best place to visit greece first time

First time Greece: top 10 experiences

Jan 2, 2020 • 5 min read

The Porch of the Caryatids on the Acropolis’ Erechtheion © JeniFoto / Shutterstock

With its sparkling white beaches, crystalline water and venerable ancient sites, Greece lives up to all the hype. But how to approach this vast country with enough islands to suit everyone’s taste and antiquities dotting the landscape like a historical map of Western civilisation? To help you choose, here's our guide to top experiences in Greece for first-time visitors.

Ancient Athens

Most first-time visitors will arrive and depart through Athens . An absolute must, of course, is the Acropolis , with its iconic Parthenon and the demure robed maidens (Caryatids) supporting the roof of the Erechtheion temple alongside. The modern, vast Acropolis Museum sits just below, and protects the site’s artefacts while placing them in context. Any initiation to ancient Greece should also include the easy walk from the Acropolis down to the Ancient Agora – once the focal point of administrative, commercial, political and social activity, and the spot where Socrates expounded his philosophy. It’s also a snap to loop in other top sites, such as the Temple of Olympian Zeus – its colossal columns reminding us it was the largest temple in Greece – and the Panathenaic Stadium , still in use today. Roman sites include Hadrian’s Arch and the Roman Agora with its evocative Tower of the Winds .

Monastiraki and Plaka

An easy add-on to the walk around ancient Athens is a browse through the bric-a-brac in the daily Monastiraki Flea Market . Shoulder-to-shoulder shops and kiosks hawk a riot of souvenirs, clothes, leather goods, jewellery and burnished antiques. Head to one of the squares buried in the midst of the market, Plateia Avyssinias. It’s perfect for a quick break at bistro-like Café Avissinia , which is tucked amid heaps of restored furniture and fascinating baubles and has Acropolis views from its top floors. Nearby Plaka offers a warren of historic streets jammed with souvenir shops.

Coffee culture

When in Greece, make like the Greeks and have a long, lazy, lingering and chat-filled kafedaki . In the cafes of Athens (try barista champions  The Underdog ) and the central squares of towns throughout the islands and countryside, sitting for a coffee and a long round of people-watching and gossip is a pastime not to be missed. Order a Greek coffee, either sketo (plain) , metrio  (with some sugar) or glyko  (super-sweet) , and watch the world go by.

Santorini (Thira)

Ravishing Santorini lives up to the postcard-perfect photos you’ve seen, perhaps calling you to Greece in the first place. Beauty and fame have a price: Santorini is jammed with visitors in high season. But the rest of the year it’s more peaceful, and it’s easier to get an unobstructed view of the striated ochre cliffs cradling the caldera. Find a spot on one of the multihued volcanic beaches (black, red, white!) or grab a seat for one of its glorious sunsets, ideally in the little town of Oia , the white frosting on the tip of the island.

Mykonos and Delos

Mykonos is the land of glitz, glam and 24-hour parties. Whether bronzing at one of the chic beach clubs such as aptly named Paradise and Super Paradise , promenading through the maze-like streets of Mykonos Town (Hora) dressed to the nines, or dancing the night away at places like open-air Cavo Paradiso , come ready to party, and bring a bankroll to match. Ironically, one of Greece’s most treasured ancient sites, Delos , sits on a small island offshore. The mythical birthplace of twins Apollo and Artemis (two of the most important ancient Greek gods), Ancient Delos  is a shrine turned sacred treasury and commercial centre. A little dose of serious history to leaven the non-stop romp on Mykonos.

Island hopping in the Cyclades

The super-famous islands draw visitors from far and wide every year, but it’s well worth adding at least one other island to the mix… pick one that takes your fancy. Or better yet, island-hop around the Cyclades for a classic adventure! Each island has its own character, and a visit to places like the wonderful, volcanic Milos , precious, princess-like Sifnos , raw, countrified Serifos or fertile, mountainous Naxos (to name just a few) adds enormous breadth to a first-time trip.

If time is short, and you don’t have the luxury of extended island hopping, head straight from Athens to tiny Hydra  in the Saronics . Hydra is a delight that awaits just an hour and a half from the main port of Piraeus . Its picturesque horseshoe-shaped harbour town with gracious stone mansions stacked up the rocky hillsides is known as a retreat for artists, writers and celebrities. There are no motorised vehicles (apart from sanitation trucks), leading to unspoilt trails along the coast and into the mountains.

Throughout the year festivals dot the Greek calendar. Ubiquitous Saints Days occur year-round from small village to big city. Carnival (also known as Apokreas) is a time for dress-up and parades; Patras Carnival is the most well-known. The fabulous, suitably famous Greek Easter is a week-long springtime celebration. And the main summertime event is the Athens & Epidaurus Festival , when the exquisite ancient Theatre of Epidavros and Athens’ Odeon of Herodes Atticus (right by the Acropolis) are the headline venues of this cultural feast with a top line-up of local and international music, dance and theatre.

The long lunch

You haven’t lived the Greek life, and certainly not had a full summer experience, until you’ve partaken in the ‘long lunch’. Ideally, you’d have a table-full of friends and family, but even with a smaller group, while you’re in Greece be sure to head to a seafood taverna and dine al fresco. Sip endless afternoon ouzo accompanied by a continuous parade of mezedhes (small dishes): meatballs, zucchini balls, fresh fish, taramasalata (fish roe dip) and more. Lazy laughter with a continuous feast in the beauty of the Greek outdoors, ideally beachside… nothing compares. Top food islands are Lesvos (Mytilini) , Corfu , Crete and Tinos

What would a trip to Greece be without some serious beach time? An embarrassment of riches, Greek beaches range from Santorini and Milos’ multihued volcanic rocks to Kefallonia and Lefkada’s broad, vast sweeps of soft sand or small white stones. The waters of Sifnos sparkle like rainbows. Paros  is known for world-class kite surfing. Little Kythnos has a double-sided beach, arcing out into the sea. Greece is a land for beach connoisseurs – sample broadly, and form your own opinions.

You might also like:

The 10 best museums in Athens   Plan your perfect Greek island-hopping adventure   The best free things to do in Athens

Article first published in January 2015, and last update by Alexis Averbuck in December 2019

This article was first published Jan 30, 2015 and updated Jan 2, 2020.

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Greece Itinerary: 7 Days in Greece for First Time Visitors

A popular 7 day Greece itinerary combines time in Athens, Santorini and Mykonos. Here's a local's guide to planning the perfect Greece itinerary 7 days.

7 Day Greece Itinerary

People often ask how long they should stay in Greece for. My answer is as long as you can, as Greece has a lot more to offer than you think.

I've lived here for nearly seven years, and feel I've still barely scratched the surface!

After setting up a design your own trip feature on the blog, I came to realize that a significant amount of people were requesting information for spending 7 days in Greece.

I also noticed that the most popular combination, was the Athens – Santorini – Mykonos one. We could think of this as the classic Greece itinerary for first timers.

As a result, I created this Greece in 7 days itinerary to help people plan their Greek vacations.

1 Week in Greece

If this is your first time in Greece, it makes sense to go to the most famous destinations, i.e. Athens , Santorini and Mykonos .

Keep in mind that these Greek destinations are quite popular. So, whilst you will be visiting well known and incredibly beautiful places, Santorini and Mykonos in particular offer less of the ‘authentic' Greece. 

I've tried to create this Greece 1 week itinerary to minimise your travel time, and maximise your overall experience. This Greece tour includes visits to ancient sites in Greece, beaches, and how to see the incredible Santorini sunset.

Before we get too far in though, sign up for my travel itineraries, insights and guides. Trust me, you'll appreciate the information you'll receive.

All good? Awesome.

Let's carry on and look at how should you get around Greece. The logistics of travel between Greek islands in 7 days is something worthy of deeper consideration.

Logistics and transportation for your Greece 7 days itinerary

Before you start planning your week in Greece, you should understand the logistics of travelling around Greece and the Greek islands.

Greece has several groups of islands, most of them being in the Aegean Sea. 

Mykonos and Santorini both belong to a group called the Cyclades , and they are reasonably close to each other. As they are popular destinations, they each have an airport as well as a port.

As such, whilst Greek island hopping by ferry is the ‘old way' to get around, flights are certainly an option.

How to get from Santorini to Mykonos

You can only travel between Mykonos and Santorini by ferry.

Santorini and Mykonos are connected by a number of boats, running on a daily basis. There are many types of boats, the fastest one taking just under 2 hours and the slowest one around 4 hours.

If you only have seven days in Greece, time is important, so you might prefer to choose the fast boat.  At the same time, the journey on the slower boat is generally more pleasant. Something to consider.

You can check out ferry schedules between Mykonos and Santorini and book tickets online using Ferryhopper .

How to get from Athens to Santorini and Mykonos

Athens, the capital, is connected to both Santorini and Mykonos by flights as well as several types of boats departing from Pireaus or Rafina, the two ports close to Athens.

It takes anything between 5 and 10 hours to get to Santorini on a boat, while getting to Mykonos takes anything from just over 2 hours to about 5 and a half hours.

A flight from Athens to the islands and vice-versa will take you just under an hour.

Is it best to fly or use the ferry?

With all of the above in mind, if you are trying to plan your Greece itinerary for 7 days, your best bet is to spend less time getting from A to B, and more time enjoying the different places.

If you book well in advance, you can get good deals for flights to Mykonos and Santorini – in fact, some boat tickets are a lot more expensive than flights booked in advance.

You can book ferry tickets online easily here: Ferryhopper

Want specific information on Getting from Athens to Santorini? Take a look at my travel guide to get from Athens to Santorini .

And here's how to get from Athens to Mykonos .

Arriving in Greece

Unless you are arriving on a direct flight to Santorini or Mykonos (which you can if flying from some European countries), chances are that you will be landing at Athens International Airport.

My suggestion is to find the next available flight to Mykonos or Santorini, whichever one suits best your budget and your timetable, and go to the first island straight away, leaving Athens as your last destination.

This is so that you can have some time to unwind on the islands before hitting the capital. Also, there is the rare (but still possible) scenario of getting stuck on one of the islands because of bad weather or a last-minute boat strike.

Greece Itinerary 7 Days

In short, your Greece itinerary for 7 days could look like this:

Athens > flight to Mykonos > 2 days in Mykonos > boat to Santorini > 2 days in Santorini > flight back to Athens > 3 days in Athens .

Or, it could look like this:

Athens  >  flight to Santorini  >  2 days in Santorini  > ferry to Mykonos  >  2 days in Mykonos  >  flight back to Athens  >  3 days in Athens .

If you want a more relaxed week-long vacation, you could just choose two destinations, and skip either one of the islands or Athens.

However most people seem to prefer to visit as much as they can in their Greece itinerary for 7 days. I don’t blame you!

7 Days in Greece – 2 Days in Mykonos

If I had to choose, I would marginally prefer to go to Mykonos before heading to Santorini. The reason being, that Mykonos is more geared towards beaches and nightlife, whereas Santorini has more to do in terms of day activities.

When in Mykonos, you can rent a car and go around the island, visiting the most famous beaches like Elia, Platis Gialos or Ornos for some beach time.

You don't need a rental car at all though if you want to walk around the picture-perfect old town.

When visiting Greece, you're never too far away from an ancient site, and this also applies to Mykonos! Don't forget the UNESCO World Heritage Site of  Delos which is a perfect half-day tour . I highly recommend visiting on a guided tour!

At night, there are several bars and clubs to choose from in Mykonos Town and other resort areas.

Mykonos has been a party island for many decades, so they definitely know what they are doing!

Check out this article to plan your 2 days in Mykonos – Fun things to do in Mykonos .

Looking for interesting day trips and tours? Take a look at this guide to the 10 best Mykonos tours .

How to get from Mykonos to Santorini

From Mykonos, the best way to get to Santorini is by ferry.

I've got a full guide here on how to get from Mykonos to Santorni .

A good website for checking out boat routes in Greece is www.ferryhopper.com .

Note that if you are planning your trip many months in advance, the information isn’t always updated.

Also, there are more boats during high season (June-August) than in low season, and it’s best to book your tickets early if your dates are fixed.

Note that it is actually possible to fly from Mykonos to Santorini through Athens, but the boat trip makes more sense – and is more scenic.

7 days in Greece – 2 days in Santorini

Santorini is world-famous, and for good reason.

The white-washed houses, blue-domed and stunning sunsets would be enough on their own, but there are also winery tours, boat cruises around the island, Akrotiri and a visit to the volcano and hotsprings.

The scenic backdrop makes it a popular addition to a Greece honeymoon itinerary, and the sunset at Oia is legendary.

The beaches in Santorini are not as nice as the ones in Mykonos, but you should still take time to put your feet up and get some sunshine. The black sand beach of Perissa is a good place to take a swim, and there's plenty of places to eat along it promenade. Red Beach is another Santorini attraction to make time and see.

You can start planning your 2 days in Santorini here – Santorini 2 day Itinerary .

If you wanted to stay a bit longer, I've also got a 3 Day Santorini itinerary .

How to get from Santorini to Athens

From Santorini, you can fly to Athens airport. If you are there in high season, book your tickets as early as possible, as they tend to go up in price closer to the time. Some people however prefer to take a ferry to Piraeus port in Athens.

Santorini’s airport is tiny, but it gets super crowded, so arrive with plenty of time.

For information on how to get to and from Santorini airport, take a look here – Santorini Airport Transfers .

7 days in Greece – 3 days in Athens

With 7 days in Greece, staying in Athens for 3 days might sound a lot, however the capital has plenty to offer in terms of history, archaeology, museums, walks, as well as shopping, if that’s what you are into.

However, some people might prefer to spend less time in Athens, and spend an extra night on one of the islands – it’s all up to what you are after so there is no “right” or “wrong” way of planning your 7 day itinerary in Greece.

What to see in Athens

When you are in Athens, the obvious sights to see are the Parthenon and Acropolis, the Ancient Agora and the Acropolis Museum. While these can easily be done in just one day, I definitely do not recommend it if you want to do them justice.

If you want to find out more about Greek history, I also suggest talking a guided walking tour of the Greek capital.

Other must-see highlights in the capital include the Parliament and the change of the Guards at Syntagma Square, Plaka, Roman Agora, the National Archeological Museum, the Benaki Museum, the food market, and a walk on Areopagitou Street.

If you are a sports fan, make time to see the Panathenaic Stadium. This was where the first modern Olympic games were held.

If you are lucky, you can also catch a performance in the Herodion Ancient theatre – check for tickets well in advance. There is a yearly Athens and Epidaurus festival, with live events held at this historic ancient site.

Staying an extra day in Athens also gives you the option of taking a full day tour. The most popular day trips from Athens include Delphi, Mycenae, and the Temple of Poseidon.

To learn about detailed Athens itineraries, take a look at these popular posts:

• Athens in a day
• 2 days in Athens
• Athens in 3 days
• Day trips from Athens
• Choose a hotel in Athens

Also read: Best time to visit Greece

Athens And Greek Isles Vacation Planning – Useful to know

Here's some quick links to essential travel sites that will make your Greece vacation planning easier:

Skyscanner – To start getting an idea about flights and prices

Booking – For apartments and Greece hotel choices. AirBnB typically offers poor value for a 7 day trip.

Viator – Book all your day trips such as a caldera boat tour or guided tour of the Acropolis UNESCO heritage site in advance.

Ferryscanner – When you need tickets for a ferry ride in Greece, book them online!

Rental Cars – You won't need to rent a car in Athens, but you might consider one in Mykonos and Santorini.

Free Guides to Greece

Hopefully, the above itinerary ideas should give you a good start on planning your 7 day Greece itinerary. These 10 day Greece itinerary ideas might also be of interest.

If you'd like more information and travel tips on things to see and do in Greece, sign up for my free guides.

I'll send you inside tips and useful insights into things to do in Greece, so you'll have the perfect vacation!

Trip Planning for One Week In Greece FAQ

Readers planning a vacation in Greece often ask questions similar to:

Is 7 days enough time to visit Greece?

Spending the week exploring Greece will allow travelers to spend time in both Athens and one or two Greek islands, such as Santorini or Mykonos. Alternatively, you could always spend the week exploring one place such as Crete.

What can you do in Greece for 7 days?

By spending 7 days in Greece, you can experience everything from the grandeur of Ancient Athens to the beautiful beaches of the Cyclades islands. You can put together a Greece itinerary that includes whatever interests you have for the ultimate dream trip!

How many days is enough for Greece?

Greece is such a varied country, that it really needs as much time as you can give it. The bare minimum of time to get the most out of your trip to Greece should be a week.

What famous Ancient Sites can I see in Athens?

If you are a lover of ancient Greek history, you'll want to visit historical sites in Athens such as the Acropolis and Parthenon, the Ancient Agora, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

What Greek islands can I see in a week?

The Cyclades are some of the most stunning islands in Greece. They are also quite close together, with ferry journeys between them being just a few hours. This means it is possible to visit 3 or 4 Greek islands in a week if you want to pack out your schedule!

Pin this 1 week Greece itinerary for later

If you are a Pinterest pinner, please add this one week in Greece pin to your boards. This way you'll be able to return to it again when you are finalizing your travel plans for your Greece vacations.

104 thoughts on “Greece Itinerary: 7 Days in Greece for First Time Visitors”

Hello Dave. I’m visiting Greece June this year and have 7 days. Would like to follow your itinerary, but would like to avoid Myokonos. Any suggestions of islands to replace Myokonos ?

A lot depends on what you are after. Assuming you want to keep Santorini, a couple of good Greek island pairings that might go well with Santorini include Milos and Folegandros .

Hi Dave I am hoping to come to Greee in June, flying to Santorini and then taking a ferry to Folegrandos. Staying a few days and the taking a ferry to Sikinos. I can find Ferries for the Santorini – Folegandros part of my planned trip but cannot see any ferries from Folegandros – Sikinos in June. Are there any Ferries that connnect the two Islands.Reading what you have said in your pages Dave i do not want to book accommodation then find i cannot get to the island etc. I have looked at Ferry scanner without any joy. Warm Regards Eddie Street

Hi Eddie, Normally Zante ferries offer 3 a week in June – Unfortunately they are the worst ferry company in Greece for putting up their timetables! I wouldn’t expect them to put anything live much until after Greek Easter – and even that might be giving them too much credit!

SeaJets normally offer a couple as well – but again this is a minor route for them, so nothing released yet.

Sadly, it’s just a matter of wait and see. It’s a quiet ferry route so one of the last to get finalised in Greece.

The good news is that accommodation in Sikinos is extremely unlikely to get booked out in June – there won’t be so many other visitors there at all, especially in the earlier parts of June.

Booking do sometimes have an option where you can reserve accommodation and have free cancellation which might be worth looking at.

A guide here to Sikinos in case you haven’t seen it yet: Sikinos Travel Guide

Dave, your website has so much useful content. Thank you! We are traveling for 7 days in April, with kids aged 10 and 13. What would you recommend?

Hi Raj, Given the time of year and the age of the kids, I’d say an Athens, Crete (Heraklion especially), and Rhodes combination would be worth looking into. If you don’t wan to travel around too much, stick to Athens and Rhodes.

Me, my wife and 3 teenage girls are planning to visit Athens/Islands in last week of October. It’s really useful information on your webpage, thanks for that. How do you think is weather gonna be? We plan to enjoy swimming and beaches, do you think it’s doable or will be too cold to do so?

