautiful sights. All in all, perfect for a first-time visit!

However, bear in mind that you’ll need quite a while to visit all of these destinations in one trip. If you’ve just got a short time in Greece, I would pick either a week on Rhodes or Crete or a week exploring Athens and Santorini. If you have longer, feel free to throw some other gems in the mix, like Kos or Nafplio (which is one of the best day trips from Athens). 

Which is the most beautiful Greek island?

Determining the “most beautiful” Greek island is pretty tricky as beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Each Greek island possesses its own unique charm and allure, making it difficult to single out one as the absolute best. Nonetheless, it’s not impossible to pick the most beautiful island because several of Greece’s islands are famed for their stunning landscapes. These include Santorini (of course), Mykonos, and Corfu, but also encompass lesser-known Greek gems such as Skiathos, Milos, and Naxos.

What are the best places to visit in Greece?

So, without further ado, let’s explore the best places to visit in Greece. From breathtaking island treasures to historic mainland gems, here are my top picks. 

1. Athens – one of the best places to visit in Greece for history

Okay, you can’t go wrong with Athens ! The capital of Greece, this masterpiece of a city is one of the most historic places to visit in Greece. Actually, forget Greece – it’s up there with Rome and Istanbul as one of the most historic cities in Europe !

Athens is definitely a treasure trove of a city. You can spend days wandering the streets , soaking in the grandeur, and exploring historical monuments.

Explore the charming alleyways of Plaka, sample traditional cuisine from tavernas, or take a day trip outside the city for some extra culture. Then, head back to your hotel and relax in a hot tub overlooking the Acropolis… *sigh*, it doesn’t get much better than that!

Kos is a much less popular island than some of the others on this list. Nonetheless, it’s easily one of the best places to visit in Greece and offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty and historical charm. You’ll find ancient theatres tucked away where nobody can find them, a delightful old town, and pristine beaches fringed by the azure waters of the Aegean. 

It’s the perfect island for relaxation, yet it’s also rich in history, so there’s plenty to keep you (and your boyfriend who doesn’t like beaches) entertained. It’s also close enough to Turkey that you can catch a ferry to Bodrum. So, if you fancy, you could turn a simple trip to Greece into a multi-country adventure!

3. Rhodes – the best Greek island for history

This was the first place I ever visited in Greece and boy, does it pack a punch. Rhodes is one of those islands where you can be walking through a 14th-century street one minute, and the next, lounging on a stunning beach .

You can explore a secluded oasis full of greenery and waterfalls, ride a donkey up a hill to a stunning Acropolis, and then swim in a heart-shaped ocean lagoon.

Rhodes is also one of the best places to visit in Greece for history, with a fascinating old town, the Acropolis in Lindos , whitewashed villages, fortifications, and lots of tales of the Knights who used to rule the island.

Often dubbed the ‘party island’ of Greece, Mykonos has a bit of a reputation on its shoulders. It’s almost like the friend on a night out who you know can’t control their drink…BUT, despite the crowds, thumping music, and nightlife, don’t rule out Mykonos. There are certainly two sides to the island and, once you look past its blaring noise, it can still be a pretty Greek island.

It also has captivating cobbled streets, a stunning old town, and mouthwatering cuisine, and its classic windmills are always worth a visit. It also has plenty of relaxing beaches such as Agios Stefanos, Agios Sostis, and Kapari. Many of these are also great spots for watching a sunset – the perfect ending to a day on a Greek island.

From island bliss to ancient history, Delphi is about 2 hours drive from Athens. We tackled this historical site as a day tour from the capital and we booked it as a guided tour . But it’s also easy enough to hire a car (as we did for Mycenae, further down this list).

Delphi today is a modern town on the Greek mainland, but the archaeological site is easily one of the best places to visit in Greece. The ancient Greeks believed it to be the centre of the world. The myth states that it was the meeting point of two eagles, thrown by Zeus in opposite directions. Where they met was then said to be the centre of the world. 

As was the importance of this belief that the historic site that’s built there is pretty impressive. With temples, theatres, and a stadium, all built on the mountainside with spectacular views, it’s easily worth a visit and unforgettable for history lovers.

6. Naxos – one of the best places to visit in Greece if you love hidden gems

The largest of the Cyclades, Naxos is still relatively undiscovered compared to its sisters Santorini and Mykonos. If you consider that it’s a much larger island, it’s also much less crowded, meaning that feeling of being squished together like sardines that the alleyways of Santorini give off during peak season is, well, pretty unlikely. This makes for a much nicer experience and, in my opinion, a much better place to visit in Greece. 

Naxos isn’t just a pretty face though. It is also steeped in mythology , with the towering Portara, a marble gateway of an unfinished temple, standing against the blue ocean backdrop. Picturesque villages like Chora are full of Cycladic charm with whitewashed buildings and a labyrinth of alleys, while the Venetian castle adds a touch of medieval history to the scene. Naxos pretty much encompasses the sense of timelessness that characterizes the Greek islands.

Just a short ferry ride from Mykonos, Delos is one of the most popular day trips from the Greek party central. Nonetheless, in terms of what it offers, it couldn’t be more different. The small island contains one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. It holds immense significance in terms of Greek mythology as it’s said to be the birthplace of the two twin gods Apollo and Artemis. Because of this, the island is considered sacred – no mortal is allowed to be born there. 

As such, the entire island is basically an archaeological site. Its well-preserved ruins, including temples, houses, and statues, offer a remarkable window into the past. With the impressive Terrace of Lions, its stunning temples, its ocean backdrop, and its status as a vital UNESCO World Heritage Site, Delos is a magnificent place to visit in Greece,

Similar to Delos, in that it contains some pretty remarkable history (but not quite on the same magnitude), Mycenae is another chance to delve into the history of Greece.

Located west of Athens in the north-eastern Peloponnese, Mycenae can also be accessed by guided day tour from the city. For this trip, however, we decided to travel to the site by car . This self-drive trip also allowed us to visit other sites on the way, such as the ancient site of Corinth and its fascinating man-made canal. 

Mycenae holds the echoes of Bronze Age civilizations. Famous for its impressive Cyclopean walls and the monumental Lion Gate, Mycenae was the centre of the Mycenaean civilization. The site also features several dome-shaped tombs, almost resembling pyramids with hollowed-out insides. It also contains a museum that weaves fascinating tales of the Trojan War. Another must-visit for history lovers.

9. Santorini – one of the most popular places to visit in Greece

Of course, I had to mention this island. Overcrowdedness and immense popularity aside, there’s no denying the whitewashed buildings, winding pathways, and blue domes of Santorini are pretty high on most people’s Greek bucket lists.

If you plan on visiting Santorini, I highly recommend visiting during the off-season. Late September to early November, or early April to May is the ideal time to explore this island if you want to be able to actually walk the streets (as opposed to being bundled against a hundred other tourists). I know – it really doesn’t sound like I’m selling it, but there’s so much more to this island than Instagram spots and beautiful sunsets. 

The unique volcanic landscape is breathtaking. The entire island is basically the result of an eruption that shaped it into its tell-tale crescent. Santorini’s cliffs cascade into the azure waters, the villages of Oia and Fira offer postcard-worthy views, while the island’s beaches range from vibrant red and black sands to crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. It’s also an island known for its wineries, producing distinctive volcanic wines. 

It’s undeniably one of the best places to visit in Greece, just also one of the most crowded. So, to see it as its best, you have to pick the right time.

Now for the biggest islands in Greece. Crete is actually one of the largest islands in the entire Mediterranean (alongside Sicily and Cyprus ). It’s also one of the most diverse. You’ll find pristine beaches, rugged mountains, deep gorges, and plenty of history. The ancient Minoan civilization left behind treasures like the Palace of Knossos, offering a glimpse into Europe’s earliest advanced society.

There are two different sides to Crete and two different airports where people typically fly into Heraklion and Chania. Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is a bustling city that seamlessly blends its ancient past with modern life. Here is where you’ll find the Palace of Knossos (and plenty more fascinating archaeological sites), bustling marketplaces, and traditional tavernas.

Chania, on the other hand, is a picturesque coastal town. It’s much more relaxed, with a charming harbour, narrow streets, artisan shops, and a vibrant culinary scene. 

11. Meteora

Located high in the mountains north of Athens, Meteora is easily one of the best places to visit in Greece. It’s also completely gorgeous with out-of-this-world landscapes, fascinating rock formations, and majestic monasteries perched precariously on top.

The entire place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the monasteries were built directly on top of giant sandstone pillars. It literally looks as though they have been suspended in mid-air.

Coupled with the serene surroundings of the Kalambaka Valley, Meteora is a  wonderful place to visit in Greece.

12. Corfu – one of the best places to visit in Greece for beaches

Ahh Corfu. An island that conjures up images of idyllic beaches, beautiful views and the ultimate relaxing and romantic getaway . This enchanting Ionian island is one of the most northerly Greek islands. It’s just a short ferry ride away from Albania and offers the chance to explore beautiful bays, and stunning lush landscapes, whilst taking a day trip or two to Sarande’s gorgeous national parks. 

But Corfu isn’t just about beauty. It also has a UNESCO World Heritage old town with narrow cobbled alleys and pastel-hued buildings and an imposing old fortress which stands proud over the town.

And, of course, I wouldn’t be doing the island justice if I didn’t mention the beaches. Corfu offers splendid beaches ranging from secluded coves to lively resort areas. Some of its best include Paleokastritsa, Sidari, and Dassia Bay. 

13. Nafplio – one of the best places to visit in Greece for authenticity and charm

This was my favourite place I visited during my Athens road trip . The absolutely stunning town used to be the former capital of modern Greece, and its role in the Greek War of Independence is pretty significant. And the stunning Palamidi Fortress, perched high above the town and the Bourtzi Fortress, situated on an islet in the harbour, stand testament to this time.

But aside from Napflio’s historical importance, it’s just a gorgeous place to visit. Explore winding streets lined with cute shops and boutiques selling handcrafted items. There are also some of the best tavernas in Greece that serve delicious home-cooked delicacies (I had a stunning lamb dish here and cannot recommend Nafplio’s food scene enough). 

14. Kefalonia

Another Ionian gem, Kefalonia is located near Corfu and the beautiful Zante (below on this list). It’s actually the largest of the Ionions and has a pretty mixed landscape. You’ll find beaches, mountains, valleys, and dramatic cliffs tumbling into the azure water. 

A few highlights include Myrtos Beach, with its turquoise waters and white pebbles, and the enchanting Melissani Cave which offers a unique underground experience. I also recommend exploring some of the villages and towns – Fiskardo and Assos feature pretty Venetian architecture and offer a glimpse into Kefalonia’s rich history. 

Zante, or Zakynthos, is pretty much known as the party island of the Ionions! Its vibrant atmosphere is contagious and there are plenty of great options if you want to drink your way ’til sunrise. However, if you simply feel like waking up early and watching the sunrise with a clear head, you’ll be relieved to know that Zante is much more than just a party island. 

It is also home to possibly one of the most famous beaches in all of Greece – Shipwreck Beach (Navagio). Only accessible by boat, surrounded by towering white cliffs, and features the skeleton of an old ship, it’s really no wonder that this beach is so famous.

The island’s diverse scenery extends beyond its beaches, however, from charming coastal towns like Tsilivi and Laganas to the lush interior adorned with olive groves and vineyards. Zakynthos is also a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles, making it a conservation hotspot and great for wildlife lovers.

16. Thessaloniki – one of the best places to visit in northern Greece

The second largest city in Greece is a great place to visit if you want to explore the much less popular north of the country. Nestled on the shores of the Thermaic Gulf, Thessaloniki seamlessly blends its ancient past with a modern cosmopolitan atmosphere. 

It’s perfect for history lovers with a rich past that spans over 2,300 years. You’ll find an array of archaeological treasures, including the Roman Rotunda, the triumphal Arch of Galerius, and the symbolic White Tower that overlooks the waterfront in the city. As well as history, you’ll find a thriving art scene, bustling markets, and fantastic food.

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. But, I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

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

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

I recommend heading to Oia, 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 

To me, Mykonos stands out as one of the most stunning (and Instagrammable!) islands in the Aegean region. 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.

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 they are highly photogenic! In my experience, the island’s extraordinary beaches also make a perfect backdrop for watching 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 

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, Banana Beach, Porto Zoro Beach, Kalamaki Beach, and Gerakas Beach.

Zakynthos Town has 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. Notable must-sees include Solomos Square, Strata Marina, which is home to restaurants, bars, and cafes, Stranis Hill, which offers 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, 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

The popular Greek holiday island has been made famous by the novel and film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin , which was set here. Although there has been some development, I love that it still retains the 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, which is located on the island! 

It is 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 is the largest of the Dodecanese islands and another popular holiday island. Although it’s home to some lively resorts, 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 remnants of its occupation by the Knights of St. John during the Crusades.

My favourite highlights…

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

6. Parthenon Acropolis and the rest of Athens

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

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

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. It has many incredible restaurants, rooftop bars, and historic attractions to explore. 

• 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.

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

I suggest visiting the Old Town, which Unesco has named 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 . 

Thasos is beautiful, with a contrasting blue sky, 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 many 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. 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

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

The beaches here are among the most beautiful in the country. They’re long and sandy, 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 is located on Greece’s west coast and is connected to the mainland through a floating bridge and causeway. It’s one of the few Greek islands you can visit by car.

I love it for its crystal blue waters and golden beaches, many of which are like those in the Caribbean—yes, really! 

