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Greece Travel Guide
Where blue-domed villages perch on the edge of Aegean islands, and sweeping olive groves surround ancient ruins.
Best time to visit Greece
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Following a Mediterranean climate, Greece’s weather is fantastic, particularly from May - October when the country sees hot, dry summers. Spring and Fall are the best seasons to visit, with mild temperatures, clear skies, and fewer visitors.
Cyclades islands
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- How to pack light for your trip
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Why is Greece worth visiting?
Greece is a paradise for travelers who want to combine history, island life, and mouthwatering food. Drift on turquoise waters, get lost among ancient ruins, and dine on Greek salads and local olives.
Is Greece cheap to visit?
Greece is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe, so it can have a slightly higher price tag than other vacation spots. However, choose lesser-known islands or off-radar city neighborhoods, and you can still find accommodation for under $30 or a tasty gyros for $3.
Can I drink tap water in Greece?
The tap water in Greece is safe to drink in cities and on popular islands like Santorini or Mykonos. However, on smaller islands, we suggest bringing a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter system. Ask locals for advice on arrival to be on the safe side.
Do I need a visa for traveling in Greece?
Most travelers from the EU, USA, and Canada don’t need a visa for Greece for stays of up to 90 days. Check your country’s entry requirements in advance and make sure to have a valid passport ready for your Greek adventure.
What language do they speak in Greece?
Expect to hear the melodic tones of the Greek language while on your trip to Greece. This language is hard to master, but don’t worry, as most Greeks in popular vacation destinations speak English. We recommend learning a few Greek phrases so you can connect with the friendly locals on your travels!
Do I need travel insurance for Greece?
Travel insurance is your safety net during your trip to Greece, protecting you from unexpected events. Explore remote ruins, jump into cave pools, and scooter around the Greek islands with total peace of mind!
Is Greece safe?
Greece is generally a very safe destination. However, like all countries, we recommend being aware of pickpockets in touristy areas, keeping an eye on your belongings, and only walking down well-lit streets at night.
What power plug type does Greece have?
Greece primarily uses type C and F plugs, which are two-pin plugs used across Europe. Make sure to bring an adapter with you so you’ve always got your battery charged for photo opportunities!
Why do people love Greece?
Greece is famous for creating the Acropolis, Olympic Games, and democracy, but it’s so much more than that! Among this ancient history are thousands of mesmerizing islands, endless olive groves, and sun-drenched white villages — in one of the sunniest nations in Europe!
Travel to Greece
Greece, a land of ancient history and mouthwatering dishes, welcomes visitors to its glistening turquoise shores and blue-domed villages. Whether it’s gazing in awe at the Acropolis in Athens , savoring zesty cocktails in the bustling beach bars of Mykonos, or driving on clifftop roads in Kefalonia , there is something for every traveler on their vacation in Greece .
How to plan your trip to Greece
Follow our Greece travel guides to plan an unforgettable trip in this sparkling ocean paradise. There are so many amazing things to do in Greece , including visiting the ancient capital of Athens, rowing through stalactite-filled caves in Kefalonia , or soaking up Aegean Sea views in Santorini .
Are you all about the beach? See the coastal highlights with our Greek Island Hopping travel guide, covering Santorini , Milos , Mykonos, Naxos, and Paros .
Ready for an incredible Greece vacation ? The country has a temperate climate most of the year, which means you can plan your holiday in Greece for most months of the year! However, this is dependent on the kind of activities you want to do and the places you wish to visit.
High Season (June – August): Consider visiting during these months if you want to make the most of Greece’s hot and dry summers. These are the peak summer months for tourists, and it’s easy to see why, with warm temperatures, clear skies, and almost no rainfall. The beaches come to life at this time when locals and travelers alike make the most of the refreshing water for sports, swimming, and snorkeling. This is also the season where nightlife peaks, especially in the famous party islands of Mykonos and Paros . Make sure to book accommodation well in advance if you’re planning your Greece holiday for the summer months.
Shoulder Seasons (April – May / September-October): If you’re traveling on a lower budget and prefer quieter beaches and streets, then the shoulder seasons are generally the best times to visit Greece . During these months, the climate in Greece is still warm and sunny, the tour operators, bars, and restaurants are still open, and the crowds are thinner. Additionally, if you’re planning a Greek Island hopping trip, the ferries will still be operating regularly.
