places to visit mainland greece

Mainland Greece Travel Guide

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

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

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

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

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

• Athens Travel Guide
• Peloponnese Travel Guide
• Crete Travel Guide
• Halkidiki Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Paros Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide
• Greece – What to Know Before You Go
• Complete Greece Travel Guide
• Complete Italy Travel Guide

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The Perfect 7 to 10 Day Greece Mainland Itinerary

Last Updated on February 21, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

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The islands typically tend to be the star of the show when visiting the ancient country of Greece.  This comes with good reason, as the Greek islands are truly stunning locations for any kind of traveler. Albeit, the mainland of Greece is a knockout destination that’s typically off the beaten path for any mainstream traveler. In this 7 to 10-day Greece mainland itinerary, expect waterfalls, mighty mountain ranges, medieval towns, bustling and exciting cities, and the mystical home of the Greek Gods.

Table of Contents

Getting To & Around Mainland Greece

This route spans the majority of the mainland, from the southern Peloponnese to the northern city of Thessaloniki , so various modes of transport are possible as well as ideal. 

My recommendation is to hire a car and drive throughout your trip. The longest journey time is around 4 ½ hours making driving the easiest, most convenient, and most cost-efficient way to travel around the Greek mainland. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare options for hiring a car.

A mainland Greece road trip is one of the best ways to experience this relatively undiscovered part of the country by tourists.

If you’re planning on flying into Greece, I recommend flying into the Athens International Airport. The itinerary begins in the capital and it’s the main airport, making flights the most frequent and affordable in comparison to other airports in Greece. 

Another option for getting around on this mainland Greece itinerary is by bus. The KTEL bus system is essentially the national bus transport, connecting cities and towns throughout the country.

You can typically find routes for major cities or towns and sometimes smaller places if they’re frequently visited by tourists and locals.

Costs differ, so you can expect to pay between €5 and €25 depending on the route and although tickets can be affordable, if you choose to use the bus as a main means of transport throughout the country it can add up quickly.

Train transport is also another option, but the routes in Greece aren’t as extensive as in other countries in Europe. This means that there may be gaps in transportation, but those can be filled by bus.

The downside to taking bus or train transport is that if you’re hoping to visit more remote destinations in mainland Greece, it can be hard to make your way there from the main transport routes. These tickets can also easily add up to double the cost of a rental car, so keep this in mind if you’re torn between the two.

If you don’t like the idea of public transport or renting a car, you can also find tour groups that go to the majority of destinations, making it a seamless way to travel without the stress of driving or planning.

7 to 10-Day Greece Mainland Itinerary

The mainland of Greece is full of countless treasures. From the rustic mountains and quaint villages of central Greece and the Peloponnese to the hectic and exciting cities of Athens and Thessaloniki; you’re bound to discover countless new jewels in the most undiscovered part of Greece; the mainland.

While the islands are outstanding locations to visit on any dream itinerary, the best way to get to know the heart of Greece and everyday life is through the mainland. 

Day 1 – Athens

This mainland Greece itinerary begins with 2 days in the same place where modern democracy began as well as the capital city, Athens . You’ll likely be flying into the Athens International Airport, making the Greek capital a great and convenient starting point.

Athens is a great way to begin as you’ll have the opportunity to get your bearings in a new country, discover Greek foods, and see some of the most important ruins in ancient history.

Although the city is quite small, there’s an abundance of things to do. Because of this, you can decide to mold your time in different ways, from exploration of the Ancient Greek world to the cultural side of what makes modern-day Athens what it is today.

No matter how you choose to spend your time, make sure to not miss a visit to the Acropolis , a wander around the classic Greek neighborhood of Plaka , and a long wholesome meal at a classic Greek tavern.

Other ways to explore further into Athens are plentiful and unique; venture into the southern suburbs of Athens to explore Poseidon’s Temple in Cape Sounio or take a dip in the sea around an hour away from Athens at Schinias beach.

Where to Stay in Athens

Athens Ivy Suites – Located only 500 meters from Monastiraki Square, this hotel is an excellent central place to stay in the Greek capital. There are several rooms, a restaurant, a shared terrace, airport shuttle, breakfast and more to offer guests.

The Modernist Athens – A sleek and modern hotel in the Kolnaki neighborhood, this hotel has a range of cool rooms, private parking, a fitness centre and a superb buffet breakfast in the mornings.

101 Adrianou Apartments – These suites are excellent for those looking for a comfortable, central option. Situated within walking distance of Syntagma Square, there is daily housekeeping and incredible views of the city.

City Circus Athens – Boasting a terrace with an Acropolis view, this hostel is great for backpackers. There are great common areas for meeting other travellers and a range of dorms and privates to choose from.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Athens hotels!

Day 2 – Athens

Spend your second day in Athens getting to know the city a bit deeper. If you spent day one checking off all of the well-known highlights like the Acropolis and exploring some cool, central neighborhoods, consider taking in a museum or two on your second day – such as the Archaeological Museum or the Benaki Museum.

You could also opt to get a bit off the beaten path and explore some cool neighborhoods like Psyri and Monastiraki or even opt to go on a food tour , where you can learn about all of the Athenian specialities.

Day 3 – Nafplio and Epidaurus (Peloponnese) 

After getting acquainted with Greece in Athens, you’ll head south to the neighboring Peloponnese region.

The Peloponnese region is an alluring peninsula south of central Greece offering one of the most exciting and unique experiences in Greece. Although this itinerary only offers a taster of one day in the Peloponnese, I highly suggest exploring the region on a deeper level if you have the time.

With just one day in the Peloponnese, you’ll make your way first to the picturesque town of Nafplio. Nafplio is a coastal city in the Peloponnese offering idyllic views and architecture, wonderful food, and a pleasant place to experience the Peloponnese.

After, head about half an hour away to the ancient town of Epidaurus to explore the stunningly peaceful nature of the Peloponnese and the ancient ruins and theatre of the town of Epidaurus.

Where to Stay in Nafplio

Amymone and Adiandi – This quaint hotel in Nafplio is an excellent base for your first couple of days in the Peloponnese. They have a range of bright, clean and comfortable rooms on offer and a great location for exploring the town and the region.

Carpe Diem Boutique Hotel – For those looking for a hip place to stay in Naflplio, this boutique hotel is sure not to disappoint. They have a number of chic rooms on offer, breakfast available in the mornings and plenty of amenities to ensure your stay is fantastic.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Nafplio hotels!

Day 4 – Delphi

Day 4 of this road trip will bring you back through central Greece and to the legendary, and one of the most visited places on the mainland of Greece, the ancient site of Delphi.

Delphi is about 3 ½ hours away from Athens and on the way to Delphi, you’ll also pass through Ancient Corinth and the Corinth Canal connecting central Greece to the upper point of the Peloponnese. Alternatively, you could also visit the ancient site of Olympia, another incredible place in the Peloponnese.

If you have extra time and are particularly interested in ancient history, I recommend making a stop in Corinth to explore the ruins and the grand Corinth Canal and see the blue water of the Corinthian Gulf before heading to Delphi.

Delphi is the first stop in central Greece and once spending time there, you’ll quickly understand why it’s one of the most visited spots in Greece. Take time to explore the archaeological site and museum, witness the famous Temple of Apollo, and find yourself in awe of the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia.

Delphi is also an area of outstanding natural beauty, so even just spending a few hours in the area is a great chance to connect to nature. Afterwards, head to the nearby town of Arachova to enjoy a local meal for lunch. You could also visit the lovely village of Nafpaktos.

Where to Stay in Delphi

Arion Hotel – Located only about 200 metres from the archaeological site, this three-star guesthouse is a great choice. They have a number of cosy rooms on offer and an unbeatable location for exploring this area.

Amalia Hotel Delphi – This 4-star hotel is an excellent option for those looking for a bit more of a luxurious stay while visiting Delphi. They have several lovely, plush rooms on offer, a wonderful location and a great swimming pool to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Delphi hotels!

Day 5 – Meteora 

After leaving Arachova and Delphi, day 5 will take you about 3 ½ hours away to one of the best places to visit in all of Greece, Meteora. One of the highlights of taking the time to explore the Greek mainland is that you don’t have to make a choice between visiting Delphi or Meteora.

Meteora is easily one of the most outstanding places to visit in all of Greece, and with good reason. Located next to the small town of Kalambaka, the area is a striking formation of rocks sprawling from the earth with a collection of Byzantine Eastern Orthodox monasteries bravely sitting on top.

With the construction of these monasteries beginning in the 11th century, Meteora is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a gift for all who visit. During your stay, you can either hike to the monasteries or drive above to have easier access and saved time. 

Where to Stay near Meteora

Dellas Boutique Hotel – Mid-range travellers will love this 3-star boutique hotel when visiting Meteora. Located in the town of Kalambaka within easy reach of the monasteries, they have a number of lovely rooms to choose from that can suit all kinds of visitors.

Hotel Doupiani House – This is an excellent hotel for those looking for a comfortable and cosy mid-range option in Kalambaka. Well-poised for exploring the splendours of Meteora, they have many rooms to choose from and a great buffet breakfast available each morning.

Meteora Central Hostel – Budget and solo travellers will love this cosy hostel in Kalambaka. Well-located for exploring Meteora, they have a range of dorm beds and private rooms to choose from and good shared spaces and common areas to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Meteora hotels!

Day 6 – Zagori

Days 6 & 7 of this route will bring you closer to the northern Greek border and 3 hours from Meteora to the Pindus mountain range and region of Zagori.

The region of Zagori is a collection of around 40 villages cosily nestled in the Pindos mountains and full of tradition, rugged wilderness, and truly breathtaking scenery.

In Zagori, visit the striking Vikos Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world in the Vikos-Aoos National Park, enjoy one of the numerous hiking paths in the region and appreciate the unique Zagorian architecture spanning through the villages.

For accommodation, you’ll find all sorts of options from luxurious boutique hotels to affordable bed and breakfasts and mid-range hotel options.

Mainland Greece is truly a haven for nature lovers and Zagori is the prime destination for those looking for a stay off the beaten path.

Where to Stay in Zagori

Guesthouse Gouris – This cosy guesthouse is perfect for mid-range travellers visiting the beautiful Zagori region. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from that feature local rugs and handicrafts and there is also a wonderful breakfast available each morning.

Aberratio Boutique Hotel – Located in the village of Aristi, this boutique hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for a more upmarket place to stay in the Zagori region. They have a number of swanky rooms on offer and an incredibly beautiful location for guests to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Zagori hotels!

Day 7 – Zagori

On your second day in the Zagori, take a bit more time to explore some of the places you didn’t make it to on the first day. Enjoy the laid-back nature and stunning scenery of the area and get active on a few of the many hiking trails you can find.

If you’re following the 7-day itinerary rather than 10, this day will conclude your trip. Either head onward in Greece to your following destination or head back to Athens to fly onward. 

Day 8 – Mount Olympus

After spending time in the pristine Zagori region, you’ll head northwest to one of the most famous areas in Greece and one of the most famous mountains in the world, Mount Olympus.

Mount Olympus is about a 3-hour drive away from Zagori and although the hike to the top in its entirety is only recommended for well-experienced travelers, you can still enjoy the famous scenery with a nice hike and time in the nearby villages.

Although its fame is due to being the home of the Greek Gods, it is the first national park in Greece and one with some of the most diverse flora and fauna in the country.

The town of Litochoro is located at the foot of Mount Olympus and is a great spot to base yourself to explore the mountain and have a start on many of the trails.

The town itself dates back to the 14th century, has plenty of appetizing restaurants, and still has abundant Macedonian architecture throughout the town offering a unique glimpse into the region and its history.

Where to Stay near Mt Olympus

Kallisto Traditional Guesthouse – Located in the town of Litochoro, this rustic guesthouse is perfect for those looking for a comfortable and traditional place to stay near Mt Olympus. They have a number of cosy rooms on offer and a great location for exploring the region.

To Palio Litochoro – This lovely guesthouse located in Litochoro is an excellent choice for those looking for a great place to stay in the foothills of Mt Olympus. They have a number of great rooms on offer, a beautiful setting and a perfect location in the centre of the village.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Mt Olympus hotels!

Day 9 – Thessaloniki

While the majority of this trip is amongst nature and smaller Greek villages and towns, the last stop for those spending the full 10 days on this Greece mainland itinerary is the second biggest city in Greece, Thessaloniki .

The city itself is about a 2 1⁄2 hour drive away from Mount Olympus and within the city, you’ll find the wonder of the proud Greek mountainous treasure keeping watch over Thessaloniki. The city itself is typically quite overlooked on any Greek itinerary but is worth the visit in its own right.

From the gritty Balkan architecture, to what’s known as the best food scene in Greece, Thessaloniki is easily one of the most underrated destinations on the Greece mainland.

During your visit, make sure to have a fresh bougatsa from a local bakery (a specialty pastry originating in Thessaloniki), wander the seafront and port, stop by the White Tower, and wander through Ladadika, Thessaloniki’s old town as well as Morichovou Square.

Where to Stay in Thessaloniki

Blue Bottle Boutique Hotel – A funky mid0rang hotel in the center of Thessaloniki, there are plenty of bright rooms to choose from, a great breakfast and private parking available to guests.

Teight Hotel – A luxe and modern hotel within easy reach of the top Thessaloniki attractions, this place boasts an on-site bar, room service, great breakfast and a range of spacious rooms on offer.

Zeus is Loose Hostel – A very highly-rated hostel perfect for backpackers and budget travellers, there are lots of dorms (and private rooms) here, great common areas, kitchen facilities and an excellent atmosphere for guests.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Thessaloniki hotels!

Day 10 – Thessaloniki

Spend your final day in Thessaloniki (and the final day of this 10-day Mainland Greece itinerary) digging deeper and really getting to know Greece’s second city.

Take the time to explore some cool neighborhoods, take a lot of leisurely strolls along the waterfront or, perhaps, take a food tour to learn more about the gastronomic scene in this “foodie” city.

Thessaloniki also has one of the largest airports in Greece offering routes connecting to the rest of Europe, making it the perfect departure point at the end of this trip. You can also reach other Balkan destinations from the city, as it’s easy to get from Thessaloniki to Sofia, Bulgaria and other neighbouring countries.

Have More Time?

If you have more time to spend, there are plenty of other points of interest worth visiting.

If you’re keen on exploring deeper into the Peloponnese, you can easily tack on another few days or week and head further south into the region, discovering Ancient Sparta, the crystalline Mani Peninsula, and the Medieval island town of Monemvasia with its beautiful Venetian castle.

After visiting the towns of Zagori, head to Ioannina, the capital city of the Zagori region, to enjoy one of the oldest lakes in the world, Lake Pamvotis.

For those interested in exploring a different region of mainland Greece, I suggest making your way to Volos, a port city in the region of Thessaly full of history, culture, delicious cuisine and the gateway to the neighboring Northern Sporades islands, Skiathos and Skopelos.

Whether or not the mainland of Greece has already been on your dream travel list, it’s undoubtedly a destination that you’ll discover is full of abundance. You’ll explore deep parts of Ancient history, get lost in Greece’s wilderness, and experience what life is like in the country’s biggest cities and smallest towns.

Spending 7 days or more in this part of Greece before hopping over to the islands is a great way to discover Greek culture and Greece without hoards of tourists. 

Are you planning to explore mainland Greece? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Thessaloniki Itinerary

Delphi vs Meteora: Choosing an Athens Day Trip

The Perfect 7 to 10 Days in the Greek Islands Itinerary

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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Incredible Destinations

Greece is a popular destination not only because of its amazing islands but also because the mainland offers plenty of options for a memorable Mediterranean holiday! Explore unspoilt fishing villages full of tranquil charm, tower towns, traditional stone built villages or try the exciting city breaks on offer. Visit archaeological sites, learn more about the country's fascinating culture, travel along the spectacular coastline and enjoy its picture-perfect scenery!

Attica, the land that gave birth to ideas and arts, has created and shaped what we call today the western civilisation. Today, a visit to Attica offers visitors a unique experience. A “journey” in its 6,000-year history, including the chance to see renowned monuments and masterpieces of art of antiquity and the Middle Ages, and the architectural heritage of the 19th and 20th centuries. Here lies Athens, the capital of Greece, the busiest city of the country with the most prominent archaeological site and symbol of the country, the world famous sacred rock of the Acropolis. Attica is home to some of the world’s most important and fascinating museums and archaeological sites, testimony to its long and prominent role in world history. Festivals featuring ancient Greek drama, as well as performances, sports or culinary events are organised throughout the year, spellbinding the audience.

Central Greece

Central Greece, known as Roumeli, is part of the Greek mainland that has been inhabited since antiquity. There are forested mountain ranges, rivers, lakes, rich fauna and flora and remarkable archaeological sites. Visit the archaeological site of Delphi and the Oracle of Apollo , picturesque seaside towns of Galaxidi and Itea , as well as beautiful Nafpaktos of great historical importance. The lagoon of Messolonghi , the largest Greek wetland, is a natural paradise that includes islets, dunes, forested banks and a rich flora and fauna that provide salt and fish to the locals. But the most precious gift of nature here is bottarga (Greek avgotaracho), one of the few seafood products with a PDO award, a delicacy coming from the eggs of the female grey mullet. Do you seek the kind of thrill that will pump up your adrenalin? Karpenisi is the ideal destination as there is a multitude of activities for you throughout the year. So, don’t waste time, take a trip to the heart of Greek nature and see ravines with impressive waterfalls, dense forested areas and rapid river waters! If skiing or snowboarding is your thing, make a point of visiting Mt. Parnassos and nearby picturesque Arachova Village , the most cosmopolitan winter destination in Greece. Don’t miss the well-known archaeological sites at Orchomenos Village, Thebes, Plataiaes, and Chaeronea.