Hi Jamal, It’s really the tailend of the season – if you are brave you might still get a comfortable swim, but you probably shouldn’t base the vacation around beaches alone.

Hi Dave … Girls trip to Greece in September (arrive 9/16 – depart 9/22) and I should mention we are in our early 50’s. My friend wants to take surfing lessons, I want to do some Greek wine tasting, we want to take in great water experiences (beach, sunset cruise, etc) and we’d like to experience good Greek food and culture. Looking for more authentic experience vs tourist trap. What do you suggest?

Honestly, this is a difficult one! The surfing is a problem – it’s not so big here as kitesurfing. That said, I think Chania in Crete would tick a few of your boxes, and at that time of year, the tourist crowds have thinned out considerably. There’s a couple of surf schools there from what I can see.

Hi Dave, My husband and I want to travel to Greece late September/early October this year for about 10 days. We have to fly into Athens. What island or islands would you recommend we travel to? We are looking to avoid crowds (this is priority!) and want to spend our time doing a lot of swimming, hiking, and eating (we’d love to do a wine and/or olive oil tour). We are happy to ferry or fly to another island but don’t want to spend too much time traveling. Thanks in advance! Mariana

Hi Mariana, I think Naxos would be a perfect fit. It’s a big island, so things will still be open for the locals, and at that time of year it’s quiet with tourists. There’s lots of hiking paths and great beaches. You can also take a day trip and/or spend a few days on nearby Paros island .

We are a 30 something couple who love to look at history, hike, good beaches, and eat good food. We love your itinerary and wanted to see if you could give us any advice on adding Zankynos Island where the famous shipwreck beach is to your Athens-Santorini Mykonos itinerary from above. Thanks so much.

Hi Christine,

There’s two barriers in the way of that. The first is that Zakynthos is on the ‘wrong side of Greece’. It means you’d have to add on two additional flights (not ferries) to your journey at some stage. If you only have a week, I don’t think it would be enough time. If you have longer (10 days), possible, but… The second problem is that the beach is now closed due to a landslide. So, while boat trips take you out there, you can no longer go on the beach itself. If you have extra days and want to go somewhere amazing, look into Milos !

Hi Dave, My husband and I will be celebrating our 10th year anniversary and going to Greece for the firs time. We’ll arrive to Athens September 18 close to 8pm. Leaving Athens on Sept 27 around 2pm. We’d like to visit Santorini and another island, someone recommended Crete, but I’m not sure since I hear it’s so big and we don’t have enough time to enjoy it. I don’t want to spend the whole trip driving a lot to go to places. What island do you recommend? We’d like to see nice beaches, experience good food and culture, ruins would be nice and maybe a hike, def would like to do at least a day in Athens and see the Acropolis. I considered Mykonos, but we’re in our late 30s and don’t party hardcore. Thank you for your time.

Hi Patty, Thank you for reaching out and congratulations on your upcoming 10th anniversary! Greece is a wonderful destination and I’m excited to hear that you’re planning a trip here! Based on your preferences, I would highly recommend visiting Milos instead of Crete. Milos is something of a couples island, and has the mix of what you are looking for in terms of beaches (80 of them! hire an ATV for a day or two to get to the more remote ones), hiking, some ruins, and food. You can even take a day trip to neighbouring Kimolos island if you want to fill more time up.

Hi Dave, thanks for all of the useful information. We are flying in and out of Athens with our 2 year old 9-19 October. We picked October as we don’t like hot weather (I’m not too bothered if it rain on the odd day) and we didn’t want to be in the height of tourist season. We were thinking of getting a ferry to Naxos/Paros (not to sit on a beach but to explore the island) but have been put off by reports of cancellations and choppy water. what are your thoughts? We could spend our holiday on the mainland alternatively or go to closer islands. We also want to spend 4 days or so in Athens as we have never been. thanks!

It’s true that weather can cause cancellations or delays in ferry services to the islands, but it’s actually quite rare. Unfortunately, there’s no way to tell for sure if ferries will be cancelled due to bad weather, as it can change quickly and unexpectedly. October is one of the better months for weather.

If you’re concerned about potential issues with the ferry, another option could be taking a flight to your desired destination from Athens. Both Naxos and Paros have airports. Out of the two islands, I prefer Naxos and I think it would be more suitable for young families.

We are visiting Greece in the June 2023 and only have time for Athens and one island. Of course, we would LOVE to visit Santorini but the crowds and price have us a little leery. From all of our research, we have narrowed it down to Naxos, Paros or Milos. What do you think? Are any of those a good replacement for Santorini or should we bite the bullet and book Santorini?

Hi Robin, They are all good islands in my opinion! Milos is ideal if you like wild beaches and landscapes. Best explored by ATV to get to those really out of the way beaches. Paros has gained in popularity – not quite on the level of Mykonos or Santorini but the top of division 2! I think this would be a good choice if you only have limited time. Naxos – In my opinion more authentic than Paros, but perhaps not as easy for first-timers to Greece as Paros.

I love reading your posts. I am flying to Athens late on the 8th of April and then back out in the evening of the 15th. I thought I would spend the evenings of the 8th and 9th in Athens… but then not sure where to go in order to see more of Greece. This is my first time there. Where would you go? I love culture and being outside. I don’t need fancy but I definitely want great food. Maybe some beach time?

At that time of year, Athens and Crete would be a good combination. Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and has something for everyone, from ancient ruins to stunning beaches to beautiful hiking trails. Its location means you have the best chance for beach weather in all of Greece (although April can be variable – perhaps too cold for swimming extended periods in the sea).

Spend a few days in Athens, then fly to Crete to explore the cities of Heraklion and Chania, visit the Palace of Knossos, and relax on the island’s beautiful beaches. (You’d maybe want to fly Athens to Heraklion, and then bus to Chania, and after fly Chania to Athens) Oh and the food in Crete is fantastic!

Thinking of a trip in late May 2024 (May 17-25) for our 30th anniversary. Any suggestions for our trip planning? I like the 7 day itinerary for Athens/Santorini/Mykonos although we aren’t much on late nights/night life.

Instead of Mykonos I think you would appreciate Paros more especially at that time of year (unless you want to see Delos of course).

So I would suggest something like fly directly to Santorini (2 nights), ferry to Paros (2 nights) then flight or ferry to Athens (2 nights). Depending on how your arrival and return flights pan out, Santorini would be the island to add an extra day to if you have the time.

Hello! Love your site and already combed through all the comments which are super helpful. We are flying into Santorini on 31 March and leaving from Athens on 8 April (we arrive and depart rather late/early, so let’s not count the travel days), so Santorini and Athens are pretty much set. I was wondering whether it is worth going to Mykonos as I worry that the itinerary would be a bit crammed with packing and unpacking for three different hotels. We are not into nightlife at all, we enjoy history, good food, beaches and views. Any piece of advice that you could provide?

In my opinion not worth going to Mykonos at that time as not many things will be open, and it’s too cold to enjoy the beaches. If you wanted to add on another island, Naxos is worth considering – the main town is very pretty and the island is open all year through. If you do get good weather, there’s very nice beaches there as well. Oh, and the food is great!

hi Dave, thank you for all the tips 🙂 May i please ask your take on planning a trip in September 2023 : dates 22-29. we want to cover mykonos, santorini and athens but could you please give us a direction in terms of which part should be explored first along with no. of days? thank you

It’s a nice time of year to visit! I don’t think it makes much difference which way around to do it, but I always recommend leaving sightseeing in Athens until last – 2 days for that. I’d say 2 days in each place, and an extra day for Santorini would be good.

Hi Dave, thank you for the wealth of info! Still a bit overwhelming for the first timer 🙂 We will be traveling to Greece in late April – partly for work, partly for fun. After working in Athens (Thu, Fri) and a weekend spent sightseeing (Sat, Sun), we will have 3 full days (Mon, Tue and Wed) to go somewhere, before coming back to Athens (Thu) to fly back home (Fri). What’s our best bet in late April in terms of what’s open and easy to get to and from? We love nature (beaches, sunsets, etc) and prefer it over historical sights for those 3 days (since we will cover those already in Athens). Thank you!

Hi Victoria, Keeping in mind you’ll want to be able to get there and back relatively easily, I’d suggest looking into Naxos. It’s the largest of the Cyclades islands, so there’s always places open. You can stay in the main town, and take hiking paths, buses, or rent a car to visit villages etc. Naxos has great beaches, and the iconic Portara is a lovely sunset spot. Weather late April is likely to be warm, although the sea may feel chilly to swim in for too long! (May is the earliest I swim – I’m a bit weak!!) Here’s a guide to Naxos: Naxos Travel Guide

Thank you so much, Dave! I will look into Naxos for sure. I was also looking into Santorini, given that we’re first timers and everyone seems to go there :). We were actually hoping it may be less crowded in April than in the summer months.

From what I’ve seen, an hour flight each way looked pretty easy and expeditious and many places seem open and reasonably priced. Is there any particular reason to stay away from Santorini in April? Thank you very much, Dave!

The only month I would say to avoid Santorini is August. It’s really not enjoyable at that time! April would be a nice enough month to go to Santorini – it will still have lots of visitors, but the cruise ship arrivals have not started in full at that time.

Hi Dave, Would appreciate your opinion on the below. Planning our first 10-day trip to Greece in April with family (13 and 15 years old teenagers) and looking at the following itinerary: – arrival to Athens and fly straight to Crete (Crete is a must destination) for 3 nights – transfer by ferry to Mykonos for 2 nights – transfer by ferry to Santorini for 3 nights – transfer by ferry to Athens for 2 nights Crete is a must and I feel it’s hard to skip Mykonos and Santorini. Flexible to switch order of destinations. Thanks a lot, Patrice

Hi Patrice, Assuming ferries are running on the days you want to go, transfer for Santorini first and then go to Mykonos after. When planning Crete to Santorini, you normally have to leave from Heraklion port – this may affect your Crete travel itinerary.

Additional note: Greek Easter 2023 is: Sun, Apr 16, 2023. Traveling around these dates may mean that some places are not open or have changed opening hours (like archaeological sites).

Hi Dave, Planning to arrive in Athens on a Sunday morning and leaving the following Sunday afternoon. I like your idea of then flying directly to Santorini or Mykonos however, we only want to spend 1 day in Athens so we can fit in another island. What do you recommend as a third island that would be close in proximity? How would you break down the time on each and in what order. Also, what’s best site to find the better hotels on each island? Much appreciate your response

The best site for finding hotels in Greece is: Booking For fitting another island: You could consider Naxos, and stay in the main town (where the ferry port is). Naxos is just south of Mykonos. In fact, you might come away finding you preferred Naxos to Mykonos!

Hi Dave, we are thinking of visiting Greece in the Dec holidays from 24 Dec to 31 Dec 2022. What are your thoughts and suggestions?

Hi Kristin,

A lot of places are going to be closed due to the Christmas holidays. No beaches obviously – far too cold for that. My opinion is that unless you have family ties in Greece, or specifically want to see what it is like for personal reasons, this wouldn’t be a great week to go to Greece for most people. I don’t have a winter specific article, but this one might be worth reading as some things are still relevant: Greece in January

We are planning a trip to Greece by End of November for 7 days starting from 25th November until 01st December 2022. Is that a good time to visit Greece or do we need to change our plans for later next year?

If you have the option, it would be better to change dates for months between May and October. If you can’t change months, keep in mind that it is more or less winter November/December. Highly unlikely to be snow, but expect rain and some cold days. Give Mykonos a miss – it will be virtually all closed down and like a ghost town. Santorini is just about ok at this time though.

Thank you for this guide. Family of 4 (ages 16 and 19) heading to Greece mid March 2023. Athens & Santorini are on the list. No to Mykonos based on your comments above and time of year(thx). However what do you think about Hydra? We only have 7 days. Based on your comments leaning towards Rhodes or Crete. We are big hikers. Thank you.

Hi Audra – Hydra is nice, but not really worth more than a day trip. If you could work Rhodes in to your itinerary, it would be a good match especially for that time of year. The old town is lovely to walk around (UNESCO castle area), and there’s plenty to see and do there.

Hi Dave , many thanks for itinerary , we (family of 4- kids aged 4&7) are planning our visit in February 2023 to Greece. which island and itinerary would you recommend ?.

Hi Sanin, That time of year many islands will be closed for tourism because the weather isn’t so great. With that in mind, you could consider Santorini and Rhodes I think.

Hi Dave! I and my husband are planning to travel to Greece in 2023. However we are not sure which month would be best to travel as we have had very bad experience travelling in Europe because even if we check the weather before planning our trip, it always ends of raining while we are on the trip. So could you please suggest what would be the best month to visit Greece islands like Santorini, Mykonos, Crete and Athens where we can get good sunshine with lesser crowds.

Hi Anya, Nothing is guaranteed for sure in Europe (or anywhere else lately it seems!) when it comes to weather. In my experience, the first two weeks of September are good because there’s a better chance of good weather and the school holidays in Europe are over. Another option is last two weeks in June. If you are going to Mykonos there is a different side to the weather you should know about – the Meltemi Winds!!

Hi Dave, I’m trying to get my husband on board to do a trip to Greece in November 2022 – probably the end of Nov. My husband isn’t too interested in Greece because he gets very sea sick and has no interest to go on a Ferry. However, since we are (aging*) avid cyclists, I think I could persuade him with some biking. So, I’m wondering if you know of good bicycle tour companies on any of the Islands – where weather would be reasonable that time of year. We aren’t fussy, and in addition to being cyclists — we love exploring cities — so we could easily spend 8-10 just in Athens. But, since we will be in Greece, I’d like to see at least one additional island, even if we fly there. *I say “aging” because I don’t really want to hassle with bringing my own bike anymore — I’d like freedom to do some traditional touring and some cycling — cuz everything is better on a bike.

Hi Sally, Tricky one here! The end of November the islands will be all but closed down. However, you could look into Kos – not only is it possibly warmer and with slightly better weather, but cycling is very common there (at least when we visited in June this year!). Most hotels in and around Kos town have bicycles to use or hire, and there are many bicycle rental agencies. Even better – You could fly to Kos from Athens so no ferry needed. For outdoor companies, Trekking Hellas are the people to try ( https://trekking.gr/ ). Could be worth reaching out to see what they provide at that time of year!

I am a first-generation Greek-American – parents from Tripoli, Peloponnisos. Your web site is an unbelievable source of valuable information that most Greeks don’t even know about! I’m planning to be in Greece in September, and your articles are helping me plan my intinerary. I don’t know how you have the time to research and document so many facts, and I envy the fact that you get to live in Greece! I hope to retire there someday.

I’m assuming you’re not Greek, but we will anoint and honor you as an “honorary Greek”!

Efharisto poly,

Hi Dave – Just signed up – Enjoy reading your Blogs – Question for you Sir!! Travelling as a couple, we do enjoy beach clubs night life.. Based on your expertise, what would you recommend? Fly out of Canada, travelling to Greece for the first time.. Looking for stunning beach front scene, day clubs, and then transition back into Athens to Enjoy the city in Sept 2022 – Your input is appreciated!

Hi Taha, I think given your criteria Mykonos is going to tick all your boxes – but be warned it will not be cheap!! Another island to consider would be Ios – perhaps you even have time to do both during your vacation. If you do, let me know which one your preferred and why!

Hello – we are looking to do Athens and few islands March4-12 2023 arriving from states. The ferryhopper is not updated with 2023 dates – what could be possible itinerary considering low season and weather

Hi – 2023 Ferry itineraries for march may not go live until just after Christmas. You should know though that these dates are very much off-season. It would not be worth going to Mykonos at this time of year (if that was your intention). Santorini would be ok, but cold! Athens would be fine – it’s always got things to do! The two islands I could recommend due to weather etc (in addition to Santorini if that’s on your list) would be Crete and Rhodes

We are flying into Athens on September 18th. Then flying to Santorini for three nights. We want to hit two more islands for 2 nights each on way back to Athens. I guess ferry to an island stay 2 nights, ferry to another and stay two nights. Then need early out of the last island to get to Athens, our flight is 2pm that last day. Any recommendations on what 2 islands we can hit?? Love your info so helpful

Hi John, I think Folegandros would be a nice island to visit directly after Santorini. From there, I guess you would want an island with an airport to get you back to Athens? Try Milos, Paros or Naxos. Your last island might be determined by ferry connections and flight availability though.

I like this itinerary. How would I add Crete? I have more than a week.

I just keep reading your advice! Terrific. I want to add Corfu and Crete to your itinerary also. No particular time of year. We have the time to spend. Wouldn’t mind getting to Dubrovnik and Split in Croatia or across to Italian coast for Venice, and San Marino. Of course, anywhere else I need to add – 3 weeks or less – not budget not luxury. I welcome all suggestions.

Hi Lisa, Crete can be a good addition, so it would look like Athens – Mykonos – Santorini – Crete. If you really wanted to go to Corfu after, you would need to fly Crete to Athens and then Athens to Corfu. Out of Dubrovnik and Split I far prefer Split – but I guess you can’t go to Croatia without going to Dubrovnik! If you do go to Corfu, you might consider Albania. It’s a fascinating country, and you’ll probably find some day trip options from Corfu.

Hi – you could make the order Athens – Mykonos – Santorini – Crete. You could also fly out of Crete back to your home country if there are good connections.

Hi! We are a couple, planning to visit Greece towards the end of this month for 7-8 days. Shall we include Zakynthos island as well? Is it worth spending 2 nights for it?

Hi – Not really worth adding to this itinerary as the travel time would be a bit of a waste. I’d consider extending Santorini or Athens.

Hi Dave, We are a couple and planning to visit Greece mid October. We will have 8 Days (7 Nights) in Greece and have some doubts. Will. the weather in Greece be ok in October? Is it possible to visit to Athens, Mykonos and Santorini without renting a car? Can we include Naxos or Paros in the itinerary?

Hi, I think adding Naxos and Paros will be too much for your time. You don’t need a car in any of the places you plan to visit, especially Athens. If you want to explore more of Santorini at your own convenience, then a car rental for a day might be better for you. For the weather – The earlier in October the better. Generally, I’ve experienced very nice weather in Greece in October, however as we all know, weather patterns are not something we can rely on nowadays!

Hi Dave. Great info! Considering doing this itinerary for our Spring Break…first week of April 2023. Would you recommend Mykonos during that time of year? Or too cold, not enough open? If so, what island would you substitute? Thanks!

Hi, Mykonos is unlikely to be more than partially open in early April. Probably too cold to swim, and the ‘point’ of going there for many (beaches, party scene etc) not really there at that time. Instead of Mykonos, you could try Paros, Naxos or even Crete. These islands will have more going on at that time of year.

Dave, thanks for the great ideas and itinerary for 7 days in Greece. It is very helpful. We are planning to visit from roughly December 16 – December 28th and also plan to spend 5 – 6 days in Greece and 5-7 days in Italy. Traveling will be my wife and I and also two boys that are 25 and 28. We are interested in Athens but more interested in Santorini and Mykonos so we will probably only spend 1-2 days in Athens. We like old towns, hiking, beaches and history. Any other suggestions would be appreciated. Also any lodging where we could get two rooms in a rather nice hotel or home would be greatly appreciated.