Visit in the shoulder season if you want to hike or go sightseeing in cities like Athens, as it’s more manageable without the hot summer temperatures.
Love wine? The harvesting season takes place in early Fall, so visit during this time for wine tastings and grape festivals.
Low Season (November – March): The winter can still be a great time to visit Greece, especially in the coastal areas and islands where there will still be mild temperatures and clear, sunny days. Be aware that in more mountainous regions of the country, temperatures can drop, and you can even experience snow. Pack layers for a winter vacation in Greece !
Whichever season you choose for your Greece holiday , you’ll find a city or island that suits your needs.
Coastlines and beaches in Greece
Greece has the longest coastline in Europe, with hundreds of paradise islands that pepper the three different bodies of water: the Aegean Sea in the east, the Mediterranean Sea in the south, and the Ionian in the west. With a diverse range of islands, from pebbly shores to sandy horseshoe bays, there’s something to suit every traveler.
Island Hopping: One of the best things to do in Greece is to go island hopping, cruising through the turquoise waters to reach beautiful islands, each one with its own unique personality.
For the partygoers, head for islands like Mykonos, where you’ll find world-famous beach clubs, legendary DJs, and first-class music festivals. During the summer, people come here to dance until the sun rises, making the most of the relaxing beaches to recover from the night before.
Those looking for relaxation and calm should head for charming Santorini or the natural wonderland of Kefalonia. Santorini, although popular and busy in the summer season, offers the ultimate romance if you know where to go. Stroll its steep white-washed streets, gaze over the sea from panoramic viewpoints, and explore some of the most beautiful beaches in the whole country. Alternatively, head for one of the best places to visit in Greece : Kefalonia. This island remains relatively untouched, home to dramatic clifftop roads, verdant green forested hills, and secluded coves perfect for a crystal clear dip.
For a bit of everything, Naxos, Paros, and Milos (the Cyclades Islands in the Ionian Sea) offer a mixture of nature and seclusion, as well as some livelier spots with fantastic bars, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
Whether you’re looking for total zen or an adventurous backpacking trip, the Greek islands will fulfill your vacation dreams!
Food, culture and religion in Greece
Visiting Greece is like stepping into a time capsule to the past as you soak up a tapestry of rich history, ancient architecture, and perfectly preserved landscapes.
Food: Eating in Greece is more than just consuming food, it’s a feast for the senses and a party for the whole family! People come together to dine on local ingredients and fresh seafood, including famous Greek dishes like moussaka, tzatziki, and souvlaki. With such an abundance of vineyards and olive groves, visitors will have fantastic wine to choose from and fresh salads of cucumber, tomato, and feta — all with a healthy dousing of rich olive oil. As you travel Greece , your taste buds will also be treated to the flavors of the sea, with freshly caught fish taking prime position on restaurant special boards.
Culture: Greek culture is unlike any other, with Greek mythology and ancient history playing a significant role in daily life, even today. A nation famous for creating the Olympic Games, philosophy, theater, and many other principles that have shaped Western society as we know it, Greece is exceptionally proud of its past, demonstrated by local patriotism throughout the nation. Iconic traditions such as Greek dancing and plate smashing still live on – keep an eye out in the cities and villages, and you might be lucky enough to witness a wedding or celebration party doing these exact things.
Religion: The majority of the population in Greece follow the religion of Greek orthodoxy. It’s still a devout nation, home to beautiful blue-domed churches, ceremonies, and religious holidays. Easter is a particularly important time for Greeks, when travelers will witness church services at midnight, incredible fireworks, and locals cracking dyed red eggs in honor of the resurrection of Christ.
Why you should travel to Greece
One of Europe’s most beloved vacation destinations, there’s something infectious about Greece that keeps travelers returning again and again. With such diversity, it offers something truly captivating, from dazzling turquoise ocean islands to breathtaking natural parks and awe-inspiring cities. As you go Greek island hopping, sailing from shore to shore, you’ll encounter UNESCO ancient ruins, iconic movie film sets abandoned ghost villages, jaw-dropping ocean caves, blue and white clifftop villages, and much more.