Epirus lies in NW Greece, between the Pindos mountain range and the Ionian Sea. Its untouched mountainous mass of Pindos with its great virgin forests, the Dragon Lakes (the mythical mountain lakes) and the untamed slopes provide a plethora of activities (mountaineering, climbing, ski, hiking, mountain biking etc.) in a scenery of singular beauty, as well as the rivers of Epirus which offer other activities such as kayak, rafting, canoeing etc. Arachtos especially, is considered as one of the most beautiful and challenging rivers for kayaking, while Voidomatis runs through the impressive gorge of Vikos. All of this co-exists in harmony with the archaeological sites , castles , monasteries , churches and traditional villages. Pay a visit to Zagorochoria, a group of 46 villages located all over the slopes of the mountains. In close proximity, you can find Vikos Canyon, the second deepest in the world, with an ecosystem of 1.700 plants and 182 animals. Cross the historic stone bridges of Epirus, where legends and local traditions leave their mark on these architectural masterpieces of superb craftsmanship. Explore Dodoni, the place where the famous oracle used to be in ancient times, pay a visit at the famous Theater of Dodoni , the largest in antiquity and finally taste some of the most delicious feta, the cheese par excellence of Greece.

Visit Macedonia where you will encounter unique images. Explore this magnificent place in Greece where east meets west. The imposing – and almost perennial snowy – massifs of unique beauty boast Mt Olympus, the country's most famous and highest mountain, which is followed by the equally beautiful Pangaio , Kaimaktsalan (Voras) and Falakro mountains, where you can enjoy hiking, skiing or snowboarding during winter. The water element is significantly present with some of the most important rivers and lakes in Greece flowing through Macedonia. Visit the metropolis of the North, Thessaloniki , with an intriguing multi-ethnic history and arty counter culture. It is a lively modern place, bustling with energy and verve. Built amphitheatrically around the sea, facing Mount Olympus on the distant horizon, it has always been a centre of different civilizations, cultures, nations and religions. Discover breathtaking Halkidiki with its clear waters and golden sand beaches, bays, little islands and green landscapes that will make your dream vacation come true! Don’t miss the unique beauty of Serres nature; the picturesque cities of Drama, Kavala on the East; and Kastoria and Naousa on the West.

Peloponnese

Escape to the Peloponnese, where Myth meets history. Monuments from every period of the eventful history, great archeological sites; ancient Olympia, Epidaurus, Mycenae and Tiryns, the Temple of Apollo Epicurius, Byzantine churches and Monasteries. Enjoy sightseeing and sports; explore unique villages and alluring castles amidst stunning natural beauty, mountains and forests, rivers and caves. Not to mention that the Peloponnese is surrounded by the Greek sea, with lovely beaches, sandy and smooth coasts on the western part – rocky and lacy on its easternmost side.  It is no coincidences that the tour of the Peloponnese is very popular among travellers. Go ahead and plan your next adventure here!

Enjoy Thessaly, a region of sheer beauty with mountains, rivers, beaches, the popular Plastira Lake , Tempi valley , and last but not least the unique Meteora , the most photogenic spiritual site in Greece. Archeological areas, Byzantine monasteries and churches, traditional settlements and ski resorts complete the fascinating natural beauty of Thessaly and make it a popular holiday destination. Soaring like a sleepless guardian above the city of Volos , Mt Pelion is gorgeous throughout the year. Set against an idyllic backdrop of olive groves that shimmer in the sunlight, dense forests and lush fruit orchards, these 24 stone-built villages are the true gems of Pelion . Take the legendary “Mountzouris”, the traditional train of Pelion that connects Milies with Ano Lechona. It’s the perfect way to see part of the mountain and some other traditional villages. Visit Volos, the city of the Argonauts, where you will definitely pass by a tsipouro taverna as they are dispersed in every nook and cranny: almost 600 (!) of them bear the gastronomic stamp of the city and provide people with a favourite meeting point; that is the unrivalled landmark of Volos. Just a few kilometers to the West, lie the archaeological sites of Sesklo (the most ancient settlement of Europe, dating back to 6.000 BC) and Dimini , the most important prehistoric settlement in Greece and one of the most important ones of the New Stone Age worldwide.

Thrace is an area of amazing natural beauty, a land where Greek legend has placed the mythical home of Orpheus. It is famous for its pristine, beautiful countryside that makes it a paradise for outdoor recreation, adventure and exploration. This part of Greece has it all: the Rodopi mountain range and Mt. Saos on Samothrace Island in the Thracian Sea; the rivers Evros, Nestos and Ardas; Lakes Vistonida and Ismarida; Dadia forest and the Evros River Delta where internationally acclaimed wetlands are located; fertile valleys, dense forests and endless stretches of white sandy beaches.

© P. Merakos

© G. Filippini

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 Jul 5, 2021 and updated Mar 4, 2024.

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The Best Places to Visit in Mainland Greece

This post is about the best places to visit in mainland Greece. Greece remains one of my favourite countries in Europe and one that I never get tired of.

I remember whole days spent at the beach, building sand castles and looking for shells. Every evening we went out for dinner, my body still feeling warm from the sun. I have fond childhood memories of my summer holidays spent in Greece.

Greece is not just a beach destination though. Most tourists will only visit one of its islands, but mainland Greece has just as much to offer, if not more.

In fact, if it comes to history, culture and culinary highlights mainland greece is where one should go and in this post will show you my favourite places to visit in mainland Greece.

The best places to visit in mainland Greece

The monasteries in meteora.

Meteora is among the most beautiful places to visit in mainland Greece. I visited Greece several times and it is Meteora that left its most impressive memories. Meteora is famous for having one of the most important Eastern orthodox monasteries in the world.

The name “Meteora” can be translated as “in the heavens above”, because of its unique setting. They are all built on top of rock pinnacles that dot the landscape. In fact, the area is full of volcanic rock formations that are weathered by water and wind over millions of years.

What I love most about Meteora is the combination of this beautiful setting and the possibility to look inside the monasteries to get an idea of how the monks used to live. The monasteries are now easy to reach by roads or stairs to allow tourists of all ages to visit.

This wasn’t always the case tough and most of them used to be quite isolated, built by monks choosing to live a solitary lifestyle. The website visit Meteora gives you the best information on what to see and do and how to get there.

How to get there: You can take a train from Athens to the town of Kalampaka (5 hours). Click here  for more information how to get from Athens to Meteora.

Where to stay : For cheap dormitory accomodation head to the Holy rock hostel . Cheap rivate rooms with good reviews are available at Spartacus house or Vavitsas guesthouse

The Oracle of Delphi

It’s been a long time ago that I visited Delphi, but I still remember the sight of the ruins. It was a clear day and we could see the Gulf of Corinth in the far distance. Delphi was revered throughout the Greek world to be the center of the universe and the oracle of the god Apollo.

The location is stunning and it used to be a hard long trek to get there. Pilgrims made their way up to seek guidance from the holy woman Pythia. Pythia was believed to reside in the oracle and speak on behalf of the gods. Her cryptic visions about the future attracted thousands of visitors. Now it is an easy bus ride from Athens, but Pythia remains silent.

How to get to Delphi:  From Athens it is an easy 3 hour bus journey to Delphi.

Where to stay : cheap rooms are available at Hotel Orfeas or Castri hotel

I love history and my taste for everything old was well catered to in Athens. It is the birthplace of western civilization and one of the oldest cities in Europe. The famous Acropolis was built-in the 5th century BC on a rocky outcrop above the city. It has been the center of Greece ever since.

Throughout the years the Greeks, the Romans and the Ottomans all left behind their influences. Old ruins are everywhere. Athens is now the capital of Greece, but it’s easy to imagine yourself a princess in Roman times when you visit the ancient Agora or the Roman Forum. Furthermore the neighborhoods of Plaka, Monastiraki and Thissio are full with nice restaurants.

For more information check out this excellent post about the best museums in Athens and how to spend one day in Athens .

Where to stay : centrally located dorms are the bedbox hostel and Athens Quinta . For cheap rooms near Monastiraki I can recommend the Dryades & Orion hotel

The Peloponnese

The Peloponnese was on the top of my list, because I wanted to see all the places I read about in my history books at school. Places such as the ancient Greek theatre in Epidaurus,  the location of the first olympic games in Olympia, the palace of Mycenae and the ruins of Sparta.

I volunteered in a Greek monastery near Athens and I was able to arrange a weekend tour. In a small van we crossed the bridge over the Gulf of Corinth that connects the Peloponnese peninsula with the mainland. It took us a full day to visit Epidaurus, Mycene and the Corinth canal.

Where to stay : There are not a lot of options in Mycene. Klitemnistra rooms offer good value for money.

In 2006 I spent another week in the Pelopennese in the small town of Chrani. Even tough I love the sea, I am actually not a person who enjoys spending day after day at the beach. The first days feel wonderful, but by the third day I get restless. The good thing about the Peloponnese is that there is enough to explore.

After two days we rented a car and drove through the mountains. We passed some old farmers on their tractors with piles of fresh vegetables in the back and drove by beautiful villages. Sometimes we stopped to watch the views, trying to capture it on our pictures, even tough we knew we couldn’t.

Where to stay : Chrani is very small and there are very few budget places. Lena Mare is a very good place, but if it’s out of your budget you can consider staying in Koroni.

The Peloponnese is a peninsula and has it’s own share of beaches with blue waters and sea port towns. One of such towns is Koroni with a Venetian fortress and excellent restaurants serving fresh seafood.

It’s difficult to recommend one seaport town over the other as they all have their own charm and I think none of them will disappoint you. Koroni happened to be on our route and we had grilled fish while looking at the blue waters of the sea. Other nice towns with a port are Nafplio, Monemvasia, Kiladia and Gythio.

Where to stay : One of the few budget places in Koroni is the centrally located Parthenon rooms .

Epirus & Parga  

Epirus is a mountainous region close to the border with Albania. The densely forested Pindos mountains are still the home of bears and wolves. The Vikos gorge is the deepest gorge in the world.

In addition, Parga has some crystal clear blue waters and is a charming town with its pastel coloured houses. I stayed in Parga for a week and it’s a wonderful place to relax at the beach and go hiking in the surrounding hills. Not convinced yet that Epirus is one of the best places to visit in mainland Greece, read more about Epirus in this article .

Where to stay : Avdikos house is a good budget option within Parga.

If you are in Athens and you are looking for a secluded quiet beach not too far away, you could head to Nea Makri. I spent three weeks in Nea Makri as part of a volunteer project at the Pammacaristos Children’s Foundation  with IBO-Nederland . There is honestly not too much to see in Nea Makri, but therefore there are very few tourists and the beach is nice.

Mainland Greece Travel tips

What and where to eat.

Greek food is delicious and there is absolutely no shortage of restaurants throughout Greece. For a cheap lunch or dinner you can eat a pita gyros . A flat bread with meat, tzatziki and french fries.

If you go out for dinner you can never go wrong with the fresh Greek salads and a Souvlaki . Other traditional Greek recipies to try are Mousaka or Stifado .

How to get around

Greece has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trains, and ferries. Buses are the most common mode of public transportation in Greece, and they serve most major cities and tourist destinations. They connect Athens with most destinations in the Pelopenesse.

Trains are less common but offer a comfortable and scenic way to travel between cities like Atrhens and Thessaloniki. .From Thessaloniki it is also possible to travel onwards to Istanbul in Turkey .

Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore mainland Greece, especially if you want to visit remote areas and small villages. You can rent a car at the airport or in major cities, but be aware that some areas may have narrow, winding roads.

When to visit

The best time to visit mainland Greece largely depends on your travel preferences and what you want to do during your trip. Generally, the peak tourist season in Greece is from mid-June to mid-September, when the weather is hot and dry, and many tourists flock to the beaches and islands. However, with climate change, summers can become uncomfortably hot.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and high prices, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder season, which runs from April to mid-June and from mid-September to October. During this time, the weather is still pleasant, and you can enjoy sightseeing, hiking, and other outdoor activities without the crowds and the summer heat.

Disclaimer : This post about the best places to visit in mainland Greece contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

13 thoughts on “The Best Places to Visit in Mainland Greece”

I can’t believe I’ve STILL not been to Greece! As if I didn’t need even more reasons to visit (I study Ancient Greek at university), this list has just provided me with some! Those monasteries are just breathtaking!

Great post, you demonstrate well that there is FAR more to Greece than the islands and party destinations 🙂 i’ll definitely be checking out some of these recommendations when I head back one day!

I wish I could have seen every single one of these spots! We managed to visit Athens, Olympia, Meteora and Delphi in about 7 days but will definitely add your other recommendations to our list for the next trip!

Greece is such a historic place – I’d love to one day visit all of these sites!

I need to go to Greece! This looks amazing and definitely fuels my travel bug even more!!! Thanks for a great read.

So much history in Greece, the mainland is so underrated. Pictures look fab, thanks for sharing 🙂

I really hope to make it to Greece someday! This was a great post and I definitely will have to visit these places when I make it there.

Mainland Greece looks mesmerizing. If there is one European country that I haven’t been to but want to visit, it is Greece. I love history as well, and that monastery up on the cliff looks incredible!

Now I want to visit Greece! I love that you showcased some lesser known destinations! I’ve never heard of Meteora before but after seeing your pictures, I need to go! The monestaries look amazing!

wow this is so cool..that town of Parga is beckoning me..Oh my its so cute and quaint..this was so fun to learn of off the beaten path places there!

I spent a long time in Athens before heading to Santorini last fall but didn’t explore more of the mainland. I’ve had sites like Meteora, Olympia, and Delphi on my list before, but this definitely added some ideas to my list, like Parga.

Seriously stunning. I love the monasteries on the rocks and then that clear water. I love that you provided more than what I normally read about. This seemed a lot more cultural and immersing yourself. Great article.

I love Greece after living there for four long summers i completely fell in love. The Peloponnese is such an underrated area.

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Mainland Greece itinerary – Ultimate 7 to 10 day Road Trip

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Trying to work out the best mainland Greece itinerary?

This 7 to 10 day Greece mainland itinerary is all about jaw dropping scenery and sublime coastal destinations. You’ll witness the majestic monasteries at Meteora and stay at the Ionian seaside resort of Parga. Plus you’ll see some of Greece’s most iconic beaches and blue caves.

This Greece road trip itinerary is also perfect for those looking for a cheap Greece itinerary.

I’ll also give you some seriously handy Greece travel tips to help things run as smooth as possible.

Mainland Greece Road Trip – drive details

• Distance covered: 1250 km approx
• Drive hours 16.5 hours
• Estimated fuel cost: $210 EUROS
• Road tolls: numerous ( varied costs anywhere from 1.5 Euro to 9 Euros)

At around 2 euros per litre, fuel was not our cheapest cost, so getting a fuel efficient rental car at a decent price sure helped keep costs down.

Discover Cars – Athens Airport

Road tolls are inevitable unless you stay off the main roads and that would be a big mistake. The freeways are your lifeline to getting from point A to B in the quickest time possible. Where you go in-between is up to you, but stick to the freeways for a hassle free road trip.

Tip : throw all your loose change in the console to use on tolls as you go.

7 to 10 day Greece itinerary

Wondering what a 7 to 10 day road trip in Greece looks like?

Day 1 & 2

Day 3 & 4

Day 5 & 6

Day 7 & 8

ZAKYNTHOS ISLAND

Day 9 & 10

One week in Greece itinerary option

For those short on time and wanting only to do the 7 day Greece itinerary, my recommendation is 1 night in Meteora, Lefkada and Athens. This brings your Greece road trip back to 7 days.

Why you should do a Greece Road Trip and skip the island hopping.

This Greece itinerary will give you the best of both worlds. Being able to travel by car in Greece and also see some of the islands as you go.

As a travel agent, I get to plan epic trips every day for people, and Greece is definitely a bucket list destination for many. But not everyone wants to island hop the usual places.

This epic road trip around Greece also included 3 island stops. These includes Paxos & Antipaxos as part of a day tour and also Zakynthos Island for 2 nights via the car ferry.

Some of the advantages of doing a road trip include:

1. Having the flexibility to go where you want

2. Not having to wait for delayed buses and lose precious time

3. Avoid crowds if needed and go somewhere quieter

4. Find those hidden gems and gorgeous road side stops

5. Explore at your own pace

6. See so much more

Are you doing Greece on a budget?

This incredible Greece itinerary was not without it careful budget planning.

We had included a bucket list 2 week trip to Egypt seeing all the best Egypt experiences . The flight is only 1.40 hrs from Cairo to Athens.

Its understandable you don’t want to miss any of the best things to do. So saving enough money to fully enjoy your time here is important right!

I recommend reading my How to save money for travel.

Also, you might like A cheats guide to saving money while traveling.

Day 1 & 2 Greece Road Trip – Meteora

Out first place to visit is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora. It is one of the most visited attractions on mainland Greece and is simply mind blowing.

On arrival into Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) you’ll pick up your rental car and head north toward Meteora.

Or, if like us you get in late, stay a night close to the airport. This way you’ll start your road trip in Greece the following morning without having to beat any jet lag.

Drive time: 4.10 hours / 375 km

Car rentals: Discover Cars

Car rental in Greece is pretty cheap when you look in the right places. Discover Cars gives you an overview of all the well known and local car rentals places. So we ended up with a mid size sedan for 168 Euros for the 10 days.

Accommodation: San Giorgio Villa

Located in Kalabaka at the base on Meteora in a quiet and charming location, the property offered a gorgeous view and quaint neighborhood to explore. The little local tavern was the perfect place to down a cold beer and mere steps from our hotel.

For all Meteora accommodation check out Booking.com for the best deals.

Meteora Monesteries

Picture centuries old Monesteries perched high into the sky amid towering rock pillars.

Each monastery is generally closed one day of the week (summer season) but not all the same day. For winter visits, check the opening times to plan your day ahead of time.