December is definitely the off-season. It’s winter in Greece, cold, and sometimes rainy. Daylight hours are shorter as well. I don’t think there is any value in going to Mykonos in December – too cold for the beaches, many places closed, not really any bars or nightclubs open – in short whatever pictures you have in mind of Mykonos won’t really apply in December.

Santorini is a little better in December – some places are open (but many closed down for the season). You can still enjoy the views, but it’s still not the same as the better months of June or September.

In short – December is not a great time to visit Greece for the island destinations you have in mind. Better you know now before you book anything!

Hi Dave! Thank you for the comprehensive 7 day itinerary and tips on internal traveling in Greece. If we have 12-14 days in Greece (family of 3, including a well behaved 8 year old), where all would you recommend we visit? We plan on a visit in June. Are the hotels etc pretty safe during the pandemic? It is our first visit, and probably our only visit to Greece. Thanks for your help!

Hi Arya, A lot depends on what you would like to see and do as a family. What type of vacation you are after. I consider Crete and Naxos to be the two best family friendly destinations in Greece, so perhaps if you are set on Santorini and Mykonos, you could include Crete or Naxos as well? My suggestion is to think about how you would like to actually get around – if you are comfortable hiring a car etc which would be the best way to see Naxos and Crete. Greece is well set up for protocols (perhaps a little too well – if you are coming from the States or the UK, you will be surprised at the mask wearing and current measures for sure!).

Thank you so much for your 7 day itinerary to Athens-Mykonos-Santorini. Most likely, my husband and I will follow it during our trip for a wedding in Corfu on September 2022. What would be your suggestion on how to add the Corfu stop to your 7 day Athens-Mykonos-Santorini? Should we leave that for the end of the trip or start with Corfu and then your itinerary? We fly out of Michigan….

Hi Grace, You’ve got a couple of options. Ryanair seem to fly from Corfu to Santorini on Tuesdays and Saturdays. If that works with your times, one option could be Corfu – Santorini – Mykonos – Athens.

If the flights don’t line up for you, I would still go to the wedding first, but make the schedule more like – Corfu – Athens – (flight straight out to Santorini) – Mykonos – Athens (sightseeing in Athens for X days).

If you want to include Corfu with the destinations of Athens – Mykonos – Santorini, you’ll almost certainly need to transit through Athens airport once or twice whatever you do.

Final note – Ryanair are notorious for extra baggage fees and non refundability. It’s a budget airline. If you do choose to use them, make sure you have all your baggage allowed for to avoid extra charges at the gate!!

Hi Dave, Thank you for your great itinerary. We are going to Greece for the first time (family of five, kids aged 18, 15 and 10). We are staying for 7 nights. We were planning 3 nights in Athens and 4 nights on the Cyclades (Santorini and Mykonos). However, accommodation for 5 people in Mykonos seems to be very expensive. Can you think of an alternative island please? Thank you, Mariana

Hi Mariana, Yes Mykonos can be very expensive – and it’s not necessarily the best island for kids in your age range. Perhaps a better choice would be Naxos. Great beaches, amazing food, ancient sites if you want to go to them. I’ve a guide here: Where to stay in Naxos I normally recommend first timers to the island to stay in the Chora (which is where the ferry arrives). However, if you want better beach access, consider Agios Prokopios – Agia Anna

Thank You for the insight to travel in Greece, very appreciated.

We are planning a honeymoon Vacation in 1st week of Feb 2022 in Greece and What to cover Athens and Santorini for sure, what other island we can cover for a 7-8days of total stay in Greece.

And what will be the approx. budget for a nice stay for us?

Hi Ami, At that time of year, I suggest you other island should be Crete. You can get to Crete from Santorini by both ferry and planes. Crete has a lot to offer, and for your time frame, consider locating yourself in Heraklion (which is where flights should land). You’d get to see Knossos, local markets and a few other things. A good place to take a food tour! Keep in mind February weather can be variable. As for cost – It really depends what sort of travelers you are. February will have more budget friendly accommodation though!

Whats a good 7 day itinerary for honeymooners that are visiting for the first time?

Hi Christina, I’d suggest swapping out Mykonos for the Greek island of Milos. If you want luxury, take a look at Elounda in the island of Crete.

Hi Dave! We were hoping for some insight as we are trying to plan a vacation to Greece. Our interests are definitely Athens, hoping for a couple nice beach days but not sure which island is best for the that. We love Winery’s as well! Any feedback would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

Hi Stephanie, Most islands will do good beaches and wineries, but in particular, I recommend Kefalonia. I actually worked in a winery there many, many years ago! If you have either read or watched Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, Kefalonia is the island that it is set on. Hope you enjoy your time in Greece!

Hi Dave, I think your 7 day trip is amazing! We are travelling in june( first week) with our family celebrating our 40th year marriage. We have to end our trip in athens, my son is going to a wedding there. We want to visit also Crete. What itinerary would you recommend? Any help will be appreciated

Hi Maria, There’s a lot of combinations you can make, but in your case the Santorini – Crete – Athens combo would work quite well I think. (Assuming you haven’t been to Santorini before). If you have been to Santorini, you could try Naxos instead. So if possible, you could land in Athens, get on a flight to Santorini, spend 2 or 3 nights there, fly to Crete, 2 or 3 nights there, and then finish in Athens. If it looks like cramming too much in, you could skip Santorini and concentrate on Crete. There’s plenty to do there, with a lot of variety! Some blog post suggestions for further ideas: 2 Weeks in Greece Itinerary: Athens – Santorini – Crete – Rhodes Crete Travel Guide Greek island hopping guides

Thinking of doing a 7 day trip to Greece! Not sure what to visit! It will be myself, my 17 yr old daughter, and 21 year old son. Don’t really care about party scene. Would like to see some history, beaches, maybe some countryside or hiking! Any suggestions?

Hi Steve, With a 7 day trip in mind, and with your hiking and beaches in mind, might I suggest the islands of Andros and Tinos? They are quite close to Athens (just a couple of hours away), are less touristy, but equally as stunning as more well known ones. In addition, both islands have some lovely hiking paths, from were you can walk up to and through amazing villages. They also have some incredible beaches. If you think to only do one, then it could be Tinos. A suggested itinerary would be Athens – Andros – Tinos – Athens. Check out here for more details. Outdoors activities in Andros and Tinos Andros island travel guide Tinos island travel guide

I really enjoyed reading your itinerary and found it very helpful. My mom (68) and I will be visiting early May. After reading your itinerary I’m contemplating whether we should visit Mykonos. What is your thought? Is there a recommended area to stay in if we do? Thanks for your input!

Hi Kimberly, Hope you are enjoying the Christmas break! It’s a difficult one to answer, and really comes down to why you want to visit Mykonos. It’s most well known for it’s party scene and cosmopolitan, upscale, maybe slightly pretentious edge – all accompanied by a price tag of course! For early May, you could pretty much stay anywhere you want as it’s not high season. Perhaps though, Naxos might be a better match.

Hi Dave, we are 2 couples in mid 60’s planning a trip to Greece November 1 -15 -2020,are plan is to see Athens 3 days then rent a car and visit Nafplio,Mystros,Olympia,Delphi and Meteora all for one overnight.We will drive back to Athens and Take a flight to Santorini and spend 1 week there renting a car for a few days then fly back to Athens and spend 1 more night before our flight to the US. Does this sound like a doable itinerary? Is 1 week to much for Santorini? I love your site!! Thanks,Denis

Hi Denis, Glad you’ve found the site useful! The itinerary is doable, although perhaps a little rushed in week one with one night in each place. I also think 7 nights in Santorini is a little too much. Based on a 3 or even 4 night stay in Santorini maximum, I’d be tempted to add in Mycenae and/or Epidaurus to your first week (possible by including a 2 night stay in Nafplion), and extending your stay in Meteora to two nights as well. You’d also have time on the drive from Mystras to Olympia to see the impressive Ventian castles of Koroni and Methoni. Bottom line: 7 days is too much in Santorini unless you have a specific reason to stay that long.

Hello! We are going to be in Greece aug 7-15th . 2020 and have friends celebrating on Crete on the 10th or 11th by Kalathas beach for a renewal of vows and basing their travel that week around that location. If we fly into Athens on the 7th or 8th and want to do Athens and then Crete to be with them and then what would you suggest. We have two boys 10 and 13 yo. Can we sign up for travel recs and places to stay or pay a fee for intinerary and places to stay. I love your 7 day travel guide and other ideas and after trying to figure this out I can’t seem to find the perfect itinerary or places to stay. I was on Crete in 1995 and solo for three weeks but want to show my boys the contract as able with such a short time.

Hi Kimberly, It sounds like a great vacation planned, and I’m sure the kids will love Greece! There should be a signup box on the main article, so by all means sign up and you’ll receive a lot (potentially overwhelming!!) amount of travel info! For an Athens itinerary, can I suggest you take a look here – 2 days in Athens . I used this with my own nephew and niece who were similar ages when they visited. It’s easy to follow, gentle pace, but you’ll see the highlights of the city all the same. I’ve also a guide on where to stay in Athens . You’re better off staying in the historic center if possible as it will reduce travel time for sightseeing. Once in Crete, if you are up for hiring a car, I’d suggest taking a road trip around the island. It’s perfect for doing just that! You can get some ideas here – Road trip in Crete . Keep in mind you are traveling peak season – there will be LOTS of people around!! Enjoy your time in Greece 🙂

Good to know on Santorini weather, that’s a plus. Any other island you can suggest if we exclude mykonos. Our plan for the trip where we can do some sightseeing and relax.

If you’re happy to hire a car and do a little driving, Tinos is a lovely island. Lots of quaint villages. A guide here: Tinos in Greece .

Hi ! Such a lovely Itinerary.. for summer or during good weather let’s say ! However, My husband and I are planning to go to Greece for the first time for 5 days ( till 4th December,2019 ) which is going to be cold, we know .. but is it recommended to visit during this time ( It’s the only time we would be able to go ) , will it be a good destination during this time or shall we pick a more “common” winter European city/ destination ? and If it’s still a good choice , what would you recommend for this kind of weather?

Hi Linda, I hope you are having a great week so far! In all honesty, there would be no point in going to Mykonos in December. You could still visit Athens and Santorini though (and there’s also plenty of things to do on the Greek mainland). Keep in mind that archaeological sites do have shorter opening hours, with many closing at 15.30 My advice, would be that if this is the only time you could ever visit Greece in your life, then definitely visit. If you are able to visit in the future, opt for a June/July or September visit instead.

Hi Dave, we are family of 3 adults arriving Athens on 29 Sep. First trip to Greece. Free & easy. We got about 10-11 days to spare, departing from Athens to home.

Would love to do Crete besides adopting your 7 day itinerary. Which route would you recommend: Athens to Crete first or to Mykonos >Santorini> Crete> Athens. Apology if this have been answered earlier . Thanks for sharing your info and tips!

Hi, I don’t think it matters much the order, but if you wanted to take ferries, and then fly back on the last leg, then Mykonos >Santorini> Crete> Athens might make more sense. Important note: Ferry availability and times may change going into October. Check what routes are available on Ferryhopper . (There’s an English mode to the site)

I love your 7-day itinerary, but would it work for a trip in early March? I’m wondering about the weather on in the islands that time of the year. I’ve also heard the ferry transportation options may be limited. Any insight would be appreciated!

Hi Kay, I feel early March would be a little too early to get the most out of Mykonos. It would be a great time to visit Santorini though (start of season, and fewer people), and anytime of year is good to visit Athens! Although I normally recommend people to stay much longer in Crete (which is a fantastic island), if you do want to travel in March, you might consider swapping Mykonos out for Crete. The other option, might be instead to choose Santorini, Athens, and then mainland Greece. Places like Meteora and Delphi won’t give you that island feeling, but they really are amazing! In terms of transport, all those islands are well connected throughout the year, although you may find that the timetables for Spring next year have not been set. Keep an on on Ferryhopper for your options. Also, you can fly between these places from Athens, which may not be as expensive as you think.

I’m off to Santorini at the end of August (v good deal on flights). I have seen your 7 day itinerary and looks fab. However l’m in a bit of a dilemma as l fly into Santorini and fly out of Santorini, but want to do Mykonos and Athens. How do you advise l plan my time and maximise the time l have there HELP?

Hi, If you have a direct flight to Santorini, and assuming you have just 7 days or there abouts, I would suggest skipping Athens and seeing it next time. For options on getting between Santorini and Mykonos, you’ll need to take the ferry. Check out ferry routes with Ferryhopper (by far the easiest way to book your ferry tickets and see available routes). You could also visit some of the other nearby islands when in Mykonos on day trips. If you have longer than 7 days, look at these options on how to get from Santorini to Athens .

Landing in Crete Heraklion from venice late 11:30 PM but we have a hotel in Chania (Lefka Ori hotel). Busses seem to end at 12 midnight and cab for 4 of us with 4 carry on bags is 165 euros any ideas on a less expensive rid to our hotel. Here for 2 days then to Santorini (2 days) then to Mykanos (maybe, 2 days) then to Athens 2 days then home. any ideas on how to get to these places efficiently and not to expensive??? 2 adults and 2 18 yr olds

any help greatly appreciated for us last minute travelers (July 22 – July 30)

Hi Linda, I hope you are having a good day – holiday transportation aside! I’ve had a look, and actually I think at 165 euro you got a very good price on the cab! (The reason it is expensive, is that Chania is 2 or even 2.5 hours drive from Heraklion, and there are surcharges for driving after midnight). In terms of buses – I actually think they may stop at 21.00 (unless it was a private transfer bus). SO, I think these are the options you have: 1. Hire a car at Heraklion airport and drive to Chania – It would be cheaper, and you’d get the use of the car throughout your stay. 2. Cancel the hotel for the first night in Chania and stay in Heraklion. This also gives you the benefit of seeing a little of Heraklion in the morning (castle, port), as well as the archaeological site of Knossos. 3. If you can’t cancel, do the math on very cheap rooms in Heraklion + bus fare to Chania, and see if it’s cheaper than the cab. I had a look on Booking , and there are cheap rooms available. In terms of getting to the other islands, you’ve chosen the most expensive islands in Mykonos and Santorini at the most expensive time of year unfortunately. So, any cheap flights most likely have gone a long time ago. My suggestions are to look on Ferryhopper for ferry crossings. Also, I would suggest that no matter where you end up last, to arrange flights back to Athens rather than a ferry – just in case of ferry delays or strikes. Better to be safe than sorry! If this all sounds too much, also know that Crete is an island you could easily spend a week, or even a month on and not scratch the surface. So if moving around so frequently sounds too much, you could always plan a road trip in Crete instead. Further reading that may be useful: How to get from Crete to Santorini How to get from Mykonos to Santorini – 2019 Travel Guide How to get from Athens to Mykonos

We (group of 5) are planning our first Greece trip in December. Would you have a different recommendation of the 7 days itinerary for winter? We have a little more time though, about 9-10 days.

Hi, If you are travelling in December, I wouldn’t recommend you do an island hopping trip such as this one, as the weather won’t be good enough. Instead perhaps a mainland Greece trip might be better. I’ve got an article which lists 10 different 10 day itineraries – maybe something in there will be useful: 10 days in Greece

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THE JOURNAL

Travel Inspiration

The Best Places to Visit in Greece for the First Time: 13 Options

The Modern Travel Agency

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/where-to-go-in-greece-for-the-first-time

Between the ancient city of Athens, Mykonos — the nightlife capital of the eastern Mediterranean — and many unique islands to explore, it can be tough to decide where to go in Greece for the first time. Below, we break down the best places to visit in Greece for first-timers seeking everything from the most delectable gastronomy to the best beaches. 

Or, if you prefer a tailored approach, consider reaching out to a Fora Advisor for help deciding where to go in Greece. Not only can your Fora Advisor provide expert travel suggestions and tips, but they can also score you VIP perks at the best hotels in Greece (or anywhere). It’s like having a (super knowledgeable) friend within the travel industry.

The 13 best places to visit in Greece for first-timers

Read on for 13 of the best places to visit in Greece.

1–2. Athens & the Athens Riviera: where to go in Greece for first-timers interested in culture, variety & great beaches

Image courtesy of Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens

Considered by many historians to be the birthplace of Western civilization, Athens is an ancient city overflowing with culture. It’s also one of the best places to stay in Greece for first-time visitors. Remnants of Ancient Greece are prominently spread throughout the city’s narrow stone streets. The Acropolis (which has an accompanying museum), Hadrian’s Arc and the Temple of Zeus are among the most famous sites, but there are many more. 

Athens is ultimately where to go in Greece for the first time if you want to sample as much as possible: Greek cuisine, local and upscale shopping, cultural experiences…the list goes on. But there’s plenty to do in Athens’ surrounding areas, too. To name a few, you can get off the beaten path to Hydra , take a day trip to the Ruins of Delphi or enjoy a segue to the Athens Riviera. The latter is home to luxe resorts — like Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel, arguably one of the best resorts in Greece for couples — gorgeous beaches and an excellent change of pace and scenery from Athens’ urban sprawl.

For more intel on Athens and the Athens Riviera, check out our guides to how many days in Athens you need or the best boutique hotels in Athens (A77 and King George are among our favorites). Or you can always connect with a Fora Advisor for the lowdown on any destination or hotel.

Fora Perks at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens:

When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.

Fora Perks at A77 Suites by Andronis:

Complimentary air & concierge services.

Fora Perks at King George, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens:

$100 food / beverage, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever available.

3. Mykonos: one of the best places to visit in Greece for first-timers who want to party all night

Image courtesy of Cali Mykonos

It’s not an understatement to call Mykonos the nightlife capital of the Mediterranean (although Ibiza, a Spain bucket list essential, is a top contender). But at the very least, Mykonos is Greece’s nightlife capital. This Greek island is an electric, must-stop destination for a party seeker’s first time in Greece. The best time to visit is  late spring through very early fall, when the weather is warm and comfortable.

A favorite among celebrities and discerning travelers, Mykonos is fairly small — you can easily traverse the entire island by vehicle in a few hours or less — but it’s packed with lively beaches, waterfront clubs and, if you prefer a quieter stay (or temporary reprieve), private villas.

Mykonos also has a fantastic reputation among LGBTQ+ travelers , and many clubs and bars cater to the community (allies are welcome, too).

As for places to stay, Cali Mykono s is one of our favorite properties on the island (whether it’s your first visit or otherwise). Whitewashed villas built into a rocky hillside provide lavish furnishings and gorgeous views of the Mediterranean.

Fora Perks at Cali Mykonos:

$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, complimentary boat transfer to a beach club on Mykonos’ South Coast, welcome amenity, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever available.

4. Santorini: where to go for a couple’s first time in Greece

Image courtesy of Katikies Santorini

Santorini’s popularity puts it near the top of many travel experts’ lists of where to go in Greece for the first time. While the island does have a bit of a touristy reputation among Fora Advisors (not that there’s anything wrong with that), one thing that virtually everyone agrees on is that the quieter parts of the island are quite romantic. Santorini’s sunsets are among the best in the world. Even locals often make a point of stopping whatever they’re doing to admire the coming dusk. It’s why we consider Santorini one of the best Greek islands for couples . 

Beyond the magical nightfalls, Santorini’s popularity means there’s something to do for everyone here. You can take a boat tour of nearby islands, check out the local villages…And many of the best places to stay in Santorini (we’re enamored with Katikies) allow you to relax right on the beach, admiring the crystal-clear waves.