It’s full of traditional taverns serving fresh fish and lovely villages contrasting with its lush green surroundings. I recommend heading for Egremni, Kathisma, and Porto Katsiki beaches, which are perfect photography spots. 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 with 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

This spectacular tourist attraction 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 Biosphere Reserve.

People can 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, 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 to the  unspoilt places to visit in Crete for travel snobs !

• 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

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 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 had a rough time climbing down, but so did their climb up. It is an awesome sight that can leave you speechless and easily deserves a place on this list, especially if you want to explore less touristy areas.

My favourite highlights

• 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

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, 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 is a mountainous village near Sparti, Laconia, on mainland Greece. UNESCO classifies it as a World Heritage Monument. It is famous for its archaeological site, as Mystras was a very important medieval town in the Byzantine Era.

The archaeological site consists of well-preserved Byzantine churches and a strong Fortress, and I highly recommend exploring it 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   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 4th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Built as Apollo’s sanctuary and oracle, 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

Declared a National Park in 1938, Mountain Olympus is Greece’s highest mountain, rising 9,573 feet on its highest peak. This unspoilt and mostly untouristy area on mainland Greece is 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 routes, and mountaineering tours are organized for adventure seekers setting off from 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 highly recommend trying!

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

17. Lake Kerkini

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 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 Fortress is located along the Peloponnese east coast of mainland Greece. The first settlement is traced back to the 6th century.

The gigantic Byzantine fortress and superb beaches nearby are open to locals and tourists who can’t 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, 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!

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

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

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 

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. It is 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!

Five kilometres down the river from Aristi, you will 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. These villages are home to many beautiful mansions, guest houses, and hotels.

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 12 Best Places To Visit In Greece in 2024

Eleni Gimouki Last Updated: September 26, 2023

Greece is one of the most beautiful destinations around the world. It has something for every type of vacation , whether you want to be by the seaside or in the mountains, relaxing in a picturesque village or enjoying the busy city. B ut with so much to choose from, here’s a little help from a local. Listed below are the best places to visit in Greece for your next trip.

Pro Tip: Planning your trip to Greece? It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Bookmark this post along with our  Greece guide for more planning resources, our top Athens tours for a memorable trip, and find out how to visit the Acropolis .

Top Places To Visit In Greece and Why

Greece is the ideal destination for both summer and winter vacations. Do you dream of spending your holidays by the sea or hiking amazing mountains? Are you a small-picturesque-towns-and-villages kind of person or do you love big cities?

There are endless beautiful places to discover where you can relax, have fun, and make memories. Here is a list of the best places to visit in Greece to help you decide when to visit and where to go on your next trip.

Seaside Destination | Mountain Villages | Nightlife

You can enjoy Volos either in the winter or the summer. What’s really amazing about this destination are the many mountain villages to visit where you can admire panoramic views from up high. And you have the option to enjoy swimming in the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea.

Volos is a big enough city that you will enjoy its nightlife. Also, it is the ideal starting point for road trips to the Pelion villages, where hiking is popular in the summer. All of the villages are located in mountainous areas and many of them offer breathtaking sea views. Each village is unique, and you will have the chance to experience their local cuisine. You could try a spetsofai dish, for example, which is made from local sausage. A highlight in every village is the beautiful natural landscape.

11. Arachova

At The Foot Of Mount Parnassos | Cosmopolitan Destination | Breathtaking Views

Arachova is a cosmopolitan winter destination. Get ready to discover traditional but luxury restaurants, cozy cafes, and unique hotels. Here you can also admire the traditional architecture along the narrow streets and roads in this mountainous town. What you may want to know is that Arachova is a more expensive destination, especially during the Christmas season.

During the winter, it is always very crowded and lively. Of course, if you organize a winter trip to Arachova, you must pay a visit to the Parnassos Ski Center. The route to the ski center is amazing for admiring the snowy landscape. If you want to get even more familiar with Greek history and culture, you may want to spend a day visiting Delphi, the archaeological site.

10. Ioannina

Natural Landscapes | Cultural Attractions | Traditional Cuisine

Ioannina is my happy place in Greece. Here, you can enjoy a long walk by the lake under beautiful plane trees and see the fully habitable island in the middle of the lake. The city center is not to be missed either, with so many amazing spots to meet locals and see beautiful architecture. Also, a visit to the Byzantine castle will make you feel like you’re traveling in time. Enjoy tasting traditional cuisine, especially pies, in so many restaurants.

Ioannina is a really big place where everyone can find what they’re looking for. There are many museums and archaeological sites to visit, bars, and also taverns with live music in the evening. You may also want to visit nearby villages or even do some extreme sports like river rafting or climb the second-highest mountain in Greece—Smolikas. If you do, you’ll find the dragon lake at the top! Don’t forget your swimsuit, as there are amazing rivers to swim in.

Planning your trip to Greece? Discover the best Greek dishes to try , must-see treasures of the National Archaeological Museum , and our guide to visiting the Acropolis .

Old Town | Different Museums | Beautiful Beaches

Corfu is an elegant destination located in the northern Ionian Sea with many incredible places to stay. You can get to the island by airplane. With its Venetian architecture, you will certainly love the old town. Strolling down its streets, you feel like you are in a different era. Long road trips are also an incredible way to get to the wonderful beaches of Corfu after amazing drives.

Most importantly, you will never be bored. There are a lot of great things to do in Corfu. For example, you may want to enjoy some watersports, do some cooking, or take one of the ceramic classes that are often organized for people interested in learning something new and different.

Read More: Where to Stay in Corfu | Things to Do in Corfu

8. Zakynthos

Shipwreck Beach | Blue Caves | Caretta-caretta Turtles

Zakynthos means parties and amazing natural landscapes. It is one of the most popular island destinations for summer holidays. There are several impressive places to visit and wonderful places to stay from mountain villages to modern centres.

Most importantly, apart from the beautiful beaches and turquoise sea, you have the chance to visit unique landscapes. If you choose to travel to Zakynthos, then you have to visit Shipwreck Beach and the Blue Caves. The scenery is amazing, and you will certainly enjoy swimming in this crystal clear water. Finally, remember to take an excursion to meet the Caretta-caretta turtles.

Read More: Where to Stay in Zakynthos | Things to Do in Zakynthos

Nightlife | Beach Parties

Let’s be transferred to the Aegean Sea and specifically to Ios island, which is certainly one of the best places to visit in Greece for several reasons. If you love parties and would like to experience Greek nightlife, Ios is the best choice for you. Enjoy your drinks or breezy cocktails with the best view of the island. Each bar or nightclub here is certainly unique.

In Ios, there are also wonderful beaches, and Mylopotas is one of them. Get ready to have fun and, if you’re up for it, raise your adrenaline! At many of Ios’s beaches, you can find a lot of watersports that will do just that. Ios is also a great destination to enjoy Cycladic architecture.

6. Thessaloniki

Timeless Beauty | Traditional Cuisine | City Destination

Thessaloniki is one of the top places to visit in Greece. It is a big city where you can enjoy either your winter or summer vacations with places to stay to suit every season.

There are many attractions to see and many fun activities to do. Why not enjoy a walk by the sea? One of the best areas for this is Nea Paralia (New Beach), where locals really love to start their day with a jog or walk. The most famous attraction in Thessaloniki, however, is the White Tower—you could even say it is the trademark of the city.

You will also certainly enjoy traditional and local cuisine and delicious sweets here. Most people who visit Thessaloniki leave with a few extra pounds by the end of their holidays. This is also a city with great nightlife if you love hanging out with locals while on holiday.

Read More: Where to Stay in Thessaloniki | Things to Do in Thessaloniki

Planning your trip to Greece? Use our helpful guides about the best beaches in Greece , top islands to visit in Greece , and incredible facts about Athens .

Nightlife | Cosmopolitan Destination

Mykonos is certainly the most cosmopolitan island destination in Greece. Here, luxury is a way of life. If you plan to visit Mykonos, then get ready to have an amazing nightlife experience. Every summer night, Mykonos is transformed into a great party.

Apart from the luxury bars and restaurants in Mykonos, you will also enjoy the Greek sun. You can choose to spend your day on organized or free beaches. However, you need to know that the weather in Mykonos is often quite windy. So, there will be some days that you might not want to spend your time by the sea. Instead, enjoy a coffee at chill cafes with beautiful views.

Read More: Where to Stay in Mykonos

Nightlife | Medieval Town | Wine Tasting

Rhodes is the biggest and most popular island in the Dodecanese. Every summer, thousands of people visit it for a variety of reasons—it has a lot to offer. You will certainly spend many hours going for walks in the old town. It is a medieval town where you will feel like you have been transported back in time. Don’t forget to visit the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes.

In addition to its historical sights, you will also enjoy the nightlife, traditional cuisine, and wonderful beaches. Rhodes is a place where you will have the opportunity to try a lot of different activities. You could go on an organized fishing tour or daily cruises, for example, or you could just relax at the beach enjoying the sun while drinking a cold coffee.

Read More: Where to Stay in Rhodes | Things to Do in Rhodes

Capital City | Numerous Museums To Visit | Luxury Hotels, Bars and Restaurants

Of course, Athens couldn’t be missed on our list of the top places to visit in Greece. This city is an all-time classic destination in Greece.

As you already know, Athens has many significant archaeological sites like the Parthenon and museums like the National Archaeological Museum which is full of must-see treasures. Enjoy walks in picturesque Plaka, where you can taste traditional or modern dishes in a number of really cool restaurants—many of which have views of the Acropolis. And at night, get ready to have fun until the early hours of the morning.

For those of you who love city destinations for your winter holidays, Athens is the ideal option. During the winter, locals prefer visiting the very center of Athens rather than the Athenian Riviera. In this city, you will never get bored as there are always interesting things to see and do. In the summer, you will discover many beautiful gardens where you can enjoy your coffee and terraces to spend a night out.

Read More: Where to Stay in Athens | Things to Do in Athens

Family Friendly | Beautiful Beaches | Cosmopolitan Towns

Crete is the biggest island in Greece and you will need a few days to visit all it has to offer. It consists of four prefectures: Lassithi, Heraklion, Rethymno, and Chania. Each prefecture has its own points of interest.

In Lassithi, you can visit Plaka village where you can take a boat to the popular Spinalogga island. It is certainly a unique experience. Heraklion is a fairly large city with beautiful squares, where you must visit the archaeological site of the Knossos Palace.

Spend some time strolling in the old town of Rethymno. Here, you can also visit the palm forest of Preveli or beautiful beaches such as Skinaria beach. Finally, Chania is the starting point of the Samaria Gorge and offers a unique trekking experience. You will also be amazed by Chania’s old town. Apart from these, you will also have the chance to visit the island’s most wonderful beaches, such as Elafonissi, Balos, and Falassarna.

Read More: Where to Stay in Crete | Things to Do in Crete

1. Santorini

Amazing Sunsets | Volcano | Caldera View

At the top of this list, of course, is Santorini island. Santorini is a world-famous destination and one of the best places to visit in Greece. If you arrive by boat, you will be amazed by the Caldera. This high and steep rock makes the buildings look like they are up in the air.

In Santorini, you will enjoy impressive sunsets and a luxurious way of life. Take your pick of popular beaches: you can spend your day at Black Beach, where the sand is really black, or at Red Beach enjoying this volcanic landscape. If you choose to visit Santorini, don’t hesitate to spend a day on a cruise and fully appreciate this wonderful island from a distance.

Read More: Where to Stay in Santorini | Things to Do in Santorini

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January 22, 2023

You really have wonderful places on Greece. I look forward to visit soon

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Discover the best destinations to visit in Greece

The 15 Best places to visit in Greece in 2024

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It's been years since you have wanted to discover Greece but wonder where to start, what to see, what are the best destinations in Greece ?

Discover the Best Places to Visit in Greece in 2024 , Where to Stay in Greece, the Must-See Destinations to put on the top of your Greece Bucket List .

Which destination is best for a cultural city break and which islands for a relaxing holiday? Here is your selection of the Best Places to Visit in Greece .

Need more Inspiration? Discover the Best Islands in Greece , Best Beaches in Greece , Best Things to do in Greece , Best Secret Destinations in Greece , Best Natural Wonders in Greece as well as the Best Castles in Greece .

Pack your suitcase or backpack, buy a new phone memory card to shoot and share the best destinations in Greece .

Book your flights and accommodation at the best price guaranteed, your tours and activities in Greece.

Located in the Aegean Sea, the Santorini archipelago is the Best Place to Visit in Greece is a destination for travellers from all over the world. Favourite place for a wedding or honeymoon , Santorini is on the wishlist of travellers looking for a romantic, sunny place, which combines relaxation, well-being, gastronomy and heritage.

Easily recognizable thanks to its white houses with blue cupolas and emerald pools, Oia offers travellers a perfect timeless moment for a romantic getaway. 

During your stay in Greece, discover the  Best Islands in Greece ,  Best Beaches in Greece ,  Best Things to do in Greece ,  Best Secret Destinations in Greece ,  Best Natural Wonders in Greece  as well as the  Best Castles in Greece .

Book your flights today, your accommodation at the best price and your best tours and activities in Santorini  as a " Luxury Catamaran Cruise ".

  How to get there:  Book your direct  flights to Santorini  or via Athens. If you have time take the ferry (6 hours crossing).

  Where to stay:  For a perfect stay book your room at ' Ambition Suites ' offering direct Caldera sea views from Santorini Airport to the port.