There are 6 incredible holy places to see. These include:

• St Stephen’s Nunnery – 9 am to 1.30 pm & 3.30 pm to 5.30 pm / closed Monday
• Great Meteoron Monastery – 9 am to 3 pm / closed Tuesday
• Raussanou Monastery – 9 am to 4.30 pm / closed Wednesday
• Holy Trinity Monastery -10 am to 4 pm / closed Thursday
• Varlaam Monastery – 9 am to 4 pm / closed Friday
• Agios Nikolaos Anapafsas Monastery – 9 am to 5 pm / open every day

Looking out across the landscape, it is hard to imagine how you actually access some of the monasteries, as they appear to rise up out of nowhere. But the walkways and ascending stair cases carved into the rock face will lead you to a magical and spiritual place.

I suggest doing as many monasteries as time allows. We ended up visiting four and spent the remainder of our time wandering the village and main township, eating moussaka and drinking more cold beers.

Also, I can’t compare all monasteries as I didn’t do every one, but my favourites were Holy Trinity (steep but incredible scenery) and Varlaam.

If you are only here for 1 night I suggest leaving Athens as early as possible and doing 2 to 3 monasteries that afternoon after you arrive.

Tips for visiting Meteora

• take cash to pay your entry costs -3 Euro each
• no skirts or dresses above the knees, no shorts and no sleeveless tops allowed.
• be prepared for some steep staircases / take good walking shoes
• check the photography requirements / look for signage. At most places you can’t take photos inside. The outer grounds are fine.
• car parking is limited during the summer season. Consider a tour or be patient if driving.
• take water and snacks

Rather do a guided tour: Meteora Half Day Small Group Tour – Viator (from 43 Euro)

Day 3 & 4 Greece Road Trip – Parga

Parga is a picturesque town nestled on a stunning azure bay along the northwest coast of Greece. It is also the gate way to some of the islands including Paxos, Antipaxos and Corfu.

As soon as I read about how much the locals love Parga, I knew we had to go. Located on the Ionian Sea, Parga is ridiculously pretty and a must for your 10 day Greece itinerary.

Drive time: 2.34 hours / 186 km

We headed off early to make our way to Parga via a dramatic and windy mountain range. Make sure you have a full tank of fuel as stops were limited along the way.

Accommodation: My Suite Boutique Hotel

We couldn’t have got it any more perfect. Situated above the township, this ultra modern hotel offered a gorgeous view of the ocean which we took full advantage of during the late afternoon. The rooms were stylish and the bedding very luxurious. Yet the pricing was very reasonable for those who like to travel on a budget. Sumptuous buffet breakfast was included in our stay.

We ventured out for dinner to the most beautiful outdoor setting. It was here I had the best lamb kleftiko of my life, and away from the crowds of the town. In fact we appeared to be the only tourists which only made our experience even more enjoyable.

For all Parga accommodation check out Booking.com for the best deals.

Parga – by the water

Our arrival just before midday gave us time to explore the town for the remainder of the day and get settled into our accommodation.

Famous for its incredible beauty of several fantastic beaches, I recommend exploring along the waterside.

Head down to the boat ramp along the Parga promenade. You’ll find an array of cute stores and cafes to explore. Grab an gelato and sit by the water, enjoying the cool ocean breeze.

For some beach time, head to the southern and northern sides of town. Each offers a day of relaxation and water filled fun.

Town beach is easy to reach but will be quite packed for this reason. Alternately, drive a short distance out of town toward Lichnos for plenty of beach space to enjoy.

Day trip to Blue Lagoon, Paxos & Antipaxos

I booked this trip well ahead of time as it sells out quite quickly.

Book via Get Your Guide – Paxos & Antipaxos with Blue Caves

We got a wonderful shot of Parga as we sailed out of the bay. The boat had plenty of room to sit and relax and a wonderful atmosphere of cool sailing vibes.

We cruised for around 45 minutes in beautiful conditions. The boat was definitely the best sailing vessel on the water from what I saw.

Voutoumi Beach – Anti Paxos

Our first stop was Voutoumi Beach , an incredibly beautiful location. The boat pulled up just offshore and off loaded the ladders. Our swim or snorkel around the shoreline was simply incredible with the bluest of water and a lovely temperature. We had a good 30 minutes here before setting off again.

Our next stop was the Blue Cave off Paxos Island.

Another gorgeous location, we swam the short distance from the boat into the caves. I happily floated in the deeper water wanting to stay out as long as possible.

Once we were back on board the captain carefully maneuvered the boat in under the cave system for a closer look.

The cruise continued along the coastline taking in the amazing protruding rock formations jutting out of the ocean.

Paxos Island

Around midday we landed on the island of Paxos. It was a great chance to spend a good 2 hours shopping, having lunch and sitting back with a drink in hand taking in the views.

I absolutely loved the generous amount of free time we had to explore on out own.

From here we sailed back to Parga, enjoying the cool coastal sea breeze as we went.

I highly recommend this tour but be sure to book in advance to avoid it selling out.

I booked this tour via Get Your Guide. It is a whole day (8 hours) for around 35 Euros. See more below.

Paxos and Antipaxos Cruise with Blue Caves.

Tips for visiting Parga

• Fuel up before heading off as fuel stops from Meteora to Parga were non existent for much of the drive.
• Book your boat tour in advance and avoid any disappointment
• stay out of the hustle and bustle and visit the quieter spots for an authentic stay
• pack your swim wear
• don’t sweat it trying to find a park in town, just pay at an all day car park

Day 5 & 6 Greece Road Trip – Lefkada

My original trip to Greece did not include Lefkada. But once I saw that it was home to Greece’s famous beach Porta Katsiki, it became all too apparent I had to extend our itinerary.

Drive time: 1.13 hrs / 85 km (circling the island was an additional 2.30 hrs / 86 km)

Lefkada is an island easily accessible via a long causeway. Once on the island we turned right and began an epic trip along the coast. We would be circling the island over the next 2 days taking in some of the best scenery of our entire trip.

Accommodation: Vergina Star

The hotel we stayed provided a sea view at an affordable price. While the room was nothing special, it was clean and comfortable. We also had free breakfast provided, a good bonus.

Also, the area was close enough to make a quick departure to our next stop the following day.

For all accommodation in the area go to Lefkada hotels on Booking.com.

Coastal lookouts

The entire island is scenic with several road side viewing stops. You’ll be high above the coast for a lot of the drive around the island which makes it extremely attractive. Each stop provided yet another jaw dropping scene worth several photos.

The roads on the western side of the island are windy, so take it easy as you go. There are several parts that get pretty tight too, just another reason to slow down.

Porto Katsiki

I don’t think I have ever seen a beach as dramatic as Porto Katsiki. I’m seriously taken aback by its beauty.

The moon shaped beach on the edge of a tremendously high cliff line is as stunning as the pictures I have seen online.

It’s a few minutes walk from the carpark via a staircase down to the sand. I’m immediately in the water. There is virtually no shade so going for a swim is a must.

If you want to stop somewhere to eat then Cafe Panorama is a great spot only a few minutes drive from the beach.

As you make your way around the island, you’ll spot the little town of Vasiliki on the western side well before you reach it. The coastal drive is quite stunning with vast blue ocean on the horizon.

Part of the southern coast of Lefkada, Vasiliki is a lovely short stop for dinner, especially beach side at one the many open air restaurants.

After a feast of prawns we walked the beach where hundreds of sailing boats were situated. The town is particularly popular for sailing and today it’s perfect conditions.

Want to explore the area on the water?

Why not join the most popular boat tour during your visit.

Explore Ionian Sea with 50 shades of blue on Makedonia Palace – though Viator from 45 Euro.

Tips for Visiting Lefkada

• expect drive times to take longer due to the windiness of the roads
• head in a counter clock wise direction where you will be descending more than you are ascending.
• leave time to explore the villages along the way and beach side stops
• during the high summer season there is a beach side cafe at Porto Katsiki beach.
• roads along the west coast can get rather narrow so slow down to let others pass

Day 7 & 8 Greece Road Trip – Zakynthos Island

The island of Zakynthos is home to another one of Greece’s most famous attractions, Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach). But it can only be reached via boat. So of course, that’s where we are headed because it is simply unmissable.

As we leave Lefkada behind with wonderful memories, it is time to board our ferry from Killini Port for the short 1.15 minute cruise to Zakynthos Island.

Yes we are taking the car!

The bonus of taking our car to Zakynthos is such an advantage. It means we can stay out of the main town of Zante and find a nicer and more secluded spot to ourselves.

Getting the tickets was easy online and then collecting our passes at the port office. Make sure you pre book your car as the ferry only goes every 3 to 4 hours.

Drive time: 3.5 to 4 hours / 250 km

Because we stayed close to the northern tip of Lefkada we got off the island in good time. Arriving at the port of Killini we had an hour to spare before the ship departed. I boarded on foot and let my husband line up with the other cars. It was all a very easy process.

The ship is quite modern and a very comfortable ride. They have indoor and outdoor seating, plus food outlets and lots of space.

Once we got into port on Zakynthos our accommodation was around 30 minutes down the east coast.

Accommodation: Kavos Psarou Studios and Apartments

I loved my stay here. So wonderfully secluded next to the beach and olive trees, and a great central location for exploring.

The boutique hotel features beach side villas as well as small apartments and lovely coastal breezes.

You’ll find quiet beach side taverns with areas of the beach all to yourselves.

For all accommodation, go to Booking.com

Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach) & Blue Caves

You might not know, but you must do a boat tour to Shipwreck Beach because it’s the only way to get there. The good news is, there are several tours going out to the island’s most famous attraction.

To book this tour with Viator: go to Zakynthos 3 hours trip to Shipwreck beach and Blue Cave . From 35 Euro per person.

But there is one advantage to having a car. You can make your own way to the port on the northern side of the island rather than taking a bus transfer. This will save you heaps of time as well as money. Plus, you’ll get to explore the island along the way.

The drive to the port is filled with epic scenery and we spot a wonderful hill top restaurant that will be a great lunch stop on the way back.

Shipwreck Beach

Finding our tour boat was super easy as it’s right on water side, and there are only a couple of tour operators here. We set off from Porto Vromi , taking us 20 minutes to reach Navagio Beach . We disembarked and had a whole hour to enjoy to ourselves.

The wreck here is that of MV Panagiotis , which ran aground back in 1980. Since then it has become a tourist hotspot, and while I would agree the beach is way too overcrowded it is still very exciting to see it. Plus, it is only one of three other stops we will be seeing today.

Update: due to rock falls caused by earth quakes there is no beach access for the 2023 season. You will still visit the area for photos.

Our next stop is the Blue Caves. We are not swimming here today because it’s a little choppy, but instead our small boat tour manages an impressive maneuver inside the cave.

A little further along the coast we find better conditions and can swim up to the beach from the boat.

Much of out trip is spent hugging the coast and we get to see some impressive cliffs and rock formations.

Our final stop is a gorgeous little cove that is well protected. This part of the coast is simply sublime with towering cliffs, protruding pillars rising form the ocean and secluded bays of the bluest water.

All in all this was the best value you could find in a tour that accesses some of the island most beautiful beaches and coves.

Navagio Beach scenic photo stop

If you have seen photos of Zakynthos, you have already seen this particular photo stop.

As you head back form the port, you’ll need to drive the short distance to the lookout as it is not on the same road back. It’s only a short detour so very much worth it.

It’s no wonder it is so Instagram worthy, just look at it.

Luganas Beach

OK, let’s talk about Luganas Beach because it is one of the islands most popular beaches.

On the southern side, Luganas is heavily trafficked. The beach is rows and rows of seating and everyone appears to be sitting on top of each other. This is certainly not my cup of tea, but may be yours. So seeing you have a car, take a look for yourself and see what you think.

Zanta Shopping

On port side in Zante town is the main shopping district with many streets to explore.

I recommend saving this for your pre-departure before you reboard the ferry. Apart from many wonderful boutique stores for dreamy Mediterranean resort clothing, you’ll also find jewelry, souvenirs and much more.

Be sure to check out Odos Alexandras , just tow blocks back from the harbor for jewelry, leather goods, clothing and much more.

Tips for visiting Zakynthos

• Stay out of the main towns unless you like plenty of nightlife
• Book a boat cruise from Porto Vromi rather than from the port of Zante. This way you’ll be able to explore more on your own plus save time and money.
• book your boat tour in advance for guaranteed availability
• Visit the lesser frequented taverns and seaside establishments where the atmosphere is chilled out vibes.

Day 9 & 10 Greece Road Trip – Athens

Athens here we come!

Our final two days will be discovering the historic landmarks of Greece’s capital, Athens.

You can depart the island on either a morning of afternoon ferry that you have pre booked.

The drive from Killini Port to Athens is not too far and the freeway into the city is as direct as you can get.

Drive time: 3.10 hrs / 287 km

We’re dropping the car off rather than driving around the city of Athens. It’s heavily congested and I’ve heard nightmare stories of trying to drive everywhere. Instead we’ll use the hop on hop off bus to get around. If you are not confident with crazy traffic conditions, leave the car behind.

Accommodation: Central Hotel

I can not recommend enough Central Hotel in Athens. The rooms were very nice, but it is the roof top bar and restaurant overlooking the Acropolis that gets the “wow” factor. You must go there during the day and even more so at night for astonishing views.

Located in the old park of Plaka Athens, the area has great shopping, it’s close to the bus stop and it’s a clean and safe neighborhood.

See all hotels in Athens on Booking.com

Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour

The hop on hop off bus is the only way to get around. Save yourself time by taking the bus that takes you to all the top attractions . Buy a 24 or 72 hour pass.

There are 3 lines but the Athens line is the only one that goes all year. Piraeus & Beach/ Riviera Line only operate from May to October.

Highlights of the Athens Line :

• Acropolis & Panthenon
• Acropolis Museum
• National Museum
• Syntagma Square
• Temple of Zues
• Ancient Olympic Stadium
• National Gardens

You’ll see so much more with on board commentary via your personal audio headset. Tickets are cheap at around 20 Euros, so it’s good money spent.

Buy your tickets through Viator: Hop on Hop off Bus Athens

The Acropolis

Sitting high on a limestone hill in Athens, the Acropolis can be seen from various vantage points. It is truly a wonder that must be seen.

This religious site is centuries old and became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.

There is an entry fee into the grounds, and with an estimated 16,000 people per day passing through its gates, pre booking your ticket is a definite time saver.

Tips for visiting Athens

• ditch the car and take the hop on hop off bus
• stay in Plaka – Athens best area for tourists due to its shopping, cleanliness and safety. It’s also a great area to explore on foot.
• stay at a hotel which has a roof top bar for incredible views of the Acropolis at night- such as Central Hotel

Conclusion to 7 to 10 day Greece itinerary

Road trips are my absolute favorite and this mainland Greece itinerary certainly lived up to all the hype. With so much freedom and so many wonderful surprises along the way.

This 7 to 10 day Greece road trip is a great way to explore independently.

Don’t forget to book your accommodation because you’ll always get the best pre paid deals and availability that way.

I also think you don’t necessarily need to worry about cooking because the food here is quite cheap and so delicious.

Here is a run down of the hotels we used which were well priced and in great locations. They were away from the heavy traffic areas which I sometimes think are too touristy.

• Meteora: San Giorgio Villa
• Parga: My Suite Boutique Hotel
• Lefkada: Vergina Star
• Zakynthos: Kavos Psarou Studios and Apartments
• Athens: Central Hotel

Be sure to plan ahead and have a fabulous time.

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Incredible Must-See Places on Mainland Greece

Greece is one of our favorite countries in the world. It has all the things we love, including great weather, fascinating history, vibrant culture, a gorgeous coastline, stunning natural landscapes, delicious food and fun-loving people. However, even though mainland Greece has all these attributes and more, many people only visit the islands.

Don’t get me wrong, we also love the Greek islands and could happily spend weeks or even months soaking in their idyllic beauty. In fact, we have done just that. But, in our opinion, overlooking the diverse and spectacular Greek mainland means missing out on much of what makes Greece so special.

We still have a lot of mainland Greece to explore, but we have managed to check quite a few places off our long list.

Our Favorite Places on Mainland Greece

If you’ve ever been to Greece, it’s likely you have at least passed through the historic city of Athens. I have now been to Athens six times and Nathan has been four times, and we find something new to fall in love with on each visit. You may have heard some negative things about the capital of Greece, such as that it’s big, busy and dirty. This is true to an extent, but then what major city doesn’t have those attributes?

Having spent many months in Athens over the years, we can say with certainty that the positive far outweighs the negative. Athens is an incredible place to visit, with a huge array of historic sites, incredible museums, unlimited food options, lively nightlife and charming neighborhoods. Athens even has beaches in the suburb known as the Athens Riviera.

Just a few of the must-see sights in Athens:

• Ancient Acropolis
• The Acropolis Museum
• Temple of Olympian Zeus
• Ancient Agora
• Mount Lycabettus
• Monastiraki

Where to Stay in Athens

If this is your first time in Athens, we suggest staying in the Plaka area. This is where we stayed on our first couple of visits to the city and we still love this popular area because it’s central and fun with plenty of restaurants and shops. Plus, it’s easy to get to many of the must-see sights on foot meaning you won’t need to navigate the metro much.

The last few times we’ve visited Athens we’ve ventured out to other areas and neighborhoods and we really like Monastiraki, Kolanaki and Koukaki. Monastiraki is great for shopping, Koukaki gives you a taste of a local Athens neighborhood and Kolanaki is a good choice for upscale accommodations and restaurants.

Our Top Picks for Plaka Hotels

Phaedra Hotel: A good choice for a basic but comfortable and clean, centrally located hotel in Plaka for a modest price. A highlight is the incredible view of the Acropolis from the rooftop terrace.

Amazon Hotel : Reasonably priced and in the heart of the Plaka this newer hotel has 42 rooms, some with a view of the Acropolis!

Electra Palace : If you’re looking to splurge a little this is a great place to do it.

We recently re-visited Meteora after 10 years, and we wondered if it would live up to our memories. We were not disappointed. Meteora is a magical place with both stunning landscapes and a fascinating history.

The town of Kalabaka, which is the best place to stay to access Meteora, has grown since we were there last, but the backdrop of magnificent rock formations is no less impressive. These unique sandstone formations rise more than 600 meters and provide hikers with fabulous scenic trekking.