Fora Perks at Katikies Santorini:

$100 hotel / resort credit, welcome drink, upgrade whenever available & guaranteed late check out.

5. Crete: the place to go for a family’s first time in Greece

Image courtesy of Minos Beach Art Hotel

Crete is the largest of the Greek Isles, and has numerous activities to try. Go kitesurfing off the coast, enjoy local cuisine in charming towns, tour ancient ruins, relax on Crete’s beaches and more. The options are plentiful, and mostly family friendly, too, making Crete one of the best Greek islands for families to visit together.

Like Santorini, Crete does have a reputation for being a little touristy. But as you venture away from the beaten path, you’ll find a much more genuine side of the island. 

As for where to stay in Crete for your first visit, Minos Beach Art Hotel is a beautiful choice right on the beach. You can also ask a Fora Advisor for the lowdown on all your best options.

Fora Perks at Minos Beach Art Hotel:

Welcome amenities, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever available.

6. Paros: where to go in Greece for first-timers who want to relax

Image courtesy of Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort, Paros

Paros is an underrated option among the best places to visit in Greece, especially for those who simply want to relax. The island offers a much more authentic experience than some of the more popular destinations: the locals are friendly, Greek culture is celebrated, the scenery is extraordinary. Paros is a special choice with a boutique vibe that resonates well with people who love off-the-beaten-path travel .

Among our favorite places to stay in Paros : Cosme and Parīlio. Both offer a luxe vibe and ample opportunities for unwinding and taking in the scenery.

Fora Perks at Cosme, A Luxury Collection Resort, Paros:

Fora Perks at Parīlio, a Member of Design Hotels:

$100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever available.

7. Thessaloniki: one of the best places to experience contemporary Greek culture

Greece’s second-largest city behind Athens, Thessaloniki brings an entirely different cultural experience. 

The city’s architecture, markets and waterfront promenade display  a rich blend of Byzantine, Ottoman and Roman influences. It’s a stark contrast from the ancient Greek influences you’ll find throughout much of the rest of the country. But what really makes Thessaloniki such an interesting place to visit in Greece  is its thriving youth culture. Thessaloniki is home to one of Greece’s most prominent universities, and the large student body has cultivated a fun, cosmopolitan vibe throughout the city.

From the iconic White Tower to the trendy neighborhood of Ladadika (Teight Hotel is one of our favorites here), Thessaloniki invites first-time visitors to wander a mix of trendy and ancient haunts, savor diverse cuisine and immerse themselves in its captivating mix of past and present.

Fora Perks at Teight Hotel:

Welcome amenities & upgrade whenever available.

8. Mount Olympus National Park: an exciting day trip from Thessaloniki 

If you need a break from the urban hustle and bustle of Thessaloniki, one of Greece’s best-kept natural secrets, Mount Olympus National Park , is only about 90 minutes away by car. 

The legendary home of the ancient Greek Gods, Mount Olympus wows with its towering peaks, lush forests and rugged landscapes, providing opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. Dedicated hikers willing to brave the Enipeas Gorge will be rewarded with some of the best views in the park (including the gorge’s many waterfalls).

If you want to include a day trip to Mount Olympus with your Thessaloniki itinerary, a Fora Advisor will be happy to provide expert assistance.

9. Nafplio (a.k.a. Nafplion): a charming Greek city on the mainland ideal for anyone who wants a low-key stay

Nafplio is often overshadowed by Greece’s larger cities and islands. But, that’s precisely why it’s one of the best places to visit in Greece for  travelers seeking a laid-back, authentic trip. 

Nafplio is home to fresh seafood restaurants, casual and upscale boutiques, lovely beaches and so much more. It’s a great place for to explore Old-World streets with the backdrop of a gorgeous harbor. 

Nafplio does have fewer hotels and resorts than, say, Athens or Chania, but you can always ask a Fora Advisor for advice.

10. Rhodes: one of the best places to visit in Greece for Gothic architecture (& lively beaches)

Image courtesy of Rodos Park

The island of Rhodes (or Rodos) is best known for its walled, UNESCO-recognized medieval city center , which dates back to the 14th century. Strolling through old fortifications takes you back to a more precarious age. Yet, even within the castle walls, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Rhodes : narrow alleys host interesting shops, lively tavernas and local homes. 

Meanwhile, modern Rhodes invites travelers to bask on loungers at high-end resorts like Rodos Park and peruse a mix of recognizable retailers and local boutiques. 

Fora Perks at Rodos Park:

$50 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever available.

11. Zakynthos (a.k.a Zante): for nightlife seekers, a more casual alternative to Mykonos 

Image courtesy of Lesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort

Zakynthos isn’t quite as glamorous as Mykonos, but it’s arguably just as electric. Along its rocky coasts, you’ll still find lavish resorts (like Lesante Blu) intermixed with nightclubs, bars and restaurants. At the same time, the island is more frequently visited by families; it’s a happy medium between Mykonos and Crete or Santorini.

The island also hosts stunning natural beauty, with Navagio Beach being one of the top spots. Turquoise waves tumble over white sands while rougher seas are usually kept at bay by surrounding mountains and cliffs, which also happen to make the beach inaccessible by land. A Fora Advisor can connect you with the best boat tour operators on the island (our guide to exploring Zakynthos has more details).

Fora Perks at Lesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort:

$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

12. Corfu: an off-the-beaten-path destination great for first-time visitors to Greece

Image courtesy of Domes Miramare, A Luxury Collection Resort, Corfu

As one of the more unique places to visit in Greece , Corfu is a great destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience . The island’s location in the Mediterranean protects it from choppy seas, making it one of the best places to visit in Greece for watersports — kayaking, snorkeling, boat tours…  

On the coasts, beach resorts (such as Domes Miramare), clubs and taverns offer a lively nightlife scene. As you move inland, small towns showcase a quieter side of Greek island life and historical architecture. If you’re interested in spending a few days in Corfu , our guide offers itinerary ideas. For personalized recommendations, connect with a Fora Advisor .

Fora Perks at Domes Miramare, A Luxury Collection Resort, Corfu:

$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, complimentary air & concierge services, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

13. Milos: a low-key Greek island with culture, adventure and lovely scenery

Milos shares a lot of traits with Paros: it’s quiet, beautiful and a solid choice for visitors to Greece interested in cultural immersion. There’s still a fun nightlife to experience in the island’s major port, Adamantas (or Adamas), but it’s fairly tame compared to Mykonos’. Still, Milos makes a case for being one of the best Greek islands for families — you don’t really have to worry about encountering rowdy crowds. 

Regarding where to stay in Milos , the island’s options mostly boil down to tiny boutique hotels and luxury, though still comparatively low-key, hilltop or beach resorts like Domes White Coast.

Fora Perks at Domes White Coast Milos:

$50 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

A few tips for your first visit to Greece

If this is your first time planning a trip to Greece , here are a few tips to keep in mind.

Greece has great weather well beyond its peak travel season, but not all resorts are open

This does depend on where you want to visit, as each island has its own microclimate. However, given Greece’s location in the Mediterranean, the climate is largely warm and comfortable year round. It can get chilly in winter, and wind is a major consideration if you’re ferrying between certain islands. 

Plus, many resorts in the Greek Isles are only open from spring to fall. If you’re interested in visiting Greece during the shoulder seasons, for instance, you can always check with a Fora Advisor to see which hotels and resorts will be open.

Read more: The Best Time to Visit Greece & the Greek Isles: Full Guide  

Greece is largely a family-friendly destination 

Even on the Mykonos and Zakynthos, famous for their nightlife, there’s plenty for families to enjoy away from the more electric areas. Ultimately, consider Greece an excellent destination for families looking for a new place to explore together.

One thing to keep in mind: Greece doesn’t have designated nude beaches, but it’s not uncommon to encounter people swimming or lounging in the nude if you venture away from the busiest parts of popular beaches.

English is widely spoken in urban areas & popular destinations

Throughout all the best places to visit in Greece, you shouldn’t have much trouble with language barriers. English is commonly spoken in resort areas and major cities. As you venture into more rural areas, you can expect fewer English speakers.

For expert help planning your first (or any) visit to the best places in Greece, ask a Fora Advisor

Few places as small as Greece offer such a diverse array of amazing places to visit for first-timers. Deciding where to go in Greece can be tough, especially if you’re not quite sure whether you’re more interested in exploring old ruins, picturesque Mediterranean beaches or anything in between. 

For expert travel suggestions, consider booking and planning your trip with a Fora Advisor . They’ll help you navigate all your options — and can curate an itinerary that’ll take you to many of the best places to visit in Greece — all while booking you incredible accommodations, planning your logistics and unlocking VIP hotel perks.

Greece isn’t the only great destination in the region; check out more incredible places to visit in the Mediterranean and Mid-Atlantic:

The 12 Best Places to Visit in Spain for First-Timers / Top Spanish Destinations  

Where to Stay in Barcelona for First-Timers: the 5 Best Places

The 5 Best Places to Visit in Italy for the First Time

Where to Stay in Florence, Birthplace of the Renaissance

Fora's Guide to Portugal Hotels: Lisbon Edition  

3 of the Top Hotels in Porto, Portugal

Book with Fora

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The Ultimate Guide to Greece for First-Time Visitors

By  Esme Benjamin

Dreaming of an international vacation? If you want your next trip abroad to blend a little of everything you’ve been missing, from pristine beaches to bustling cities and from tasty food to historic sites, Greece ought to be a top contender. 

We spoke to Villy Manolia, a Travel Designer for Unforgettable Greece and a Greek citizen, to find out what makes her home country so special. “That’s my favorite question,” she exclaimed, before listing off the highlights: the weather, the history, the beaches, the food, the authentic hospitality. “Also,” she adds, “it’s a very small country with amazing diversity of nature and geography, from volcanic islands like Santorini to the green Sporades archipelago. And in the north you’ll find some amazing mountainous villages and even ski resorts.” 

For the average 10-day trip to Greece, Manolia recommends an itinerary that includes Athens followed by two to three islands. The best way to travel between destinations is often by plane rather than boat because a map of Greece doesn’t accurately portray the distance from one island to the next. “If you take the ferry from Athens to Crete, it takes about 12 hours,” explains Manolia. “So, before coming to Greece, travelers should look into distances and how to go from place to place to ensure it’s possible in the time they have.”

Of course, having planning assistance — or at the very least some helpful tips — from a local expert makes for a smoother and more fulfilling experience. Read on for Villy Manolia’s top recommendations and insights every first-time visitor to Greece should know.

The best Greek Destinations for couples 

White-washed walls, blooming bougainvillea and the matchy-matchy blue hues of sea and sky make Santorini a supremely picturesque setting for a romantic trip. “They say even if you go to Santorini with somebody you’re not in love with, you will fall in love with them,” says Manolia, who recommends booking a food and wine experience while on the island. “A glass of local wine at sunset is every bit as beautiful as what you see in the pictures. In fact, it’s 100 times more gorgeous.” 

Milos, another volcano-forged island, is the best spot for couples who love beachy downtime. Spend a lazy afternoon on Sarakiniko, a beach with curvaceous white rock formations that resemble the moon, before devouring a seafood dinner in front of the colorful facades of the old fishing village. 

If you want a less crowded but no less beautiful alternative to Santorini, consider Folegandros. This quiet island is beloved by locals while remaining under the radar among international visitors. Come here for beautiful beaches (including a nudist beach, if that’s your cup of tea), boutique hotels and strolls through the quaint old town.

The best Greek destinations for families 

It must be said that Greece is an extremely family-friendly destination: the calm mediterranean sea is great for swimming, locals are welcoming and many activities can be customized for young travelers. However, there are a handful of destinations in particular that Manolia recommends.

Crete is a solid option for families thanks to its top hotels with kid-friendly facilities, safe beaches and tours of ancient sites like Knossos, the island’s largest Bronze Age archaeological site, dating back to the Neolithic period. 

Of course, Athens is a must for all first-time visitors, including little ones. Check out the Acropolis and museums, then book a workshop the kids will enjoy (e.g. creating your own archeological artifacts). 

Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades archipelago, is one of few Greek islands with a strong agricultural tradition. Take the kids to a farm and meet the animals, try local cheese and bread, or take a family cooking class. Plus, Naxos is everything you want from Greece, aesthetically speaking: white buildings with blue frames, and long sandy beaches lapped by calm, glistening seas (with lots of watersports on offer). 

The best greek destinations for groups/friends

When recommending a destination to a group of friends Manolia takes into account their age and interests. For younger groups, Mykonos is the top choice thanks to its famous nightlife and dining scene. “If you like to party you can do that 24/7,” says Manolia, “but you can also do a local beer tasting, take a cooking class or charter a boat and sail around the island.” 

Island hopping by boat is actually one of the most blissful ways to see the country. Manolia often books groups on sailing trips that explore the Ionian archipelago — mountainous islands on the west side of Greece, known for their calm waters, pastel-colored houses and slight Italian vibe (they were part of the Venetian empire for 400 years).

For older groups, Manolia recommends destinations that center around archeology, historical old towns and food experiences. Crete, Rhodes, Naxos and Delphi are all winners.

What to see and do in Athens

Most visitors begin their Greek vacation in the ancient city of Athens, and it would be a crime not to spend a couple of days exploring one of the world’s most historically significant cities before heading for the islands. Don’t miss these sights and activities curated by Manolia:

• The Acropolis of Athens. Besides being one of the country’s most iconic places, this ancient citadel perched on a rocky hill provides incredible views of the city all the way to the sea. 
• Dinner in Plaka. Situated right at the foot of the Acropolis, this historical neighborhood is full of narrow streets lined with neoclassical buildings housing bistros and cafes. “It’s like you’re on an island but you’re in the center of Athens,” explains Manolia. 
• Visit the Athens Riviera. Located about 10 minutes from the center of the city, this pretty stretch of coastline is full of hip beach clubs and elegant hotels. 
• Explore the food and wine scene. There are innumerable tours you can book, but if you’d rather go it alone start by browsing mouth-watering produce beside the locals at the old market (“it’s like a trip back in time,” says Manolia), then meander through the area stopping at wine bars and restaurants until you can’t eat another bite. 
• See the Temple of Poseidon. Drive the Athens coast all the way to Cape Sounion (about 43 miles) and arrive at this gorgeous columned temple in time for sunset. Views from its elevated position overlooking the sea are Instagram gold. 

What to pack for a trip to Greece

Greece is famous for its summer season from April until October, when that deep blue mediterranean sea is at its most inviting. Needless to say, you should pack plenty of sunscreen, some light, breathable outfits and swimsuits galore. Sturdy walking shoes are another must — this is a country full of lovely, higgledy-piggledy cobbled streets that are not compatible with fancy footwear. 

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One Week in Greece: Itinerary for First Time Visitors

Julia February 1, 2023 Greece Leave a Comment

Plan out a one week itinerary for Greece to see the highlights of this beautiful and historic country.

Greece is a dream destination for so many travelers. The real question is how do you plan just one week in Greece when there are so many amazing places to visit?? Well, here is the best way to see the highlights of Greece, in just one week!

To take in all of the wonders of Greece, you will need to be selective on where you visit. I personally recommend a tour of three key areas for first time visitors: Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos. Here you’ll experience the Greek culture, learn some of the history, and experience the beauty and relaxation of a vacation, all in just a one week itinerary in Greece.

Disclosure:  Some of the links below may be affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Table of Contents

Day 1: Travel Day to Athens

Almost every trip to Greece starts in Athens. It offers the largest international airport in the country and is the main gateway to the country. You may arrive at any time day or night, and depending where you are traveling from, you could be facing have some serious jet lag.

I recommend taking your first day to settle into Athens and then hit the ground running on Day 2. This could include meandering through the streets of Athens, visiting some of the amazing cafes or markets, or even starting to explore the highlights of the city.

If you’re arriving late but want to start exploring immediately, consider taking a nighttime tour . You’ll get a great introduction to the city and be able to admire it in a totally different light as you see the sights all lit up!

2 Nights in Athens: Hotel Recommendations

With just 2 nights in Athens, you’ll want to stay central so that you can walk almost everywhere. Here are some recommended central accommodations to look into, based on your budget.

• Best Hostels: Athens Backpackers | Thanasis Place | Athens Hub Hostel
• Best Budget Hotels: Selina Athens Theatrou | Pella Inn Hostel | Kimon Hotel Athens
• Best Mid-range Hotels: Urban Frame Hotel | Emporikon Athens Hotel | Athens Utopia Ermou
• Best Luxury Hotels: Hotel Grande Bretagne | King George Hotel | Athens Ikon

Learn how to get over jet lag quickly .

Day 2: Take in the Rich History of Athens

While Athens is the capital city of Greece, it is easy to explore the top sights in just one day . It will lead to a busy day, but you’ll be able to capture the rich history of Athens which makes the city famous, and even a bit more!

To see Athens in a day, start the day early at the Acropolis and Parthenon. It is least crowded first thing in the morning, and you can buy your Acropolis ticket ahead to beat the line! Or, if you want to learn more about the history, join a tour of the Acropolis .

Then join a free walking tour to see the top sights and learn more about the city. Round out the day with a visit to the local markets or a street food tasting tour . Explore the Acropolis Museum. Wind down the day by grabbing drinks and dinner at a restaurant with views of the Acropolis where you can watch the sunset over this beautiful part of Greek history.

Get the full itinerary for 1 day in Athens .

Day 3: Travel to Santorini & Enjoy Sunset in Oia

Santorini is one of the most famous islands in the world. It is so picturesque with its white washed buildings, blue domes, and cobblestone streets. You will instantly fall in love with it. Depending how you travel from Athens to Santorini, you may have a lot of the day to explore Santorini.

If that’s the case, I recommend heading straight to Oia, the most touristy part of the island, to wander through the stunning white alleys, and really start to take in the atmosphere of the Greek Isles. Then, settle in for sunset overlooking the Aegean Sea in Oia. It’s a sight that will stick with you for years to come.

Find everything you need to know about Santorini as a first time visitor .

How to Get from Athens to Santorini

There are two main ways to get from Athens to Santorini: Ferry or Plane. With only 7 days in Greece, you may want to take the faster option of flying. The flight is only 40 minutes while the ferry can take 8 hours. The cost of both options start at just 40 euros and go up – just book early to get the best deals!

Search flights on Skyscanner or check out the ferry on Let’s Ferry .

3 Nights in Santorini: Hotel Recommendations

With just three nights in Santorini, where you stay makes a difference. The three best areas to stay in are:

• Oia: The most expensive and touristy
• Fira: Central but affordable
• Perissa: The most affordable option but a little further away

I personally recommend staying in Fira. You’ll be close to it all but able to stay within a reasonable budget. Not to mention Fira town is very picturesque itself! Here are the top picks for accommodations in Fira.

• Best Hostels:   Bedspot Hostel
• Best Budget Hotels:   Loizos Stylish Residences
• Best Mid-range Hotels:  Callia Retreat Suites – Adults only
• Best Luxury Hotels:   Revelis Villa & Canava

Learn more about luxury hotels in Oia and where to stay in Fira and Perissa .