Mykonos  is one of the best places to visit in Greece . It is an ideal destination for lovers of diving, hiking in nature, cultural heritage, gastronomy, water sports or for a romantic or family trip. Do not miss to visit the windmills in Chora, they are the symbols of Mykonos and enjoy a glass of Ouzo, the traditional Greek alcohol on a terrace of the "Little Venice", another symbolic place of Mykonos.

Book your flights and accommodation at the best price in Mykonos as well as your   tours and activities in Mykonos  as a " Mykonos: Winery Vineyard Experience with Food and Wine Tasting ". 

Need more Inspiration? Discover the  Best Islands in Greece ,  Best Beaches in Greece ,  Best Things to do in Greece ,  Best Secret Destinations in Greece ,  Best Natural Wonders in Greece  as well as the  Best Castles in Greece .

  How to get there:  Book your  direct flights to Mykonos  or your flights to Athens + an internal flight to Mykonos (35 minutes). You can also take the ferry from Athens - Port Piraeus (Port Gate E7) to Mykonos (3 hours).

  Where to stay:  " Poseidon Hotel Suites " Overlooking Mykonos Windmills. For a smaller budget the " Mykonos beach hotel " is perfect: all their rooms have balconies overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Corfu is one of the greenest Greek islands and one of the Best Destinations to Visit in Greece . Nature is lush in Corfu, much lusher than on some drought-affected Greek islands supplied with water by boat at  high season. Corfu is therefore a good choice for nature lovers and travellers concerned about sustainable tourism.

If you want to avoid rain, preferably travel between May and August, but the best time to visit Corfu is definitely May because it is dry with average temperatures of 24 degrees and the flights and accommodation charges are more attractive than in July and August.

During your stay in Corfu do not miss to visit the Vlacherna Monastery on the Mouse Island, the old town of Corfu and the amazing beach of the "Canal of Love" located near the pretty village of Sidari.

During your stay in Greece discover the  Best Islands in Greece ,  Best Beaches in Greece ,  Best Things to do in Greece ,  Best Secret Destinations in Greece ,  Best Natural Wonders in Greece  as well as the  Best Castles in Greece .

Book your flights to Corfu your accommodation at the best price guaranteed and your tours and activities such as a day cruise to Paxi Islands and Blue caves .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Corfu .

  Where to stay:  Stay in the heart of Corfu town by booking at " Lear Liston Suite ". This property has one of the best-rated rentals in Corfu.

The capital of Greece is one of the top places to visit in Greece for many reasons. First of all, it is the cradle of democracy and philosophy. Many assume that the blue of the sea, the incredible landscapes, and the beautiful sunlight help spirits escape from everyday life and arise.

Athens  is a sophisticated cosmopolitan hub with excellent gastronomic delights, electrifying nightlife, creative vibes and a booming art scene. It is an artistic beacon of the ancient world with spectacular Mediterranean landscapes.

Book your flights to Athens, your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Athens  as a " Athens: Street Food Walking Tour ".

  How to get there: Book your flights to Athens  Airport and your transfer .

  Where to stay:  For excellent value and location with Acropolis reachable within 100 metres, we recommend the " Coco-mat Athens BC " in the heart of Athens .

5. Navagio Beach

Navagio Beach, also known as Pirate Bay or Shipwreck Bay, is one of the  most beautiful beaches in Greece  and it is also among the Best Places to Visit in Greece . Accessible only by sea, this beach located west of the island of Zakynthos is a lost paradise.

The wreck of a boat carrying contraband cigarettes was attacked by pirates in the 80s and runs aground on this beach.  Some islanders will try to convince you  that the boat was displayed by the Tourist Office in order to attract travellers.

Discover Navagio Beach by booking your  flights to Zakynthos  Island and your  hotel  near Navagio Beach. We offer more than 140 hotels, villas and apartments at the best price .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Zakynthos and join Navagio beach by car (50 minutes).

  Where to stay:  " Villa Poseidon " with panoramic views  over the Ionian sea.

Meteora is one of the Best Destinations to Visit in Greece . Meteora is the name of this incredible region of Greece where monasteries are perched on top of cliffs.  Meteora is often printed in calendars or online ranked among the most beautiful landscapes in Europe . Now is the time to discover this magical place.

Book your flights to Athens or Thessaloniki. Meteora is located 4 hours from Athens Airport and 3 hours from Thessaloniki Airport. You can go to Meteora easily by car or train (there are even buses to Meteora).

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Hidden Gems in Greece !

Book your flights at the best price as well as your  accommodation  and your tours and activities  in Meteora as a " Majestic sunset on Meteora rocks tour " or a" Full-day Meteora trip by train from Athens ".

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Athens  (4h by car - 5h by train - stop at Lampaka station).

  Where to stay:  " Rocks Republic " within 2km of Meteora.

Rhodes Island

The island of Rhodes is a perfect destination for lovers of old stones, heritage, fortresses and castles. It is for sure one of the Best Places to Visit in Greece . This sublime medieval city is one of the best preserved in Europe. When visiting Rhodes do not miss The Ancient Acropolis of Lindos, the historic Rhodes Old Town, explore the Palace of the Grand Master or just relax in Agios Pavlos beach. 

If you are lucky you will have direct flights from your nearest airport to Rhodes Island. You can also book your flights to Athens as well as an internal flight to Rhodes. 

Book your flights to Rhodes , your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Rhodes such as a " From Rhodes: Symi Island full day trip by boat ".

  How to get there:  Book your direct  flights to Rhodes  or from Athens.

  Where to stay:  " Casa Cook Rhodes - Adults only ". This hotel has a large outdoor pool, à la carte restaurant and a fully equipped fitness room.

Pack your bags, embark on a dream holiday to the island of Kefalonia in the village of Asos, one of the Best Places to Visit in Greece . The houses in this fishing village are colourful, its castle is overlooking the island.

Book your flights to Kefalonia Airport, your hotel , villa and tourist apartment at the best price and your tours and activities in Kefalonia such as a " Half-day vineyard picnic with wine tasting ".

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Kefalonia  Airport and drive to Asos (1h).

  Where to stay:  Book your room at the " Kanakis apartments " to enjoy magnificent views of the Ionian Sea.

9. Canal d'Amour 

Sidari - Corfu

Canal d’amour is a small secret beach hidden in the village of Sidari on  Corfu Island . Its French name "Canal d'amour" comes from a French navigator who found a similarity between the shape of this beach and the shape of a female sex organ (It's up to you to judge on the spot !). According to tradition, couples swimming in this channel of love will be sure to get married within the next 12 months. 

Book your flights , your accommodation as well as your activities and tours and discover one of the Best Places to Visit in Greece .

Book your  flights to Corfu  (Sidari is a 50-minute drive away), your  accommodation  at the best price and enjoy the  best tours and activities in Corfu  such as a " Cruise to Sivota and the clear waters of the Blue Lagoon ".

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Corfu  (Sidari is a 50-minute drive away).

  Where to stay:  Book your room at the best price at the " Del Mare beach hotel " located on the beach of Canal d'Amour in Sidari.

Chania is one of the most beautiful destinations in Crete . Located northwest of the country, Chania is a perfect destination for lovers of sun, idleness, good seafood restaurants, gastronomy, beautiful beaches, walking or cycling, but also for lovers of Venetian or Byzantine architecture.

There are many flights to Chania Airport and you can choose from hundreds of accommodations in Chania. From 5 stars to tourist apartments with private kitchen or pleasant villas with private pool.

During your stay in Chania do not miss Heraklion, the capital of Crete .  Treat yourself to a relaxing afternoon on the pink sandy beach of Elafonisi. Book your flights to Chania your accommodation   as well as your  activities & tours in Chania such as a " Day trip to Elafonisi Island from Chania ". 

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Chania or Heraklion (2 hours by car).

  Where to stay:  For a romantic stay we suggest the " 1924 Suites " in the old town of Chania. A balcony with sea views is offered in all units.

Only 60 kilometres from Aktion/Preveza airport, Parga, one of the Best Destinations to Visit in Greece ,  is a beautiful fishing village with a beautiful cove and beach. On site you can get around by rental car or taxi.

Treat yourself to the best by booking your hotel in Parga , your tours and activities in Parga  such as a " Full-day boat cruise" to explore the beautiful old town of Parga ".

The island of Corfu is only two hours from Parga, book your holiday in Corfu and treat yourself to a day trip to Parga!

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Aktion/Preveza and join Parga by car (50 min).

  Where to stay:  " Golden Bay Suites & Maisonettes " located 400m from Valtos beach.

12. Cameo Island

This tiny island, located north of Zakynthos Island, is just 15 minutes’ drive from Zakynthos Airport and is a true paradise on earth. The entrance at the island of Cameo is not free of charge but it includes a nice drink!

Enjoy the sun, the endless sea and crystal clear waters; you’re on holiday now in one of the Best Places to Visit in Greece and Best Islands in Greece .

The island may  be privatized for big events such as weddings. (If you pretend you are a distant cousin you might take part of the fair!). Apart from these private events the island is still open to the public. If it is closed upon your arrival please visit the nearest beach, Martini Beach. You can also rent or buy a white dress and schedule your wedding for the next day!

All joking aside the island of Zakynthos is worth the trip and will amaze you by the beauty of its landscapes and  paradisiac beaches .

Book  your flights to Zakynthos , your  hotel or apartment  at the best price and your  tours and activities  on Zakynthos such as a " Zakynthos: Full-day cruise to beach & blue caves ".

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Zakynthos (15 minutes’ drive from this beautiful beach).

  Where to stay:  " Porto Koukla Beach Hotel " offers direct access to the sandy beach of Porto Koukla.

13. Thessaloniki

This year visit one of the Best Places to Visit in Greece . The country's second largest city attracts travellers looking for new trends, off the beaten path. Thessaloniki is also famous for its archaeological sites and its many monuments of the Byzantine period including its "White Tower" which became a symbol of the city when in 1912 the Greeks took control of this beautiful city located 500 km North of Athens.

Do not miss to visit the Aristotelous Square, the White Museum and the Byzantine Castle. Need more Inspiration? Discover the  Best Islands in Greece ,  Best Beaches in Greece ,  Best Things to do in Greece ,  Best Secret Destinations in Greece ,  Best Natural Wonders in Greece  as well as the  Best Castles in Greece .

Book your flights to Thessaloniki , your tours and activities such as a full-day trip to Meteora.

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Thessaloniki.

  Where to stay:  Stay in the heart of Thessaloniki by booking your room at the best price at the " Superior One Boutique Hotel ".

14. Kos Island

Kos island is one of the Best Places to Visit in Greece as well as one of the Most Beautiful Islands in Greece . It is known worldwide for its sublime sandy beaches such as Agios Foka beach, Lagada beach, Kardamena beach, Agios Stenanos beach. Located in front of the seaside resort of Bodrum, Kos is one of the most beautiful Greek islands .

It is the perfect destination for a relaxing holiday in the sun with family, lovers or friends. The easiest way to get there is to book your flights to Kos Airport or to book your flight to Athens plus a domestic flight to Kos (1 hour). Travelling by plane is not your cup of tea? There’s a ferry to the island of Kos from the port of Athens (4 crossings a week) but you will have to be patient because the crossing takes 11 hours!

Book your Kos Island flights and accommodation  as well as your tours and activities  in Kos. 

  How to get there:  Book your  direct flights to Kos  or take a domestic flight from Athens (+ 1hour).

  Where to stay:  Kos Aktis ", a luxurious minimalist design hotel.

15. Xi beach

The beach of Xi is famous for the incredible colour of its sand. This red-orange sand, similar to Roland-Garros tennis courts’, is just as comfortable and pleasant as any other type of sand but is more original.

The beach has been flying a blue flag for several years now for the exceptional quality of its waters. It is really one of the Best Places to visit during your stay in Greece.

Book your flights to Kefalonia as well as your  accommodation  at the best price and your tours and activities in Kefalonia such as a " 4-hour private group wine & gastronomy experience ".  

Do not miss to discover the  Best Islands in Greece ,  Best Beaches in Greece ,  Best Things to do in Greece ,  Best Secret Destinations in Greece ,  Best Natural Wonders in Greece  as well as the  Best Castles in Greece .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Argostoli airport. Xi beach is located 1 hour drive from the airport.

  Where to stay:  One of the top rated hotels is the " Apollonion Astorias Resort & Spa "; it is a 5-minute walk from the beach and offers delicious Greek and Mediterranean food.

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The 31 best Greek islands to visit in 2024

From the gastronomic specialties of Sifnos to the enigmatic ruins of the Dodecanese, each Greek island has its own distinct character. Choose your own adventure and discover them yourself.

From the gastronomic isles of the Cyclades to the enigmatic ruins of the Dodecanese, each of the six main Greek island groups has its own distinct character. Yet, look closely and you’ll find that more unites than sets them apart: there are secluded towns loved by local gourmands, hidden coves brimming with mythical associations and, above all, a natural splendour that’s captured the minds of artists and adventurers through the ages.  

1. Nisyros: Walk on a volcano

According to Greek mythology, it was Poseidon who seized a chunk of Kos and hurled it on top of a fiery Titan called Polyvotis — creating the volcanic island of Nisyros, with its enormous, sulphurous caldera. The volcano is active, but travellers can still walk across its warm crust — it last erupted in 1888 and is carefully monitored. It can be visited on a day trip from nearby Kos, but it’s worth sticking around to explore the island’s little capital, Mandraki, with its colourful houses and Byzantine churches; the nearby thermal spring at Loutra; and the lofty village of Emporios, with its ruined Byzantine castle, natural cave sauna and mesmerising views over the caldera.