Aside from the impressive natural beauty, Meteora is famous for a series of byzantine Greek Orthodox monasteries perched impossibly on top of the rocky pinnacles. There were once 24 monasteries in this area built by monks between the 13 th and 14 th centuries to protect themselves from the invading Turks. Today, there are six active monasteries, and they are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. All six are open to visitors year-round. You can hike, drive or take a tour of these monasteries, but we suggest that self-drive would be the least desirable way to visit.

If you’re able-bodied enough, then hiking is a good option. However, it’s advisable to use a guide or at least get a map and directions, as the trails can get confusing.

Top Tip: For all your Meteora needs, we highly recommend Visit Meteora . We used their services on our first visit 10 years ago and again in 2023, and they were great both times. Visit Meteora has a website for pre-planning and a visitor’s center in downtown Kalabaka where you can pick up maps and information or book a tour. On both of our visits, we combined some self-guided exploration and tours with Visit Meteora guides. We found it to be the perfect balance.

Peloponnese

The Peloponnese region deserves an article all its own (which is coming soon) due to its size, ancient history and gorgeous scenery. We still have not seen all this area has to offer, but we’ve explored enough to know it’s well worth a visit. For now, here’s a taste of some of the must-see places in the Peloponnese.

The charming town of Nafplio is one of our favorite places in the Peloponnese and at only 2 hours’ drive from Athens, it’s an easy addition to any mainland Greece itinerary. Nafplio was the first capital of modern Greece from 1823 to 1834, but its history goes back centuries. The town has been under the rule of the Ottomans, Venetians, Frankish and finally Greeks.

Its bayside location, relaxed atmosphere and romantic cobblestone streets of Old Town make it a popular mainland Greece destination for both a romantic getaway or family vacation. The backdrop of hills and mountains and turquoise water will also appeal to those looking for a scenic place to relax and enjoy good food and wine.

We were invited to join a 3-day JayWay Travel tour to Nafplio and loved it. Along with exploring the sweet town we also enjoyed a Chef’s Table Experience and a cooking class with wine tasting at a nearby winery. We highly recommend adding one or both to your list of things to do in Nafplio.

Top Tip: JayWay Travel is a boutique tour operator that has been offering custom tours to Europe since 2006. We first used their services a few years ago to visit Bulgaria for the first time and were really impressed. So, we jumped at the opportunity to travel with them again.

Before you say, “I’m not a tour group traveler”, know that JayWay is not that. They specialize in semi-independent travel and will customize your trip to include as much or as little guidance as you desire at a price point much lower than a fully escorted tour. Plus, they have on-the-ground locals providing options for experiences most tourists won’t know about.

Trikala Corinthia

This is one you likely won’t yet find on many must-see lists for Mainland Greece, but that’s one reason we urge you to go. The lovely village of Trikala is in the mountainous region of Corinthia and is reached via a scenic 2-hour drive from Athens through olive groves and vineyards.

The Greek name, Trikala, means “three goods” referring to the abundance of three natural qualities of the region: fresh air, vineyards and spring waters. The village itself also reflects the name, as it is divided into three sections: Ano (upper), Mesaia (middle) and Kato (lower).

Driving through the village, we were greeted with the sight of traditional wood and stone buildings housing charming guest houses, shops and restaurants. After two days in Trikala Corinthia, we were in love with the place, the people and the gorgeous scenery.

If you’re looking for an authentic Greek village stay with easy access to mountains, lakes, vineyards and olive groves, then this is a must-see on mainland Greece.

Epidaurus and Mycenae

We love exploring historic sites and ancient ruins and mainland Greece is overflowing with these wonders. Epidaurus and Mycenae are both fascinating sites in the Peloponnese that can be visited on the same day.

The ancient archeological site of Epidaurus is one of the most important in Greece and is said to be the birthplace of Escelpius, son of Apollo. Escelpius was a healer and people would go to Epidaurus seeking treatment at the sanctuary and healing center. There is also an impressive ancient theater on site that was built for ceremonies and performances to thank the gods for their healing.

Mycenae is another very important Greek archaeological site that has ties to Helen of Troy and the legendary Agamemnon. Sights here include the possible tomb of Agamemnon, the Cyclopean Walls and the Lion Gate that leads to the hilltop citadel.

The seaside town of Kalamata is another spot you may not see on a mainland Greece top list, but we spent a week there and really enjoyed the laid-back atmosphere and proximity to other sights. As you may have guessed by the name, it is famous for its delicious olives. But its long, sandy beach also makes it a popular destination for Greek holidays.

In the summer months, Kalamata is buzzing with life as young people and families pour in for some relaxation and fun nightlife. Plus, there is an international airport, so it can be used as a jumping-off point for other parts of the Peloponnese.

Other Mainland Greece Sights

Despite visiting Greece many times over the years, there are still lots of places on our own list of must-sees in mainland Greece. This includes Momenvasia, Olympia, Thessaloniki, Delphi and Sparta, to name just a few. Check back as we add more top destinations on mainland Greece.

Born in England, Sarah developed her wanderlust at a young age as she traveled around Europe with her parents. As a young adult she spent every penny she could on experiences as opposed to possessions. Eventually she found a way to earn a living doing what she loved: traveling, writing and capturing images of the wondrous world we live in. When not on the go Sarah enjoys time in her “sometimes home” of Vancouver.

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10 Places To See in Mainland Greece Before Leaving For The Islands

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M ainland Greece is a collection of ancient treasures and pleasant surprises, just waiting to be uncovered. The sad thing is that people often bypass the mainland and go straight to the Greek islands. While an island itinerary is a great way to enjoy a Greek holiday in summer , the islands are only half of a whole. If you are to see the real authentic Greece, your trip should encompass just a little of the mainland! Before you choose which island is best for you, have a look at the mainland destinations in Greece that deserve your attention.

Travelling by ferry?

Embark on a delightful water adventure by booking your ferry tickets effortlessly using the form below.

This waterfront city in the North is one of the top places to see on the mainland in Greece. To wander the streets of Thessalonki is to take a step back in time. Amongst modern houses are the remains of Byzantium, preserved and cherished all throughout the heart of the city.

You can relive the past and visit some of the most important churches or merely admire them as you wander the streets. For anyone that visits you will quickly realise the waterfront is the place to be to grab a coffee and take in the view. But remember some of the most amazing traditional tavernas lie hidden in quiet alleys!

Thessaloniki is student city, which gives it a vibrant energy so there are plenty of quirky bars to sit at and enjoy a cocktail. If you’d prefer a more leisurely Greek holiday take a walk along the waterfront and catch one of the cities famous fiery orange sunsets.

☞ Related: What To Do In Thessaloniki For 2 Days: An Itinerary By A Local

View our FREE master guide for Thessaloniki here !

It includes an interactive map!

When you see pictures of Halkidiki you could be forgiven for thinking they were taken on one of the Greek islands many beautiful beaches. But you would be wrong. These golden shores and rich turquoise waters belong to mainland Greece.

The wonderful thing about the region of Halkidiki is that it is only an hours drive from Thessaloniki. The peninsula consists of three ‘legs’ Kassandra, Sithonia, and Athos. Together they resemble the trident of Greek god Poseidon in mythology. There is no shortage of places to go in Halkidiki, like the quaint village of Afytos or Diaporos island just off the peninsula.

☞ Related: 5 Olympian ‘Gods’ And Their Greek Island

Epirus is one of the better kept secrets of mainland Greece. This region is renowned for its dense forests, mountainous terrain, fairy tale villages, crystal-clear lakes and rivers and low-key seaside resorts. Perhaps one of the reasons why this area is largely untouched by tourism is its rugged landscape, which leaves it comparatively inaccessible.

A major attraction of Epirus is that this is where you will find the sparsely populated villages that make up the community of Zagori better known as Zagorochoria .

☞ Related: The Most Enchanting Villages in Mainland Greece You Need To Visit

In the region of Epirus you will find one of the most exquisite National Parks on mainland Greece, Vikos-Aoos National Park . You may have heard of this special place before as it is home to the world’s deepest gorge. The park is every nature lovers dream as there are copious walking tracks to explore, many with exquisite views of the deep chasm and beyond. Soak in the vibrant beauty of the quiet moments in this untouched destination that enhances the illusion that you are alone in the world.

Of course, we cannot miss one of the most important cities on mainland Greece, the capital! Everyone should visit Athens at least once as the city is the perfect introduction to Greece. The many museums in the city are there to enrich you with a wealth of knowledge. They help you piece together Greece’s long and complex past.

In Athens, there is an endless list of things to do. You might begin by climbing the slopes of the Acropolis , visiting the Ancient Agora or some of the other important archaeological sites that are scattered around, many within walking distance. Stop for a bite to eat, grab a coffee or sweet dessert, something the city does so well. The blend of good food, ancient history and eclectic modernism is a wonderful way to delve into Greece before seeing the islands.

You have probably never heard of this destination in mainland Greece. Quietly unassuming, this lush green town in Central Greece is for those looking for unexpected wonders. Only a few hours drive from Athens, Livadeia is the perfect stop on a road trip north to Delphi and the famous Sanctuary of Apollo.

Because the river Herkyna runs directly through the town you are immediately immersed in nature. Make sure you wander the cobbled paths under the shade of the plane trees and admire the waterfalls and watermills. You also can’t visit Livadeia without trying the famous souvlaki!

This small quaint seaside settlement has a surprisingly deceptive history. The town of Galaxidi was once a leading maritime power and it played an instrumental part in the Greek War of Independence in the 1800s. Throughout its history, the settlement has also experienced horrific losses.

Despite this, the magic of Galaxidi lives on, perhaps made more special by everything it has endured. This is one of the most underrated spots in mainland Greece, so make sure you take time to see the neoclassical houses along the waterfront, explore the harbour and be refreshed by a cool sea breeze.

☞ Related: 20 Unknown Destinations In Greece That Are Not On Your Radar

While you may not be able to point out Kalamata on the map, the name might be familiar. This is because this city is renowned for its olives. Kalamata olives! But this isn’t the only reason you should take the time to explore Kalamata. Just a 3-hour drive from Athens the seaside town is very accessible if you are interested in exploring more of mainland Greece.

Rather than simply passing through on route to the Peloponnese , make it a priority to explore. Kalamata is nestled in the foothills of Mount Taygetos and is enveloped by the Gulf of Messinia in southern Greece. You get both the mountains, the sea and beautiful beaches along with authentic shops and cafes.

☞ Related: A Brief History Of The Olive Tree

As well as Kalamata, the Peloponnese offers some extraordinary seaside routes to some magical places. One of them is the Mani peninsula . This harsh land stands out due to its unique architecture and breathtaking combination of sea and rock, making it the perfect place to explore if you are taking a road trip of mainland Greece.

Mani is famous for the stone towers that cover the area. Each is a representation of its historic past. Many castle-like houses date back to the 15th century, the times of the Byzantine Empire. You can stay in one for yourself and experience this history come to life!

☞ Related: The Most Amazing Road Trip In The Mani Peninsula

Another castle city of mainland Greece is Nafplion . With a rich history and a beautifully preserved historical centre, Nafplion is perfect for walking and exploring on foot. What you might not know is that Nafplion was the first capital of the newly established Greek state, between 1823 and 1834.

Nafplios, was the son of the Greek god Poseidon in mythology and is who the city is named after. Translating to “seafarer” or “navigator”, it is a name that leaves no doubt as to the connection of the people to the sea and marine occupation. In Nafplion you will be enchanted by its picturesque cafes and shops, the friendly and relaxing atmosphere and historical richness.

☞ Related: 10 Castles Around The Peloponnese You Need To See

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Your Complete Guide To Visiting Mainland Greece

I’ve got a total soft spot for Greece… from the stunning Greek Islands like; Santorini , Mykonos , Samos and Skiathos , to more hidden areas that are just as charming but that little bit lesser-known, Greece has it all!

Now, I’m no stranger to the fact that my love of Greek food has a lot to do with my bias for visiting Greece but there’s so much more to this incredible country than just its amazing food and gorgeous islands.

That’s why we finally decided to hop over to the mainland, away from the islands and somewhere that was totally different.

Over the course of 7 days on the mainland, we decided to explore the more westerly fringes, flying in from Athens and making our way towards the West coast, which was incredible.

With our little car, Yaya’s terrible map reading (he really is that bad) and a whole load of stops, we saw some stunning sites that you just have to see when you visit.

Take a look at our complete guide on what to see, do and eat whilst travelling around Mainland Greece.

Getting around 

Okay, so it’s you’ll either arrive by car, train, boat, plane or NASA-style rocket… the latter being the obvious choice!

Car hire: Depending on which way you choose, you might need to pick up a hire car from your place of entry. This can be done in most places like Airports and even train stations where they will wait for you with the car to arrive.

Flights: We flew in via London on Aegean Airlines straight to Athens, though you can always choose different airports and airlines in the region depending on what suits you best. If you’re flying from outside London or from a different country, you might find other carriers provide direct flights to Athens (or the west coast).

Trains: Once we arrived at Athens Airport, you can actually take the train west to some of the larger towns without any need to drive.

This is a great option if you don’t want to drive long distances but, if you do drive, rent a car and explore some of the places outside of towns themselves. You won’t be disappointed.

What to eat?

As I’ve already rambled on about, Greece has some of my favourite food! It doesn’t matter when or where I visit the country, I always seem to gorge on everything.

If you’re wanting to try some of Greece’s most yummy dishes, make sure to read our post on the most delicious meals to have in Greece .

Read more: 12 Incredible meals to eat when in Greece

Your 1-week plan for visiting Mainland Greece

8:45: Arrive in Athens either first thing in the morning (or the night before) and take the train to Kiato Train station which is about 1-1.5 hours west of Athens Airport. Train tickets are relatively cheap, especially if you’re visiting from places like the UK. Our tickets were about €11 or so.

10:20: Arrival at Kiato station and pick up your rental car. We got ours from Avance who picked us up from the station itself.

10:30: Drive over to the citadel of Nafpaktos, the drive itself will take around 1 hour. One of the biggest draws of Nafpaktos has to be its history, around 3 millennia of influence and culture that has been pretty turbulent, especially with its key position on the Corinthian Gulf.

12:30:    Check-in to Apollon Library Suites which is situated within the town itself.

They have a gorgeous little courtyard for breakfast and each room is themed around different Greek folklore. 

13:00: Explore the neighbourhoods of this citadel and walk the coastal route to see the gorgeous Venetian harbour, mighty Antirrio Castle castle and intimate beaches (Psani and Gribovo) all before an essential foody stop-off for lunch in one of the fresh fish restaurants that line the harbourfront.

Keep your eyes peeled for Botsaris’ Tower, a 15th-century and town clock dating from the early 20th Century.

For a tasty bite head over to Ev-oinos or Papoulis tavernas, or, for a good coffee head over to Gribovo café.

15:00: After filling your tummy and exploring Nafpaktos, head to Agios Nektarios Monastery (in Τrikorfo), which is about 10km away from Nafpaktos itself. Perched in the mountains, overlooking the Corinthian Gulf, this monastery houses the largest bell tower in all the world.

Make sure to know the door hard when you arrive, the monks will then come to greet you and show you around (free of charge).

20:00: Head down the promenade and grab a bite to eat at Sousouro.

Here you’ll get to try some authentic Greek cuisine and some delicious local wines.

22:00: Catch some well-earned zzzzzz’s

08:00: Today is going to be a bigger driving day to head north to the iconic Meteora near the Greek town of Kalambaka. The drive will take around 3.5 hours from Nafpaktos so make sure to have a big sleep and lots for breakfast.

11: 30: Arrive In Kalambaka and head straight across to Meteora for a day of exploring. Built on the top of some pretty epic rock pillars, this range of Eastern Orthodox Monastary’s are some of the most important in the world.

Spend the day enjoying sites such as The Monastery of Great Meteoron, St. Nicholas Anapausas and the stunning Holy Trinity Monastery They really are an incredible place. Entry to many of the monasteries is a few Euro per place. Just remember to wear modest clothing and always cover shoulders for women.

18:00: After visiting Meteora, grab a bite to eat at Taverna Gardenia that serves up some of the tastiest stuffed peppers and moussaka. They’re based pretty close to the church in Kastraki, Kalambaka.

20:00: Spend the night in Kalambaka in one of the independent guest houses you’ll find in the town itself.

Read more on visiting Meteora, right here

 Day 4

12:30: After exploring the castle, head over to the sleepy and beautiful little town of Gialova. Set on the coastal fringe, it’s a great spot for a bite to eat before you leave Greece.

Want to include some islands too? Make your trip a little longer by visiting (and reading our guides on):

Santorini | Corfu | Samos | Mykonos  

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10 Great Things to Do in Greece

The top 10 things to do on the greek mainland will give you a comprehensive overview of what makes greece so special. make the trek to the oracle at delphi. watch the sunset behind the temple of poseidon at cape sounion. check out the birthplace of the modern-day olympics. here are the greek mainland highlights to hit before heading off to the islands..

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10 Must-See Places on Mainland Greece

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Acropolis in Athens, Greece

Greece is more than sunkissed islands, with the 10 must-see places on mainland Greece immediately demonstrating the variety of experiences and settings you can admire during your Greece trip.

From historical Athens to quaint Nafplio, an exploration of mainland Greece will have you marveling at incredible architecture, dining at authentic tavernas, and taking in breathtaking views, as scenes of ancient civilization blend with modern-day lifestyle.

This article plants the seed on what and how to discover the mostly mountainous mainland of Greece. Experience the Peloponnese peninsula, the Isthmus of Corinth, and the sacred precinct of Delphi as you travel to these must-see places in Greece.

6. Epidaurus

9. monemvasia, 10. zagorohoria, explore the must-see places on mainland greece.

Columns of Hadrian's Library in Athens, Greece

Discover one of the world’s oldest cities as you roam the ancient neighborhoods of Athens and grasp the city’s fascinating history at every turn.