The coastline of Greece is certainly the jewel of the country, home to both pebble and sandy beaches and offering both vibrant nightlife and wild, rugged landscapes. However, among this rural beauty is an ancient Greek civilization, where well-preserved Greek theaters and temples sit adjacent to yacht-studded shores and cosmopolitan cities.
As you travel Greece , expect to not only fall in love with the country’s landscapes and buildings but the warm hospitality and smiles of the Greeks themselves. Everyone is eager to help, offering a wave, a glass of ouzo, or a cheer as they point backpackers in the direction of the nearest hostel, history-lovers towards Athen’s Acropolis, or sunseekers to the top beaches on the island.
Safety and travel advice Greece
Greece is generally a very safe travel destination, but it’s essential to stay informed about safety measures and travel tips when planning your vacation.
Natural Disasters: Greece is not prone to major natural disasters, however, the occasional earthquake may occur. Additionally, as the earth’s temperature rises, forest fires have grown more common in Greece, often taking place during the hot and dry summer months. During this time, it’s a good idea to stay updated by following the local news and weather, as areas may be subject to evacuation. To stay updated on potential emergencies, check your government information online before travel.
Crime and Safety in Greece: Greece has a low crime rate. However, as in all busy tourist areas, petty crimes like pickpocketing can happen. We recommend leaving valuables at home, keeping an eye on your belongings, and avoiding walking down poorly-lit streets with few people late at night.
Traffic and Driving: Greece does have a reputation for aggressive driving, so exercise caution when renting a car , particularly when driving on narrow mountainous roads that may be well-known by locals but are unfamiliar to you. Take it slow, wear a seatbelt, and download Google Maps offline so you can stay on track even without data or signal.
Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance for your vacation in Greece , ensuring peace of mind in case of unexpected events, such as a canceled flight, missed ferry, or lost luggage. Find the best travel insurance to best suit your needs.
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The tour to Greece was a pleasant surprise for me! Perfect organisation, pleasant team, amazing landscapes and cultural sites!
Greece remains a premier-league travel destination despite the battering its economy has received in recent years. Visit Greece and you’ll discover a country with incredible historic sites spanning four millennia, encompassing both the legendary and the obscure.
Greece travel facts
Where to go in greece, best time to go to greece.
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The Greek coastline is punctuated by superb beaches , while its mountainous interior urges you to dust off your hiking boots and explore. Yet perhaps its greatest riches are the Greek islands, ranging from backwaters where the boat calls twice a week to resorts like Santorini and Mykonos .
For anyone with a cultural bone in their body, Greece travel cannot fail to inspire. But the call to cultural duty will never be too overwhelming on a Greek holiday. The simple pleasures – swimming in balmy seas at dusk, talking and drinking under the stars, eating fresh, uncomplicated food – are just as appealing. Also, the genuine welcome you receive at the simplest taverna is enough to get you booking next year’s break as soon as you get home.
We published our first Rough Guide to Greece almost 40 years ago, but we’ll never tire of travelling there. Here’s our guide to a country that offers surprises and a sense of discovery to even the most demanding traveller (and head here for our top 15 general tips for travelling in Greece).
- Language : Greek (spoken by 99% of the population)
- Unit of currency : Euro (EUR)
- Population : 11.3 million. Nearly one-tenth are immigrants, half of whom are from Albania.
- Tourist numbers : 29 million in 2016.
- Politics : Greece is a democractic republic, where the Prime Minister is the head of government and the President is the head of state.
- Geography : Greece shares land borders with Albania, Bulgaria, Turkey and the Republic of Macedonia and comprises almost 132 square kilometers.
- UNESCO World Heritage sites : as of 2020, Greece has an impressive 18. Our favourites are the ancient site of Delphi, Rhodes Old Town and the mighty Acropolis.
If you’re travelling around Greece as part of a bigger trip, Athens is a necessary stop. Home to a third of the population and the magnificent Acropolis, the Greek capital is a true metropolis.
Further north, Thessaloniki gives the capital a run for its money, with sophisticated restaurants, a buzzing nightlife and its own culture scene.
Don’t think the Greek islands hold the country’s only beautiful beaches: the long, sandy stretches of the Peloponnese are well worth a visit and easily accessible from the mainland.