Day 4: Enjoy a Leisurely Day around Santorini

It’s time to soak up the true culture of Santorini. Hike from Fira to Oia. Relax at a pool or on a beach. Go wine tasting at the local Greek wineries. Sip a cocktail overlooking the beautiful scenery of the island and Aegean Sea. Take a catamaran cruise around the island. Try horseback riding on the black sand beaches.

This is the day to take your time and truly enjoy the vacation time you have. Hit up happy hour. Visit the windmills. Stop at a hot spring . Catch sunset again in Oia or take a sunset cruise . Santorini will knock you off your feet when given the chance!

Check out the best things to do in Santorini to determine which of the many activities the island offers are of most interest to you.

Read about the top 25 things to do in Santorini .

Day 5: Explore Santorini by ATV

With one more day in Santorini, get off the beaten path by renting an ATV and heading out to the far reaches of the island. Visit the Red Sand Beach, the Akrotiri Lighthouse, and more.

The adventures that await you on your ATV are plentiful. You’ll have full freedom to see any part of the island you wish. It’s the best way to visit the small towns and sights situated around the island.

Get all the details you need to rent and explore Santorini by ATV .

Day 6: Head to Mykonos & Visit Mykonos Town

Unfortunately, it’s time to say goodbye to Santorini and head on to your last destination on your Greek itinerary for one week: The Island of Mykonos. You’ll want to make the move first thing in the morning to maximize your day.

Upon arrival, you’ll discover that Mykonos is both a beautiful Greek island and a party island. To make the most of your day in Mykonos, head into Mykonos Town to be greeted by the traditional white washed buildings with blue accents. Get lost in the classic Greek alleys. Check out the shops. Settle into a quaint restaurant. Admire the sunset from town or head out on a sunset cruise .

Alternatively, hit the ground running with a half-day city walking tour and island bus tour or opt to visit the vineyards of Mykonos to taste the local food and wine.

How to Get from Santorini to Mykonos

First thing in the morning travel from Santorini to Mykonos. There are two ways to do this, by ferry and by flight. The ferry will only take 2 hours and 30 minutes and costs 30+ euros. It’s the best way to get from Santorini to Mykonos.

The other option to get to Mykonos from Santorini is to fly. While the flight is only 60 – 90 minutes, the added time needed at the airport will make it about a wash in terms of ferry vs. flight.

Check the ferry schedule on Let’s Ferry .

2 Nights in Mykonos: Hotel Recommendations

With only 2 nights in Mykonos, I recommend staying close to the center of the city so that most of the sights are within walking distance. Or, alternatively, you can stay near one of the beaches. Here are some recommended accommodation options to explore:

• Best Hostels: MyCocoon Hostel | Eleanna’s | Paraga Beach Hostel
• Best Budget Hotels: Matogianni Hotel | Carbonaki Hotel | Lefteris
• Best Mid-range Hotels: Poseidon Hotel Suites | Arcs Boutique Villa Hotel | My Aktis
• Best Luxury Hotels: Rocabella Mykonos Hotel | Apanema Resort | Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort

However, if you’re coming to Mykonos looking to party all night, I recommend staying at Paraga Beach Hostel . You’ll be close to the clubs and also be able to party all day at a beautiful pool overlooking the beach.

Find out what to expect of Mykonos .

Day 7: Visit the Beaches and Sights of Mykonos

With a full day to explore Mykonos, it’s time to venture out to the picturesque beaches that the island is known for. Check out Paradise Beach and Sunset Beach, two of the most popular beaches on the island. Or, visit the slightly less popular Paraga Beach and Agrari Beach for a similarly stunning beach and less crowded experience.

Plan to beach hop, or plan ahead and pre-book your sunbed at a beach bar to ensure you have prime location to soak up the sun. Concerned about transportation, you can take a beach hopping tour instead! If you’re not a beach person, instead check out the far reaches of the island on an authentic Mykonos tour or take a Greek cooking class to learn authentic recipes.

After spending some time relaxing, head to check out more of the sights and culture in town. Or, if the party scene is for you, start with some drinks and plan to spend a late late night out at the bars and clubs. Mykonos offers some top notch clubs and world famous DJs, particularly in the summer. Not to mention your one week in Greece is coming to an end. Make the most of it!

Day 8: Time to Fly Home

Unfortunately, your 7 days in Greece will come to an end. It’s time to shed a tear, and board your flight home with all of the wonderful memories you’ve made. To get home, you will likely need to return to Athens first, and then fly out of the Athens International Airport.

How to Get from Mykonos to Athens

Again your two options for transportation will be ferry or flight. Ferries can be as short as 2.5 hours or as long as 5 hours, depending which ferry you select. Cost typically ranges from 20 – 60 euros. Blue Star Ferry is the cheapest ferry, while SeaJets is the fastest. A flight will only take 40 minutes and can be as inexpensive as a ferry, if you book in advance.

Which option you choose should not only depend on the length of time or cost, but also when you are flying out of Athens. It may be better to fly from Mykonos to Athens, and then wait for your international flight at the Athens Airport. With the Athens International Airport almost 35 minutes outside of the city center, you’ll save on time and the cost of intracity transportation.

Make Your One Week in Greece Affordable

While Greece is not a “budget destination”, it does not have to break the bank. You can find affordable food and accommodation, particularly if you visit in the shoulder or off-season.

If your budget is tight, one of the best ways to stretch your budget in Greece is to spend longer in each destination. This saves money on transportation as the ferries and flights between islands can add up.

Find 16 useful money saving tips for your time in Greece.

Plan More of Your Time in Greece

Planning your one week itinerary for Greece can be stressful. Hopefully you have a better idea of how to spend your time to explore this beautiful country and its prime destinations.

Looking for more information to help plan out your Greek itinerary? Check out these posts:

• How to Spend 1 Day in Athens, Greece: Itinerary for First Time Visitors
• 6 Best Day Trips from Athens, Greece: Ruins, Islands, History, & More!
• Santorini Travel Guide for First Timers: 10 Things to Know Before You Go
• 25 Top Things to Do in Santorini, Greece
• 16 Money Saving Tips for Santorini: Visiting Santorini on a Budget
• 10 Best Luxury Hotels in Oia, Santorini: Where to Stay
• Where to Stay in Santorini, Greece: Fira or Perissa?
• How to Rent a Quad in Santorini to Explore the Full Beauty of the Island
• What to Expect of Mykonos

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7 Best Places To Visit In Greece For First-Timers

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Home » 7 Best Places To Visit In Greece For First-Timers

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Greece , then look no further!

From stunning Santorini and its iconic whitewashed buildings perched atop a volcanic caldera to Meteora’s breathtaking monasteries built on top of immense pillars of rock, there is something here for everyone.

Of course, don’t forget about the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos or the tranquil beaches of Zakynthos – all perfect destinations for first-timers!

With so much to explore and experience in this beautiful Mediterranean country, it can be hard to decide where to go.

But fear not – we have compiled an amazing list of some of the best places in Greece for a first trip!

Greece is a country with an ancient, rich history and culture that has been around for thousands of years.

It’s a place full of breathtaking views, amazing Greek cuisine, local wine, and friendly locals.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore some of the country’s most iconic landmarks, here are seven places in Greece that are great for first-timers!

Looking for flights to Greece? Check out this post on the best flights to Greece before booking!

1. Santorini (To be Mesmerized by Sunsets)

Santorini, the stunning island in the Cyclades archipelago of Greece, is known for its whitewashed villages cascading down red and black cliffs to a deep blue sea.

This mesmerizing place is one of the most popular destinations in Greece and is packed with endless activities and attractions for first-time visitors.

I often hear travelers that are disappointed with Santroni but we fell in love with it and I believe that’s because we visited Santorini in September .

Santorini is one of the most popular places in Greece and it can get super busy.

So my best tip is to avoid the peak season and visit during the off-season when there are fewer tourists.

– How to Get to Santorini

Santorini can be accessed by plane or ferry from many cities in Greece, including Athens, Thessaloniki , Mykonos, and Crete. 

Once you’re there, you can easily get around by bus or boat to the many different beaches, villages, and attractions.

– What to do in Santorini for First-Timers

• Santorini is known for its dramatic sunsets so make sure you catch one at least once during your stay! The best place to watch the sunset is from Oia – a village at the top of the island with stunning views.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, take a boat tour to explore some of Santorini’s volcanic islands and some of its beaches. This Volcanic Islands Cruise with a Hot Springs visit tour is incredible!
• For history enthusiasts, make sure to visit Akrotiri archaeological sites – an ancient Minoan city that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption (it is easy to do via this popular 7-hour tour )
• Don’t miss strolling around Fira , the main city of Santorini with its great restaurants, cafes, and shops.
• You can also rent a car (I use Discover Cars ) and do a round trip on the island to discover its hidden gems, picturesque villages, and churches.
• Finally, make sure to experience some of Santorini’s local wines – a must-do when in Greece! ( Click to see my favorite wine-tasting tour in Santorini )

– How Long To Stay In Santorini

For a first-time visit, I recommend staying at least 2 nights to get a good taste of what the island has to offer.

However, if you have more time, 3-4 days would be ideal to really explore everything Santorini has to offer!

– Best Places to Stay in Santorini

There is a nice variety of accommodation options in Santorini, from luxury to Santorini hotels with private pools and views , to budget.

• Luxury: We recommend the 5-star  Athina Luxury Suites , which offers luxurious accommodation in traditional cave rooms.
• Mid-Range: We recommend the 3-star Kamari Beach Hotel , where you can enjoy views of Kamari beach while enjoying modern amenities and facilities.
• Budget: We recommend Oias Sunset , which offers budget 2-star accommodation in the charming village of Oia.

2. Mykonos (The Party Island)

Mykonos, the party island of Greece, is renowned for its never-ending nightlife and pristine beaches.

However, if you are not into parties don’t let that put you off going. We visited with our 5-year-old daughter and had a wonderful time – it doesn’t have to be just about raving!

This cosmopolitan paradise is a great place to visit for first-timers looking for a unique vacation experience.

Again the best tip I have is to avoid traveling there during the high season. Crowds have a way of destroying the magic of a place. Mykonos in September was perfect!

– How to Get to Mykonos

Mykonos can be easily accessed by plane or ferry from many cities in Greece, including Athens and Santorini.

Once you’re there, getting around the island is simple with regular public buses, taxis, and private car hire .

– What to do in Mykonos for First-Timers

• Mykonos offers a variety of activities for those who want to party the night away or relax on a picturesque beach .
• Partygoers can head to one of the many clubs in town, while those looking for more cultural experiences can visit some of the historical sites and monuments, such as the Windmills of Mykonos .
• Relaxation seekers can spend their days lounging on one of the island’s many beaches or enjoying some water sports in the crystal blue waters.
• I honestly spent most of my time in Mykonos town , just strolling around its picturesque streets, enjoying the Greek local food, sipping on cocktails at Little Venice, and shopping in the local stores.
• The most popular day trip is a tour to the ancient archeological site of Delos , where you can see sacred sites like the Temple of Apollo and the House of Dionysus. Click here to check prices for this tour .

– How Long To Stay In Mykonos

I recommend staying for at least 3 nights to get the most out of your experience.

This will give you enough time to explore all that Mykonos has to offer, from its nightlife and beaches to its cultural attractions.

– Best Places to Stay in Mykonos

• Luxury: We recommend the  Myconian Imperial Hotel (one of the leading hotels of the world), which offers luxurious sea-view rooms with private pools and a spa center.
• Mid-Range: Petinos Hotel in Mykonos is a great choice for travelers looking for comfortable and stylish accommodation in the heart of the island.
• Budget: Navy Blue Suites is a stylish 3-star boutique hotel located in Mykonos town. With its sleek design and personalized service, the hotel offers guests an unforgettable experience.

3. Zakynthos (For a Relaxing Vacation)

Zakynthos, or ‘Zante’ as it is commonly referred to, is an island in the Ionian Sea renowned for its stunning beaches and crystal clear waters.

It’s the perfect place for those looking for a relaxing vacation filled with sunsets, swimming, and sightseeing.

– How to Get to Zakynthos

Zakynthos can be easily accessed by plane or ferry from many cities in Greece, including Athens and Thessaloniki.

Once you’re there, getting around the island is simple with regular public buses, taxis, car hire , and boat tours.

– What to do in Zakynthos for First-Timers

• Zakynthos offers a variety of activities, including exploring the many historical sites and monuments .
• But most travelers visit Zakynthos to visit the Shipwreck beach which is best experienced on a boat tour. Click here to see prices for the most popular Shipwreck Beach + Blue Caves tour , or book one of the tours, check out our boat tours in Zakynthos options .
• Don’t forget to include some lazy beach days , some of the best beaches include Porto Zoro, Banana, Plaka, Gerakas,, or Agio Nikolaos beach. 
• Mizithres is a breathtaking sight on the Greek island of Zakynthos. It’s formed by two large rocks towering over the sea. To get the best views, head to Kiri Lighthouse restaurant – the food is pretty average, but the views are gorgeous!
• The beautiful island of Zakynthos is home to the endangered loggerhead sea turtles , which are protected in the region. You can take a glass bottom boat tour in the hopes to spot some of them in their natural habitat.
• We loved renting a boat and sailing to the different coves for a day of swimming and sunbathing, we even managed to swim with a turtle that another boat spotted out in the middle of the ocean.

– How Long To Stay In Zakynthos

I recommend staying for at least 5 nights to get the most out of your experience.

This will give you enough time to explore all that Zakynthos has to offer, from its stunning blue caves and beaches to its historical sites.

However, you could also see Zakynthos in 3 days if you are limited in time.

– Best Places to Stay in Zakynthos

• Luxury: We recommend the  Porto Zante Villas & Spa , which offers luxurious accommodations and villas with private pools.
• Mid-Range: The Cavo Orient Beach Hotel & Suites is located right on the beach and offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea. The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated.
• Budget: Rooms 48 by Zante Plaza is a highly recommended apartment rental in Zakynthos and offers guests a comfortable and enjoyable stay with its modern rooms & convenient location.

4. Meteora (For a Spiritual Journey)

Meteora is a region in Thessaly, Greece renowned for its incredible monasteries perched atop sheer rock formations.

This unique landscape offers an unforgettable experience for first-timers looking to explore the spiritual side of Greece.

– How to Get to Meteora

Meteora can be easily accessed by bus from most cities in Greece, including Athens and Thessaloniki. We found it much easier though to simply rent a car – we rented a car through Discover Cars .

Once you’re there, getting around the region is simple with regular public buses and taxis.

– What to do in Meteora for First-Timers

Meteora offers a variety of activities for those looking to experience its spiritual atmosphere.

These include visiting the monasteries and taking in the breathtaking views of the Meteora valley, trekking or mountain biking in the surrounding countryside, or exploring the many Byzantine churches.

– How Long To Stay In Meteora

I recommend staying for at least 2 days to get the most out of your experience.

This will give you enough time to explore all that Meteora has to offer, from its breathtaking views and monasteries to its outdoor activities.

– Best Places to Stay in Meteora

• Luxury: Grand Forest Metsovo is a luxury 5-star hotel located in the picturesque town of Metsovo, near the stunning Meteora rock formations. The hotel also has a spa, indoor pool, and fitness center, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.
• Mid-Range: Divani Meteora Hotel is a modern 4-star hotel located near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, fitness center, and spa facilities, including a sauna and massage treatments.
• Budget: Hotel Doupiani House is a cozy and charming 3-star hotel located in the village of Kastraki, near the impressive Meteora rocks. The hotel offers stunning views of the mountains and is within walking distance of several monasteries.

5. Corfu (For a Relaxing Vacation)

Corfu is an island off the northwest coast of Greece known for its breathtaking beaches, beautiful villages, and vibrant nightlife.

It’s the perfect destination for those looking to relax with some sunbathing and explore some of Corfu’s hidden gems.

– How to Get to Corfu

Corfu can be easily accessed by plane or ferry from many cities in Greece, including Athens and Thessaloniki.

Once you’re there, getting around the island is simple with regular public buses, taxis, and car hire .

– What to do in Corfu for First-Timers

• Corfu offers a variety of activities including lounging on some of its beautiful beaches such as Barbati Beach, Bataria Beach, Paleokastritsa Beach, or Canal d’Amour beach, or taking a boat ride around the island’s coastline.
• Corfu Old Town is a charming and historic area located on the island of Corfu, Greece. Visitors to Corfu’s Old Town can explore its many sites such as the 17th century Old Fortress, the Palace of St. Michael and George, and Liston Square.
• Another popular thing is to take a tour to visit Antipaxos and Paxos , two stunningly beautiful small islands off the coast of Corfu. This is the most popular and best-rated tour to Antipaxos and Paxos .
• Here is our post with a list of 10 things to do in Corfu .

– How Long To Stay In Corfu

This will give you enough time to explore all that Corfu has to offer, from its stunning beaches and historical sites to its vibrant nightlife.

– Best Places to Stay in Corfu

• Luxury: We recommend the  Corfu Imperial , which offers luxurious accommodations and breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea.
• Mid-Range: The Ray Hotel Corfu Perama is a great choice for those seeking a peaceful and scenic vacation in Corfu. The 4-star hotel boasts stunning views of the Ionian Sea and is conveniently located just a short drive from Corfu Town.
• Budget: The Oasis Hotel is a charming 3-star hotel that has a swimming pool and private beach area.

6. Crete (For Adventure Seekers)

Crete is the largest island in Greece and offers a variety of activities for the adventurous traveler.

From exploring its stunning beaches, hiking in its rugged mountains, or taking a boat ride around its coastline, Crete has something to offer everyone.

It is also a fantastic destination for families (here is a list of the best places to visit in Crete with family ) because of its plethora of activities, from water parks to aquariums.

– How to Get to Crete

Crete can be easily accessed by plane or ferry from many cities in Greece, including Athens and Thessaloniki.

You can also take direct flights to one of the island’s three international airports located at Heraklion, Chania, and Sitia.

Once you’re there, getting around the island is simple with regular public buses, taxis, and car hire.

The island is really big, so I highly recommend you rent a car, we rented ours through Discover Cars .

– What to do in Crete for First-Timers

• Crete offers a variety of activities including exploring its many historical sites such as the Palace of Knossos and Gortys . Click here to check prices for the Skip-the-Line Guided Tour of Knossos .
• One of the most stunning places is the Samaria Gorge ! The best way to experience the gorge is on a guided Samaria Gorge trek tour .
• Relax on some of its breathtaking beaches such as Elafonisi Beach, Balos Beach, and Vai Beach. You have to visit Elafonisi by boat, here is the best Elafonisi boat trip tour to book.
• You can also take a day trip to visit the nearby islands of Santorini or Milos . This tour is the best tour to visit Santorini from Crete .
• Most people underestimate the size of Crete and don’t get to explore the entire island, so it might be worth renting a car ( we rented our car through Discover Cars ) to make sure you see all that Crete has to offer.

– How Long To Stay In Crete

I recommend staying for at least 7 nights to get the most out of your experience.

This will give you enough time to explore all that Crete has to offer, from its gorgeous beaches and historical sites to its vibrant nightlife.

– Best Places to Stay in Crete

• Luxury: We recommend the  Elounda Mare Hotel , which offers luxurious accommodations and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
• Mid-Range: The 4-star Peninsula Resort & Spa has breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. The resort’s facilities are top-notch, with a beautiful infinity pool, a spa, a fitness center, and a variety of dining options serving delicious cuisine.
• Budget: Corinna Mare is a beautiful beachfront resort located in Chania. The resort’s facilities include a swimming pool, a bar, and a restaurant serving delicious food.