Enjoy local tavernas, take part in rich Greek traditions, and visit famous sites such as the architectural marvel that is the Acropolis. Athens is a bustling European city that invites all to explore at a leisurely pace. It’s easy to get around by foot or car.

Serving as the gateway to the numerous breathtaking islands, among them Santorini, Athens is usually the first stop on a Greek itinerary and it is worth spending time there to appreciate the Top 6 Things to Do in Athens & Santorini .

Highlights: The Acropolis and Parthenon • Plaka • Syntagma Square • Areopagus Rock • Byzantine and Christian Museum

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Learn more: Athens and Santorini Vacation Packages & Tours

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Temple of Athena in Delphi, Greece

This sacred highlight of mainland Greece stands out as a must-see on any Greek itinerary, boasting ruins and temples that intrigue visitors.

A sanctuary dedicated to the Greek god Apollo, it was the Oracle of Delphi who gained the most fame, predicting future events and being consulted often by great leaders, such as Alexander the Great and the renowned dramatist, Sophocles.

Just a short transfer and day trip from Athens, Delphi will, in some way, transport you back in time as you trace history in the ruins and landmarks of Ancient Greece.

Highlights: Temple of Apollo • Delphi Museum • Mount Parnassus • Great Views of Gulf of Corinth • Athena Pronea Sanctuary

Recommended length of stay: 1 day

Monastary in Meteora, Greece

A natural mega rock formation located in central Greece, where six orthodox monasteries teeter on the edge of boulders, Meteora is a superb mainland place to see in Greece.

The Pineios River flows below and pathways on the majestic mountains allow hikers to traverse this wonderland, passing ruins and witnessing nature intertwine with spirituality in a unique part of the world. Marvel at the sheer cliffs of Meteora, discover caves, and spend some time in silence as you take it all in.

Exploring Meteora is one of the Top 8 Things to Do in the Peloponnese with Family , an exciting and inspiring addition to your custom, family-friendly Greece trip.

Highlights: Monasteries of Meteora • Stone Bridges near Trikala • Cave of Theopetra • Magical kikes from Kastraki • Pinios River trails

Recommended length of stay: 1-2 days

Castle of Bourtzi in Nafplio, Greece

The first capital city of modern Greece, Nafplio is a quaint beach town located on the coast in the Peloponnese.

Its main town square buzzes with restaurants and bars, and narrow alleyways offer a walk through history as you discover shops and treasures that tell the tale of this beautiful city. Over the years, it became an important seaport, with the Castle of Bourtzi standing guard at the entrance of the harbor, a medieval fortress that is a highlight of the region.

As one of the 10 Most Romantic Places in Greece for Couples , Nafplio is a must-see on mainland Greece to visit with your partner.

Highlights: Castle of Bourtzi • Climb the Palamidi Castle • Archeological Museum • Karathona Beach • Sail the Nafplio Coastline

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Temple of Zeus at Olympia, Greece

Olympia is one of the most important archeological sites in Greece and is the place of the ancient Olympic games, said to have been created as a festival in honor of the god Zeus. Serene surroundings make way for ruins that date back to the Bronze Age and of course, a highlight of any visit is the ancient Olympic stadium.

Visit the Olympia Museum to see artifacts that have been uncovered in the area and experience the pleasure of unraveling Greek myths, one of the Top 7 Things to Do in Greece .

Highlights: Ruins of the Temple of Zeus • Ancient Olympic Stadium • Museum of Olympia • Doric Temple of Hera

The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus in Epidaurus, Greece

Cited to be the birthplace of Asklepios, the Greek god of healing, in the ancient world, Epidaurus was said to be the most important center for curing ailments of all kinds and was visited by many who came from far and wide.

One of the best-preserved ancient Greek structures has to be the Epidaurus Amphitheater. This limestone masterpiece has the most incredible acoustics and if you stand in the center, sound will be carried up to the very back row.

Highlights: Epidaurus Amphitheater • Asklepieion (Sanctuary of Asclepius) • The Abaton • The Tholos (Circular Building)

The Palace of Despots in Mystras, Greece

Mystras is a fortified city, a breathtaking settlement set within castle walls, located close to the famed city of Sparta. In Byzantine times, it once served as the capital of the Despotate Morea and was noted to be the second-most famous city after Constantinople.

Surrounded by small rivers and lakes, and a spectacle of cypress and pine trees, medieval Mystras is simply stunning, lying fixed in place upon Taygetos Mountain, above a modern-day village.

Highlights: Palace of Despots • Archaeological Museum • Monastery of Panagia Perivleptos • Caves of Keadas

Lions Gate of Mycenae in Greece

Located in northeast Peloponnese is one of ancient Greece’s most historical sites, Mycenae. According to Greek legends, Perseus instructed Cyclops to build walls out of blocks that no human could lift, creating a fortified citadel upon the fertile plains of Argolis.

The main entrance is guarded by the Lion’s Gate and visitors are encouraged to spend time discovering excavated Grave Circle A, one of the key archaeological sites in Mycenae.

Highlights: Ruins of the Cult Center • Palace of Mycenae • Grave Circle A • Lion’s Gate • Marvel at the Citadel Walls

Church of Christ Elkomenos in Monemvasia, Greece

Accessed by boat only, connected to the mainland by a small strip of land, and visible only from the sea, Monemvasia is a fascinating castle-like town standing peacefully on an island off the east coast of the Peloponnese.

Views from the top across the vast sea are breathtaking and a feeling of romance abounds around every corner. Walk cobbled streets and relish the feeling of being transported back in time in one of Greece’s most captivating locations.

As one of 11 Hidden Gems in Greece to Visit , Monemvasia is a must-visit part of the mainland that inspires travelers far from the beaten path and crowded parts of Greece.

Highlights: Elegant mansions • Byzantine Church of Agia Sofia • Church of Christ Elkomenos • Walk the medieval castle walls

The Gorge of Vikos in Zagorohoria, Greece

Comprising 46 villages taken straight out of a fairytale, its name translated to mean “area behind the mountain”, Zagorohoria is one of the most scenic and breathtaking places to visit in mainland Greece.

It can be found in the mountains of Epirus and fascinates with fantastical monasteries, stone houses, and bridges, with the village of Papigo one of the most beautiful and popular. Rivers and gorges complete this dreamy scenery, with monuments and museums rounding off the spectacular destination.

Highlights: The Bridge of Klidonia • The Gorge of Vikos • The Village of Papigo • Lake of Drakolimni • Monastery of Agia Paraskevi

Nafplion, Greece

Hidden gems in the shape of beach towns, mountainous medieval monasteries, fortified cities, and ancient Grecian finds, it’s worth spending time exploring mainland Greece on Greece Vacations & Tours. Combine history with relaxing as you take a step back in time, before hitting one of the country’s many idyllic beaches.

For more insight on travel in Greece and ideas to help you plan your trip, explore our Greece Travel Guide .

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Should I Visit Mainland Greece, Or The Islands?

A question most visitors to Greece will come up with at some point, is “should I visit mainland Greece, or the islands?” This is a really good question, especially coming from people who haven’t seen much of Greece. Here is a guide introducing all regions of Greece.

Should I visit mainland Greece, or the islands?

To begin with, let’s clarify one thing. The question “should I visit mainland Greece, or the islands?” has no right or wrong answer. Greece is an all-around beautiful country, and you can’t really go very wrong with your choices.

That said, before you decide where to go in Greece you should ask yourself a few questions.

As an example, you could consider whether you want to take a ferry or a domestic flight to one of the islands. You could ask yourself if you prefer to rent a car and go on a roadtrip , or use public transportation instead.

Understandably, the most important factor to consider is which parts of Greece you really want to visit.

Are you fascinated by the photos you’ve seen of the Santorini caldera? Did Meteora strike you as the one place you must absolutely see in Greece? Would you just prefer to go off-the-beaten track, where few other tourists venture?

If you do a little research before your trip, the answer might just present itself.

Study the Geography of Greece

If you have never been to Greece, start by having a look at the map of the country. You will see that there is a large continental area, mainland Greece. To the east, the west and the south, you will notice several groups of islands.

Greece is divided in nine large geographical regions, of which six belong to the mainland. From north to south, you will see Thrace, Macedonia, Epirus, Thessaly, Sterea Ellada and the Peloponnese.

The remaining three regions are the islands. You will see the Aegean Islands, comprising several subgroups, the Ionian Islands and Crete. This article offers an introduction to the Greek island groups .

Getting from one part of the country to another might not be entirely straightforward. So my best advice is to limit the areas of Greece you want to visit, especially if you only have a few days.

Combining several areas, or several islands in different island groups, is not only time-consuming but can also be rather expensive.

This article with travel tips for planning a trip to Greece might help you start building your itinerary. If you really want to visit several areas, or many different islands, your best bet might be an organized tour or a cruise, which will take the hassle away.

What is there to do on mainland Greece

Apart from certain areas, mainland Greece is probably not as a well-known destination as “the Greek islands”. Visitors are often surprised to find out that Greece not only has plenty of mountains, but also quite a few ski centres!

Assuming, however, that you are not really interested in winter holidays in Greece, there is plenty to do on mainland Greece. There are many amazing beaches, plenty of archaeological sites, and quite a few picturesque towns and charming villages.

As mentioned earlier, Greece is divided in six main geographical regions, each of which has its own character and appeal. Here’s a short introduction to those areas.

Athens – The capital

Greece’s capital doesn’t need a special introduction. It’s a bustling, busy city with lots to do, and tons of tourist attractions. The most famous attraction in Athens is the Acropolis.

Apart from the ancient sites , Athens has several museums . It would take you several days to visit all of them.

In addition, budget-minded travellers will find a ton of free things to do in Athens , so they can easily spend a few days here.

Most people choose to stay in Athens for just a couple of days, and then head out to the islands or another area in Greece. Here are two articles that will help you plan your time in Athens:

• What to do in Athens in 2 days
• What to do in Athens in 3 days

Sterea Ellada – Ancient sites and unique Easter traditions

Sterea Ellada is the central region of Greece, sometimes referred to as Central Greece. It is the most populated region, as it includes the peninsula called Attica , where Athens is located.

However, there is a lot more to this region of Greece. One of the best known attractions in this area is Delphi . This amazing archaeological site is a popular day trip from Athens, and it’s totally worth it.

Visit with a guide, and you will find out more about the cult of Apollo and Pythia, the Oracle. Even though her prophecies were ambiguous, her advice was important to everyone.

Nearby Arachova has some pretty unique Easter traditions . It’s not like Easter is not celebrated in other areas of Greece. However, Arachova is pretty special when it comes to Greek Easter celebrations.

People who are visiting Greece during Greek Easter should absolutely consider visiting Arachova. It will offer a different perspective on Greek culture.

If you are looking for more remote places to visit, consider heading out to the mountains of Evritania . You will discover places you never imagined existed in Greece!

Overall, the region of Sterea Ellada deserves to be properly explored. There are many off-the-beaten track areas where you are unlikely to find any other tourists.

The Peloponnese – The quintessential Greece

I can’t imagine someone who wouldn’t fall in love with the Peloponnese. This is where some of the best known archaeological sites in Greece are located. It’s also where the Greek Revolution against the Ottoman Empire started.

The Peloponnese simply has it all. There are mountains, hiking trails, wineries, archaeological sites, stone villages, dramatic landscapes and plenty of beautiful beaches.

You will find authentic towns, like Kalamata and Tripoli , but also popular coastal resorts, like Stoupa and Kardamyli . You can visit some of the prettiest towns in Greece, like Nafplion and Areopolis , but also lose yourselves in the depths of the wild, uninhabited Mani .

In terms of ancient sites, you will need to return to the Peloponnese if you want to see everything. The popular Mycenae and Epidaurus can be easily visited on a day trip from Athens, possibly with a stop at Ancient Corinth or Acrocorinth . However, there are many more ancient sites in the Peloponnese.

Visit the Ancient Olympia , where the first Olympic Games happened in 776 BC. Drive towards the south and explore Ancient Messene , a surprisingly quiet site with an impressive stadium. Discover the temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae , the first Greek monument to have been awarded the UNESCO status.

The Peloponnese is also home to sites from later eras. The fascinating Byzantine site of Mystras should definitely be on your list. You can also explore the castles of Methoni and Koroni , to the west, and Monemvasia , to the east.

Finally, Peloponnese has some of the most beautiful and diverse beaches in Greece. From the amazing Elafonisos , to the popular Finikounta and the long stretches of sand around the Kyparissia area, the Peloponnese has a beach to suit everyone’s taste. Just follow the coastline, and you will bump into one you will love!

Thessaly – Not just the Meteora monasteries

Thessaly region is home to one of the most visited tourist attraction in Greece, the Meteora monasteries . These monasteries built on top of some unique, wild rock formations, are really one of the most amazing things to see in Greece.

However, Thessaly has a lot more to offer. The vibrant town of Trikala is one of the most pedestrian-friendly towns in the whole of Greece. Larisa and Volos are also very lively, and you will find that nightlife is pretty active.

The Pelion peninsula is a popular destination for Greeks, and not only. In summer, you can visit the beautiful beaches, and go hiking around the beautiful nature. If you visit in winter, you will see an entirely different side, as snow is quite common.

Another favourite destination in Thessaly is Plastira Lake . Visit in autumn, and you will be impressed by the colours and the ambiance! Similarly, you can reach some of the smaller villages, Elati and Pertouli , that keep their cool even in summer.

If you are visiting Thessaly by all means go to Meteora, but do take some time to explore some towns that few tourists have time to visit. You will see a side of Greece that you never knew existed.

Epirus – The land of a thousand faces

An unexpectedly beautiful area of Greece, Epirus is largely mountainous. It has many rivers, lakes and gorges, but it also boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. You will find beautiful traditional villages, incredible stone bridges, castles and monasteries.

Epirus is really an all-year-round destination. You can go up all the way to the traditional Zahorohoria , Metsovo and Tzoumerka villages, and explore a part of Greece that not many people get to see. Alternatively, you can stay by the coast, at the most popular resorts of Parga and Syvota , with blue-green waters.

In terms of towns, you should definitely spend some time in Ioannina . It’s a picturesque town with an interesting history, built right on a beautiful lake.

Take some time to visit the castle, the Byzantine Museum, and the little island inside the lake. Stroll around the cobbled streets, sit at one of the numerous cafes and just watch the people go by.

If you are interested in ancient history, make sure you visit the Nikopolis Ancient Theatre , and the Nekromanteion at Aherontas . This was one of the Gateways to Hades in Ancient Greece, where the mortals came to communicate with the dead.

Depending at the time of year you visit Epirus, you can go kayaking, white-water rafting, or river trekking. Whatever you do, don’t miss hiking around Voidomatis river – the landscapes are out of this world!

If you have only been to a couple of the Greek islands, you will never believe that Epirus is still the same country.

Visit Epirus if you want a combination of quaint mountain villages, pretty towns and lovely beaches. You will experience a totally different side of Greece.

Macedonia – What’s in a name?

You may be familiar with the name Macedonia , and the Macedonia naming dispute . Even if you aren’t, you will probably have heard of Alexander the Great, the king of the ancient Greek kingdom of Macedon.

The name “Macedonia” has been linked to Greece for thousands of years. The Ancient Kingdom of Macedon covered parts of a few modern countries – Greece, Bulgaria, Northern Macedonia, Albania and Serbia.

Many visitors are unaware that modern Greece’s largest geographical region has been called Macedonia ever since the area was annexed to our country, in 1913.

What to do in Macedonia Greece

This region of Greece has a long and rich history. This is where you will find the remains of numerous important ancient Greek cities, such as Vergina , Filippi , Pella and Dion . This is also where you will find Mount Olympus , the mythological residence of the 12 Olympian Gods .

The most important city in Macedonia is Thessaloniki . It’s a fascinating city with tons of ancient ruins, excellent museums, a beautiful upper town and dozens of churches, Byzantine temples and mosques.

Additionally, it has fantastic traditional markets, a lovely coastal promenade and a vibrant nightlife. From exhibitions to festivals to cultural events, there is always something going on in Thessaloniki!

Thessaloniki has an international airport, and you can fly there year-round. Here is how to get to Thessaloniki city center from the airport .

Beaches and nature in Macedonia

If you are a beach person, Macedonia won’t disappoint you. The beautiful beaches of Chalkidiki are some of the best in Greece. According to the people of Thessaloniki, “there is no place like Chalkidiki”!

Macedonia is also full of mountains and lakes, and it’s ideal if you want to get off the beaten track. Skiers will be delighted to find out about Seli, Vasilitsa, Kaimaktsalan and Tria Pente Pigadia ski centres.

A unique place in Macedonia is Mt Athos , a peninsula full of monasteries. Mt Athos can be visited only by men, and you need to plan and reserve your visit well in advance.

Macedonia is a great destination if you want to visit Greece beyond the beaten track. You will love it if you have a special interest in Roman and Byzantine history.

Thrace – The unknown Greece

The small area of Thrace in Greece is unknown not only to visitors, but also to many Athenians and other people who live in south Greece. In fact, the name Thrace refers to a larger geographical area, shared by Greece, Bulgaria and Turkey.

If you visit Thrace, you will be surprised with the different traditions and cultures, that you won’t see anywhere else in Greece.

By Serge Traveler – Own work , CC BY-SA 4.0 , Link

Thrace is home to large Muslim populations, as well as to people of Greek and Pontian origin, who moved here with the collapse of the Soviet Union, in the early 1990s. There are also other minorities, such as the Pomakoi. All these people speak a number of different dialects and have their own local customs.

Thrace is an area full of beautiful nature , forests, mountains, and off-the-beaten-track hiking paths. If you decide to visit the unknown Thrace, rent a car and drive to Nestos river, lake Vistonida, a Natura 2000 area, and Delta Evrou.

You will discover quite unique ecosystems and rare animals and birds. Did you know that Greece has flamingoes, wildcats and jackals?

The small, picturesque towns, Xanthi , Komotini and Alexandroupoli , are simply enchanting. Wander around the tiny cobbled streets, and explore the interesting architecture, a mix of Balkan and neoclassical styles.