2. Kalymnos: Reach new heights

For a long time, the island of Kalymnos was famous for one thing: sponge-diving. But in 1996, a new focus emerged, when Italian rock climber Andrea di Bari, on holiday with his family, observed the island’s towering limestone cliffs. Before long, this isle emerged as a capital for climbing. Kalymnos now has over 4,000 routes for all abilities, and companies such as Climb in Kalymnos offer dedicated beginners’ courses. But it’s not all about sports here, as the island has retained its old-world charm. Wander the ruins of the Byzantine town of Kastro, high on the mountainside, or head east to Vathys and its fjord-like valley, flanked by fragrant citrus groves.

3. Kos: Pedal the ‘bicycle island’

Greece’s ‘bicycle island’, Kos has over 6,500 bikes to hire and is also crisscrossed with cycling trails, including a new eight-mile path that takes in the coast. When Kos’s Italian colonisers departed in 1943, they left their bikes behind, which were swiftly adopted by the locals. One of the best sights to explore by bike are the ruins of Asklepion, two miles outside Kos Town and easy to reach on two wheels. In 430BC, Kos native Hippocrates, the ‘Founder of Medicine’, created this healing sanctuary, which is arranged in terraces along the hillside. But you don’t have to be a keen cyclist to enjoy Kos — the island is also generously endowed with sandy beaches, and Kos Town is known for its crusader, Ottoman and Italian architecture set beneath clouds of fuchsia bougainvillea.

4. Tilos: Wander a ghost village

For centuries, the residents of Tilos built their homes inland, safe from marauders. But in the 1950s, when the villagers of Mikro Chorio found their wells running dry, they decided to relocate to the island’s port area — taking their roofs, doors and windows with them. Until recently, the only signs that Mikro Chorio ever existed were the whitewashed church and fawn-coloured stone walls, which snake over the hillside and act as a playground for goats. Now, though, one ruined home has been renovated and turned into an atmospheric summer bar. From 11pm when it opens, a shuttle bus runs here from nearby Livadia — and the sound of chatter and clinking glasses once again fills this ghostly village.  

5. Rhodes: Explore a woodland oasis

The island of Rhodes is best known for two historic sites — walled Old Rhodes Town, built by the crusading Knights of St John; and Lindos, a pretty 15th-century sea captains’ town set beneath an ancient, vertigo-inducing acropolis. But it’s also popular for its broad, sandy beaches, and the fact it receives over 300 days of sunshine each year. If you can tear yourself away from the sea, visit Seven Springs , a refreshing woodland oasis in the north east of the island, reached by wading through a dark, 180m-long irrigation tunnel. The effort is worth it: refreshing swims, a tall waterfall and pine-shaded hiking trails await, and there’s a taverna frequented by roaming peacocks.

6. Symi: Hike through old donkey trails

Pint-sized, little-known Symi beckons day-trippers from nearby Rhodes with its neoclassical, colourful main town and the revered, frescoed Panormitis Monastery, set in a small settlement on the opposite corner of the island. Linking the two through the forested interior are some near-forgotten mule paths, which fell into disuse after a road running the length of the island was paved in the 1960s. Choose to spend a few days in Dodecanese destination and walk these storied dirt roads — at times, hardly more than a suggestion of a trail — to get to viewpoints rarely reached by foreign visitors, opening up to views of secluded coves and a promontory where the only man-made structure in sight is a solitary white church.

( Why you should go hiking in Symi, Greece . )

7. Karpathos: Travel through time

One of the Dodecanese’s highest mountains effectively divides Karpathos in two. At the island’s northern end, the remote hamlet of Olympos was isolated until 1979, when a road was built through the wild terrain. Local women still wear flowery scarves and long skirts — plus enormous necklaces of gold coins on special occasions — and they keep to many traditional ways, baking bread in communal ovens and embroidering textiles. Stay overnight here, in a cosy apartment at Irene’s House or Olympos Archipelagos , with its sea views, to get a feel for Olympos’s old-world magic, and don’t miss a traditional laouto (lute) performance in the taverna.  

8. Lefkada: Set sail for the islets

Mountainous, wooded Lefkada, with its craggy coast, was a late-comer to tourism, so it can feel more authentically Greek than some of the most popular isles. And for those dreaming of sailing the islands, its port of Nydri is the best place to start: sheltered from winds, its bay is scalloped with secluded coves and its own archipelago of emerald islets. You can hire anything from a licence-free dinghy up to a large sailing yacht here, with which you can explore the secret inlets.  

9. Paxos: Jump into the blue

Renting boats, whether solo or with a skipper, is something you can do on stretches of most Greek islands. But the size of Pazos, a seven-mile by two-and-a-half-mile blot off the south coast of Corfu, means it can be circled in its entirety in just a few hours. This makes it perfect for beach-hopping and the chance to discover a number of Greece’s most secluded coves — some lined with olive and cypress trees, others barely wide enough for a couple of towels, all lapped by inviting, crystal-clear water. Summer days in this corner of the Ionian are mostly spent dropping anchor at whichever one takes your fancy, stretching out beneath the sun on the deck, then cooling off by diving straight into the water.

( Why you should try beach-hopping by boat around Paxos, Greece .)

10. Corfu: Head for the hills  

With its Venetian-style capital and sandy beaches, Corfu is one of Greece’s most-visited islands. It’s worth heading for the hills here. Old Perithia , the island’s highest village, was founded in the 14th century, but by the 1950s its inhabitants had left, leaving only a taverna for hikers. In 2010, a couple from the UK fell in love with the village, buying a property (now a boutique B & B ) and kicking off its slow restoration. Today, it’s a riot of wildflowers in spring.    

11. Zakynthos: See the blue caves  

This is an island of white-sand beaches, but its north coast, with sheer cliffs rising out of the sea, is truly spectacular. The best-known precipices surround ‘Shipwreck Beach’, where a rusting cargo ship rests, slowly sinking into sands — though it’s currently only accessible to view from afar due to the risk of landslides. Other cliffs help form the Blue Caves, a labyrinth of pale rock that reflects the shimmering electric blue of the waters. Boats can enter the largest cave, where you can dive in for full immersion.

12. Kefalonia: Kayak secret coves

The biggest Ionian island, mountainous and green like a vast turtle’s shell, is surrounded by cliffs and coves — including the deep blue Melissani Cave on the east coast — and many of them are only accessible from the sea. In a kayak , you can paddle between the beaches at leisure, or embark on a longer guided trip, staying in inns on the way. For a challenge of a different kind, drive 1,628m up Mount Ainos, the highest peak in the area, for an eagle’s-eye view of the Ionians.  

13. Samothraki: Meet the Great Gods

Samothraki, in the far northeast Aegean, is a small island with a mythical past. The Greek sea god Poseidon is said to have sat on Mount Fengari here — at 1,664m, the second highest in the Aegean — to watch the Trojan War, while in ancient times, numerous pilgrims would make the difficult voyage here to worship at the Sanctuary of the Cabeiri, or Great Gods. Now in ruins, this temple complex was home to a mystery religion, and very little is known about its secret rites. Anyone, from kings to slaves, could be initiated, and historical figures are thought to have been members — among them Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great. After, head to the village of Therma, a 10-minute drive along the coast to the east, for its hot springs and nearby waterfalls so bucolic, you’d almost expect to come across a nymph.  

14. Lemnos: Explore a Greek desert  

It can be difficult to believe that, in among the pretty harbour towns, the Greek islands are also home to one of Europe’s only deserts. Pachies Ammoudies, on Lemnos, one of the largest islands, resembles the Sahara on a smaller scale, its soft dunes constantly shifting with the wind. The best way to explore it is by hiring a 4WD in the capital, Myrina, and heading out at dawn or dusk, when the sand takes on an orange glow. Myrina itself was named after the Queen of the Amazons — the   island is believed to have once been the home of the warrior women visited by the Argonauts — and you can spend hours exploring its traditional coffeeshops and colourful harbour. Also don’t miss the ruins of Poliochni, a settlement thought to be older than nearby Troy on the Turkish mainland.

15. Ikaria: Dance until dawn  

Ikaria, in the far east of the Aegean, is closer to Izmir in Turkey than Athens. It is known for lying in a Blue Zone — an area where people have a longer, healthier life expectancy — with about one in three living into their 90s. The list of potential reasons is long, ranging from the healthy local diet to the lack of stress, but visit this island between May and September, and it’s likely you’ll discover one more — nobody wants to miss the next paniyiri. The island’s saint’s day festivals happen almost daily in different villages. Fuelled by the island’s heady natural wine, they involve all ages dancing in unison together — placing their hands on each other’s shoulders and spiralling in time to traditional violins. When you’re partying until dawn, it can be easy to lose all track of time.

16. Lesbos: Discover the ouzo effect  

Ouzo, Greece’s favourite anise-flavoured spirit, is largely produced on Lesbos, with its traditional villages and gnarled olive groves, where 16 dedicated distilleries work to make over half of the national supply. And for fans of the spirit, Plomari, on the south coast, shines like the North Star — it’s here that travellers can find the Ouzo Museum , and learn about the drink’s history and the variety of Greek herbs that go into making it, alongside tours of the copper stills. Each brand is different, and some are difficult to find beyond the island, so it’s also where you’ll find the best opportunities for tastings. Order with water on the side to observe the famous ‘ouzo effect’ — despite both liquids being clear, when combined the result turns milky-white.  

17. Santorini: Sip volcanic wines

This island may be best known for its vertiginous villages on the edge of the caldera, but it’s also one of Greece’s top wine producers. Because of its volcanic soil, Santorini was spared from the lice epidemic that decimated Europe’s vineyards in the 19th century, and its indigenous white grapes, Assyrtiko, Athiri and Aidani, flourish, their vines pruned to resemble baskets to protect them from the wind. The resulting wine is bone dry and mineral rich — but you can also find the naturally sweet Vinsanto here, made from sun-dried grapes to produce a tipple that was popular in the Middle Ages. Try both kinds at the Santo , the island’s largest cooperative in Pyrgos. Or visit the organic Hatzidakis estate, located inside a cave.    

18. Syros: Listen to Greek blues

Rebetiko, known as the Greek blues and often featuring soulful lyrics on migration, poverty, misfortune and unrequited love, has roots in the years of mass unemployment following the Greece-Turkey Population Exchange in 1923. One of the genre’s greatest composers, Markos Vamvakaris, came from Ermoupoli on Syros, and live performances still ring out from bars on balmy nights here, especially during the summer Rebetiko Festival. Visit Ermoupoli itself, the neo-classical capital of the Cyclades, with its Catholic and Orthodox hilltop neighbourhoods, marble-paved Miaoulis Square and opera house. Don’t miss its speciality loukoumia (Turkish delight), introduced to the island by refugees from the then-Ottoman ruled islands of Chios and Psara.

19. Sifnos: Cook like a Greek

Sifnos is where the father of modern Greek cuisine, Nikolaos Tselementes, was born in 1878. The island’s specialities are worth looking out for, with chickpea stews and braised lamb mastelo still slow cooked in the traditional way in stoneware pots. Learn some of the island’s recipes by helping to prepare a typical meal at Narlis Farm , just outside Apollonia, where farmers have produced organic fruit and vegetables for generations according to traditional Cycladic methods, using very little water. Sifnos is exceptionally pretty, with the whitewashed villages Apollonia, Artemonas and Kastro, sandy beaches with seaside churches, and landscapes dotted with chapels, crisscrossed by miles of trails.

20. Tinos: Embark on a food weekend

In recent years, Cycladic Tinos has become famous among Greeks as an island of gastronomy. Blessed with fertile land and a resulting bounty of locally grown produce, it’s a magnet for chefs from nearby Athens, who’ll often leave their city restaurants in the warmer months to head here. Tinos Food Paths, a festival of gastronomy celebrated each year in the second week of May, marks the beginning of the season of indulgence. Come to join in the summer feast: start the morning sipping silty Greek coffee with a crispy filo pastry; recharge mid-afternoon with an acai bowl of wild strawberries; and round the day up trying local specialities, from fourtalia — a fluffy omelette made with potatoes — to louza , the island’s spice-cured pork.

( How to plan a food weekend on the Greek island of Tinos . )

21. Milos: Stay in a syrmata  

Volcanic Milos is an island of colour, with rock formations in shades of red, yellow and blinding white. Similarly bright doors and windows adorn its traditional syrmata — the huts found only around Milos and neighbouring Kimolos, carved into the soft volcanic cliffs by fishermen sheltering their boats for the winter. Some have been converted into quirky places to stay — a bit cramped, with just a bed and bathroom, but right on the water’s edge. On land, seek out the catacombs (the only ones on a Greek island), the ancient theatre and the replica of the Venus de Milo, marking the spot where the original was found.

22. Naxos: Find the marbles

Fine, white marble has been quarried and sculpted on Naxos since prehistoric times; the archaeology museum , in the Venetian castle on top of Naxos Town, is packed with remarkably well-preserved marble Cycladic idols from 3200-2300 BCE, smoothed with the island’s native emery. Elsewhere on the island, giant kouros (naked male youth) statues, carved in the 6th century BCE, were abandoned when flaws in the marble were discovered: today, two lie near the quarries in Apollonas. Naxos has a relaxed and family-friendly vibe, with walking trails and swathes of sand south of Naxos Town.