Take the tourist road less travelled with a trip around the Central Mainland or Northern Mainland , with brilliant mountain hiking and trekking opportunities as well as tonnes of history and the all-important spectacular beaches.
The islands are really the jewel in Greece’s crown, though and a must when you visit Greece. Depending on how much time you have, it’s best to pick one group of islands to explore (or to sit back and relax on). The Argo-Saronic Islands , just a stone’s throw from Athens, are the perfect destination for multi-stop holiday.
Over on the west coast, you’ll find some of Greece’s most famous spots in the lush green Ionian islands , including Corfu and Kefalonia .
For easy island hopping, you can’t beat the beauty of the Cyclades . The size and close proximity of Santorini, Mykonos and co are ideal for a short stay on each.
Further north, the Sporades are easily navigable, with Skiathos an easy starting point thanks to its international airport. For a more authentic Greek atmosphere, the islands of the East and North Aegan are worth visiting.
Further southeast in the Aegean sea, you’ll find the Dodecanese islands . Here, Rhodes and Kos , two of Greece’s largest and most-visited islands, are the stars of the show.
If you don’t have time to spare, a stay on Crete just might give you everything you could want in a Greek island and more, with its top notch beaches, remote spots and friendly people.
Ancient Delphi © elgreko/Shutterstock
Discover more places in Greece
- The Cyclades Travel Guide
- The Dodecanese Travel Guide
- The East and North Aegean Travel Guide
- The Ionian Islands Travel Guide
- The northern mainland Travel Guide
- The Peloponnese Travel Guide
- The Sporades and Évvia Travel Guide
As hoards of holiday makers can attest, Greek summers are hot, hot, hot. Travel to Greece in the mid-July to August peak season and you’ll find temperatures soaring into the mid 30s, along with crowds of tourists and domestic Greek holiday makers.
For the best weather without the crowds it attracts, June and September are lovely times to visit. May and October are worth a trip for the lower prices and Crete and the Cyclades are arguably at their best in May. Generally, though, you’ll find the weather less predictable and you might encounter some storms in October, particularly in the west or in the mountains.
From December to March during winter, you’ll find many amenities shut down, especially in resorts and on the islands. In the cities, of course, that isn’t an issue, while Rhodes and south eastern Crete are the warmest spots for some winter sun.
Find out more about the best time to travel to Greece .
Flying is the easiest way to get to Greece, with the country boasting no fewer than 15 international airports.
The most cost effective route is usually via the UK or other northern European hub such as Amsterdam or Frankfurt. If you’re starting in the US, there are direct flights to Athens from New York and Philadelphia.
If you’re travelling to one of the islands, taking a flight to Athens and catching the bus or ferry can be a cheaper route than flying direct. During winter it may be your only option, as direct flights to some islands only operate during the summer months.
For a more sustainable option, it’s possible to take the train to Greece from the UK. The journey takes around 2 days from London to Athens, or you could combine it with a bigger trip as part of an InterRail or Eurail pass.
Here’s all you need to know about getting to Greece .
Buses are plentiful all over Greece, and they’ll get you around all the primary routes on the mainland, with a more basic operation on the islands. To explore a bit further, you’ll need to hire a scooter, motorbike or car.
Driving in Greece can be a joy, thanks to spectacular mountain scenery and picturesque coastal roads – just remember to drive on the right. The train system, meanwhile, is limited and is often a slower option than taking the bus.
Island hopping means boat trips, though it’s sometimes worth forking out for internal flights to get you from Athens to a starting point on the group of islands you want to explore. Athens to Rhodes is just a two-hour flight, for example, but 28 hours by boat.
Here’s our full guide to getting around Greece .
Sunset at Oia on Santorini island © DigitalHand Studio/Shutterstock
The Ancient Greeks considered Delphi to be the centre of the earth — and upon visiting, it’s not hard to see why. Located in an unbeatable natural setting at the foot of Mount Parnassos in the Central Mainland, this ancient site has retained its mystique through the centuries. It’s even more stunning in spring, when wild flowers bloom all over the valley.
Watching the sunset across Santorini’s famous caldera is up there on most lists of things to do before you die. Most tourists make for Oia, but the sunset views from Akrotiri on the island’s southwestern tip are better and far less crowded.