By Spiridon Ion Cepleanu – Own work , CC BY-SA 4.0 , Link

Thrace is an ideal destination if you want to visit the unexplored Greece . It’s a unique place where you will feel that time has stopped – and you may even feel you are in a different continent.

What is there to do on the Greek Islands

Visitors often refer to “ the Greek islands ” as if they were a small group of islands close to each other. It couldn’t be further from the truth!

The Greek islands are three large groups of islands split into several smaller subgroups. Every group of islands has its own character. I bet that each of your friends who has been to Greece will have their own favourite.

Arguably the most famous group of islands in Greece are the Cyclades . This is the group to the east of mainland Greece, which includes Santorini , Mykonos , Milos , Naxos , and about 20 other major islands.

While the majority of the Cyclades are rocky and dry, the Ionians and the Sporades are more fertile and green.

Naturally, most of the islands are great for swimming and spending time on the beach. That said, Santorini doesn’t have the best beaches in the Cyclades.

If you are visiting in summer, I strongly suggest combining Santorini with at least another island. If you are mostly after beaches, I strongly recommend Milos, Naxos and Lefkada in the Ionian side.

Some islands, like Mykonos , Zakynthos or Ios are known for their nightlife. Others, like Tinos , Corfu or Chios are known for their picturesque towns and villages.

Many of them have some ancient ruins, with Delos island being the most famous one.

Architecture, landscapes and regional dishes vary a lot from each island to the next, even among islands that belong to the same group.

The biggest Greek island – Crete

An island that is beyond any comparison is Crete . It combines everything a visitor might be after when taking a holiday in Greece.

If you are going to this big island, try to allow two weeks at a minimum. Otherwise, just concentrate on a single area, as Crete has lots to do.

My best advice is to spend some time exploring the main cities. Chania should definitely be on your itinerary, though you should be prepared for large crowds coming out of cruise boats if you visit in summer.

It’s a charming coastal town, and you can easily spend a few days here.

Even though many people will try to put you off Heraklion , I completely disagree.  Heraklion combines the city feeling with life on an island, and it’s a lively place all year round. Furthermore, it has one of the best archaeological museums in Greece.

Rent a car and explore the amazing beaches, the fascinating ancient sites of Knossos , Festos and Gortyna , the mountain villages and the delicious, authentic Cretan culinary tradition. There is just one minor problem – Crete will set your expectations very, very high!

Greece mainland vs the islands

As you can see from all the above, choosing where to go in Greece isn’t exactly an easy choice. There are beautiful places all around the country, and every region has its own charm.

If you are a first time visitor and you really want to tick off the most important tourist attractions, your best bet is to combine some of the mainland with the islands.

Visit Athens, Delphi, Meteora and Santorini, and see if you have time for another island or two. This will give you an idea of Greece’s diversity, and chances are that you will start planning your next trip straightaway!

If you are happy to drive, you can take a road trip through the Peloponnese. This is one of the easiest areas to explore, as it’s close to Athens, and there are plenty of routes you can take to cover one, two or more weeks .

If you prefer smaller, more compact places and are keen on exploring many beaches, you can choose to visit some of the islands. Island hopping used to be very popular back in the 80s, and is now a lot easier due to the fast ferries .

The easiest islands to hop around are the Cyclades and the Dodecanese – though if you only have a few days I don’t recommend you visit more than two or three islands.

All in all, every visitor will find their own favourite places to visit in Greece. Even though the islands are charming, the mainland can also be quite fascinating, partly because some parts are not easily visited.

There are absolutely no areas of Greece where I wouldn’t like to go back. And I still haven’t been to all of them!

Frequently asked questions about the Greek island vs the mainland

Here are some questions I often get from people visiting Greece:

Which part of Greece should I visit?

Greece is an extremely diverse country in terms of landscapes, architecture and culture. Every part of Greece is worth visiting. First-time visitors often choose the best known destinations, like Athens, Santorini, Delphi and Meteora.

Where should I stay in Greece mainland?

Some of the most common places to visit in mainland Greece are Athens, Meteora, Delphi, Ioannina and Thessaloniki. In addition, Peloponnese has popular areas like Nafplio, Gythio, Monemvasia, Kalamata and Mani.

How many days do you need in Greek Islands?

Greece has over 100 inhabited islands, and a few thousand uninhabited ones. It would take you years to explore all of them properly! If, like many visitors, you have ten days on the Greek islands, you could visit two or three of them.

What is the nicest Greek island?

Ask ten people, and you are likely to get ten different answers. Islands that visitors rate highly include Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Crete, Rhodes, Kos, Kefalonia, Corfu, Zakynthos, Skiathos, Samos, Thassos, and many more.

Which is the prettiest and quietest Greek island?

There are many Greek islands that would fit this description, and they are all pretty remote. Some of them include Iraklia, Schinoussa, Donousa, Sikinos, Anafi, Tilos, Symi, Chalki, Agathonisi, Kastellorizo, Ithaca, Kythira and Alonissos. 

Your opinion – Greek islands, or mainland Greece?

Have you been to Greece? Do you have a favourite region where you’d go back in a heartbeat? Let me know in the comments!

Next read: Facts about the flag of Greece

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37 OF THE BEST MAINLAND GREECE BEACHES

When people think of the Greek Islands they think of beautiful beaches and crytal clear, azure water but what many people don’t realise is that some of the best locations are actually on the Mainland. There are literally thousands of amazing spots ranging from fully serviced beach clubs to remote, isolated places that you could have completely to yourself. These are our pick of the best mainland Greece beaches to visit.

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40Forty Day Night Bar, Astir

Athens and the Riviera

Just 30 minutes from the ancient center of Athens you will find the beginning of a long stretch of coastline known affectionately as the Athenian ‘Riviera’. Here you will find beach clubs, bars and restaurants to rival any you will find on the islands and a lot more on offer too. It’s a great spot to spend a few days especially on your way home, as it is only 20-30 minutes from the airport too.

Further reading: Top Athens Beach Clubs  

Mpati is one of the easiest beaches to get to from Athens, so it is mainly visited by locals.

Mpati Beach is a very nice sandy beach with shallow waters that make it suitable for families with smaller children.

The beach is only partially organized as it has lifeguards, showers, and dressing cabins, but you cannot rent sunbeds and parasols. At Mpati Beach, you will find a fenced kids’ playground, a tennis court, and a beach volleyball field. There are taverns on the far-left side of the beach where you can enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner.

There is no parking available at Mpati Beach.

Kalamaki Beach is located in Alimos, only eight kilometers from Athens. It’s a tiny beach with yellow-brown sand visited by different locals and travelers, which is why it gets crowded during the high season.

Kalamaki Beach has many amenities: a rental service of loungers and parasols, changing rooms, toilets, a lifeguard service, and beach restaurants. Around the beach, there are also great hotels you can stay in.

Kalamaki Beach is easily accessible, and a large parking spot is located directly on the beach side.

Glyfada Beach is located along the coast southeast of Athens and tends to be very busy during the summer season. The beach is pebbly, and the clear waters are perfect for a refreshing swim.

Glyfada Beach is free to enter, and it is partially organized. You will find showers, changing rooms, toilets, a lifeguard service, and some parasols. However, remember that parasols are rented out quickly in the early morning. There are no restaurants and bars on Glyfada Beach, but you can find places to eat nearby.

Glyfada Beach is easily accessible by local bus and by car, but there are no parking lots available in the beach’s proximity.

Kavouri is another wonderful beach near Athens. Popular with locals and guests from nearby hotels, Kavouri beach is well-kept and organized with sunbeds, parasols, changing rooms, toilets, and a lifeguard service.

The crystal-clear waters and the soft golden sand make Kavouri beach ideal for families with children and groups of travelers who want to relax at the beach or do activities such as paddleboarding.

There are lots of traditional restaurants at Kavouri beach, which is also easily accessible and has a parking lot located less than 100 meters away.

Situated along the Athenian Riviera, 30 minutes from Athens, Astir Beach is an exclusive beach club in Greece open to the public for a significant entry fee.

Surrounded by pines, Astir Beach is a 400 meters long sandy beach with incredible high-level facilities: besides lounges and parasols, there are restaurants and bars, boutiques, spa treatments, and free Wi-Fi.

At Astir Beach, you will also find the Astir Ski Club, the Beach Volley Courts, and the Beach Racquets Area.

Make sure to book a sunbed online in advance if you would like to stay at Astir Beach. A big plus? Sunbeds come with towels and a bottle of water!

Less than an hour away from the center of Athens, Voula Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the Riviera.

This sandy beach has pebbles on the periphery of the shore and in some spots into the water. However, the clear waters allow you to avoid the harder seabed.

Voula Beach offers several amenities: sunbeds and parasols to rent, a snack bar and restaurants, tennis and volleyball courts, water slides, and a children’s play area. You will also find toilets, changing rooms, and shower stalls. Voula Beach is public, so it’s free to enter.

You can easily get to Voula Beach by public bus, tram, or car, which you can park nearby.

Yabanaki Beach is famous for its soft sand and shallow waters. The beach is located in a wide bay, protecting it from strong winds and large waves, which makes it perfect for families with kids. In summer this is one of the most popular places for Athenian families to come after work and on weekends.

Yabanaki Beach is incredibly well-organized. Sunbeds and parasols are available for rent, and on the beach, you will also find toilets, showers, and changing rooms.

Sunbathing and swimming are only two of the countless activities you can do at Yabanaki Beach: play beach sports, such as volley, or water sports, like water skiing and windsurfing, to spend some fun time with your friends or family. There is also a kid playground with a train and a bouncy castle.

Yabanaki Beach is also full of food options, as you can decide among Greek, Italian, and fish restaurants.

Get to Yabanaki Beach by public bus or car (parking is available on-site).

Vravrona is a sandy beach located near Artemis town. Part of the beach has big rocks and is only organized with a limited number of parasols and sun loungers.

Vravrona Beach gets incredibly crowded in July and August, given its proximity to Athens and Artemis’s center.

Artemida is a nice sandy beach near Athens. It’s easily accessible by car and public bus.

The clear and shallow waters make Artemida Beach ideal for families with children. However, it is windy at times, and the sea gets rough.

Artemida Beach is organized with showers, toilets, beach cafès and restaurants from which you can rent parasols and sun loungers. There is plenty of parking available.

Marathona  

Marathona is a big beach close to Athens. The clear waters have usually waved as the area is quite windy.

Marathona Beach has sand and fine pebbles, and it’s only partially organized. A part of the beach is without amenities, and there is no natural shade. Another side is organized with sunbeds and parasols that you can rent from the nearby shop. There are also changing rooms and showers.

Around Marathona Beach, you will find many beach bars and seafood restaurants.

Schinias is a wonderful beach located in the bay of Marathon. The long strip of sand lined up by pine trees has a great reputation for crystal clear waters. The beach has a slight slope for safe entry into the water, which, paired with a few waves, makes it ideal for families with smaller children.

Schinias is a public beach, so it’s free to enter. You won’t find any facilities here: no sunbeds, parasols, toilets, or restaurants.

Karavi is a beach located near the historical city of Marathon. It covers 100 square meters, and this clean, sandy beach offers an incredible range of services.

You can rent sunbeds and parasols, but also play a wide variety of water sports and beach sports, besides relaxing in the sun. In Karavi Beach you will find four beach volleyball courts, a windsurfing school, and SUP boards to rent. It also has a lifeguard station, dressing rooms, showers, and Wi-Fi.

Karavi Beach is also awarded the Blue Flag, is free to enter, and has a beach bar and a restaurant on site.

There is private parking with a capacity for 1500 cars (under the shade).

Charakas and Cape  

Charakas is one of the most beautiful and clean beaches in Athen’s region. Well organized with sun loungers and parasols, toilets, changing rooms, and showers, Charakas Beach also offers two beach bars.

With only a 10-minute walk, you can reach Cape Beach: surrounded by cliffs, there are stairs to get to the sea. Cape Beach consists of many small coves enclosed by rocks. The long beach has diverse characteristics: sandy parts, pebbled sections, and rocky spots.

The entire beach is unorganized and completely unspoiled.

The Peloponnese

The Peloponnese is a large peninsula west of Athens that is considered by many to be where you will find the ‘real Greece’. It is heaving with history and archeology as well as an abundance of natural beauty, from waterfalls and olive groves to caves and mounuments. Add to that a vast coastline that is lined with amazing beaches , some of the best and most interesting in Greece.

Exploring the Peloponnese is a holiday all on it’s own and a couple of weeks will still see you wanting more. If pressed for time spend a few days in beautiful Nafplio to explore the wonders of the Argoli which is one of the highlights of the region and the closest to Athens.

Further reading: Peloponnese Holidays

Tolo is located just east of Nafplio and is a newer town that is more geared towards the beach.

As a result, there are numerous seasonal hotels and summer accommodation choices on offer. It is very popular with families are the water is very calm and clear and shallow.

Valtaki Beach (sometimes called Selinitsa)

In the south of the Peloponnese on the eastern shore of the Mani peninusla is this beautiful beach, one of the most photographed in the region.  A lovely, Blue Flag beach with a pretty cool quirk – a massive shipwreck just a stone’s throw from the sand.

While some might argue the rusting tanker is a blight on the otherwise beautiful beach, it certainly adds a unique element to this Peloponnese beach. Not only does the shipwreck make for a very dramatic and somewhat eerie addition to the beach, but it’s also a favourite of mystery lovers.

There are many theories about why the Dimitrios was run aground and abandoned on Valtaki Beach, from escaping smugglers to eerie ghost ships to (the decidedly less fun) financial problems.

Whatever the truth behind the shipwreck, Valtaki Beach is a great place to explore, and you can also take a peek at the wreck.

The beach is located just one kilometre north of Gythio, a charming little port town where you’ll find plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Mavrovouni Beach

Just south of Gythios and spanning more than seven kilometres, Mavrovouni Beach is one of the largest beaches in the Peloponnese. Its sheer size is pretty spectacular, and the mountains and rolling hills off in the distance only add to its dramatic flair.

Most of the beach is more on the rocky side, with long stretches with coarse sand. In the summer months, you’ll find umbrellas dotted along long sections of the beach, offering some respite from the sun.

You’ll also find quite a few tavernas, cafes and bars along the beach and prices are quite good.

One unique feature of Mavrovouni Beach is that during turtle season, sea turtles (Caretta caretta) use the beach to lay eggs. Local volunteers do a great job protecting the turtles, and it’s certainly a thrill to spot a mother or her hatchlings.

Mavrovouni Beach can be windy, especially in the afternoon. While this can make it a bit less ideal for nervous swimmers, it’s great for windsurfers and kitesurfers who are sure to love the adrenaline rush of gliding over the sea here.

Skoutari Beach

Loacated about 20 minutes south of Mavrovouni this beach is pretty small (especially when the tide is in), and in many parts, it is a little more rocky than sandy. Nonetheless, it sits proudly on this list of beautiful beaches in the Peloponnese.

What makes Skoutari Beach oh-so-charming is the collection of adorable historic buildings that flank it.

There’s a couple of fishermen’s cottages as well as a beautiful but modest church. These buildings add to the charisma of Skoutari Beach and make it a favourite amongst photographers.

Thanks to its modest size, Skoutari Beach doesn’t get quite the foot traffic of some of the others on this list, although it’s still quite popular.

Just a stone’s throw from the water’s edge you’ll find a lovely taverna – it may look humble, but the views and food are exquisite.  

Limeni is one of the prettiest seaside villages in all of Greece and is much photographed for good reason. It is located on the western side of the Mani peninsula just below the lovely medieval town of Aeropolis.

It’s quite small and consists of a bunch of converted stone houses and mansions wrapped around a small bay with crystal clear azure waters. There are only a handful of cafes and tavernas and they are all excellent.

Whilst not a ‘beach’ per se there are various swimming platforms, some with ladders, to help you access the water and it really is a magical spot. This would be in our Top10 of places to return to in Greece very soon!

Located about ten kilometres away from the city of Pylos, Romanos Beach is one of the most popular in the Peloponnese.

Due to its popularity (and the large hotel nearby), this beach is not ideal if you’re seeking peace and quiet – but if you prefer your beaches bustling and lively, it’s a great choice.

Thanks to its popularity, the beach has a buzzing atmosphere with lots of amenities nearby.

At one end of the beach, summer sees plenty of umbrellas set up in neat rows – perfect for a day of sunbathing. Continue a little further on and you’ll find more families playing on the sand away from the umbrellas and cocktails crowd.

A beautiful horseshoe-shaped beach, one highlight of Romanos Beach is the soft sand and relatively calm conditions of the water. If you’re lucky, you might also spot some sea turtles who come ashore to lay their eggs.

It is impossible to have a list of the best Peloponnese beaches without including Voidokilia Beach. In fact, many visitors to this little stretch of heaven report it’s the best in Greece, and maybe even further afar.

  So, what is all the fuss about? One look at the pictures of this dazzling beach certainly give you an idea.

A perfect crescent shape, in fact it is the shape of the Greek letter Omega. Perfect white sand surrounds the central water, which is a variety of shades of dazzling blue.

It ranges from a deep navy in the centre to a brilliant cyan on the fringes, making it an absolutely spectacular sight.

  It’s no surprise that the reputation of beautiful Voidokilia has spread throughout Europe and beyond.

Although its fairly remote location keeps some of the crowds away, you certainly won’t be lonely here – especially in August, which is peak tourist season. However, having to share is a small price to pay to enjoy this beautiful beach.

Further reading: The Beach of the Peloponnese

western mainland – other

Kineta is a beach town in West Attica, 55 km from Athens. Kineta Beach is one of the largest in the Saronic Gulf. With a length of six kilometers, it has fine pebbles and clear waters, perfect for swimming and having fun. The entrance to the water is quite sharp, so be careful if you are visiting it with children.

Kineta Beach is partially organized: you can rent sunbeds and parasols (but only a limited number are available) and grab a bite in the beachside snack bars and restaurants. 