23. Agistri: Snorkel in clear coves

Less than an hour from Athens’ port city of Piraeus, Agistri is the smallest of the inhabited Saronics. Surrounded by twinkling waters, its pine trees cling to the cliffs that curl around its mainly pebbly beaches. Aim for the little peninsula of Aponisos, with its turquoise coves perfect for snorkelling, just a short bus ride from Skala and Megalochori, Agistri’s main towns. Or head out with Interdive and sail in its traditional wooden ship to the uninhabited islet of Dorousa, whose fish-rich waters and shipwrecks are exciting terrain for experienced divers.

24. Poros: Wander in a lemon forest  

Poros is so close to the Peloponnese that the 400-metre-wide channel separating the two is nicknamed Greece’s Grand Canal. A favourite past time in pretty Poros Town is lingering in a waterfront taverna and watching all the ships pass by, including ferries zipping across to Galatas, a port town on the mainland. Near there is a lemon forest that becomes intoxicating in May, when the trees are in bloom and the citrusy scent drifts across the channel on the breeze. For a perfect day out, hike up to the pretty blue-and-white clocktower in Poros Town for views over the lemon forests.  

25. Spetses: Get to know Bouboulina

Thought to be the world’s first female admiral, Laskarina Bouboulina, who grew up in Spetses, raised a small fleet during the Greek War of Independence in the 1820s and won Greece’s first naval battle aboard her flagship, Agamemnon. Her bronze statue stands near the harbour, and now her descendants run the charming Bouboulina Museum in her former mansion — where she was assassinated in a family dispute. Pine-clad Spetses later became the summer retreat of wealthy Athenians and, in 1914, was the first Greek island to get a hotel, the luxurious Poseidonion Grand Hotel , which still dominates the harbour today. The rest of the waterfront, still bristling with cannons, is filled with neoclassical former captains’ mansions, villas, black-and-white pebble mosaics and horse-drawn carriages. Visitors can cycle to the beaches — many sandy — and later dine in the bars and restaurants in the Old Harbour.

26. Aegina: Trace ancient Greece

Outside of Athens, surviving ancient peristyle temples are rare in Greece, but you can find a beautiful one just an hour from Piraeus by ferry — the Temple of Aphaia, on Aegina. Isolated on a pine-covered hill overlooking the island’s biggest beach resort, Agia Marina, the temple was built around 500 BCE — decades before the Parthenon. Sadly, like the Parthenon, it was stripped of its marble friezes by antiquarians, inspired by Elgin, who shipped them to Munich. Aegina has many other feathers in its cap: pretty Aegina Town, the first capital of Greece, where the scent of roasting pistachios fills the air. A remnant of this can be explored at the Archaeological Site of Kolona nearby, which contains the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, and a neighbouring archaeology museum. The ruins of another former capital, Byzantine Paleochora, can be found to the east above Agios Nektarios, one of the biggest churches in Greece, built for the most recent Greek Orthodox saint, who died in 1920.  

At first sight, looming into view as the ferry approaches its harbour, Hydra might seem like any other Greek island: fluttering white-and-azure flags, whitewashed houses, busy tavernas. Except the B & B owners who gather beside its dock, ready to pick up visitors and whisk them to their premises, don’t wait in their cars, like they would elsewhere. This mountainous island, off the east coast of the Peloponnese, is entirely pedestrian. Even bicycles are banned, thanks to a 1950s law that sought to keep it as it’s always been — a labyrinth of alleys to be explored on foot, by boat or, better yet, in the saddle. As you discover hilltop monasteries, cliffs paths and sandy beaches, you’ll find it’s a destination where the journey really does make the experience.

( How to explore the car-free island of Hydra, Greece . )

28. Skopelos: Hike wildflower trails

The emerald sea reflects the pine trees covering Skopelos, a serene island of pebble-strewn coves that’s great for walks and views. Near the town of Skopelos, piled high in the shadow of a Venetian castle, wildflower-dotted trails lead to six Byzantine monasteries on Mount Palouki. You can also hike to the Sedoukia, a collection of Neolithic tombs, or to the wedding chapel of Agios Ioannis — of Mamma Mia! film fame — perched high on a rock overlooking the sea near the island’s second town, Glossa.

29. Skyros: Meet Skyrian horses

Isolated from its sisters, Skyros has a whitewashed capital, Chora, that curls around a castle-crowned crag overlooking a vast beach. The northern half of the island is wooded, while the wild, rocky south is where a few of the last little Skyrian horses roam. Introduced in the fifth century BCE by Athenian colonists and isolated ever since, they’re the descendants of the horses depicted in the Parthenon Marbles. With only around 200 left, they’re one of the rarest breeds in the world.

30. Skiathos: Hit the beach

Cosmopolitan Skiathos, beside Skopelos, owes its popularity to its 62 beaches, which offer a stretch of sand for every taste. Koukounaries and Vromolimnos are best for watersports, while Aselinos is ideal for those after a quieter time, with just a few places to eat. Lalaria, meanwhile, is spectacular and silvery, and Kechria, with its sunbeds amid the olive trees, is perfect for a lazy afternoon punctuated by lunch in the taverna. As the sun sets, pretty, fun-loving Skiathos Town buzzes into life.

31. Alonnisos: Enjoy aquatic adventures

From May to October, boats head out on day trips to explore the waters off Alonnisos, which is part of Europe’s largest marine park. Here, endangered monk seals are protected along with dolphins and over 80 species of bird. Experienced divers can tour the ‘Parthenon of shipwrecks’, a fifth-century BCE vessel laden with amphoras that sunk off the coast of nearby islet Peristera and now forms the core of Greece’s first underwater museum .  

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19 Best Places In Greece To Visit

Greece is an incredible country to visit and one of Europe’s most beautiful areas to visit. With its iconic Greek islands , long history and the yummiest Greek Food , there literally thousands of the best places in Greece to visit. That being said, you won’t be able to do them all in one trip! 😉

This is why I wanted to share some of my very favourite and best places in Greece that you should think of exploring. Some are tiny little islands, whilst others are historic fishing villages that I’m hoping you’ll love.

You see, the thing with Greece is that lots of visitors just go to visit the stunning Greek islands , and rightly so! Honestly, they are incredible and one of my favourite areas in Greece.

That being said, there’s so much more to Greece than just the islands. This is why I’ve tried to show off a few mainland places you might not have considered.

Take a look below at some of the best places in Greece to visit. Oh, and if you’re looking for a little travel buddy (that’ll taste test all your Ouzo and feta, then count me in! 😉

1.) Meteora

Meteora is easily up there as one of the best places in Greece if you want to see something totally unique. Perched high up in the Pindus Mountains, Meteora is a vast complex of monasteries that stand hundreds of metres high. 

Apparently, religious settlers used these spots for over a thousand years, with the construction of the monasteries beginning during the Ottoman Empire expansion (sometime in the 15th Century). Due to the threat of persecution, the monks sought refuge in remote locations and this is how Meteora was formed.

Now, the original way into the monasteries was to climb a series of ladders tied together or be dragged up the mountain in a large net (tricky, I know). Thankfully, today you can gain access by a much easier method, steps have been carved into the rock and a bridge connects to a nearby plateau.

There were at its peak 20 monasteries here, now there are just 6, 5 for men and 1 for women. Great Meteora is the largest of these and one you certainly shouldn’t miss. Now, to get here, you either need to fly into the  Ioannina National Airport (about 120km away) or take the direct train from Athens to Kalambaka.

Read more: What to see and do in Meteora

2.) Kefalonia (Cephalonia)

Now, remember I said that there are some stunning Greek islands to visit? Well, Kefalonia is one of them, with two natural wonders you have to see.

Both the Drogarati Cave and Melissani Lake are some of the best places in Greece to visit if you want to see something a little different.

Best of all, they are close together so they can easily be both visited in one day.

Now, the lake was named after excavations in 1951 and 1962 revealed some Minoan illustrations of the god Pan and the nymph Melissanthi, showing that the lake has been used for centuries.

The lake was created when a huge underground cavern collapsed, leaving a large circular opening to the surface for us all to enjoy. 

Afterwards, chill out at Petani Beach, spot Mount Ainos and wander the shores of Fteri Beach. They are stunning. 

Read more: Best things to do in Kefalonia

Perched on the mountain of Parnassus, Delphi is one of the best places in Greece to explore ancient history.  After all, at one point, Delphi was the centre of the world to ancient Greeks who came to worship here.

Once you’re here, make sure to visit the Temple of Apollo that was home to the Oracle. Oh, and don’t forget to see the Athena Treasury and the ancient stadium, too.

It really is a special place to see and easily visited (2.5-hour drive) from the centre of Athens itself.

Read more: Best Greek food to try

4.) Zakynthos

Zakynthos is one of the more famous Greek islands to visit, and rightly so… it’s gorgeous. 

Now, there are lots of things to do on Zakyntho s but probably one of the most famous is visiting Navagio Beach. It really is one of the best places in Greece for views and an incredible vista. 

To be honest, the only way to access the beach is from the sea as the beach is surrounded by very steep cliffs that can be dangerous.

With that in mind, always take care at the top and never take unnecessary risks for a photo. One of the easiest ways to visit is by taking a boat trip that can be arranged in most hotels and nearby.

Just make sure to go early in the day (if you can) as it can get pretty busy as times goes on. 

Afterwards, hop over to visit the Keri Caves (via a boat tour), see the Agios Dionisios Church and stop for dinner at the Greek Traditional Cafe Ouzeri. They make the best moussaka. 

Read more: Best things to do in Zakynthos

Part of the Greek Cyclades, Andros island is not quite as well-known as the likes of Santorini or Mykonos . That being said, it shouldn’t be bypassed, especially if you want a slice of authentic Greek life. 

Once here, make sure to explore Vitali Beach, see the Monastery of Panachrantos and find the Foros Cave. Afterwards, pop into Andros Town and head through the little streets and alleys, you’ll find the best Greek coffee spots and places like Endochora that have the best seafood.  

6.) Argolis

Nestled within the north-eastern Peloponnese, Argolis is a historic region to visit in Greece. Now, once you’re here, make sure to visit Mycenae (that’s near Mykines).

About 4,000 years ago, Mycenae was one of the most important cities in Greek civilization and a thrive of activity. Nowadays, you can still explore the ruins and learn more about the history of this incredible spot.

Once here, make sure to see the Lion Gate, The Tomb of Aegisthus (outside the walls of the ancient city) and the Treasury of Atreus. It really is one of the best places in Greece to visit if you love ancient history.

Oh, and of course, don’t forget to partner this region with a trip to the theatre of Epidavros, too.

Read more: Best Greek islands to visit

Talking of history, Athens is easily one of the most famous cities from the ancient Greek empire. Nowadays, the capital has quite a few more people and lots more buildings, but there’s still a shed load of ancient locations you have to visit and see whilst you’re here. 

As soon as you arrive, make sure to visit the Antikythera Mechanism, which is a 2,000-year-old computer that was the world’s first calculator. Now the small bronze instrument sits in the National Archaeological Museum of Athens and is well worth seeing.

Of course, afterwards, make sure to head across to the Acropolis and Parthenon that’s iconic in Greece. 

If you’ve got time, also make sure to pop by the neighbourhood of Plaka that’s filled with cute little tavernas and gorgeous coffee shops. There’s also a quite a few temples and Anafiotika area of Athens that almost feels like you’ve been whisked away to the Greek Islands .

Oh,  and don’t forget the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus that’s well over 2,000 years old.

Crete is easily one of the best places in Greece to visit for an island adventure, but also want to explore a few cities, too. It’s the kind of island that has a little bit of everything, meaning that there’s always something to suit each person you’re travelling with.

For instance, in the north of the island of Crete and close to the city of Heraklion is the ruins of the city of Knossos. It is a city that has been dated to 7000 BC and is said to be one of the oldest cities in Europe.

Afterwards, pop over to Spinalonga Island, go for a swim at Seitan Limania Beach and gorge at one of the little cafes in the Venetian Harbour of Chania.

Read more: Best things to do in Crete

9.) Santorini

Santorini is probably one of the most famous Greek islands to visit. That being said, it’s famous for a reason… it’s totally beautiful. 

Once here, make sure to head to Oia and watch the gorgeous sunset over the Aegean Sea. Plus, if you fancy a little treat, book yourself into the cliff-edge Katikies Hotel that has some of the best views on the island. 

Also, don’t forget to pop over to Santo’s Winery, hike up the volcano and take a stroll around Fira. It really is one of the best places in Greece to see, especially if you want that white-washed typical Greek island vibe.

Read more: Best things to do in Santorini

10.) Penteli

Named after Mount Pentelicus, Penteli is a small town that’s pretty easy to visit if you’re already in Athens. After all, it’s only around 8-10km from the city centre. 

Now, one of the things that makes Penteli one of the best places in Greece to visit is the gorgeous Monastery and Rododafni Castle. The latter was built for the Duchess of Plaisance and took well over 100 years to complete. 

Also, much of ancient Athens (and the Acropolis) was built from the Penteli marble that was quarried from the hills themselves. Although I don’t think it’s wise to quarry for marble nowadays, you can still pop out on a few of the trails and explore the region around the town. It really is beautiful.

Plus, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you might even be able to see the Davelis Cave in the mountain itself. 

11.) Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is the second biggest city (after Athens) and easily one of the best places in Greece to visit if you want a little city break. 

Once here, make sure to explore the Church of Agios Dimitrios, visit the White Tower and explore the Rotunda. Afterwards, pop over to the Ladadika area of the city. The whole neighbourhood is so picturesque and there are loads of little cafes and bars that make it a perfect spot to visit on a lazy afternoon.