You can’t visit Zakynthos without paying a visit to the beach that’s become the poster child for the whole of Greece. Navagio, better known as Shipwreck Bay, has a spectacular cliff drop, white sands, turquoise waters and – you guessed it – its very own shipwreck. Beaches don’t get much prettier than this.
If you’ve got basic hiking skills, put them to good use when you visit Greece with a trek up Mount Olympus , mythical abode of the Gods, in the Northern Mainland. To make the most of the mountain, allow two to three days hiking. The small town of Lithoro on the east of the mountain is by far the best place to base yourself.
Billed as the Greek Tuscany, the Pelion Peninsula in the Central Mainland has it all: lush countryside, excellent beaches, cute villages and good trekking. You’ll find the best walking seasons are late April to early June and early September to October.
The magnificent Acropolis looms over Athens, dominating almost every view. Of course, you must get your Classical Greek fix with visits to the Parthenon and Athens Archeological Museum. But don’t miss out on modern Athens: take some time to explore the city’s neighbourhoods and you’ll escape the crowds and experience the Athens that modern Athenians know and love.
Shelve your ideals of a peaceful Greek holiday and join in the fun on Mykonos, where the beaches are lovely and lively and the nightlife is second to none. Don’t forget to get lost in Mykonos Town, where the maze of narrow streets form the quintessential image of the Cyclades.
Navagio, or Shipwreck bay, Zakynthos © Michail Makarov/Shutterstock
There are countless ways to travel Greece. To help you narrow it down, we’ve put together four possible routes which should each last around two weeks.
Tailor-made travel itineraries for Greece, created by local experts
10 days / from 2632 USD
The Historical and Mythological Cyclades islands
The Cyclades islands include two of the most famous Greek Islands: Mykonos and Santorini. Visit these and some of the smaller, quieter, islands. With white washed houses, narrow cobbled streets, blue domed roofs and stunning beaches, they are what Greece is all about.
9 days / from 2226 USD
A secluded villa stay on Mainland Greece
Stay in a secluded private villa with magnificent views to the sea and explore this beautiful corner of Mainland Greece with your own rental car. Under the impressive Mt Taygetos in Southern Peloponnese, the region of Mani will give you a snapshot of authentic Greece.
10 days / from 2012 USD
Along the Coast of Crete: from Heraklion to Platanias
As Greece's largest island, Crete's culture and atmosphere is distinctly different from mainland Greece. Thousands of years of unique culture and rich history complement the island's untamed natural beauty. Explore Crete at your own pace with this unique self-drive trip!
There’s Classical Greece, where each stop will reveal something new about one of the world’s greatest civilisations. Or stick to the beaches with Island-Hopping in the Cyclades, the best group of islands to travel between thanks to quick and frequent ferry links.
Stay (mostly) on dry land with Cretan Odyssey to experience Crete beyond the beach resorts. And for a completely different look at Greece, take The Road Less Travelled, a journey through northern and central Greece that rarely appears on travel agents’ radars.
There’s an itinerary to suit you, whatever you want from your Greece trip. Take a look at all our Greek itineraries here .
You’ll find accommodation in Greece to fit whatever budget you’re on, though prices will vary depending on the time of year you travel. High season in July and August and during Easter are the busiest times, when you’ll definitely need to pre-book a place to stay.
As well as the usual offering of hotels, hostels, apartments, villas and private rooms, a few nights in a monastery or convent is not out of the question. Here’s our full guide to accommodation in Greece , including an explanation of the different hotel categories and our pick of some of the best places to stay in Greece.
Sampling the local cuisine is a highlight of any trip, but in Greece especially so. Greek food is wide-ranging and delicious and restaurants ( tavernas ) are straightforward and good value.
Can’t decide where to dine? Go where the Greeks go. Mezedhes like tzatzíki and souvláki and chops are always reliable choices, while seafood can be one of the highlights of a trip to Greece. A proper Greek gyros pitta, stuffed with lamb, tomatoes, onion, salad and a few fries, may just be the greatest fast food ever invented.