7. Athens (For Culture Vultures)

Athens is the capital of Greece and a must-visit destination for first-timers.

Known for its ancient history, rich Greek culture, and vibrant nightlife, Athens has something to offer everyone.

While in Athens, be sure to explore the Acropolis of Athens and visit sites such as the Temple of Athena Nike and the Parthenon.

You can also visit some of Athens’ many museums, such as the National Archaeological Museum or the Acropolis Museum.

– How to Get to Athens

Athens can be easily accessed by plane or train from many cities in Europe, including London, Paris, Rome, and Berlin.

You can also take a direct flight to the Athens international airport located at Eleftherios Venizelos.

Once you’re there, getting around the city is simple with regular public transport options (such as buses and taxis).

– What to do in Athens for First-Timers

• Athens offers a variety of activities for first-timers such as exploring its ancient history, tasting traditional Greek dishes (best done on a food tour – see the best food tour here), or browsing its many markets and shopping streets.
• Be sure to visit the Acropolis of Athens and take a tour of some of its many museums, such as the National Archaeological Museum or the Acropolis Museum . I particularly love this tour that combines the Acropolis with a museum .
• The most popular day trip from Athens is to visit Delphi where you can visit the hilltop ancient ruins, the Temple of Apollo, and more. Here is the most popular day tour from Athens to Delphi .
• Meteora is one of the most impressive unique places that I have ever visited and if you don’t have time to stay there for a few nights you can also visit Meteora on a day tour from Athens .
• You can also take a day trip outside of Athens to visit one of its nearby islands, such as Hydra and Paros . Check prices for this tour here or go directly to our blog with 14 Best Day Trips from Athens and choose the one best for you.
• For a luxurious day trip, why not take a private helicopter tour from Athens to Sifnos – it only takes 45 minutes each way?

– How Long To Stay In Athens

Truth be told we didn’t care much for Athens, however, if you do decide to check out the city, we advise that you stay for 2 days in Athens .

This will give you enough time to explore the city’s history-rich sites.

– Best Places to Stay in Athens

If you can afford it the best places to stay in Athens is a hotel with a rooftop pool that offers views of the Acropolis. Click here to browse the best Athens hotels with rooftop pools .

• Luxury: The Grand Hyatt Athens is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Athens, offering easy access to the city’s top attractions. The rooms and suites are spacious and elegantly decorated.
• Mid-Range: The Hotel Lozenge is a stylish and modern hotel located in the heart of Athens, offering easy access to the city’s top attractions. The rooms are chic and cozy, featuring modern amenities and elegant decor.
• Budget: We recommend the  Hotel Hermes , which provides modern amenities and facilities at a budget price.

Greece First-Time Visitor FAQs

Here are some answers to questions you might have about visiting Greece:

The best time of year to visit Greece is between April and October. Between these months, temperatures are generally warm and there are plenty of activities and festivals to check out.

It depends on your interests and what you’d like to see. Generally speaking, we recommend at least 7 days to get the most out of your experience in Greece.

For first-time visitors, we recommend Crete or Santorini as they offer a variety of activities and attractions suitable for all ages.

The answer to this question depends on your preferences. If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, then Santorini may be the better option. However, if you prefer a party vibe, then Mykonos is the way to go.

Final Thoughts On Where To Go In Greece For First-Timers

No matter which of these beautiful Greek islands you decide to visit, first-time visitors will find something for everyone.

From the bustling city life of Athens to the peaceful and tranquil beaches of Crete, there’s something for every type of traveler in Greece.

So pack your bags, grab your passport, and explore this stunning country! It won’t disappoint.

Ready to get stuck into more planning? Here are all our posts on our Greece travel blog .

Jolene Ejmont

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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.

Alice Smith is a full-time travel blogger and content creator and the founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy from her career as a Content Marketing Specialist, she embraced her passion for exploration and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

From her roots near Cambridge, UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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10 Days in Greece: The Ultimate Itinerary (First Time Visit)

The best itinerary for 10 days in greece.

You’re planning to spend 10 days in Greece and you’re looking for the best itinerary?

That’s perfect!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this 9-10-11 days itinerary in Greece .

A quick note before starting: This itinerary is about a trip to Central Greece. If you prefer to visit Greek islands, you should rather read my 2 other articles: “ The best 10 days Greek islands itinerary ” and/or “ One Week in Greece (Athens + Santorini) “.

Now let’s get back to this itinerary!

During your trip, you will discover some of the country’s best places to visit such as Athens , the Peloponnese region , Delphi , the Meteora and Thessaloniki , the 2nd largest city in Greece.

In addition to the must-see attractions for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, how to spend 10 days in Greece?

Let’s find out!

Where to stay in Athens

Where to stay in nafplio, where to stay in mystras, where to stay in olympia, where to stay in delphi, where to stay in meteora, where to stay in thessaloniki, greece tours, renting a boat in greece, cyclades (greek islands), 1) athens (3 days).

For your 9-10 days itinerary in Greece, the best is to land in Athens. You will spend your 3 first days in Greece’s capital city.

During your stay in Athens, you won’t need a car, as most tourist attractions are located in the city centre and it’s easy to get around the city on foot.

However, you will need a car for the rest of your 10 days trip to Greece, so you will have 2 options:

• You can rent your car directly when you arrive at the Airport
• Or you can rent your car on the 4th day , when you will be leaving Athens.

In any case, if you want to rent a car in Greece, you should use Rentalcars.com   website. I’m using this website everytime I need to book a car, whether I’m traveling to Scotland , Sicily or even Thailand !

Here is why:

The website is very user friendly, it allows you to compare prices between all the rental companies located at Athens’ airport. You can also check customers reviews.

Rentalcars  also offers a Full Protection Insurance. If you purchase it, you will get complete excess refund in case of damages or car accident. It can be really useful, as you can be charged for every tiny scratch! To be honest, it’s the most effective insurance I have ever used, they have already refunded me more than 1200 euros.

If you already know your travel dates for your 10 days itinerary in Greece , you should book your car right now to get the best price.

It doesn’t commit you to anything, as you can  modify or cancel your booking for free.

Just click the button below to compare car rental prices:

If you haven’t rented your car, the fastest option to reach Athens’ city centre from the airport is the Metro. Just take the line 3 to reach Syntagma Square.

You can also get a taxi (for around 40€), or take the bus (the cheapest option, but also really slower than the metro!)

It’s now time to discover Greece’s capital!

Start your day with a visit to the Acropolis Museum. There, you will learn everything about Athens’ most iconic landmark.

If you visit the museum first, you will understand the historical context before going to the Acropolis. You will also enjoy a great view of The Parthenon from the top floor terrace!

To avoid waiting in line, you can directly get a skip-the-line ticket for the Acropolis Museum here:

Then, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Acropolis. During your tour, you will be able to admire the Parthenon. This marble temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena, is the best preserved monument on the site.

You will also see 2 other temples, a theatre and an amphitheatre. 

It will now be time for lunch. You’re lucky: you’ll find everything you need in Plaka district, located at the foothill of the Acropolis. How about a chicken or pork gyros? I must admit that it was my daily lunch during my trip to Greece!

You can also try an authentic Greek restaurant. One of the best in the neighborhood is the Liondi Traditional Greek restaurant, located right next to the Acropolis Museum. It offers a typical and tasty Greek cuisine, much better than most of the tourist traps you can find in Plaka.

After your meal, take a stroll in Plaka district. The place still looks picturesque, even if there are many souvenir shops.

Then, walk to Athen’s other must-see place: the Ancient Agora. There, you will admire the Temple of Hephaestus, Greece’s best preserved Doric temple. On the site, you can also visit the Museum of the Ancient Agora to picture what the site looked like in Ancient times.

The Agora is located in Monastiraki district, another place worth a visit. With its many shops selling clothes, shoes or jewelry, it feels a bit like the Arabic souks!

Right before sunset , you should go to Philopappos Hill. There, you will enjoy the panoramic view over the Acropolis and the city.

And if you want to celebrate the 1st day of your 9-10-11 days road trip in Greece , go to Gazi district. With its trendy bars and night clubs, it’s the best place to have a drink or party all night!

Spend the night in Athens.

The next day, continue your 10 days itinerary in Greece and spend a  2nd day in Athens.

Start your day at the Panathenaic Stadium. It was built in the 4th century B.C, to host the ancestor of our modern Olympic Games. During these sporting events, athletes were competing in wrestling, track and field and chariot races.

You have to pay 5€ to access the inside of the stadium and the track. If you don’t want to pay, you can also enter the park located right next and reach the top of the bleachers to admire the view of the Acropolis.

After that, have a brief stop at the Arch of Hadrian and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Then, go to Zappeion Park and the National Garden (they are actually the same park). You can wander in the shaded alleys to reach Syntagma Square.

Every hour, the Changing of the Presidential Guard takes place on Syntagma Square. You will see the evzones (the guards) and their traditional uniform with skirts, white tights and pompom shoes! It’s one of Athens most touristic attractions.

Even if this show fascinates you, don’t forget to look at the main building on the square: the House of Parliament.

From Syntagma Square, reach Ermou street to do a bit of shopping. You will find here most big international brands, like Zara and H&M.

Ermou street goes straight to Monastiraki district . As you’ve already seen it the day before, you can continue with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum of Athens. One of its most famous artefacts is the Golden Mask of Agamemnon, found in Mycenae. You will be amazed by the museum’s incredible collection, from the Neolithic era to the end of the Roman period!

End your day on Mount Lycabettus, one of the best places to admire the sunset over the Acropolis. You can take the stairs or use the cable car to reach the top.

Spend another night in Athens.

For the 3rd day of your 10 days trip to Greece, you will discover Athens’ surroundings. 

You can choose between these 2 one-day trips from Athens: 

• From Athens – Visit the Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion to see the Temple of the Poseidon, and admire the view of the Saronic Gulf.
• From Athens – Visit the Saronic Islands   to discover Hydra, Poros and Aegina.

Spend a last night in Athens.

If you want to know more about the things to do in Athens, you can read my article:  Visit Athens: the definitive guide.

You can buy a 30€ combined ticket to visit the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora and other ancient sites such as Hadrian’s Library, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Roman Agora and more.

It’s the cheapest option and your ticket is valid for 5 days.

To get this combined ticket, it’s very simple, you just have to book it by clicking on the button below:

To make them most of your visit to Athens, you should opt for the Athens City Pass. It includes all the must-see attractions , such as:

• The combined Acropolis ticket mentioned above
• The Acropolis Museum entrance ticket
• An audio guide for your visit to Athens
• A 10% discount on all other attractions in Athens

To book it, simply click here:

And if you want to learn everything about the Acropolis History , the best is to opt for a guided visit (it’s also a skip the line ticket).

The best guided tour in English is the one from GetyourGuide Originals. It’s so great that they will give you a full refund if you don’t enjoy your time!

To book it, you just have to click on the button below:

• Bedbox Hostel:  A Youth Hostel located 300m from Monastiraki Square, and 700m from the Acropolis. Dormitory room starting from 18€ per night. Strong points: the location, the really kind staff and the cleanliness!
• Evripides Hotel:  Located 400m from Ermou Street and 500m from Monastiraki. The rooms are simple but comfortable, starting from 70€ per night, with breakfast included. What I loved: the breathtaking view of the Acropolis from the rooftop, the location (perfect to visit Athens on foot) and the friendly and helpful staff!  A great choice in Athens for its exceptional value for money!
• Amalia Hotel:  Located on Syntagma Square, just in front of the National Gardens. The double rooms are modern and spacious. Some of them even have a balcony with a nice view of the gardens. The price starts at 155€ per night with breakfast included. Strong points: The comfort, the generous breakfast, and the location in the centre of Athens.
• Wyndham Grand Athens:  5-star Hotel located 1km from Ermou Street and 1.5km from the Acropolis. You’ll love the elegant and design double rooms here, starting from 200€ per night. Breakfast will cost you 16€. Strong points: the outdoor pool on the roof, the view of the Acropolis, the spa center, and the location right next to a metro station!
• Electra Metropolis:  This 5-star hotel is located only 200m from Syntagma Square and 600m from the Acropolis. The price for a spacious and comfortable double room starts at 270€ per night, breakfast included. What I loved: the ideal location, the view of The Acropolis from the rooftop, the amazing restaurant, the pool.  The best choice for a luxury stay in Athens.

2) Mycenae / Epidaurus / Nafplio (1 day)

Now that you’ve seen Athens and its surroundings, it’s time to leave the city to discover Peloponnese.

There are 3 points of interest you can visit during your day:

• Corinth Canal, located around 1-hour drive from Athens. This impressive and narrow canal was carved into stone to avoid the boats a 400 km detour between the Saronic Gulf and the Aegean Sea. Just stop for a souvenir photo, it won’t take long. And if you are looking for a unique experience, you should really try a bungee jump over Corinth Canal! (click here to book it)
• Mycenae , only 40 minutes away from the Canal. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest in Greece, and the former home of the Trojan War hero Agamemnon. There, you can discover the Palace, Tholos Tombs and an Archaeological Museum. I must warn you: the site is mostly in ruins and you won’t see many remains. As the entrance ticket costs 12€, if you’re not an History lover, just go to the next place.
• Epidaurus, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is worth a visit for its very well preserved theatre. You will be amazed by the exceptional architecture and acoustics of this theatre built in the 4th century B.C. If you drop a coin in the middle of the scene, someone sitting on the last row will hear it! On the site, you can also discover a temple dedicated to the god of Medicine Asclepius and a small museum. It takes 45 minutes to go from Mycenae to Epidaurus.

Then, drive for 30 minutes to reach Nafplio.

Nafplio is a lovely seaside town. There, you can take a stroll in the old town’s picturesque alleys and admire the Bourtzi Castle, located at the port entrance. And if you want a nice view over the city, just go up to Acronafplia Fortress.

Then, end your day at Arvanitia Beach. You can relax, have a drink and rent deckchairs on this nice pebble beach!

Spend the night in Nafplio.

If you want more information about Corinth Canal, Mycenae, Epidaurus and Nafplio, you can read my article about Peloponnese:  The 15 best things to do in Peloponnese.

• Agamemnon Hotel:  Located in Nafplio’s old town, just in front of the Bourtzi Castle. The double rooms, with a balcony and sea view for some of them, are starting from 55€, with breakfast included. Strong points: the location, the view, the kind staff.
• Amymone and Adiandi Hotel:   Located 5 minutes away from the beach, in the old town. You will love the elegant double rooms, starting from 75€ including breakfast. What I loved: the delicious breakfast, the location on a pedestrian alley, the rooms’ original and nice design.  It offers the best value for money in Nafplio!
• Amalia Nafplio Hotel:  Located about 2km away from the city centre. The luxurious and comfortable double rooms are starting from 110€ per night, with breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the free private parking, the quietness, the varied breakfast.
• Nafplia Palace Hotel & Villas:  This 5-star hotel is only 5 minutes away from the beach and 15 minutes away from the city centre. The rooms are large and modern, with balconies and the offer a great views of the sea and the castle. Price starts from 260€ per night. If you want an even more luxurious stay, you can sleep in a villa with its private pool, starting from 570€ per night.  It’s my favorite hotel in Nafplio, perfect for a luxury stay!

3) Palamidi Fortress / Monemvasia (1 day)

After your night in Nafplio, continue your 9 or 10 days in Greece itinerary with a visit to Palamidi Fortress, located outside Nafplio.

You can drive to the fortress and park your car near the entrance. The entrance ticket costs 8€, and you have to plan at least 1h30 or 2 hours to visit the site. I personally really loved that place, with its many strongholds to contemplate the view over Nafplio and the sea.

Then, take your car and drive for 3 hours to reach Monemvasia. Don’t worry, time will fly by, as the landscape on the road is really gorgeous!

This village is located on a small island , only connected to the mainland by a dike. Park your car on the parking lot right after this dike, and take the 1€ shuttle to reach the city. You can also walk there, as it only takes 15 minutes.

From the mainland, Monemvasia is completely undetectable. The village is located under a cliff, and surrounded by an heavy fortification wall. You won’t see it until you cross the main gate of this natural stronghold.

It was built to protect the inhabitants during the Barbarian invasions and the numerous wars against the Franks and the Turks.

Inside the walls, you will enjoy your walk in Monemvasia’s nice paved alleys, with many traditional shops, bars and restaurants. Take a stroll and reach the main square,  to admire the church and the cathedral.

Then, you can follow one of the walking trails to go to the fortress, at the top of the cliff. It’s the best place to admire the view over the village and the sea!

At the end of your visit, get back in your car and drive for 1h30 to go to Mystras. Spend the night there.

Start your day early in the morning, as you will have to drive quite much!

Going to Mystras at the end of the day is more convenient for your next day’s program.

• Byzantion Hotel :  Located just across Mystras’ main square. The simple but comfortable rooms offer a view on the Archaeological site. Price starts from 55€, breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the view, the private parking lot.
• Mazaraki Guesthouse:   Located close to Mystras’ Archaeological Site and surrounded by nature, this place offers large and warm suites with balcony, starting from 115€ including breakfast. What I loved: the pool, the environment, the decoration, and the breakfast served in your room.
• Arxontiko Taygeti:  This Guesthouse is located only 5km away from Mystras’ city centre. The duplex suites, with a kitchen, a living room and a balcony with a beautiful mountain view are starting from 160€, with breakfast included. Strong points: the calm, the kind staff, the environment. You will also find everything you need for breakfast in your fridge!
• Mystras Grand Palace Resort:  This 5-star hotel is located only a 5-minute drive from Mystras. This brand new hotel offers rooms with stone walls, exposed beams and terrace, starting from 180€ per night including breakfast. What I loved: the pool, the hot tub, the sauna, the comfortable rooms, the calm.  It’s the best choice for a luxury stay in Mystras.

4) Mystras / Olympia (1 day)

For the next stage of this 10 days road trip in Greece, you will visit one of the places I enjoyed the most during my trip in Greece: Mystras. It only takes 5 minutes to get there from the village.

Mystras is divided in 2: the upper town and the lower town . There are parking lots and ticket offices at the 2 entrances.

Start with Mystras’ upper city: park your car in the upper parking lot and buy your entrance ticket (remember to keep it, as you will need it at the other entrance). This ancient fortified city,  now a UNESCO World Heritage Site was the former capital of the Byzantine Empire.

In the upper city, you will see a fortress , and enjoy a magnificent panorama on the surrounding plain. You will also discover the Agia Sofia Church, the small palace and the Palace of the Despots.

Then, get back in your car and reach Mystras’ lower town.

There, you will visit many churches, monasteries and covent . The best monuments to see are:

• The Pantanassa Monastery
• The Peribleptos Monastery
• The Brontochion Monastery
• The church of Agios Theodoros

Mystras is located in the heart of nature, and the monuments are really well restored. It’s clearly one of the most beautiful places to see during this 10 days in Greece recommended itinerary.

Plan at least 3 hours for your visit. The site is really big and it’s not flat!

Let’s continue this road trip in Greece with Olympia , another famous site to visit.

From Mystras, you will drive for 2 hours to reach Olympia.