After wandering around, make sure to stop off at Charoupi who conjure up some of the best Greek dishes from across the country. I swear you will roll outta here. 

12.) Lemnos

Perched in the north of the Aegean Sea, Lemnos Island is a lesser-known island that’s a little off-the-beaten-track. That being said, it’s certainly one of the best places in Greece that not too many people have heard about. 

Legends state it is where Hephaestus landed when he was thrown from Mount Olympus by Zeus. The nearby volcanoes would send lava onto the shore here and that has left some pretty cool rock formations that are cool to see.

Still, you don’t need to be a world-class geologist to be interested in this island, as  Poliochni is a must-see, too. It is Europe’s oldest Neolithic city and a spot that you definitely shouldn’t miss.

13.) Epidavros

 As you’ll know by now, Greece is totally filled with ancient history. For me, it’s one of the most amazing things about Greece – there are just so many preserved sites that are still worth seeing today. 

Now, in my opinion, Epidavros is certainly one of the best places in Greece for history. Especially if you want to explore one of the most impressive ancient theatres in the country.  Built way back in the third century BC, the ancient Theatre of Epidaurus once sat over 13,000 people and is breathtaking to see. 

14.) Rhodes

The island of Rhodes is a picture-perfect Greek spot that’s actually not too far from the coast of Turkey. That being said, it’s truly Greek and is filled with loads of cute little fishing villages, ancient monuments and enough delicious Greek tavernas that you won’t wanna leave! 

After exploring the medieval town of Rhodes, don’t forget to head out in a car and explore the rest of the island, too. Once here, make sure to explore the Acropolis of Lindos, see the Palace of the Grand Master or chillout at Saint Paul’s Bay.

Oh yeah, and for some of that yummy Greek food, pop into Taverna Tsambikos (in Kolimbia), it’s totally authentic and you’ll leave stuffed. Rhodes really is one of the best places in Greece to visit, especially if you want a mix of relaxing on the beach and shed loads of history. 

Read more: The best things to do in Rhodes

Samos was a total surprise to me and somewhere we booked for a week-long chillout in the Greek islands.

That being said, Samos is so much more than just a stunning chillout spot in the Aegean Sea. 

Once home to Pythagoras (that maths guy), it’s an island that’s steeped in history. Plus, it has a whole heap of gorgeous beaches, bays and coves to explore.

That being said, if beaches aren’t your thing, rent a car and head up into the mountains. Though be warned, the roads are windy and almost on the cliff edge at some point.  I think Yaya winced a few times as we went around the corners high above the sea. 😉

Oh, and don’t forget to try some of the islands sweet Muscat wine. It’s yummy, especially after exploring one of the best places in Greece. 

Read more: Best things to do in Samos

16.) Costa Navarino 

Perched just shy of Methoni, Costa Navarino is one of the best places in Greece to visit if you just want to relax. Perched right on the western coastline, it’s about a 2.5-3 hour drive from Athens Airport. 

Once here, it’s the kind of place where you can chill out at the beach, pop into the pools and just enjoy a total break away from it all. That being said, if you do get itchy feet, head over to Methoni and visit it’s imposing castle. After all, this whole area has been influenced by the Greeks, Venetians and Ottomans over the years.

The whole area around Messenia is just beautiful. 

Read more: visiting Costa Navarino

After visiting Corfu a good few times, I can easily say that there are so many gorgeous and totally cool spots to see across the island. It’s so much more than a few vibrant party spots, with a shed load of gorgeous bays and historic fishing villages to explore.

Once you’re here, make sure to explore the Cape Drastis and the beautiful rugged coastline. Oh, and make sure to pop by the Old Town of Corfu itself (Kerkyra). You’ll find plenty of little tavernas and small shops on the waterfront.

If you’re feeling like a little stroll, head over to Vlacherna Monastery, it’s a stunning monastery that sits within the sea itself. Thankfully, there’s a long walkway that’ll take you right across, with no swimming needed! 😉

For a gorgeous hotel, check in to the MarBella Corfu , it’s so sumptuous and some rooms have private pools. Yasssssss! 

Read more: Best things to do in Corfu

18.) Mykonos 

Perched not too far (in Greek terms) from Santorini , Mykonos is one of the best places in Greece to visit for a little taste of the islands.

It’s the kind of island that has a good mix of everything; quaint Greek charm, beautiful beaches (and sunsets), historic towns and party spots (if that’s your thing). 

As soon as you arrive, make sure to visit the windmills of Kato Mili, gorge on at M-eating and stroll the Harbourfront of Little Venice.

Oh, and for a little day-trip, sail across to Delos Island, it’s got some beautiful little bays and (apparently) the birthplace of Apollo.

Read more: Best things to do in Mykonos

You’ll have probably guessed by now that there are literally hundreds of Greek islands to visit across Greece. That being said, there’s a few that stand out and have become firm favourites.

Kos is one of these islands for sure. Nestled not too far from the coastline of Turkey, Kos is easily one of the best places in Greece to visit if you want some proper chill time and to just enjoy a more relaxed Greek island.

Once here, make sure to explore the Asklepieion, which is an ancient centre for medicine (with some of the columns still standing). Also, see the gorgeous little island of Kastri and head to Agios Stefanos for a proper beach day.

Read more: Best things to do in Kos

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Woman&Home

Best places to visit in Greece - the destinations loved by experts, locals and tourists

Posted: May 21, 2023 | Last updated: August 4, 2023

Choosing the best places to visit in Greece is an almost impossible task. Home to hundreds of islands, buzzing metropolitan cities steeped in history and culture, and a coastline that spans almost 16,000km, the country truly has something for everyone. 

If you’re looking for one of the best European city breaks, you could start with Athens, the birthplace of Western civilization. Nowadays it’s a city of contrasts where you’ll find archaeological sites nestled next to lively coffee shops, market stalls and cocktail bars. Or you could head to the best Greek islands, all possessing their own unique charm, cuisine, and exquisite scenery. Then there’s everything in-between: the mountainous landscapes, towering cliffs, and endless beaches that you’ll find across the country. 

As someone who's traveled around Greece for the last decade, with a short stint of living in it, I like to think I have my finger on the pulse of the best places to visit. But just to be sure, I've also enlisted the help of my Greek friends and family members to cover a mixture of destinations - from some of the best islands in Europe, to accessible areas of the mainland. Whether you’re looking for sun, sea, sand, culture, or a buzzing culinary experience, as one of the best places to visit in Europe, Greece can satiate all these desires. 

BY ANNA PAUL

No trip to Greece would be complete without a trip to its capital, Athens. A sprawling, modern metropolis overlooked by the Acropolis, a citadel that's sat on top of a rocky outcrop since 5th century BC. Even if you're not interested in history, it's hard not to marvel at the ancient Greek monumental complex, which can be seen from virtually every corner of the city. In the summer months, you can also attend concerts, opera and theatre performances at Odeon Herodes Atticus, the ancient theatre perched on the Acropolis. It's a true bucket list experience. Once you've scaled the heights of the Acropolis, head down to check out the museum which details the history of the site and the city as a whole. 

Next, head down to the heart of Athens, starting with Monisteraki and its buzzing street stalls and tavernas. If you're after street food, head to Kosta's Souvlaki where you can grab a pitta filled with pork, beef or chicken with onion, tomato and Kostas 'secret' tomato sauce. If you want to sit down with the locals for a meal (or just impress your friends with your insider knowledge), head to Avli, a rustic taverna that you can access via an unmarked door at Agiou Dimitriou 12. Once you find the door - which admittedly can be hard - you'll find a lively yard packed with small tables, delicious meals, jugs of local wine and live music. 

For fine dining, head to Hytra, a Michelin star restaurant in Koukaki - a creative neighborhood, located in the shadow of the Acropolis. Enjoy the 11-course tasting menu which takes reimagines traditional Greek recipes, re-creating them with freshly sourced raw materials. If the food wasn't enough to convince you, the panoramic view of the Acropolis will be. Head there at sunset for some truly breathtaking views. 

Then there are the bars and coffee shops, of which Athens has many. Go to Minu in Psyrri, a minimalistic haven where you can buy mood-boosting plants and handcrafted homeware, or simply sip your coffee and take in the urban oasis. Stay in Psyrri which is packed with cocktail bars (we recommend Juan Rodriguez but you have plenty to choose from).  

Top tip: Download 'Beat' - Greece's answer to Uber. Most of the city's yellow taxis operate with the app but prices are far lower (and language barriers kept to a minimum).

Eschew some of the more popular islands and head to Milos for a truly romantic holiday. Accessible via a short flight from Athens or a ferry ride from the popular islands of Santorini, Paros or and Mykonos, this unique island is worth adding to any travel-hopping itinerary. 

The volcanic island in the Aegean sea has been growing in popularity over recent years but it still remains unblemished by swelling tourism. Brimming with beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters, it offers everything you’d expect from a Greek Island. But the truly unique thing about Milos is its spell-binding lunar landscapes. Its chalk-white cliffs overlooking the azure-blue ocean feel (quite literally) other-worldly. Sarakiniko Beach boasts white rock formations which have smoothed and shaped over time, giving you the sensation you’re walking on the moon. For a truly unique experience, head to the beach before 8am and immerse yourself in the vast, chalky landscape. Drink in the view of the white-bone moonscapes, then jump into the azure sea below. The beach doesn’t offer much natural shade so if you want to avoid the hottest time of the day, plan to go to the beach for the sunset. We recommend traveling in May or early June. August is hot - and windy, which makes swimming difficult. 

There is no public transport operating to the beach, so think about renting a car, scooter, or ATV. The beach is around 10 minutes from Adamas and Plaka so taxis are also reasonable.

Top tip: There are no restaurants or bars at Sarakiniko beach, so come ready with water and food. It’s not far from nearby towns but you will have to hop in the car to get there. Be braced: there are also no public toilets. 

3. Zakynthos

Zakynthos island is known for its wild nightlife, but don't be deterred by its party reputation, as the island offers so much more. Its airport is small but extremely well-served, meaning you can often take advantage of holiday deals on offer. 

Once again, renting a car is advisable to really scale the island and experience its breathtaking views in their full glory. But if you can't, consider staying in Zante Town - the island's capital, where the central bus station is located. Full of picturesque Venetian-style houses and buildings, the town is the cultural hub of the island. But to really immerse yourself in the island culture, head to Vasilikos, the village and community which is located around 15 kilometers south of the town. This part of the island is decidedly sleepy, making it one of the best European vacations for families but solo travelers or couples would enjoy it just as much. While away the day on Gerakas Beach, a long, golden beach on the southern tip of the peninsula, home to the famous Loggerhead Turtles who nest in protected areas of the beaches. Banana beach, the biggest beach on the island is also located nearby. A long, wide beach with sparkling and shallow waters, you can also take part in an array of watersports here. 

If you have a car, take a 15-minute ride to Porto Mela, a taverna perched on Dafni beach that serves up all the favorites plus a selection of fresh seafood. If you're feeling adventurous, try rabbit in red sauce (kouneli stifado) - one of the island's signature dishes. Like most Greek cuisine, it's delicious, messy, and entirely unpretentious. Most restaurants will have different stifado options with other meats on offer too. Wash it down with a carafe of local wine - the island is home to many large vineyards and it's common for families to produce their own.

Top tip: While the south is rich with nature, beaches, and cuisine, don't leave Zante before visiting the north end of the island where the famous Navagia beach is located. Otherwise known as shipwreck beach, the remains of the MV Panagiotis ship have been planted on the white sand since the ship sunk in 1982. It's accessible only by boat, but avoid booking a boat to specifically go there - instead find an itinerary that includes Navagia beach as part of an island tour. In most cases, you'll pay the same price but see multiple destinations. 

4. Kalamata

You might know the name thanks to Kalamata's famous olives, but the capital of Messinia offers plenty more than just that. A pit stop for some of the best cruises and served by many major airlines, Kalamata is a seriously underrated holiday destination. Located 2.5 hours away from the capital, it's a popular hotspot for Athenians and other Greek tourists but it's still completely unspoiled by the swarms of international tourists. Make no mistake though - this is a city built for tourism, with luxury resorts, fine cuisine, and endless beaches. By summer, the beachfront is the place to be, lined with restaurants and beach bars that stay open until the early hours. In winter, the picturesque old town livens up. You can visit the castle or the archaeological museum but the best thing to do in Kalamata is just to do nothing at all and spend days wandering between beach bars, tavernas and dipping in the crystal blue water. There are endless sandy and pebbled beaches along the coastline which progressively get quieter and quieter as you edge away from the main marina.

You're spoilt for choices when it comes to cuisine, but pay a visit to the taverna of Kosta Vassiliadis (Stou Kosta). Regularly featured in top restaurant guides, everything is local and everything is fresh - from the meat, to fish to the verdant salads. The taverna is relatively hard to find unless you have a GPS but that doesn't deter the crowds: it's always packed - and for a reason. Expect to see Kostas floating from table to table chatting to everyone and introducing the food. As all the best tavernas do, they offer their own twist on the classics. The moussaka here is made with finely sliced veal instead of minced meat, layered on top of sliced aubergines and finished with a bechamel sauce. To sample the best local wares though, let your server choose your dishes for you. It goes without saying, too, that you need to sample the local olives when you're there.  

The pace of life is slow in Kalamata but it has a lively nightlife. In the center, enjoy a perfectly mixed cocktail in Luna Loungeor local favorite, Bistroteca. The city can be enjoyed by all ages, making it one of best vacations for over 60s and families alike.