Ouzo is synonymous with Greece, but Greek tipples go beyond the anise-flavoured aperitif. Many of the islands, including Santorini and Rhodes, are wine producers, so you’ll have a chance to sample local bottlings (and tour a vineyard or two if you like). And don’t miss out on a cup of strong, sweet Greek coffee at a kafenío , a traditional Greek coffee-house.
If that’s whet your appetite, read more about food and drink in Greec e.
Mykonos © Ella Hanochi/Shutterstock
Watersports
The Greek seashore offers endless scope for watersports, from waterskiing and parasailing to yachting and windsurfing. Waterski boats spend most of their time towing people around on inflatables, though you usually can waterski or wakeboard as well, while parasailing is also on offer at all the big resorts. Jet skis can be rented in many places, too.
Windsurfing
Windsurfing is hugely popular around Greece. The country’s bays and coves are ideal for beginners, with a few spectacularly windy spots for experts. Renting a board isn’t too pricey, while instructors are usually available.
Some of the best windsurfing spots including Vassiliki in Lefkada, Santa Maria in Paros, Prassonissi in Rhodes, Kokkari in Samos, Kouremenos in eastern Crete and Karathonas in the Peloponnese.
A combination of steady winds, beautiful seascapes and many natural harbours make Greece a tremendous place for sailing. All sorts of bareboat and flotilla yacht trips are on offer, while dinghies, small cats and motor boats can be rented at many resorts.
For yachting, spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons. Winds can make for nauseous sailing in July and August, when you’ll also find far higher prices and crowded moorings.
Our sailing picks? Explore the Sporades from Skiathos; set out from Athens for the Argo-Saronic islands and north Peloponnese coast; or sail around Corfu and the Ionian.
Scuba diving
You’ll find some dive centres across the mainland, Dodecanese, Ionians, Cyclades and Crete. Generally, though, diving is pretty restricted because of the potential for stealing submerged antiquities. There’s not a huge amount of aquatic life, but you do get wonderfully clear water, while the rocky coast offers plenty of caves and hidden nooks to explore.
If you have the time and stamina, walking is probably the single best way to see the remote Greek backcountry, with plenty of options from gentle strolls to long-distance mountain paths through one of Europe’s most impressive mountain terrains. Spring and autumn, when its cooler, are great for walking.
Cycling is less popular with Greeks, but in an increasing number of resorts you can hire mountain bikes, and many of the rental places lead organized rides. They vary from easy jaunts around the countryside to serious rides up proper mountains. Summer heat can be fierce, but spring and autumn offer great riding conditions.
Travel advice for Greece
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Greece
- Culture and Etiquette in Greece
- Eating and drinking in Greece
- Getting around Greece: Transportation Tips
- Travel Tips Greece for planning and on the go
- Best time to visit Greece
- Crete Itinerary - how to spend 5, 7, 10 or 14 days in Crete
- How to get from Athens to Crete
Whether you’re the kind of person who likes to be well prepared for every eventuality, or you’re more of a turn-up-and-see-what-happens kind of traveller, our guide to Greece travel essentials is well worth a browse. It will give you an idea of what things will cost while you’re in Greece, what entrance fees you can expect to pay to tourist sites, where you’ll find all the embassies, useful Greek phone numbers and lots more.
Travel visa requirements for Greece
UK and all other EU nationals need only a valid passport to enter Greece. US, Australian, New Zealand, Canadian and most non-EU Europeans can stay, as tourists, for ninety days in any six-month period.
Non-EU nationals arriving by plane or boat from another EU state not party to the Schengen Agreement might not routinely have their passport stamped at minor Greek ports, so make sure this is done in order to avoid unpleasantness on exit. Your passport must be valid for three months after your arrival date.
Visitors from non-EU countries are currently not, in practice, being given extensions to tourist visas. You must leave not just Greece but the entire Schengen Group and stay out until the maximum 90-days-in-180 rule is satisfied.
If you overstay your time and then leave under your own power – ie are not deported – you'll be hit with a huge fine upon departure, and possibly be banned from re-entering for a period of time; no excuses will be entertained except (just maybe) a doctor's certificate stating you were immobilized in hospital. It cannot be overemphasized just how exigent Greek immigration officials have become on this issue.
Entry requirements can change, so always check with your local embassy/consulate for the most up-to-date information before travel.