If you visited Mystras during 3 hours, then drove for 2 hours, you should arrive in Olympia around 3 or 4 p.m . You will have plenty of time left to visit the archaeological site . In the afternoon , the site is less crowded, as most of the tourist buses already left. You will also get a perfect lighting for your pictures!

Olympia is also one of the many UNESCO World Heritage Site in Greece. The Ancient Olympic Games were hosted here from 776 B.C to 393 A.D . During the games, the athletes were competing in many sporting events, including wrestling, discus throw and chariot racing.

On the site, you can discover the Gymnasium, the Temples and some sports facilities. I must warn you, the site is mostly in ruins, and you will only see a few columns and remains.

Right next to the archaeological site, you can visit the Archaeological Museum . The entrance is included in your 12€ entrance ticket. It’s even better if you start your visit with the museum, to help you picture what the site looked like!

If you still have some time at the end of the day, you should visit the Museum of the Olympic Games . There, you will learn everything about the Olympic Games’ History and sporting events. The entrance is also included in your ticket.

Spend the night in Olympia, to recover from this long day.

Don’t forget your hiking shoes (or at least good sneakers) to visit Mystras.

If you’re looking for a good restaurant in Olympia, you should go to Dimitra restaurant.  The food is way better than in Olympia’s many tourist traps. Their pasta was delicious!

• Leonidaion Guesthouse:  Located only 10-minute walk from the Archaeological site of Olympia. The large and comfortable double rooms are starting from 55€ per night, including breakfast. What I loved: the free private parking lot, the location close to the site, the quietness.  It’s the best value for money in Olympia!
• Amalia Hotel Olympia:  Located at the city’s entrance. The large and bright rooms, with balcony or terrace are starting from 80€, with breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the very tasty breakfast, the kind staff, the free fruit basket and water in your room.
• Arty Grand Hotel:   Located on a hill overlooking the city, this 5-star hotel offers modern double rooms, with a small living room and a balcony, starting from 95€ per night including breakfast. Strong points: the huge outdoor pool, the indoor pool, the environment.  It’s the best hotel for a luxury stay in Olympia!

5) Delphi (1 day)

It’s now time to continue this 10 days itinerary in Greece with the ancient site of Delphi.

Delphi is located 3h15 away from Olympia. Don’t worry, there are many places worth a visit during your journey, and time will just fly by!

• Kalogria Sandhill: you can have a nice walk on this large sand beach, surrounded by pine trees.
• Gianiskari Beach: a beautiful and quiet sand beach you can access by a dirt road.
• Nafpaktos:  a small village on the seaside with 2 large beaches, bars and a small port. This is the perfect place for lunch. There is a castle on the hill above the village. You can visit it, and enjoy a beautiful view over the bay and the Charilaos Trikoupis bridge. (entrance fee is 2€)
• Galaxidi,  an other small seaside village. You can take a stroll along the harbour and in the pine forest. There are also many cafés and restaurants.
• Between Nafpaktos and Galaxidi,  the road is beautiful, with several beaches to take a dip!

You will arrive in Delphi in the afternoon . There is no need to rush, as the site is less crowded at the end of the day and the light is also better. The ancient site of Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located outside the city, on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. You can park your car right next to the entrance.

Delphi was considered to be the centre of the world by ancient Greeks . The Pythia (the Oracle of Delphi) , transmitted Apollo’s directives from the gods to humans. The interpretations of these prophecies shaped Greece’s History during 6 centuries.

During your walk, you will admire the Temple of Apollo, the theatre and the stadium . The viewpoints of the mountains and the valley are breathtaking!

In my opinion, Delphi is one of the best ancient site in Greece.

After your visit, don’t miss the Archaeological Museum, located right next to the site. There, you will see some ancient objects and statues found in Delphi.

Spend a night in Delphi.

For dinner, you can go to  Taverna Vakhos . The menu is different than in the other restaurants. It’s also more upscale, copious and delicious for an identical price! It’s better to book it in advance, as it’s really well known and often full.

• Fedriades Delphi Hotel:   Located a 10-minute walk from the ancient site of Delphi. The modern double rooms with balcony are starting from 55€, and you have to add 8€ for breakfast. Strong points: the panoramic view, the high quality beds, the kind staff.
• Kastalia Boutique Hotel:  Located only 5 minutes from Delphi. You’ll enjoy large and modern double rooms, starting from 62€ including breakfast. What I loved: the terrace, where you can have your breakfast, the warm welcome, the location.  It’s the best value for money in Delphi!
• Nidimos Hotel:  Located only 1km from the archaeological site. The bright and comfortable double rooms with balcony are starting from 65€ per night, with a 10€ breakfast. Strong points: the various and copious breakfast, the free parking lot, the beautiful view.
• Amalia Hotel Delphi : Located 800 meters from the archaeological site. Modern and bright double room offering a nice view up to the sea starting at 90€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the large swimming pool, the view. The most high-end hotel in Delphi!

6) The Meteora (1 day)

Now, your 10-11 days itinerary in Greece will take you to one of my favorite place: the Meteora.

As the site is located 3 hours away from Delphi, don’t get up too late so you can visit it in the afternoon.

Before visiting the site, you can stop in Kalambaka (the closest city) for your lunch break and ask for your map of Meteora Monasteries at the Tourist Office.

Then, follow the road to the Meteora. You’ll be amazed by these monasteries built on top of huge rocks! The scenery is really unique, and the Meteora are clearly one of the best places to see in Greece.

Even if the Meteora is quite far from the other tourist attractions of the country, it’s still one of the must-see places during your road trip in Greece.

You can visit 6 monasteries, and the entrance costs 3€ each time. You don’t need to visit all of them, 1 or 2 is enough! The Monastery of Great Meteoron is the most famous, it’s really huge and impressive.

• Pyrgos Adrachti: Located in the village of Kastraki, only a 5-minute drive from the monasteries. The double rooms, with a beautiful view of the Meteora are starting from 60€, with a 7.50€ breakfast. Strong points: the magnificent view, the quietness, the amazing big breakfast.
• Meteora Hotel at Kastraki: Located in Kastraki. The modern and bright double rooms are starting from 80€ per night, with breakfast included. What I loved: the pool, the location in the countryside, the spectacular view. It’s the best value for money in Meteora!
• Hotel Meteoritis: Also located in Kastraki. You will love the spacious and comfortable double rooms, with a balcony and a view of the Meteora, starting from 125€ including breakfast. Strong points: the kind staff, the location, the private parking, the varied breakfast.

7) Thessaloniki (1 day)

For the last full day of your 10 days in Greece itinerary, you should go to Thessaloniki . It’s the country’s 2nd largest city , after Athens.

If you want to spend 1 day in Thessaloniki, you can:

• Go to Modiano market, to buy the best local products
• Take a stroll in Egnatia street and its many shops
• Stop by the Roman Agora
• Visit the church of Agios Dimitros
• Walk in Ana Poli district to see the Ossios David church and Vlatadon Monastery
• Walk along the city walls to reach Trigoniou Tower
• Admire the view over the city from the Agios Pavlos church
• Relax in Pasha Gardens
• Take the Elenis Zogafrou Street, and take a short detour by the Nikolaos Orfanos church
• Discover the Arch of Galerius and Rotunda
• Admire Thessaloniki’s most iconic landmark: the White Tower
• End your day in Thessaloniki Waterfront, where you will find many bars and restaurants
• And how about spending your last night in Greece partying in Ladadika and Valaoritou districts?

If you want more details about the best places to see in Thessaloniki, you should read my article: The 12 best things to do in Thessaloniki.

Spend the night in Thessaloniki

The next day, your trip to Greece will already be over! It will be time to drop off your rental car, and take your return flight.

Don’t forget to choose a rental company that won’t charge you if you take your car in Athens and drop it off in Thessaloniki! If you use  Rentalcars.com  website to book your car, you will directly see all the “drop off at a different location” fees, if any.

If you are going 9 days in Greece, you can remove the 1-day trip around Athens (day 3).

If you’re doing an 11 days itinerary in Greece , you can add a day to discover Thessaloniki’s surroundings. You can choose between:

• A 1-day tour to discover Vergina and Pella
• A cruise around Mount Athos
• A cruise in Chalkidiki including lunch – My favorite!
• Stay Hybrid Hostel:   This youth hostel is located around Ladadika and Valaoritou districts. Dormitory rooms starting from 10€ per night only! Strong points: the price, the modern rooms, the ideal location to go out at night, the rooftop.
• Plaza Hotel, Philian Hotels and Resorts: Located in Ladadika district, only 50 meters from the seaside. The warm double rooms, with comfortable beds are starting from 60€ per night, with breakfast included. What I loved: the ideal location, if you want to get around Thessaloniki on foot, the great breakfast, the kind staff. A great choice in Thessaloniki for its exceptional value for money!
• Astoria:   Located 300 meters from the port and 500 meters from Modiano market. The double rooms, with a balcony for some of them, are starting for 100€ per night, with a 10€ breakfast. Strong points: the location, the good breakfast, the kind staff.
• Electra Palace Thessaloniki: This 5-star hotel is located on Aristotelous Square, in the heart of the city. You will love its large rooms with a classical decoration and wooden furniture! The price starts at 200€ per night, including breakfast. What I loved: the swimming pool and the restaurant on the roof, with a great panoramic view, the location in the city centre, the hotel services. The best choice for a luxury stay in Thessaloniki!

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

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

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your trip to Greece, you should book it with Samboat.

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

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

Greece travel guides

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

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

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

• The 20 Best Things to do in Greece – The Ultimate Bucket list!
• The 15 Best Things to do in Peloponnese – All the must-see attractions
• Athens: The 20 Best Things to do and see
• Thessaloniki: The 12 best places to visit
• The 15 Best Cyclades Islands to visit – With all the must-see attractions
• Itinerary: 10 days in Greek islands – The definitive guide to visit the Cyclades in 10 days!
• Amorgos: The 8 best places to see
• Andros: The 7 must-see attractions and activities
• Naxos: Top 10 things to do
• Paros: The 10 best places to visit
• Santorini: The definitive guide
• Tinos: The 10 best things to do
• Rhodes: Top 12 best places to visit

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

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Discussion 2 comments.

Vincent, thank you for your 10 days in mainland Greece. I would like a re commendation for a company who makes reservation for this itinerary, we need help with this aspect of booking.

Hello Tova,

Thank you! I’m glad that my itinerary makes you want to go to Greece.

It’s the 10 day trip that I did myself when I visited Greece. So there is no travel agency that offers exactly this tour and can make the reservations for you. However, in my article I put all the links to book the hotels, the rental car and activities very easily.

If you already know your travel dates, you can click on the links in this article and book everything you need. It will cost you a lot less than booking with a travel agency, as there are no intermediaries.

Have a nice evening and enjoy your trip to Greece!

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Where to visit in greece the ultimate first time visitor’s guide travel destinations europe where to visit in greece the ultimate first time visitor’s guide where to visit in greece the ultimate first time visitor’s guide.

• August 9, 2023

Discover the Best Greek Gems: Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring Greece for the First Time

It’s been several years since my last trip to Greece but I remember it fondly and would love to go back and explore Greece some more. My first visit to Greece left me wanting more!

Together we are going to embark on a journey to uncover the hidden treasures of Greece, where ancient history and breathtaking landscapes intertwine. From the iconic white-washed buildings of Santorini to the ancient ruins of Athens, Greece is a land filled with wonder and beauty.

Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or a food enthusiast, this ultimate guide is your roadmap to experiencing the best that Greece has to offer. Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich traditions, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality that make Greece an unforgettable destination. Wondering where to visit in Greece for the first time? You came to the right place!

Visitors Guide to Greece

In this comprehensive first-time visitors’ guide, we’ll take you through the must-visit destinations, the unique experiences, and the mouthwatering cuisine that will leave you craving for more. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure as we explore the best Greek gems together.

If you are into stunning natural scenery, you will have a fantastic time gazing at the timeless beauty of Greece’s snow-capped mountains, diverse landscapes, lush forests, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. If you love the water like I do, you will enjoy swimming and sunbathing on the sun-kissed beaches of the Aegean Sea.

Meanwhile, avid party-goers will take delight in the fact that they can dance the night away at beach parties at the clubs and bars in Mykonos and Ios or even in cosmopolitan cities like Athens and Thessaloniki. Indeed, Greece has something to offer for all types of tourists.

But since it is almost impossible to visit all the spectacular tourist attractions in Greece in such a limited time, here are the top three must-see places on your itinerary for where to visit in Greece the first time you go.

The cities you should visit when exploring Greece for the first time

Athens is where I ended my Greek Island sailing trip and it’s my favourite Greek city. Yes, Santorini is beautiful, but Athens is incredibly full of life and culture. It has a vibe all its own.

Athens, Greece’s capital city, should be at the top of your list of places to visit. It is considered among the world’s oldest cities, with a history spanning more than 3,400 years. That said, it would come as no surprise that Athens has a rich culture and history.

After all, it is the city that birthed the notion of democracy and Western civilization as we know it today. It is also home to the most iconic ancient ruins in the world, such as the Acropolis—a UNESCO World Heritage Site which houses the Parthenon, a temple built to honour the goddess Athena.

A few other must-visit Athenian monuments include:

• The Propylaia
• The Temple of Athena Nike
• The Erechtheum and its famous Caryatids
• The theatres of Dionysus
• Herodes Atticus
• The Areopagus
• The Kerameikos Ancient Cemetery
• The Ancient Agora
• The Temple of Zeus
• Hadrian’s Gate

After admiring such elegant architectural works of art, you can visit the National Archaeological Museum, which contains a collection of ancient Greek artifacts.

As shown above, we toured the Temple of Olympian Zeus, a ruined temple dedicated to the god Zeus, which holds the world record as the largest temple ever built in the ancient world.

After a day of learning all that there is to learn about Greece’s ancient history and mythology, you can dance the night away and enjoy Athens’ vibrant nightlife scene. We ended up at Lindsay Lohan’s night club, Lohan, and we had a blast dancing all night long.

And if you happen to be in Athens in time for the Athens Epidaurus Festival, you will get to watch a reinvented Greek tragedy or dance troupe performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus amphitheatre.

Regardless of whether you’re travelling alone or with the love of your life, it is almost impossible not to fall in love with Santorini’s allure. I showed you Santorini in an earlier photo gallery post with ten reasons to visit stunning Santorini .

Your trip to Greece will not be complete if you haven’t posed and taken Instagram-worthy photos of Santorini’s famous whitewashed houses clinging to the steep cliffsides above the famed Aegean caldera. Of course, you can’t forget to snap some photos of the postcard-perfect village of Oia with its blue-domed churches.

When you tire of strolling and weaving your way amidst Santorini’s narrow pathways, you can relax your sore muscles by bathing in the thermal springs warmed by an active volcano. Alternatively, you can sunbathe and take a dip on Santorini’s black sand beaches.

And if you are a fan of the Greek’s advanced architectural ingenuity, be sure to visit and explore the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri, where you will find remnants of the advanced drainage system they used back in the day.

Lastly, if you are a wine connoisseur, you can book a private tour of Santorini’s wine estates, where you can sample traditional wines with a modern twist like mezzo and Nychteri, courtesy of Santorini’s new generation of vintners.

Known for its beach bars and nightlife, Mykonos is so much more than just a party city. Its iconic 16th-century windmills are a sight to see and so are its narrow and colourful streets. We spent the better part of our afternoon in Mykonos simply strolling the cobblestone streets.

We went shopping for local souvenirs and I bought several local designer dresses and rompers. The shopping was great in Mykonos! We also dined at a restaurant overlooking the ocean, in fact, we were sitting overtop of the ocean. The views were incredible.

Having said all of this, Mykonos was also the city where we partied the hardest. One of my favourite memories of Mykonos was sailing up to a beach bar that’s only accessible by boat. What a fun experience! We also danced the night away until sunrise listening to DJs at one of Mykonos’ nightclubs.

Olympus National Park

I didn’t make it here, but I’ve heard it’s stunning so I’ve included it in this first-timer’s guide to Greece. Olympus National Park has an area of 92 square miles (238 sq km) and is one of Greece’s leading attractions. The pinnacle of the park’s attractions is, of course, Mount Olympus.

The mythical mountain of the Gods, Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece. Located in Thessaly, this mountain peaks at a height of 9,570 ft (2,917 m). Surrounded by waterfalls and lush forests, the mighty mythical mountain of Olympus is an otherwordly sight. In fact, the mere sight of its ethereal beauty is enough to make one say that the trip to Greece is worth it.

There are 52 various peaks spread out across the mountain. Mytikas is the highest peak standing at a height of 9,570 feet (2,917 m). And if there are peaks, be careful because there are also deep gorges found within the mountain’s prominence.

While it will be challenging to climb Mount Olympus’ peak, you can opt to climb only a portion of the mountain just so you can experience the exhilarating thrill of hiking. The best place to start the hike is in the nearby town of Litochoro.

Olympus Mountain not only boasts of being the most desirable peak to hike across Europe, but it offers a glimpse at a vast diversity of wildlife and ecosystems as well. Here, you can find wolves, wild cats, jackals, foxes, chamois, wild goats, and roe deer. Avid birdwatchers should also keep an eye on rare birds like the short-toed snake eagle, peregrine falcon, sparrow hawk, lanner falcon, golden eagle, and booted eagle.

Best Time to Visit Greece

The best time to visit Greece largely depends on your preferences and the activities you want to engage in. The peak tourist season in Greece is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm and sunny. I went in August and it was very, very hot 🥵

While summer is the perfect time to enjoy the pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife, be prepared for large crowds and higher prices during this period. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to October).

The weather is still pleasant, and you can explore popular attractions without the crowds. Winter (November to March) is the low season in Greece, but it offers a unique experience for those interested in exploring the historical sites and enjoying a more authentic Greek atmosphere.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Greece depends on your preferences and the type of experience you’re looking for. I loved visiting in August since I love hot weather, but the humidity was almost too much for me. I’d advise against a summer visit unless you really love hot weather and crowds.

Greek Cuisine: A Food Lover’s Paradise

Greek cuisine is a delicious blend of Mediterranean flavours, fresh ingredients, and traditional cooking techniques. From souvlaki to moussaka, here are some dishes you must try during your visit to Greece:

1. Souvlaki: Grilled skewers of marinated meat, usually pork or chicken, served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a side of Greek salad. Whenever I dine in a Greek restaurant at home, I tend to order their souvlaki.

2. Moussaka: A hearty dish made with layers of eggplant, ground meat, and béchamel sauce, baked to perfection. This one isn’t my favourite, but it is very popular so I felt that I had to include it.

3. Spanakopita: A savoury pie made with layers of phyllo pastry filled with spinach, feta cheese, and herbs. I love Spanakopita!

4. Dolmades: Grape leaves stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat. Again, not a fave of mine, but definitely a crowd-pleaser and very traditional.

5. Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo pastry, nuts, honey, and spices. Need I say more?

In addition to these traditional dishes, Greece is also known for its fresh seafood, olive oil, and Greek yogurt. If you like the taste of black licorice, pair your meal with a glass of ouzo, the traditional Greek spirit.

Whether you’re dining at a local taverna or trying street food from a food stall, the flavours of Greek cuisine will leave you craving for more. I loved every meal I enjoyed in Greece.