Top tip: Take a day trip to the village of Kardamylli, under one hour away from Kalamata. The sleepy village sits below the Taygetos Mountains so is ripe for hiking, but you'll get equal pleasure just taking in the charm of the settings. The drive through the narrow, sloping mountains is picturesque and relatively short but is admittedly quite terrifying if you're not used to Greek roads. During the summer season, buses run approximately three times a day.

5. Santorini

No list of the best places to visit in Greece would be complete without mentioning Santorini. Probably the most famous Greek island, Santorini is one of the top summer destinations worldwide and home to some of the best luxury hotels in the world. The island gets extremely busy during the peak summer months, making it one of the best places to visit in September or between March and April when it's marginally quieter. 

The windswept volcanic island is known for its whitewashed cubiform houses and mesmerizing sunsets. For the best viewpoint, close your day in the picturesque village of Oia. As one of the most photographed islands, you might feel as though you've already seen the Santorini blue domed churches, and volcanic coves - but experiencing it firsthand is an entirely different experience. As with everywhere in Greece, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to food. Try domatokeftedhes - tomato fritters made with sun-blushed Santorini tomatoes. Wash them down with a glass of Assyrtiko wine from one of the island's 20+ wineries. The microclimate of the island provides a fertile environment for the rare, high-acidity grape. 

Top tip: Consider finding a private tour guide - not only can they give you insider tips but they can help you navigate the island's winding vistas. More crucially, they'll know the best routes to avoid crowds. 

One of the best off-the-beaten-track islands in the Eastern Aegean, Ikaria is an unpretentious and relaxed island, nestled between Mykonos and Samos. It got its name from Icarus, the son of Daedalus, who against his father's command, flew too close to the sun and fell into the sea near the island. With its beautiful beaches, endlessly friendly locals, brilliant local fare and healing thermal waters, it's not the worst place to land.

Despite its laid-back vibes, it's an energetic and vibrant island with a lively nightlife and feasts and all-ages parties that wage on until the early hours. As well as these parties, often thrown to mark religious celebrations (of which there are many), the island is also home to an international music festival, Ikaria festival as well as an annual international chess festival. Then of course there are its beaches; Seychelles Beach easily rivals the beauty of the beaches in its namesake, while Therma beach boasts mineral-rich hot springs. It's no wonder the locals are reportedly famous for their long and healthy lifespans. Speaking of which, don't leave the island without trying pefkomelo, the local pine honey. 

Top tip: Look out for a Panigiri while you're there, or try to plan around one. These are traditional feast days and celebrations that start in the afternoon and last until the morning, marking Saint's name days or other religious holidays. People travel from around the country to attend these and the celebrations can be large-scale with hundreds (or even thousands) of people. Expect lots of food, dancing and general joviality. 

Mykonos is known for its dry and windy climate, windmills, white streets, beautiful beaches - and of course, its nightlife. Despite its party reputation, however, the island caters to all interests and ages. Packed with luxury villas, hotels and premium restaurants, it's undoubtedly the best island for celebrity spotting and real VIP treatment. Start your day people-watching in the old town of Chora with a coffee. Your order, regardless of where you are in Greece should be a fredde espresso: a potent iced black coffee that comes with or without sugar. We recommend getting breakfast in Gioras Bakery, the oldest working bakery on the island which has belonged to the same family for over two centuries. Pick up a spanakopita, a filo pastry with layers of spinach, feta and crunchy, golden pastry. For a luxury dining experience, check out NOA which offers a modern taverna menu, with a big focus on farm-to-table dining. 

You're spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches, but our favorite is Agios Sostis beach. Unspoiled, compact, and remote, there are no beach bars (or shelter) at this tranquil beach, so do bring your own towels - and lots of sun lotion. The island is windy, but don't let that fool you into thinking the sun isn't blazing hot. Next to the beach is Kiki's taverna, a haunt favored by locals, and for good reason. Open daily until the sun goes down, the restaurant offers stunning fresh food at reasonable prices. 

Consider taking a ferry to Syros, a neighboring island just 30 minutes away from Mykonos which has its own distinct personality. Cosmopolitan and Cycladic, the main town is built amphitheatrically on two hills, making for a unique landscape. It's definitely quieter than Mykonos but it's by no means sleepy and is packed with buzzing coffee shops, restaurants and live music venues. 

Top tip: Expensive doesn't equate to good quality, so plan your meals before you head out. It's easy to be coaxed into sitting somewhere with a nice sea view, particularly in the center of Chora and the beaches of Platis Gialos, but prices can be exorbitant and the quality of the food can be comparatively low. The island is brimming with unforgettable eateries, many of which are very reasonable, so plan before you head out. Similarly, research beach bars and restaurants before you visit them - some venues at Platis Gialos charge $50 for sub-par cocktails, while neighboring ones will offer drastically lower prices for the same setting and quality. 

Hydra, or Ydra as it's known in Greece is a quaint, bohemian island which is accessible via a two-hour ferry ride from Athens. It's completely car-free, meaning the only mode of transport is on a donkey, water taxi or on foot - which is how we explored it. It was a famous hotspot in the 1960s and 1970s for artists and musicians, perhaps most famously, Leonard Cohen, who lived on the island on and off for years (his house used to be marked by a plaque and street sign but in recent years, renovation works have made it harder to find). To this day, it has an artistic feel and is still a hotspot for international artists and writers. Spend your days getting lost in the backstreets and climbing the island's bastions before cooling off for a dip in its waters. While the island has some pleasant beaches, they're generally not super accessible by foot - so if that's how you're exploring the island, we'd recommend instead finding a good bathing spot, like Hydronetta - a bar carved into the coastline which serves soft drinks, snacks and cocktails from dusk 'til dawn. Here, you can access the sparkling (but often choppy) seas via a small ladder. There are pleasant beaches in the island but if you're looking for some of the best beaches in Greece, there are plenty of other islands you can go to. For us, Hydra's charm lies in the blissful lack of cars, its narrow streets and craggy coastline and its bohemian vibes. By night, there are scores of lively tavernas and fun bars that stay open until the last customer decides to leave.

Top tip: We'd recommend visiting off-season, in May or October time. At this time of year, accommodation is substantially cheaper, as are the prices in local tavernas and bars. 

9. Thessaloniki

Greece's vibrant second city, Thessaloniki offers culture, history, food and adventure, yet for some reason, it often gets overlooked as a city break destination. As far as Greek cities go, Athens can sometimes be overwhelming, but Thessaloniki is decidedly less dizzying - not to mention, much milder, meaning that summers are less sticky and humid. Although it's still throbbing with personality and has a buzzing arts, foodie and music scene, the pace is distinctly slower than the capital.

Start the day with the city's famous bougatsa, a breakfast pastry with custard encased in delicious flakey filo pastry. Walk along the seafront the city is best explored by foot. Marvel at the Walls of Thessaloniki, the churches, monasteries and Byzantine baths, all included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites (the city has 15 on the list in total). Visit the White Tower, a monument and museum at the waterfront of the city, built in the 15th century after the fall of Thessaloniki to the Ottomans. Next go to Aristotelous Square, the central square and beating heart of the city. By this point, you'll be hungry, so it's time to talk about food once again. Although there's a gentle rivalry between Athens and Thessaloniki, the country's second city is where you'll find the best cuisine. 

For meat-eaters, Opsopoion Maganeiai, which translates as 'magical cooking' delivers on its promise, serving up plates of exquisitely seasoned steak cuts with a small but well-curated menu of starters. It's fairly small, so book ahead. For vegetarian choices, head to rOOTS Vegetarian & Vegan Place, a metropolitan eatery with an expansive and creative menu. Although it's easy to find vegetarian appetizers everywhere in Greece, finding a dedicated vegetarian restaurant is tricky as a lot of the cuisine is centered around meat. Beyond those places, look out for little 'ouzeries' - small venues that serve glasses of strong local liquors of tsipouro or ouzo accompanied by meze dishes. Meanwhile, the gyros in Thessaloniki are unrivaled:  pitas packed with meat, tomato, onion, fries and tzatziki (once again, vegetarian options are easy to come by too, which is unusual in Greece).

Top tip: As per the rest of the country, the hottest months are in summer so the best times to catch the good weather are between July to September. However, in early November the city hosts the International Thessaloniki Film Festival making it one of the best places to visit in November if you're looking for a cultural fix. As it's an international festival, most films will have both English and Greek subtitles. 

10. Aeropoli / Limeni

Perhaps one of the best hidden gems in Europe, Aeropoli is a popular destination for Greek holiday-makers but less popular with international tourists. The largest town in Mani, Aeropoli is packed with tavernas, buzzing coffee shops and vibrant bars. It's also 3km away from the picturesque village of Limeni.

Aeropoli is perhaps the best vantage point for exploring the region thanks to its countless hotels and rustic guest houses. It's really only accessible by car, but if you do have your own transport, Gytheio and Sparta are easily accessible for daytrips. Kalamata is less than two hours away, so we recommend combining a trip to both if you're planning a trip to the region. It's also close to the Caves of Diros, a large underground network of fantastical rock formations, located just 11km south of the town. 

If you visit Aeropoli, don't leave without spending a day in Limeni though, a beautiful port town with sparkling emerald water and rocky cliffs. What makes the landscape particularly impressive, however, is the imposing stone towers which look more like forts or watchtowers, build high against the rugged rocks and roads, with few windows. A local told us that they were intentionally built to look menacing; with each family trying to build above the one next to them to show their seniority and power. The result is a rugged, impressive landscape that contrasts with the sparkling seas below. 

Top tip: Don't visit off-season. Unlike more touristy destinations on the list, many businesses close their shutters during the winter months, and driving conditions can become difficult too. 

Packed with quaint villages, towering mountains and exotic beaches, Pelion is a mountainous peninsula in Thessaly, the central part of the country. It's close to the major city of Volos, but there are strong transport links from Athens and Thessaloniki too. As with many parts of Greece, it's best explored by car so you can visit as many of its villages as you can, each with their own unique charm. Despite its central mainland location, Pelion feels decidedly off-grid, with its deserted beaches, sleepy villages and rich vegetation. 

In winter, head to the ski resort of Agriolefkes in Mount Pelion for an unforgettable winter snow holiday, and in summer, retreat from the world in the village of Makrinitsa, a quaint village with cobblestone streets and grand houses, or Portaria - a lush, green mountainous village. And let's not forget the beaches, Mylopotamos beach is probably the most famous and picturesque, divided into two parts by a dramatic rock formation. Whether you're looking for a beach holiday, hike, or just to wander around the villages, the unique landscape of Pelion accommodates all types of holidaymakers. 

Top tip: Think about what type of holiday you want and book accordingly. If you're hoping to ski, it's one of the best places to visit in January but if you want a hiking holiday, consider traveling in springtime when the temperatures are dry but cool. The busiest time for tourists is June, so, much like traveling to the rest of Greece, if you want to get the best flight deals, travel in May or September. 

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5 best cities to visit in Greece

Here’s your go-to guide to the spots you don’t want to miss..

Cities rarely top the list on a Greek itinerary—many travelers just carve out a quick visit to Athens to see the Parthenon, then catch a ferry to the islands. And there’s nothing wrong with that.

But as someone who traded my hometown of Manhattan for Thessaloniki and Athens two decades ago, I am here to tell you: You’re missing out. Visiting the best cities in Greece can add so much to a vacation. Hear me out: Besides the sights and museums, you can live like a local, lounging in cool cafes, checking out the contemporary restaurant scene, and shopping at artisan-run boutiques. Plus, some of these cities are cheaper than high-profile island destinations—and all have easy access to beaches, either right in town or within close reach.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you need to skip the islands. There are many cities that make a great addition to an itinerary—or a good jumping-off spot for island-hopping. Here are my favorite five cities to check out.

Athens: For classical antiquities and avant-garde art

Even without the Parthenon , the Acropolis Museum , the Ancient Agora , and the National Archaeological Museum —all magnificent places to see— Athens would make a worthy destination. The city’s urban energy is sharpened by its contrasts, like the untamed nature surrounding Mt. Lycabettus , where you can hike to the top (or take a funicular) to enjoy a view that extends from the Parthenon all the way to the port of Piraeus and the Saronic Gulf . And then there are all the neighborhoods to explore, from the counter-cultural haven of Exarchia (for great street art and vintage clothing shops) to the elite Kolonaki district (home to the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture and the Museum of Cycladic Art ).

Highlights in the center of Athens include watching the Evzones (the changing of the guard) at Syntagma Square and checking out the catch of the day at the Varvakeios central market . On balmy summer nights, enjoy opera at the ancient Odeon of Herodes-Atticus near the Acropolis, a concert in the lively Gazi district, or a film under the stars at one of the city’s open-air cinemas, like Dexameni and Thisseon .

Where to eat : For a low-key dinner, Tanini Agapi Mou (which translates as “tannins, my love”) is a fun destination with natural and biodynamic Greek wines and snacks (cheeses, salads, bruschetta). Kolonaki’s Filippou serves classic homestyle dishes like beef stewed in tomato and wine or artichokes in an egg-lemon sauce, and the white tablecloths are a nice touch.

Hotel picks : Few hotels in Athens are as close to the Parthenon as the Herodion , in the serene Koukaki area. There’s a splendid view of the monument from its rooftop restaurant, as well as from some of the rooms. Elegant, minimalist Mona , converted from a 1950s textile factory in the sociable Psyrri district, is perfect for a design-forward stay.