Agioi Theodoroi 

Agioi Theodoroi Beach is located on a spacious coastline with fine gray pebbles and turquoise waters that are quite deep since you enter the sea. The beach doesn’t have a wave-protected swimming area, but there are usually no strong waves. Plus, there are only few boats in the area, so you will be perfectly safe while swimming. 

Agioi Theodoroi Beach is partially equipped as it has sun loungers and parasols, a beachside bar and a restaurant. It is free to enter, and you will find a parking lot nearby. 

Alkyonidos 

Alkyonidos is a quiet and picturesque beach with sand. The seabed has pebbles and rocks, and it’s better to wear special shoes, especially because there are several sea urchins in the water. The area is protected from winds and waves, so it’s ideal for swimming. 

Alkyonidos Beach is not organized, so you will need to bring your own parasol and sun chairs. The beach is served by one seafood tavern. 

The road to the beach is walkable, and there is a wide parking area nearby. 

Flampouro Beach is in a stunning natural landscape, surrounded by rocky cliffs. On a short coastline with crystal turquoise waters, Flampouro Beach has black sand and pebbles. 

The beach has some amenities, including sun loungers, parasols, and a beach restaurant. It is easily accessible and has parking on site. 

Close to Skaloma town, Flampouro Beach is usually not crowded and is free. 

Prosili is one of the beaches of Porto Germeno, in the Gulf of Corinth, which makes it very popular among tourists.

Prosili Beach has super clean and warm waters, so it’s perfect for swimming and practicing water activities. It is surrounded by tree pines under which you can find some shade since there are no parasols available to rent. The beautiful cliffs of the bay and the crystal-clear waters make Prosili Beach incredibly picturesque. 

The seabed has small pebbles, and you won’t need special shoes to walk or enter the sea. Around Prosili Beach you will find several taverns where you can stop for a delicious local meal. 

Located in a beautiful cove, Saranti Beach has perfect crystal-clear waters and it’s just an hour away from Athens. 

A pebbled beach with trees offering natural shade, Saranti Beach is nestled among cliffs that protect it from the winds, so it’s ideal for families with children. Besides relaxing and sunbathing, Saranti Beach is a paradise for snorkeling and diving. 

Saranti Beach is mainly a free beach, but you can find a limited number of parasols and sunbeds to rent. There are also bars and tavernas on the beach where you can enjoy delicious meals. 

You can get to Saranti Beach by car and parking in the free parking space available. 

Monolithi is a special beach in the Prefecture of Preveza, in western Greece. It is the longest beach in the European Union, stretching for 22 kilometers. 

It has blue-green waters and very fine pebbles. The beach is perfect for everyone, as the waters are shallow, and there are no sharp objects on the seabed. 

Monolithi Beach is perfect for relaxation as it’s almost deserted even during the high season. It’s organized with sun loungers and parasols, toilets, showers, and beach restaurants and bars. 

There is a campsite located nearby, and many parking spots. 

Located on a sheltered bay, Kerentza Beach is a sandy and free beach mainly frequented by camper owners. The beach has incredible crystal blue and green waters, perfect for a relaxing day of swimming. 

Kerentza Beach is surrounded by trees that offer natural shade. Bring along chairs and parasols, as the beach has no amenities. 

Given that in the area nearby is suitable for wild camping, Kerentza Beach gets very crowded in high season. 

Agios Giannakis 

Agios Giannakis is a beautiful and wild beach on the shores of the Ionian Sea. Located in a small bay, Agios Giannakis Beach is the perfect choice if you are looking for total relaxation.

The beach is surrounded by pristine nature and is covered with sand mixed with white pebbles. The crystal blue waters and the rocky seabed make Agios Giannakis suitable for snorkeling. Given the gravel on the bottom, it’s better to use special sandals for swimming. 

Agios Giannakis is not equipped: the only infrastructure you will find is a small canteen for a meal break. 

You can get to Agios Giannakis Beach by car and then park along the winding stone-paved road that leads to the beach.

Northern Greece

Bora Bora Beach is located in the seaside town of Alykes Drosia. The beach is fully organized with sunbeds and parasols (expensive to rent), a playground area for children, and a beachside bar with music entertainment. The bar is great for a coffee or meal break. A part of Bora Bora Beach has grass and some trees for natural shade.

The beach has a large parking lot right next door.

Kalamia Arkitsa

In central Greece, you will find Kalamia Arkitsa, a wild beach that is usually uncrowded.

Free to enter, Kalamia Arkitsa Beach is narrow and has fine pebbles. It’s surrounded by tall reeds that offer natural shade. The beach is unorganized, so you won’t find facilities (like restaurants) or amenities (such as parasols, sunchairs, and toilets) there.

The shallow brown and green waters are perfect for swimming and for spending time having fun sup-surfing.

Kalamia Arkitsa beach is close to the road and easily accessible. You can park along the main road.

Located right on the Malian Gulf, Seraphim Beach is one of the best beaches in the area.

It’s covered in black-ish sand and pebbles, so you should wear special shoes to walk and enter the sea. The waters at Seraphim Beach are incredible with their turquoise color, and the many trees along the beach are perfect for hiding from the sun. Seraphim Beach offers basic amenities, so you can rent parasols and use the free showers and toilet.

There are a couple of traditional taverns 10 minutes away by foot, and on Seraphim Beach there is a windsurfing school where you can take windsurfing or kiteboarding lessons.

The beach gets pretty busy during the high season.

Pelasgia is a beautiful beach in Central Greece. Small and sandy, Pelasgia Beach has crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. Some parts of the beach are protected from waves, and the water depth increases rapidly.

Pelasgia Beach is surrounded by lush vegetation. It is partially covered by trees, where you can find shelter from the sun, which is great given that there aren’t parasols (and sunbeds) to rent. However, the beach has free showers and changing rooms.

Pelasgia Beach is frequented by many people – both locals and tourists. It’s free to enter; a parking lot is 500 meters away from the beach, near a picturesque tiny church.

On the road that connects the towns of Larissa and Volo, there is the wonderful Kamari Beach.

Lying in the area of Mount Pelion, Kamari Beach is surrounded by green, tall trees and the blue waters of the Aegean Sea. The stunning cliffs around it render Kamari Beach a true paradise if you are looking for total relaxation!

The coast where Kamari Beach is located is small but quite spacious. Made of sand mixed with fine pebbles, Kamari Beach is sheltered from strong winds, and the total absence of waves creates the perfect environment for swimming.

The beach offers some amenities, such as parasols and sun loungers, and you will find a beach bar and tavern for a delicious meal break.

Nei Pori   

Nei Pori is one of the best beaches in the Central Macedonia region.

The beach is located in the town of Nei Pori, so it’s easily accessible by foot, public transport, or car, depending on how far you are from the town’s center. Given its central location, Nei Pori Beach is usually crowded in the high season due to the large influx of tourists.

Nei Pori Beach is a big sandy beach with fine pebbles to enter the water. The sea in the area is incredibly clear, and it’s perfect for swimming and doing water activities. In particular, Nei Pori Beach is ideal for those who love to snorkel and dive. Along the coast, several companies offer diving excursions and classes.

The beach is very well organized and has the following amenities: sun loungers and parasols, changing rooms, showers, toilets, a lifeguard service, and a beach restaurant. Nei Pori Beach also has a water park area with various inflatable toys.

The parking lot is located within 300 meters of the beach.

Ammolofoi  

Ammolofoi is one of the beaches of Agios Athanasios settlement, just one minute from its center.

Ammolofoi Beach is located among gorgeous mountains, which create an idyllic environment with golden sand and turquoise waters. However, the coast is occupied by many resorts, which makes it crowded in the high season. Ammolofoi Beach is partially free to access, while the other part is reserved for hotel visitors.

The private beach is fully organized with sun loungers and parasols, changing rooms, showers, and toilets, and a lifeguard supervises it.

Besides beach restaurants and bars, at Ammolofoi Beach you will also find a volleyball court and rental services for water activities such as catamarans and jet skis.

Parking is located directly on the beach.

Ammoglossa  

Ammoglossa Beach is located just outside Keramoti town, so it’s easy to reach. By car, it’s only seven minutes away, and you can park alongside the beach.

Ammoglossa Beach is on the westernmost tip of the coast, and it’s exclusively surrounded by nature. It’s the perfect place to enjoy quietness and relaxation. It has golden sand, smooth turquoise waters, and picturesque views.

The beach is free to enter and offers only basic amenities (toilet, showers, and a beach restaurant). The area is popular among camper owners, as wild camping is allowed.

Monolithi Beach

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15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thessaloniki

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

Messolonghi

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

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

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

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10 places to visit in mainland Greece

Posted: May 21, 2024 | Last updated: May 21, 2024

The Greek islands and the capital, Athens, are easily the best-known part of the country. And while they’re full of amazing beaches perfect for relaxing and post-card-ready views, Greece’s mainland has plenty waiting to be discovered. Here are my top 10 recommendations.

The Peloponnese Peninsula

This very special part of Greece is one of my absolute favorites. Just a couple of hours from Athens, the peninsula is full of adorable towns like Nafplio, Kalamata, and Pilos. Additionally, many of the beaches rival those of the islands — and don’t tell the Italians, but some of the best gelatos in Europe can be found here!

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Up north in the mountains is a movie-like part of the country, Meteora. This region is home to 24 monasteries that date back to the 1920s. Carved into the rocks of the mountainside, you can hike from the nearby villages of Kalambaka and Kastraki or drive up and walk between them. Make sure to bring a scarf and long skirt, or be prepared to borrow one before entering!

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Thessaloniki

Greece’s second city is totally worth a visit! In the northeastern corner lies this beautiful city full of history. There are numerous archeological sites, particularly of the Byzantine era, and plenty of museums. Additionally, it’s better situated along the Aegean than Athens, a sunset stroll along the promenade is a must!

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Most of us have heard of Sparta; yes, it is a real place you can visit! This city is full of history and archeological remains just south of the Peloponnese! There’s even a quirky olive oil museum! And just a few miles away, enjoy the UNESCO site, Mystras — some of the best-preserved ruins in the country.

One of the most popular (and easiest) day trips from Athens, Delphi is just a couple of hours by car or bus but feels a world away. The ride will take you through Greek farmland before entering the mountains just before entering the ancient city ruins. Make sure to plan for a full day here, or better yet, stay the night!

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In the lesser-visited northwest corner of Greece lies beautiful Ioannina and the surrounding area. Unlike other places on this list, there aren’t many sites or activities in the city, but it’s nice just to stroll and relax and enjoy a slower pace of life. It also makes a nice stop between Albania and Greece if you’re traveling between the two.

On the Peloponnese Peninsula lies another must-visit, Olympia, the location of the original Olympics. You can tour the Ancient Stadium, temples, and an amazing museum. Next to the site is an adorable village with many amenities, making for a great day!

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Popular with Greeks, Nafpaktos is still relatively unknown to international tourists. This means fewer crowds and a new kind of experience. The relaxed, former Venetian town is similar to Nafplio on the Peloponnese but with a less hectic vibe. Above the town, there’s also an incredible castle you can’t miss!

Mani Peninsula

On the southernmost tip of Greece lies the Mani Peninsula, home to undiscovered beaches and mostly empty villages that cling to the cliff sides. Rent a car to follow the meandering roads and enjoy the rugged landscape.

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Corinth Canal

On the way to both the Peloponnese and Mani Peninsulas from Athens, you’ll drive by the canal that links the Ionian and the Aegean Seas. An important accomplishment when it first opened 130 years ago, it forever changed maritime navigation in the area. Today, you can pull over, watch boats pass through the narrow passage, and marvel at the centuries-old formation that still holds up.

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16 Stunning Places In Greece That Prove The Mainland Is Better Than The Islands

Skip the ferry and explore these underrated gems.

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Set on a hill, the city of Kavala looks imposing from the sea, with houses rising up to a huge fortress overlooking everything. It's a busy port town, so if you get bored after one day on a quiet beach, don't fret. There's plenty to do, but the beaches themselves are pretty spectacular, with crystal clear water and clean sand.

Meteora is one of the most breathtaking places in the world, let alone Greece. Hundreds of years ago, small monasteries were built upon tall rock formations, and they're still perched there today. You can visit them all, and watch the sun set up on the rocks. The surrounding terrain is also perfect for hiking if you're into it!

A resort town on the Ionian coastline, Parga is a slice of Santorini without having to leave the mainland. The town is surrounded by thick forest, with houses clustered up the hill overlooking the harbour, and a couple of gorgeous beaches to choose from. It comes alive at night with restaurants and bars galore.

Sure, it's not a hidden gem, but you can't skip the capital on a trip to Greece. Obviously it's packed with history, and you could spend all your time visiting incredible ruins and museums. But leave yourself time to explore the city and its neighborhoods. You'll find picturesque side streets, and cute local cafés that are prime spots for people watching. Also get ready to eat some of the best Greek food of your life.

5. Thessaloniki

If you love spending time in cities but find that Athens can be a bit much, then Thessaloniki is the place for you. A port city in the north-east of Greece, its young and vibrant residents give it a super cool vibe. The nightlife here is excellent, as are the restaurants and cafés. Watching a sunset down on the waterfront is a must-do, plus there are tons of ruins and museums for history buffs.

6. Halkidiki

Halkidiki is a three-pronged peninsula just south of Thessaloniki. The area has some of Greece's best beaches, surrounded by forestland and pure nature. The left-most prong, Kassandra, is the place to go when you want to party. It's got great beach clubs that rival those in Mykonos. Sithonia, the middle prong, is more laidback and a great place to soak up the natural beauty while camping. It's got great coves and bays to explore, and way fewer people. The last prong, Athos, is home to a monastic community and can only be visited with preapproval.

7. Neda Waterfalls

When you think water in Greece, your mind automatically goes to the coast, right? But the country actually has some pretty epic waterfalls in canyons that are well worth a visit. Neda is perhaps the most spectacular, at the end of a hike along the river. Bring your swimsuit but be warned — it's freezing cold!

8. Drakolimni

If you're somehow sick of beaches and the coast, maybe a trip to an alpine lake is on the cards. Drakolimni is two lakes nestled in the mountains in the north of Greece, and can be reached by a four-hour hike. The hills are stunning year-round, but are especially awesome in the colder months when there's some snow on the ground.

This peninsula , on the east coast of the country, is a real lesser-known gem. Think deserted beaches, small welcoming villages, and rolling mountains. It's an ideal spot for a road trip, where you can hop along the coast to get some amazing views.

10. Ioannina

Popular with travelers who use the town as a stopover before heading to Corfu or up north, Ioannina is a quaint lakeside city that's a great place to chill for a bit. Catch a boat out to the island in the middle of the lake to explore its monasteries, or stay in town and spend your days sipping coffee or swimming.

Sometimes called the “Caribbean of Greece”, Syvota is an absolute oasis with lush green trees, small islands just off the coast, and incredible blue-green water that belongs on a postcard. One of the best beaches, Bella Vraka, is on a small islet that can be reached on foot via a sandbank. It's the kind of place that's perfect for Instagram.

Most tourists visit Delphi as a day trip from Athens, but it definitely deserves more of your time than that. It's well known for its UNESCO-listed ancient site , with arguably the most impressive ruins in the whole of Greece. Located right at the base of Mount Parnassus, there's plenty of hiking, biking, and adventure sports on offer once you're done soaking up the history. Also there's some great wine produced in the area, so it'd be rude not to do a tasting or two!

13. Mount Olympus

It's not an easy climb, but the tallest peak in Greece is one of those bucket-list things for people who love hiking. You can power through it all in one day, or spend the night atop the mountain in the surprisingly comfortable refuge near the peak. The town of Litochoro at the base of Olympus makes a good starting point and is near the beach if you need to relax afterwards.

14. Nafplio

An absolutely stunning seaside town in the eastern Peloponnese, Nafplio is romantic as hell with its terracotta roofs, charming old streets, and sparkling blue water. But it's not just a relaxing swim stop — hike up to the castle overlooking the town for amazing views, then check out the small island fortress in the harbour.

15. Vikos Gorge

This absolutely gorge ous spot in the mountains of northern Greece should be a must-see for every visitor. Hiking is obviously a main drawcard, but it's also a hotspot for canyoneering and rafting. Even just sitting around and soaking up the incredible views is a great way to spend the day.

16. Lake Kerkini

It might just look like any old lake, but Kerkini is an amazing place to spot wildlife. Water buffalo and flamingos hang out by the banks, and keep your eyes on the skies to see some rare birds. Rent canoes and spend your days on the lake, or stay on land and explore the towns around the shore.

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• Beautiful Coastal Towns You Need...

Beautiful Coastal Towns You Need to Visit in Mainland Greece

Travel Writer

When it comes to spending your summer holidays in Greece, it’s the cosmopolitan islands that first spring to mind. Yet the coastal towns of mainland Greece can be just as pretty and less crowded, from Kavala in the north all the way to the Epirus Riviera.

Who needs the whitewashed landscape of Santorini when you can find its stunning counterpart in Pylos? Why seek out the emerald waters of Corfu when you’ve got the dazzling Epirus Riviera? The following destinations in Greece may not be as popular as the islands, but they are definitely marvellous. Find out which ones are worth visiting.

With its amazing architecture and sandy beaches, Kavala is, no doubt, the coastal jewel of Northern Greece. In the quaint Old Town, you will come across colourful mansions, Ottoman buildings and relics of Byzantine churches that give away the city’s centuries-old history. Among the highlights are Egyptian ruler Muhammad Ali’s 19th-century Imaret, which now houses a plush hotel, and the Unesco-protected Archaeological Site of Philippi. Don’t miss a chance to swim in the green-blue waters of Ammolofoi Beach, or learn all about Kavala’s longstanding tobacco history at the fascinating Tobacco Museum.