Top image: The Parthenon on The Acropolis, Athens © Lucky-photographer/Shutterstock
A high proportion of the ancient sites still seen in Greece today were built as shrines and temples to the gods , primarily the twelve who lived on Mount Olympus. Zeus , the lord of the heavens and supreme power; Hera , his wife and sister, goddess of fertility; Athena , the goddess of wisdom, patron of crafts and fearless warrior; Apollo , the god of music, of prophecy and the arts; his sister Artemis , the virgin huntress and goddess of childbirth; Poseidon , the god of the sea; beautiful Aphrodite , goddess of love and desire; Hermes , the messenger who leads the souls of the dead to the underworld; Hephaestus , the god of craftsmen; Ares , the god of war; Demeter , the goddess of crops and female fertility; and Dionysus , god of wine and intoxication. Worshipped, feared and admired, they formed the basis for the ancient Greek religion until paganism was banned by the Romans in AD 391.
The Rough Guides to Greece and related travel guides
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updated 19.05.2021
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If you’re planning a trip to Greece in 2024, visit these 10 top destinations
Mar 4, 2024 • 6 min read
From iconic islands to major cities to the lesser-known, wild region of Epiros, our list of essential Greek destinations has a bit of everything © Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock
As its mythical Sirens were reputed to do, Greece has long lured travelers to its scintillating shores.
Across an expansive island archipelago, traditional whitewashed villages, azure seas and waterfront tavernas enchant visitors. Greece’s mountainous mainland, rich in UNESCO World Heritage–listed ancient sites, treasure-filled museums and spirited cities, is no less fascinating. As you contemplate your dream Greece itinerary, consider these 10 favorite places to add to it.
Wherever you walk in Greece’s storied capital, the ancients have walked before – whether you see the evidence or not. From the Acropolis (whose jewel in the crown is the fifth-century BCE Parthenon ) to the underground metro (where some stations feature archaic finds), Athens is teeming with historical sites , monuments and museums. A combo card affords entry to the Acropolis and six more sites; the Acropolis Museum is also a must-see.
Easy to tackle on foot, Athens is also one of Europe’s liveliest metropolises – and strolls through neighborhoods like old-town Plaka , flea market–famous Monastiraki and hip Pangrati are highlights. By night, catch a live band in gritty Gazi , catch a movie at an outdoor cinema in Thission or go bar-hopping off the main commercial street Ermou.
Local tip: Book tickets online for a reinvented Greek tragedy or dance troupe performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus amphitheater as part of the Epidaurus Festival , which takes place each summer.
A collection of over 70 beaches, sea caves hidden beneath limestone cliffs and technicolor traditional boat houses are just some of the reasons why mineral-rich Milos has won the hearts of many travelers. Evidence of its volcanic origins can be seen in the almost lunar landscape of Sarakiniko , where the more daring dive into a jade-colored Aegean. Arrive early at Gerondas beach to nab the generous shade of caves and enjoy floating silently in still waters.
Planning tip: Save a couple of days to spend on Kimolos, a small island northeast of Milos reachable by ferry. One of its most impressive beaches is Prassa, where coarse, blindingly white sand shows off shallow, aquamarine waters to full effect.
Rhodes has long been the Dodecanese ’s biggest draw thanks to its atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage–listed medieval old town . Transformed in the Middle Ages by the Knights of the Order of St John into a formidable fortified city, it fell to the Ottomans, who erected mosques, baths and houses, many of which have been restored. Youngsters might envision armored men on horseback thundering down the cobblestoned Street of the Knights .
Make sure you visit the Palace of the Grand Master , which features stunning Roman and Early Christian floor mosaics, and the Church of Our Lady of the Castle.
Planning tip: Book a state-licensed tour guide to show you around the old town for a full picture of its long and fascinating history.
4. Santorini
Whether you’re coupled up or not, it’s hard not to fall for Santorini ’s charms. Whitewashed and pastel-hued, cube-shaped homes cling to steep cliffsides above a cobalt Aegean and the island’s famed caldera, formed by volcanic eruptions over millennia.