Tips for Travelling in Greece

To make the most of your trip to Greece, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered out of respect. And wear flat shoes as their roads are old and uneven. Also, for my gals, be wary of how windy it can be. In the photo above, this dress went flying a few times!

Pro tip: I carry a scarf with me whenever I travel around Europe so I can quickly and easily cover up if I want to pop into a cathedral or other site.

2. Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, especially during the summer months when temperatures can be high. Carry a reusable water bottle with you, you’re going to need it!

3. Be prepared for a slower pace of life, especially in smaller towns and islands. Embrace the relaxed atmosphere and enjoy the Greek concept of “siga siga” (slowly, slowly).

4. Carry some cash with you as some smaller establishments may not accept credit cards. ATMs are widely available throughout Greece.

5. Respect the environment and avoid littering. Greece’s natural beauty is one of its greatest assets, and it’s important to preserve it for future generations. Although this is definitely a general travel tip and should be respected no matter where you go.

By following these tips, you’ll have a smooth and enjoyable experience exploring Greece.

Conclusion – Where to visit in Greece for your first time

Greece is home to numerous ancient ruins of the Greek civilization and centuries worth of history. If you are a mythology geek, take a trip to Greece in 2024 because you will surely fall in love with this country, I know I did!

No matter which city, or cities, you decide to visit, you really can’t go wrong. Writing this post brought back a lot of memories for me. I know I’ve been reminiscing about my Greek Islands sailing trip and how amazing it was! I think I left a piece of my heart in Athens and I’d love to return one day to explore it further.

If you’re looking for a Greek Islands itinerary, check out Your Complete Greek Islands Itinerary.

If wellness travel is up your alley and you’d like to combine your trip with a stay at a luxury wellness resort, check out this newly opened wellness resort in Greece .

The Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in 2024

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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. 

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

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

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

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

Stefan Cristian Cioata/Getty Images

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.

Kirsty Nadine/Getty Images

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.

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

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 !

Related Articles

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

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 mostly for Europe. It has over 1 Million properties to choose from, including everything from hotels to apartments and even hostels. And free cancellation!
• Expedia : I use Expedia for the best hotel descriptions and amenities and a rewards points system for the rest of the world.
• 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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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 . 

An email you’ll actually love

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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First Time in Greece: The Best Places to Visit

For your first time in Greece, there are some essential destinations you won’t want to miss. Here are the best places to visit.

Don’t be deceived by Greece’s relatively small size. Greece has nearly a fourth of Europe’s coastline – 16,000 kilometers. There are over 200 inhabited islands (and many more uninhabited islands), as well as more than 30 mountains. The urban centers of Athens and Thessaloniki sparkle with ancient sites , but are also famous for contemporary charms – not least gastronomy and nightlife. Above all, Greece is an endless source of culture, mythology, and history, filled with destinations that are truly milestones in any traveler’s life.

For your vacation in Greece , an experienced holiday designer can help you make the very most of your visit. You’ll be able to enjoy these essential highlights while you discover your own perfect Greece.

Table of Contents

First Time in Greece: Exploring Athens

Athens is a part of nearly every first time in Greece itinerary. You’ll remember your first visit to the Parthenon for the rest of your life. But the capital offers much, much more – not just major sites and museums, but the unexpected charms of the contemporary urban experience, both refined and primal. Take in an opera at the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus at the base of the Acropolis, savor the chic serenity of Athens’ best summer cafes , or indulge a memorable night of feasting, music, and dancing, Dionysus-style. A good itinerary lets Athens unfold.

Convenient to fly into, Athens is also the gateway to the islands.It’s also an easy distance from some of the essential archaeological pilgrimages such as Delphi and Epidaurus.

First Time in Greece: The Cyclades, an Essential Greek Destination

There are over 200 inhabited islands. And each one of them has its own enchanting mood. So why do we keep hearing about the same few islands, over and over again? Because – even amid such a vast and beautiful selection – the Cyclades are simply amazing.

When people think of a classic Greek Island, they’re probably thinking of one of the Cyclades. Those white sugar-cube houses with their blue shutters and the domes of white churches against the Aegean blue of the sky are like a stage set for an ideal holiday. The rocky, uncompromising landscape, and the dramatic beaches of silky sands and turquoise waters are the landscape we imagine when we imagine our first time in Greece. Dreamy in the imagination, they’re even more fabulous in real life – definitely one of the best places to visit in Greece.

Santorini is in a category all its own, a true life experience, a vision rising sharply from the sea. The stunningly steep cliffs offer some of the world’s most luxurious and unconventional accommodations. From here, the views of sunset are the stuff of modern travel legend.

This volcanic island is full of natural and geological wonders. It has a black sand beach, a red sand beach, and many other natural treasures. But the Caldera- the bay formed by the volcano that gave Santorini its dramatic shape – is the star.

Santorini is, without exaggeration, one of the most beautiful places on the planet. It is unique and unforgettable, an essential Greek destination. It’s top on the list of a first time in Greece itinerary, and a honeymoon destination like no other.

Eclipsing perhaps even Santorini in fame, Mykonos is actually much more than simply the international party and leisure playground for the rich and famous. True, it is one of the most glamorous and luxurious places you may ever see. But it’s also stunning in its simplicity. The sparkling white-washed homes and brightly-colored shutters, the winding alleys and staircases, those iconic windmills – all will enchant you. The elegant boutiques and world-class restaurants take nothing from the authentic beauty of Mykonos town. Watch the waves splash along the promenade of Little Venice while you sip a bespoke cocktail. Then pick out your own fresh-caught octopus drying on a clothesline for a unforgettable meal in the harbor of the Chora.

The world-famous beaches of Mykonos offer the same combination of glamour and authentic beauty. You’ll enjoy a swim in turquoise waters of the Aegean on pristine beaches surrounded by dramatic cliffs. But you’ll enjoy it in style, relaxing afterwards on lush sunbeds surrounded by billowing white curtains, with full-service pampering. Then a glamorous lunch – to experience Greece at its best, you need to eat a lobster with your toes in the sand, while you wear nothing but a bathing suit and a pareo. Mykonos is the place for this treasured summer ritual.

Mykonos is also a surprising destination for lovers of archaeology. From here, an excursion to the sacred island of Delos, one of Greece’s most vast and significant archaeological sites.

The Saronic Islands

Hydra – perfect for your first time in greece.

Hydra is an intriguing choice for an authentic island experience for your first time in Greece. It’s also an easy distance from Athens. All the islands of the Saronic gulf are popular weekend destinations for Athenians, and Hydra is the finest among them .

Hydra- One of the Best Places to Visit in Greece for Culture and Art

Hydra has both an artistic pedigree, and a noble role in the history of modern Greece. A wealthy island, the ship-owning families built in neo-classical mansions elegant good taste. The seafarers of Hydra fought in the Greek war of Independence, while the island’s ships and fortunes supported the war. Hydra was both home and inspiration to one of Greece’s most important 20th century painters -Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghikas. Painters and poets – like Seferis and Katsimbalis, as well as the war hero and chronicler Patrick Leigh Fermor, visited him here. In fact, Katsimbalis once brought Henry Miller along, who wrote about it in the Colossus of Maroussi.

The island continued to draw artists and lovers of art. This was home to Leonard Cohen after he bought a house here in the 1970s. And now the DESTE foundation has turned the old slaughterhouse into an exciting project space or contemporary art.

A Tranquil Island

But perhaps the first thing you’ll notice about Hydra when you enter the picturesque deep harbor is what is not here. The island has no cars or motorbikes to disturb the tranquility as you stroll through the elegant own and explore the rest of the lush island on foot. The dining is excellent, and there are luxurious accommodations with a true sense of place.

Elegant Spetses is one of the most aristocratic of the Greek Islands, with glamorous mansions in the harbor. Like Hydra, the island was crucial to the revolutionary effort. There’s even a grand celebration here each September – the Armata. The highlight is a dramatic reenactment of a major sea battle of 1821.

Like Hydra, you will find no cars here. But, rather than the humble donkeys of Hydra, horse-drawn carriages are the transportation of choice. This sets the tone. Spetses is an island of fine dining and luxury accommodations. This green island is also surrounded by fantastic beaches, some of which are best reached by boat – an exciting excursion.

First Time in Greece – Crete

This largest of the Greek Islands has such a distinctive identity it’s almost like a nation unto itself. It’s like a concentrated version of everything that is great about Greece. Crete possesses unusually elemental rugged beauty. The villages are charming, the Cretan cuisine and wines delightful. Above all you’ll be struck by the character of the people. The Cretans are proud, hospitable, and as noble and uncompromising as their landscape.

Even their ancient history has a twist. You’ll see the ruins of magnificent palaces of a fascinating culture that preceded the Golden Age of Greece by many centuries. The Minoans were a mysteriously advanced, art-loving, sophisticated Bronze-Age culture, which you can explore at Knossos. Fans of archaeology will love Crete. So will oenophiles- this is excellent wine country. Add to this the world-famous Samarian gorge and the legendary beaches like Elafonissi, Balos, and Matala. Crete also has the white mountains, tiny islands like Chryssi and the storied Spinalonga , plus hundreds of caves. For nature, culture, and pleasure, Crete is an essential Greek destination.

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Visiting Ancient Dion- Sacred, Timeless, and Touching

The Best Time to Visit Greece, According to a Local

T hink of a Mediterranean vacation, and Greece is sure to make your list of must-visit destinations. Its blend of seaside escapes, history, culture and mouthwatering cuisine make it one of the best places to travel for all types of tourists. And let's not forget its islands! They're prime honeymoon hot spots, consistently serving up some of the most romantic getaways . I can fully appreciate the draw—I loved it so much that I moved here, after all. And I'll tell you this: It pays to know the best time to visit Greece before booking your trip.

Greek vacations are more popular than ever. In fact, a recent report from Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union, found that Greece was one of only six member countries to receive more flights in September 2023 than it did in September 2019. In other words, Greece is bouncing back to pre-COVID-19 levels. And that means you'll have to contend with other tourists if you take a trip here.

As a local who's lived in and written about this eclectic country for more than a decade, I know from experience that it's impossible to avoid tourists entirely. It's all about timing. Whether you want to beat the crowds, bask in the best weather imaginable or travel on the cheap , here's the best time to visit Greece for the ultimate European vacation.

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What is the best time of year to visit Greece?

It's hard to pinpoint a single best time to visit Greece, and that's because it all depends on your priorities and how you weigh crowdedness, cost and climate. To spend the least amount of money, you may need to visit when temps are on the cooler side. For peak sunbathing weather, you'll shell out more cash and contend with greater crowds.

If you want to avoid a Greece overrun by tourists, skip the summer months. In June, July and August, beaches are typically crowded, though it's possible to find hidden coves even during this peak season—especially if you take a small boat tour from or around some of the islands or the Athens coastline.

No matter when you land on Greek soil, you'll have to deal with some tourists. According to Bank of Greece data, 5.76 million international travelers visited the country in the first five months of 2023, proof of Greece's ever-growing popularity. Still, there are quieter times to explore the country, such as during the shoulder-season months of September and October, early November and late March through May. Whether you're discovering ancient ruins, exploring mainland destinations or bopping around little-known islands, you'll find fewer crowds, mild temps and cheaper-than-high-season prices.

For me, the best time to visit Greece is from September until the end of October. The weather on a lot of the southern islands, such as Rhodes and Crete, is still warm enough to swim, with average daytime temperatures of 75 and 73 degrees respectively. Plus, the crowds are gone, as children have headed back to school.

Springtime is also a great option, and I recommend timing your visit so you can experience Greek Orthodox Easter. It usually falls in April or May (in 2024, it occurs on May 5), and it's the most important holiday on the Greek calendar—more so than Christmas even. Expect to eat plenty of delicious lamb and join in neighborhood celebrations and street processions to the local church.

What time of year is the cheapest to visit Greece?

While a Greek getaway isn't necessarily cheap, there are ways to save money when traveling to the country. For starters, avoid the high-season summer months of June, July and August. The winter off-season sees prices drop considerably, and this tends to be the best time to find hotel deals. On Tripadvisor, for instance, the same Athens hotel costs about $52 more in April than in January—and though summer rates aren't available yet, it's safe to bet that the price will rise in June, July and August.

Traveling during the winter will serve you well when booking your flight too. The cheapest airfare from the United States tends to occur during the winter months. When I searched Expedia for flights for a two-week vacation, I found a round-trip ticket from Newark, New Jersey, to Athens in early December going for $473. A round-trip ticket from Newark to Athens in June comes in at $992.

When is the weather the best in Greece?

Best weather is subjective, depending on where you're traveling from and if you like your vacation to be hot. Without a doubt, the summer of 2023 set records. As the Guardian reported, the country had the hottest July in 50 years, with temperatures in Athens repeatedly exceeding 104 degrees. So if you're here for the Mediterranean island sunbathing, you'll need to account for these levels of heat (and maybe plan some indoor activities, just in case).

As a local, I think the best time to travel to Greece for great weather is September, when daytime temperatures are a balmy 82 degrees and sea temperatures 77 degrees, making swimming still possible. The fall months of October and early November average 64 to 72 degrees, so it's pleasant to sit outside at a cafe, sipping the staple drink of a Greek frappe (cold coffee milkshake).

December through February are the country's coldest months, with daytime temperatures averaging 54 to 57 degrees. Thanks to the Mediterranean climate, winters can be mild—but they're also wet. You may even see snow on the mainland in the mountainous areas to the north and on some of the islands, such as Crete. It creates good skiing opportunities, and while they can't compete with some of the world's more famous ski resorts, there are a handful of ski resorts in the country that locals (and in-the-know tourists) use yearly.

When packing your suitcase , think layers for all seasons. And be prepared for high humidity, which makes it feel sticky in the summer and chilly in the winter.

What is the best time of year to go to Athens?

The best time to visit Greece if you're planning to stop in the capital city is during the fall or spring shoulder seasons. In April, May, September and October, daytime and nighttime temperatures aren't uncomfortably hot or too cold. The spring and fall months offer plenty of opportunity to wander the Athenian streets, discovering the small neighborhoods. Plus, the cooler weather makes climbing up to the Acropolis a much more pleasurable experience.

It's also worth mentioning that crowds in the shoulder season and off-season are considerably smaller, so lines to enter the Acropolis are shorter. In fact, the wait to view this ancient monument gets so long in the summer that Greece had to set a cap of 20,000 visitors daily to shorten lines during the dangerous heat. By visiting in the off-season, you won't be waiting in line in the sweltering heat, and there won't be a mad rush to buy a ticket before the cap is reached.

If you're looking for even more things to do in Greece , visit on Ohi Day. The national holiday occurs on Oct. 28 and commemorates the day in 1940 when Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas rejected Mussolini's ultimatum to have free passage through Greece for his Italian troops. You'll find street parades all over the country on this holiday, but the one in central Athens is particularly impressive, with its added military parade and marching band.

What is the best time to visit Santorini and the other Greek islands?

Greece is famous for its islands, especially Santorini, with its blue-domed churches and sugar cube houses, so atypical for the Cycladic island chain it's located within, and Mykonos, with its cosmopolitan atmosphere, cobbled alleyways and hidden coves. They tend to attract visitors during the summer months, but that may not be the ideal time to vacation here.

If you're looking for a beach vacation away from the crowds, my advice would be to book a trip for September. It'll still be warm enough to swim and get a nice tan, but you won't have to deal with a ton of tourists.

Don't rule out wintertime for your trip to the Greek islands. Admittedly, much shuts down in the off season, but you'll get to experience the real Greece, have frequent sunny days and still find places to eat traditional Greek food, such as souvlaki (the locals need to eat too!). The lack of crowds allows you to roam the islands at your own pace.

Besides, temps aren't too bad even in the winter. Santorini's caldera entices with morning mists floating over its surface. And with average winter temperatures of 55 degrees, it's not too chilly.

There are several flights from mainland Greece to the islands that are cheaper during the spring and fall, but my favorite way to travel is by ferry. The lack of competition on ferry routes means this method of transportation isn't cheap at any time of the year, but Greek ferries resemble mini cruise ships and offer lovely cabins on longer routes. Make it a part of the whole experience: Take a weekend break in Athens followed by a journey by ferry to the islands. Note that ferries have a reduced schedule in the spring and fall months, with more connections in the summer.

How many days in Greece is enough?

Just as you would when planning a trip to destinations like London and Hawaii , start by considering where you'll be flying out of. The ideal number of days to spend in Greece depends on where you're traveling from. If you're flying from the United States, you probably want to spend longer in the country than if you're adding a stop in Greece after visiting nearby Italy.

Also consider how much of the country you want to see and the type of tourism you're interested in. Do you want to stick to a few days in Athens exploring the ancient sites, then head to an island for some fun in the sun? Do you want to just connect in Athens before flying immediately to a Greek island, or would you rather make the city your home base for the entire trip? Or are you interested in heading to the Greek countryside to experience traditional villages?

Most trips start and end in Athens, where you can experience the city in at least three full days. Visitors then tend to hop on a ferry or fly to a popular Greek island like Santorini or Mykonos, either basing themselves there or ferry-hopping between two or three others. You can reach mainland destinations by train or by hiring a car—factor in travel times between destinations when planning your vacation.

For a decent taster of the country, plan for a 10-day trip: Athens, plus one or two islands. Two weeks can provide a lovely combination of a city break and countryside getaways, plus swimming and sunbathing around the Greek coast.

One thing's for sure: Don't try to see it all in one trip. Greece is a country to savor and explore at leisure, with time to wander the charming cobbled streets and sip a frappe in a local cafe, watching local life unfold around you. Greece and its monuments have been around for centuries—they're not going anywhere.

Places to stay in Greece

Most vacations in Greece will commence in Athens, and there are many neighborhoods to choose from when booking a stay. While not a sprawling city by U.S. standards, it is one of the bigger European cities.

If you've never visited Athens before, a hotel located smack dab in the center, near the Acropolis and its accompanying museum, is a great choice. The upscale Herodion Hotel attracts visitors with its rooftop-bar views of the famous monument. Plus, it offers airport transfers.

Boutique hotels such as Asomaton (don't miss its relaxing plunge pool) and Altar Suites have cozy vibes in lovingly renovated centuries-old buildings. They're within walking distance of all Athens's main sites, as well as the contemporary old gasworks district of Gazi, where you'll find nightlife, tavernas and the industrial museum.

Heading to Santorini, base yourself at either Voreina Gallery Suites or Zannos Melathron Hotel . Both properties were renovated to their former splendor in the less-busy village of Pyrgos. You still get the magnificent Caldera sunset views without the crowds.

In Mykonos, Mykonos Town makes the best base if you don't mind being in the thick of it all. Hotels such as Semeli and Myconian Korali Relais & Chateaux have sleek Grecian lines and unfussy furnishings. Both have pools and airport transfers.

Book your visit

• Eurostat : "Commercial flights in the summer still below 2019 level"
• Enterprise Greece : "Greek tourism on track for record-setting year"
• Schengen Visa News : "Greece to Introduce Caps on Daily Visitors to Acropolis"
• The Guardian : "Heatwave set to be Greece's longest as extreme weather continues in Europe"
• World Bank Group : "Climate Change Knowledge Portal–Climatology; Greece"
• Greek National Tourism Organisation : "Athens"

The post The Best Time to Visit Greece, According to a Local appeared first on Reader's Digest .