Tip : As impressive as all the classical antiquities are, you don’t want to miss modern culture in Athens. A visit to the National Gallery gives a thorough introduction to the Greek art of the post-Byzantine era to the present (don’t miss the works of 20th-century masters like Tsarouchis and Moralis). The EMST, also known as the National Museum of Contemporary Art , is a great pick for avant-garde exhibitions, both Greek and international.

Thessaloniki: For a university town with ancient vibes

Greece’s northern port city—five hours by car or train, or a very short flight from Athens—offers a completely different experience. While a distant second to Athens in population, in lifestyle and culture, it’s second to none. This youthful yet sophisticated university town has been millennia in the making, with monuments from three empires casually integrated into the urban fabric.

Highlights include the Roman Agora and the Rotunda , the many UNESCO-recognized Paleochristian and Byzantine monuments like Agia Sophia and Agios Dimitrios , and the Ottoman-era Alaca Imaret and Bey Hamam . A wealth of museums—from the superb Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Byzantine Culture to the MOMus Museum of Contemporary Art span pre-history through the avant-garde.

Around sunset, everyone heads to the glamorous Belle-Epoque seafront for a volta—Greece’s answer to Italy’s passeggiata. Later in the evening, join locals at the bars and tavernas in the Ladadika neighborhood to see why Thessaloniki is known for nightlife.

Where to eat : Bougatsa (a flaky sweet or savory pie) is a favorite morning treat, especially from Bantis . For lunch, it’s hard to find a more satisfying meal than crisp fried salt cod with skordalia (a zesty garlic spread) served on a sheet of paper at either of the two Bakaliarakia locations by the harbor. For a sweet taste of Asia Minor, visit Chatzis Dairy in the central Modiano Market . Try the kazan dibi—a thick, caramelized buffalo milk pudding.

Hotel picks : The elegant Electra Palace , overlooking central Aristotelous Square and the sea, is worth the splurge. Zeus is Loose , also central, has huge windows looking over a park. It’s a sociable choice, with a rooftop bar and dorm rooms with bunk beds and shared baths (though you can also book a double with a private baths).

Tip : Thessaloniki is the ideal urban basecamp for a variety of experiences. Halkidiki , just an hour’s drive down the coastline, has famously dreamy beaches, like Kavourotrypes . Meanwhile, the world of Alexander the Great still dazzles at Ancient Pella and the Museum of the Royal Tombs at Aigai , each also an hour away by car. Want to go island hopping? Ferries connect Thessaloniki with some of the best islands in the North Aegean: Chios, Samos, Lesvos, and Limnos.

Chania: For Cretan character in a Venetian setting

My family has a summer home in Chania . Yet no matter how many times I visit, I can’t get enough of the photogenic Venetian Harbor , with its tangle of romantic, jasmine-scented alleys.

Despite its popularity with visitors, Chania still retains a strong sense of place, particularly in districts like Splanzia (just east of the port) or in lush, aristocratic Chalepa (a short taxi ride or pleasant walk to the east). Here, amid birdsong and neoclassical mansions, you’ll find the new Archaeological Museum , the Russian-style Church of Mary Magdalene in its large garden, and the Museum-Residence of Eleftherios Venizelos , a key figure in the history of modern Greece.

Nearly every afternoon in summer, you’ll find me at the elegant old cafe in the Municipal Garden , where locals love to gather to read the paper, sip thick Greek coffee served in a copper briki, and socialize under the trees. The beautiful outdoor Municipal Cinema , also in the garden, shows film in their original language with Greek subtitles.

Where to eat : Locals take a break from their errands for a Cretan-style bougatsa—here, it’s filled with tangy cheese and topped with sugar. I love Bougatsa Chania , which is right across from the post office, in case you have postcards to mail. For a traditional Cretan lunch or dinner, Mezedoscholeio is a good value. Reviewers rave about the lamb and the baked feta. Try to snag one of the tables on the patio.

Hotel picks : In a Venetian building, Splanzia Boutique Hotel hits high marks for atmosphere and a homemade breakfast served in the courtyard. Want to save money? I recommend the friendly Kumba Hostel , a short stroll from Koum Kapi Beach —you can book a double room with a private bath, or for deep savings, there are shared, dorm-style spaces.

Tip : The Samaria Gorge is unforgettable. Hikers set out for Xyloskalo (elevation 4,035 feet) close to dawn. From there, they begin the 10-mile descent to Agia Roumeli on the south coast, a village so isolated by rugged terrain that it can’t be reached by car. After a dip in the Libyan sea, a boat takes you to Sfakia for transfer back to Chania.

Rhodes Town: For medieval splendor and island-hopping

The medieval Old Town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once home to the Knights of Rhodes (later known as the Knights of Malta). Highlights include the Palace of the Grand Master —magical on a warm evening—and the Street of the Knights .

Just outside the old city walls, Rhodes is packed with a variety of sights from different eras.Charming Mandraki Harbour was once the site of the Colossus of Rhodes , one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Very close to it, you’ll find the National Theater of Rhodes —a stellar example of Italian modernism. Across the street from the theater, by the Muslim cemetery and the Mosque of Mourat Reis , is a (hidden) highlight: the Villa Cleobulus , Lawrence Durrell’s home after WWII. The setting is just as he described it in Reflections on a Marine Venus (the perfect read before a visit to Rhodes), while the Marine Venus herself is now located at Rhodes’ Archaeological Museum .

Where to eat : A piece of sweet or savory phyllo pie fresh from the wood oven at Fournariko makes a perfect breakfast on the go. For dinner, 4 Rodies is a favorite with locals and visitors alike thanks to its homestyle dishes (don’t miss the dolmadiakia—stuffed vine leaves) and plenty of vegetarian options.

Where to stay : On a recent visit, I stayed at the spacious A33 Rhodes Old Town House with a large group of friends. It’s full of character—think, a pebble mosaic floor in the hall, exposed stone walls, and a velvet-cushioned reading nook. Solo travelers and couples might prefer the atmospheric 10GR Boutique Hotel and Wine Bar , in a historic stone building with a modern design.

Tip : All over Greece, KTEL buses run between towns and cities. At the KTEL station near Liberty Gate , you’ll find buses that will take you to fabulous beaches like Anthony Quinn Bay , about half an hour from Rhodes Town. I liked it so much that I threw away a plane ticket to spend two extra days here, snorkeling with colorful minnows and reading under the pines.

Corfu Town: For aristocratic glamour with an Italian (sometimes French, sometimes British) accent

Corfu Town, with its pretty Venetian Fortress , neoclassical houses, and warm palette of ochres and dusky pinks, offers a Greek-island experience with an extra hit of glamour. The Old Town , punctuated by the tall belfry of the 16th-century Church of Saint Spyridon , is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Landmarks from French and British rule give Corfu Town a cosmopolitan mood, especially around Spiananda Square . At the north end is the Regency-style Palace of St. Michael and St. George, now the Corfu Museum of Asian Art , with one of the finest collections in Europe. Meanwhile, along the western edge of the square, the early 19th-century Liston (Corfu’s famous Rue-du-Rivoli-like colonnade built during French rule) makes a great setting for a morning espresso or afternoon spritz. Even in sports, Corfu has an international flavor—you might see a friendly cricket match in the square.

Where to eat : With its fairy lights and beautifully set tables, the courtyard of the Venetian Well makes a dreamy setting for enjoying a five- or seven-course tasting menu of dishes like rockfish risotto and braised lamb with apricot and cured lemon. To try Corfu’s Italian-influenced dishes, like bordetto (fish with a zesty tomato sauce) or sofrito (beef in sauce of garlic, vinegar, and wine), visit Rouvas .

Hotel picks : Its central location and modern rooms, some with stellar views of Spianada Square , make the Arcadion Hotel a very good choice. The Angsana Corfu , about six miles south of Corfu Town, has a massive infinity pool overlooking the Ionian sea.

Tip : I love to come here during Easter week to see Corfu’s elaborate celebrations including a staged earthquake at the Church of Virgin Mary of the Foreigners (held on the morning of Holy Saturday), followed later by the “botides”—when Corfiots throw large clay vessels off balconies (watch your head!). But this is a wildly popular time to visit, so book early.

NASA's Interactive Eclipse Map Tells You Where and When to Get the Best View

Seeing the solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many. If you want to know what time the event starts near you, how much of the sun will be covered, and what the weather will be like, check out this interactive map from NASA.

By Michele Debczak | Mar 28, 2024

North America will be treated to a solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, 2024 . This marks the second total solar eclipse to appear over the continent in less than 10 years —but it’s the last one in the contiguous U.S. until 2044. If you want to see the phenomenon under the best conditions possible, NASA has released an interactive map to help you plan your viewing experience.

To use the Eclipse Explorer on the space agency’s website , start by plugging in your zip code. The tool will tell you when the eclipse is starting and ending in your area, as well as the time of max coverage and what percentage of the sun will be blocked at its peak. A handy countdown clock shows you exactly how much time you have left until the sun and moon reach max overlap over your neighborhood. In addition to your geographic location, the weather is an important (and hard to predict) factor of your eclipse viewing experience. NASA’s Eclipse Explorer also pulls up the latest weather information for the selected zip code, so you can get an idea of what the skies outside will look like before viewing them through your safety glasses. 

A solar eclipse happens anytime the moon appears to pass over the sun. To experience a total solar eclipse, you’ll need to wait until the moon fully covers our solar system’s star, resulting in up to four and a half minutes of surreal, daytime darkness. If you want to experience the rare event, you’ll need to find your way to the path of totality on April 8. The interactive map on NASA’s website makes this easy to do as well. As the map shows, many cities across the U.S. fall within the prime viewing path, including Austin and Dallas in Texas, Indianapolis in Indiana, Cleveland in Ohio, and Burlington in Vermont. Clicking on one of these locations shows you the local weather as well as the time and duration of totality.

Driving to the path of totality won’t do you much good if you can’t see the sun when you get there. Though cloud cover can be hard to predict until the day of, there are steps you can take to maximize your chance of clear skies. Visibility will likely be best at lower latitudes, like Mexico and Texas, and early forecasts so far back this up. If you go some place father North like New England, you’re more likely to encounter a gloomy April day. The best strategy is to have a flexible game plan, so you can check the weather up until the last minute and chase clear skies if needed. 

If you plan on driving to witness the total solar eclipse on April 8, make sure you keep safety in mind. Traffic will be brutal throughout the path of totality, so give yourself plenty of travel time and don’t hit the road without water, snacks, chargers, and a full tank of gas. And whether you’ll be viewing a total eclipse or a partial one, your eyes need protection . Unless you’re using certified eclipse glasses, never look directly at the sun. Here are more safety tips to know ahead of the big event.

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EURO 2024 play-offs: How they worked, state of play

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

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The spots for the final three places at UEFA EURO 2024 were decided following the play-offs.

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Poland, Ukraine and Georgia earned the final three spots at UEFA EURO 2024 following the conclusion of the play-offs.

Twelve teams were initially in contention, with six semi-finals taking place on 21 March. The winners advanced to three finals on 26 March, and the victors in those games complete the 24-team EURO finals line-up.

What were the play-off results?

Semi-finals (21 March) Path A : Poland 5-1 Estonia , Wales 4-1 Finland Path B : Israel 1-4 Iceland , Bosnia and Herzegovina 1-2 Ukraine Path C : Georgia 2-0 Luxembourg , Greece 5-0 Kazakhstan

Finals (26 March) Path A : Wales 0-0 Poland (aet; Poland win 5-4 on penalties) Path B : Ukraine 2-1 Iceland Path C : Georgia 0-0 Greece (aet; Georgia win 4-2 on penalties)

How did the play-offs work?

The play-offs were all single-leg knockout matches. If ties were level at the end of normal time they would go to extra time and, if required, a penalty shoot-out.

Who will play-off winners face at EURO 2024?

The final tournament draw took place on 3 December, so the play-off winners' group stage opponents in Germany next summer are already known.

Group D : Poland , Netherlands, Austria, France Group E : Belgium, Slovakia, Romania, Ukraine Group F : Türkiye, Georgia , Portugal, Czechia

How were play-off teams decided?

Twelve teams were selected based on their performances in the 2022/23 Nations League – nominally the group winners of Leagues A, B and C, but if they had already qualified they were replaced by the next best-ranked team in their league. The four play-off slots were allocated to each league from League C to League A in reverse alphabetical order.

If fewer than four teams from one league entered the play-offs (as was the case with League A), the first available slot was allocated to the best-ranked group winner of League D, Estonia.

Remaining slots were then allocated on the basis of the overall 2022/23 Nations League rankings to the best-ranked teams that had not already qualified, subject to the restriction that group winners of Leagues A, B and C cannot be in a play-off path with teams from a higher league.

Within each path, the top-ranked teams host the fourth-ranked sides and the second-ranked teams welcome the third-ranked sides. Final hosts were determined in November's draw .

Are the play-offs new?

There have been play-offs for six of the last seven EUROs. The UEFA EURO 2020 play-offs offered a different format, though. For the first time, teams had to come through more than one round and, unlike all previous editions, sides qualified to participate via the Nations League, rather than the European Qualifiers.

The same format was employed for the European play-offs for the 2022 FIFA World Cup (though, in that case, only two Nations League teams qualified for the play-offs together with ten European Qualifiers group runners-up), and therefore this is now the third time that single-leg matches will be used.

Sign up for a free MyUEFA account to watch live streams and on-demand content, play games and challenge your friends, win money-can’t-buy prizes, and apply for tickets to Europe’s biggest games.

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EURO 2024 play-off draw

EURO 2024: Host cities