Weave your way through the narrow alleyways of the postcard-perfect village of Oia amid blue-domed churches. Bathe in thermal springs warmed by an active volcano, splay out on black-sand beaches and don’t miss the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri , which features an advanced drainage system.
Planning tip: Book a private tour of Santorini ’s smaller wine estates, whose new generation of vintners is breathing new life into traditional wines like mezzo and Nychteri.
In Greece’s west lies Epiros , a remote region of soaring mountain peaks, fast-flowing rivers and hidden rock canyons. Hike to the alpine heights of Mt Tymfi’s Dragon Lake, which freezes over in winter, or traverse the thick forests, inclines and descents of spectacular Vikos Gorge . Whitewater rafting thrills and spills await in the Voidomatis or Arachthos rivers, while canyoning enthusiasts can choose from routes of varying difficulty.
6. Kythnos and Serifos
If peaceful sandy shores, unassuming waterfront tavernas and sleepy villages are more your style, the low-key West Cyclades isles of Kythnos and Serifos are worth a stop. Kythnos has deep, sheltered bays and tamarisk-dotted silver-sand beaches, among them Lefkes and Naousa.
Wallet-friendly tavernas line the laid-back fishing settlements of Loutro and Meriha, while wind-whipped Serifos , a two-hour ferry ride from Piraeus , features sweeping sandy beaches, sheltered bays, ghostly mining relics and a jewel-like hilltop capital whose neoclassical town hall stands sentinel over the buzzy main square.
7. Thessaloniki
At the crossroads of East and West, where the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have held sway over the centuries, Thessaloniki tempts serious foodies. Bougatsa , a phyllo pastry pie usually filled with semolina custard, spinach or mince meat, makes for a hearty breakfast. Pick up olives and spices at the olfactory-awakening open-air markets and Pontic cheeses from indoor food hub Modiano , which dates back to 1922. In the former oil merchant district of Ladadika, mezedopolia serve dishes revealing strong Anatolian and Middle Eastern influences, customarily with the fiery clear spirit tsipouro .
Planning tip: Thessaloniki is also renowned for its fish and seafood, served with fervor and pride whether it’s a backstreet taverna or an upscale restaurant. Bookings are recommended for the latter.
Tranquil, turquoise seas, fir-studded hillsides and a regal capital make Corfu one of the most beautiful parts of the country to go sailing. The Ionian isle is the ideal starting point for novices who can take a sailing course and gain certification.
Afterward, join a flotilla for a leisurely cruise around Corfu, dropping anchor at Kalami Bay (of The Durrells fame) and lush Paleokastritsa. In Corfu Town , admire Venetian fortresses, the French-designed Liston Arcade and The Palace of St Michael and St George , built during the island’s British administration.
Planning tip: Few venture to Erikousa island, northwest of Corfu, which is blessed with pristine beaches and shallow cerulean seas.
Greece’s largest island, Crete abounds in historical sites, well-preserved monuments and modern museums. A wander through the Minoan-era palaces of Knossos , Malia , Phaestos and Kato Zakros won’t disappoint any fan of classical culture.
Stroll along the Venetian Harbour in Hania , lined with Ottoman monuments such as the Kioutsouk Hasan Mosque . Trek up to Byzantine and Venetian fortresses such as the Fortezza in Rethymno and Kastelli in Hania. In the east, the 16th-century Venetian fortress on Spinalonga islet reveals a harrowing, more recent past as a leper colony.
Among noteworthy museums are the Heraklion Archaeological Museum , Chania’s Maritime Museum of Crete , and the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna in Rethymno.
10. Mykonos
In the 1960s and 70s, Mykonos hosted roving hippies, celebrities and moneyed jet-setters who flirted and danced till the sun came up. While new five-star hotels and swanky brand-name restaurants may have altered the landscape and driven up prices, the fabled Cycladic isle still reigns supreme when it comes to summer nightlife in the Mediterranean.
Revelers can choose from the thumping bars lining Little Venice in Hora , as well as beach bars, cabaret restaurants and iconic clubs like seaside Cavo Paradiso , where illustrious music DJs fire up the crowd.
Planning tip: August is Mykonos’ busiest month. It’s also when you can witness the hottest DJs and surprise appearances by music artists, including prominent hip-hop names.
This article was first published July 2021 and updated March 2024
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