Greece’s very first capital, Nafplio experienced great prosperity in the early 1800s. Today, the town retains its former glory, mainly through the beautiful Neoclassical architecture that blends with chic Venetian touches. Visit the grandiose Palamidi fortress – it’s worth climbing the 999 steps to the top – and the romantic Bourtzi Castle sitting on an islet in the middle of the harbour; Bourtzi once protected Nafplio from invaders and pirates. Stroll past sophisticated mansions and little shops before grabbing a mouthwatering gelato from Antica Gelateria di Roma, the best gelateria in town.

If you’re looking for a modern city with a relaxed, resort-town vibe, then Kalamata should be your go-to destination. Walk along the expansive waterfront and sit at one of the numerous cafés and taverns for delicious local meze. The food here is so tasty that you might come up with a whole new definition for the word “fresh”. Kalamata is also within an hour of some of the region’s finest beaches, including Foneas and Kalogria . The best views in town await at Kastraki-Meteoro, a fairytale-like bar-restaurant resembling a medieval fortress, complete with little towers and shining armour.

Once home to the country’s most important shipping families, Galaxidi, found on the shores of the Corinthian Gulf , has kept its nautical character. This comes alive through the Nautical and Historical Museum, as well as the picturesque port dotted with lovely boats and fancy yachts. Busy cafés and Neoclassical houses with pebbled courtyards line the waterfront, while some of the old captains’ mansions now serve as fully equipped guest houses. The town is especially popular with Athenians who visit at the end of the carnival season for the famous rainbow-coloured flour fight.

One of the most ancient towns in Greece, Nafpaktos has a rich history that goes all the way back to 1,104 BCE. Lying in the foothills of the Pindus Mountains, it is known for its picturesque surrounding villages, lush forests and crystalline waters. Walk along cobbled alleyways and you’ll soon find your way to the imposing castle; the view from the hill over the Rio-Antirrio Bridge and the Corinthian Gulf is spectacular. You are bound to fall in love with the charming Venetian port and with the abundance of trees and dreamy springs in Northern Nafpaktia, just a short drive away from Nafpaktos town.

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Often favoured by the rich and famous, Parga echoes the beauty of an Ionian island. Marvel at traditional stone churches – one is built into a rock – and at the immense Ali Pasha Castle overlooking the verdant village of Anthousa and the sparkling bay. Apart from the multicoloured houses, Parga stands out for its pristine beaches with emerald waters. It’s also worth driving a bit further to find Sivota , Parga’s sister seaside village along the Epirus Riviera. This tropical paradise boasts pink-sand beaches and mirror-like waters, such as those of Pisina Beach; its name fittingly means “pool”.

Also known as Navarino, Pylos was a kingdom-town in Mycenaean Greece, with the astonishing palace of King Nestor still largely preserved on the hill of Epano Eglianos. The town’s regal past is present in the elegant, whitewashed houses and in the stylish, sprawling Costa Navarino resort, which is super-popular with Hollywood actors. Enjoy a glass of strong ouzo in the shade of sycamore trees at the Three Admirals’ Square and take in the infinite coastal views from Palaiokastro Castle. Make sure to swim in the milky waters of Polylimnio, a waterfall paradise framed by rocks, just outside Pylos.

Dramatic mountain ranges, dense forests and winding hiking trails are some of the reasons why Karpenisi is frequently called the “Little Switzerland of Greece”. Here, you can rest your eyes on flowing rivers, shimmering lakes and waterfalls gushing out of steep cliffs. Some of Karpenisi’s most spectacular beaches are formed by the waters of the vast Acheloos River, where you can enjoy swimming, rafting or dancing during a wild river party in August. Don’t leave without trying the staple sausage with leek or a traditional cheese pie from the sweet-smelling bakeries.

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The Best Destinations In Greece You Can't Skip On Your Trip, According To Rick Steves

A country of many guises, Greece is a fabulous, year-round vacation destination. It's a land of deep culture with a civilization that goes back a millennia. Greece's landscape is equally impressive, with forests, towering peaks, and, of course, the famous Greek islands. It's the latter, perhaps, that captures the imagination of tourists the most, with the best Greek Islands often recommended by travelers for summer vacation . Spread across the Aegean, Ionian, and Mediterranean seas, like jewels in a vast expanse of clear turquoise, they are a dream come to life. 

But the islands aren't the only places worth checking out in Greece, and for travel expert Rick Steves, they are just one of the many multi-faceted draws to the country. There are destinations steeped in deep history and under-the-radar areas that are great for hiking. We've pored over Steves' stories on Greece and pulled together a hit list of the places with which he's fascinated. Having visited a number of them, we couldn't agree more with the choices that the renowned travel expert has made.

As Steves writes on his website , in Athens, travelers can walk in the "footsteps of the great minds that created democracy, philosophy, theater, and more...even when you're dodging motorcycles on "pedestrianized" streets. Romantics can't help but get goose bumps as they kick around the same pebbles that once stuck in Socrates' sandals, with the floodlit Parthenon forever floating ethereally overhead." There are a lot of marvels around the Greek capital, not least the Acropolis, one of the most famous historical ruins in the world. Records show that people have lived here for more than 3,000 years, and today, it's a beguiling mixture of old and new and ancient and modern. 

The section known as the Parthenon, which encloses the historic city core, is like a trip back thousands of years across sites that have stood the test of time. You'll see the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Theatre of Dionysus, and the Acropolis — the columned highlight of it all, sitting atop a hill. The port of Athens, Piraeus, is the jumping-off point for trips to many of Greece's famed islands. It's also a major transport hub in Europe and the busiest passenger port on the continent.

This UNESCO World Heritage site has great ruins, and Steves stresses its role in Greek lore. On "Rick Steves' Europe,"  the travel expert says, " The island of Delos was one of the most important places in the ancient Greek world with temples honoring the birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis. Centuries before Christ, Delos attracted pilgrims from across the Western world ." Mythology posits that Apollo, a pivotal god in the pantheon of deities, was born here, and for eons, worshippers would come to the island to offer prayers. 

The island became a trading hub, and the archaeology there shows the vestiges of life here from millennia earlier. The breadth of historical ruins on Delos is something of great wonder, with examples of the Archaic, Classical, and Hellenistic eras all visible. Unlike other Greek islands, Delos is uninhabited and only has its historical ruins and ancient infrastructure for travelers to experience on a day visit.

This town was important to ancient Greeks, and you can ski here in the winter and hike in the summer. Many centuries ago, Greeks viewed Delphi as the focal point of the planet, a place where the Earth's intangible power was centered. This explains why it hosted so many places of prayer. It was also the home of the oracle of Delphi, a priestess who served almost as a conduit for the god Apollo. Many people visited from all directions to hear the spiritual wisdom and prophecies of Pythia, as the high priestess was known. Global leaders would also come here to learn what lay in store for them.

Steves ponders the island on his website : "Perched high on the southern slopes of Mt. Parnassos, and overlooking the gleaming waters of the Gulf of Corinth, Delphi is without doubt the most spectacular of Greece's ancient sites." A number of museums at Delphi help to bring history to life. The Archaeological Museum neighbors the archaeological area, while the European Cultural Center of Delphi puts on exhibits of artworks in various mediums. But Delphi isn't just a destination solely rooted in the past. There is more to enjoy there beyond history, from a ski center on the slopes of Mount Parnassus to the many hiking trails around town.

For fans of ancient Greece, this is a destination not to miss. The archaeological site sits in the Peloponnese, a jagged peninsula that spreads across the southern part of the country. On its northeastern side is a place known as Epidaurus, and Steves notes that its highlight is the theater. Built more than 2,000 years ago, the theater was famed for its shows, especially for those that were recuperating — Epidavros was known as a center of medicine and healing. 

On his website , Steves writes that the theater "provided entertainment for those who made the pilgrimage here. Given its size (it seated up to 14,000) and obvious lack of modern amplification, the acoustics needed to be perfect. They were...and still are. Sitting in the most distant seat as your travel partner stands on stage, you can practically hear the retsina rumbling in their stomach." 

The past comes into the present at the annual summer Athens & Epidaurus Festival, when old plays are performed at the theater. Beyond the dramatic performances, visitors can also find beaches and countryside in the environs. There is also a sunken city near the Methana volcano, where a former settlement was buried after a volcanic eruption. Since this happened close to the coast, the city now sits underwater, making for a great snorkeling expedition.

This off-the-radar escape with unforgettable beaches is Steves' favorite Greek island . He describes it as a "glamorous getaway that combines practical convenience (only about two hours by boat from Athens) with idyllic Greek island ambience. Donkeys rather than cars, the shady awnings of well-worn cafés, and memorable seaside views all combine to make it clear...you've found your Greek isle," on his website . Continuing, he handily summarizes Hydra as "an easy blend of stray cats, hardworking donkeys, welcoming Hydriots (as locals are called), and lazy tourists on "island time.'"

The charms of Hydra have not been lost on tourists, and each summer, its waters fill with boats and high-profile visitors. Prior guests have included Sophia Loren and Pablo Picasso. There are fine, large houses dotted around the island, and embarking on sailing expeditions can help you to view them properly. Hydra has hundreds of churches and even a handful of monasteries, which can all be visited. Best of all, for tourists in search of a change of scene, Hydra is a car-free destination — though cruise ships dock there in the summer. For a breathtaking view of the sea and the rocky terrain of Hydra, the stop of Mount Eros, the island's highest point, is a spot not to miss.

Mani Peninsula

Among the many places to visit in this part of the Peloponnese is Kardamyli, a small village on the Mani Peninsula. For Steves, this place embodies Greece's rustic charm and is located at the southern tip of mainland Greece. As he explains on his website , "[I]t really does feel like the end of the road. In the Mani, travelers discover a timeless region of rustic villages and untrampled beaches. Empty, ghostly hill towns cling, barnacle-like, onto distant ridges, still fortified against centuries-old threats." Also written as Kardamili, the village sits on what some call the Peloponnesian Riviera. 

It is an area of intense beauty and contrasts, from the deep blue sea to the green undulating hills and batches of cypress trees. There are even mountains visible, sometimes their peaks dusted in snow, and fine sunsets over the Messinian Gulf. From the nation's capital, it can be reached in less than four hours by car. For observers of culture, it's also home to an annual literary festival and a jazz festival.

Also in the Peloponnese, this island is a sight that's hard to comprehend: a town built on a hulking rock island. Monemvasia was founded by the Byzantines, and its history extends to the sixth century. Walking around this unique destination, travelers can amble over cobbled streets, peer at stone homes that are old and faded or newly restored, and feel like they have traveled back in time. The town's name derives from the Greek "moni emvasi," which means "only access," a reference to the short bridge that is the only way onto the island. The island itself, a mammoth pile of rock, is about 5,000 feet long, about 2,000 feet wide, and rises more than 600 feet in height. It was part of the mainland until an earthquake in A.D 375 separated the two. 

This is a fascinating place to wander, as we have had the pleasure of doing. It's also  the Greek town perfect for those looking for a couple's getaway . Steves describes Monemvasia on his website as "a gigantic rock that rockets improbably up from the blue-green deep just a few hundred yards offshore, is a time-warp to the medieval Peloponnese ... This remarkably romantic walled town — with the remains of an even bigger Upper Town scattered along the peak high above — is a stony museum of Byzantine, Ottoman, and Venetian history dating back to the 13th century. Summiting Monemvasia is a key experience on any Peloponnesian visit."

This is another archaeological site not to miss. As Steves notes on his website , "A visit to Mycenae is a trip back into prehistory to see some of the oldest remains of a complex civilization in all of Europe. Following the same ancient sandal-steps as the ancient Greeks, today's visitors continue to enjoy Mycenae's majestic setting of mountains, valleys, and the distant sea. Exploring this still-impressive hilltop, you'll discover the famous Lion Gate, a manageable museum, an enormous domed burial chamber...and distant echoes of the Trojan War." 

This was the base of the Mycenaean civilization, where Agamemnon, an icon instrumental in the defeat of the Trojans in Greek mythology, was from. Thousands of years before the era of Christ, people lived here. There are remnants of the large palaces, and the complex stone work from thousands of years earlier, and visitors can take it all in with a trip there. They will also see arches, traces of old fortifications, and fountains that attest to the formidable knowledge of the people here.

This lively Cycladic island has chic boutiques and vibrant nightlife. It's also a pretty destination, with stone alleys winding around the main town of Chora, blindingly white homes that contrast with the shimmering turquoise sea, and windmills that turn lazily in the breeze. There are plenty of places to stay here, from expensive, plush resorts to simple inns, as well as jewelry stores and art galleries for people who like to add shopping to their travel. Tourists will also discover castles, museums, churches, and an area known as Little Venice — where local merchants and traders built large homes near the water. Mykonos is a famous Greek Island that certainly lives up to its name.

For a peaceful excursion, head to the town of Ano Mera, which wraps around the monastery of Panagia Tourliani. Steves' feelings about the island are clear on his website . "Mykonos is the very picture of the perfect Greek island town: a seafront village crouched behind a sandy harbor, thickly layered with blinding white stucco, bright blue trim, and purple bougainvilleas. Mykonos' status as a fashionable, jet-set destination and a mecca for gay holiday makers also gives it a certain hip cachet (and sky-high prices) ... The core of town is literally a maze, designed by Mykonians centuries ago to discourage would-be invaders from finding their way."

On his website , Steves is effusive with praise about this Peloponnese spot. "The charming Peloponnesian port town of Nafplio is small, cozy, and strollable. Though it has plenty of tourism, Nafplio is both elegant and proud, retaining a certain genteel panache from its glory days as the capital of a newly independent Greece. It's a must-see because of its historical importance, its accessibility from Athens, and its handy location as a home base for touring the ancient sites of Epidavros and Mycenae." This town is a two-hour drive from Athens and has a mesmerizing old city with winding alleys and vertiginous stairways connecting them. There's also a waterfront with a promenade that makes for fine evening wanders and classic Greek tavernas. 

At the beaches, tourists can sun themselves by the day, or explore the town's three castles: Acronafplia, Bourtzi, and Palamidi. Nafplio was the capital of Greece in the early 1800s when it first became a country, and so it holds a special place in locals' hearts. It is named after Nafplios, the son of Poseidon and its founder, and features varied architecture, from Turkish fountains and mosques to Italian-style squares.

The famed ancient site is the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Located in the western part of the Peloponnese peninsula, it was a very sacred part of old Greece. Beginning in the year 776 B.C., people from all over Greece came together to compete in sports games, and the Olympic Games were born. Today's Olympia showcases its rich past, with old temples and buildings that were once thriving centers of sporting activity. At the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, aged artifacts include a statue of Hermes and sculpted works that adorned the Temple of Zeus. Each summer, festivals bring an added allure to Olympia. One features live performances, while another is a film festival that focuses on cinematic gems for youngsters. 

Writing on his website , Steves lauds Olympia's celebration of its past. "A visit to Olympia — most famous as the site of the original Olympic Games — offers one of your best opportunities for a hands-on antiquity experience. Line up at the original starting line in the 2,500-year-old Olympic Stadium. Visit the Temple of Zeus, former site of a gigantic statue of Zeus that was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Ponder the temple's once-majestic columns — toppled like towers of checkers by an earthquake — which are as evocative as anything from ancient times." Even with the crowds, Steves maintains that Olympia is "a magical place, with ruins nestled among lush, shady groves of pine trees."

One of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes, lies just off the coast of southern Turkey. It's a place of mountain villages and pine forests, as well as some revered historical sites. Steves describes the island aptly in a video . " Rhodes is built upon layers of civilizations — Italian, Greek, and Turkish, with a dash of medieval Crusader lore from all over Europe tossed in. Today, luxury yachts crowd the harbor. The island's main city, also called Rhodes, was one of the great cities of antiquity. The famed statue called the Colossus of Rhodes once towered above the city."  

This really is a destination with everything, from beaches backed by mountainous pine forests, ancient sites and monuments, and modern resorts that dot the coast. A visit inevitably starts in the main city, where the old town is fortified and is a proud representation of medieval architecture. This is where you would find an old palace, a lofty clock tower, museums, and churches, all set among snaking alleys. The newer part of the city is more Italian in style, a reflection of the era when Italians governed Rhodes. Beyond this hub, travelers can find buzzing resort areas like Ialysos, ancient monasteries, charming villages, and ruins of former great cities. If you yearn for attractive strips of sand, a thrilling hike will take you to one of Greece's most gorgeous, secluded beaches .

One of the most romantic destinations in Greece, Santorini is set on the caldera of a former volcano. Steves declares on his website that "this unique place has captured visitors' imaginations for millennia and might have partly inspired tales of Atlantis. But the otherworldly appeal of Santorini doesn't end with its setting. Perched along the ridgeline is a gaggle of perfectly placed whitewashed villages, punctuated with azure domes that make this, undeniably, one of Greece's most scenic spots. If this place didn't exist, some fantasy painter would have to conjure it up." Santorini is, in reality, a clutch of islands, though the main one is called Thira. 

The modern topography of Santorini resulted from a series of volcanic explosions that took place over many thousands of years, causing the volcano's main caldera to collapse and fill with water. That's why the island appears like part of a giant ring. The main town of Fira, set at one end of the caldera ridge, is a sight to behold. It's set hundreds of feet above the sea, with views of water and the island unfurling below. For many visitors, Oia is the most appealing destination, a village of pure, blinding white houses set among the lava rock. The beaches are equally hypnotic, and they come in a variety of shades, with sand that's beige, red, and black at various places around the island. It's also popular, so to avoid foot traffic,  visit this gorgeous Greek island instead of overcrowded Santorini .

Methodology

Steves clearly has a soft spot for Greece, and it's no surprise, given how beautiful and varied the country is. Visitors can see natural wonders, and also examples of man's ingenuity and architectural prowess. There are cultural tokens dotted around the lands of Greece and places of pure beauty that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler. We looked over Steves' website and videos and pulled together a list of the places that recurred, which were clearly destinations that he felt should not be missed. We supported his choices with a combination of independently sourced information from tourism boards and travel blogs, as well as our own travels around Greece.

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Watch CBS News

Beryl maps show path and landfall forecast of storm as it reaches Texas

By Cara Tabachnick , Emily Mae Czachor

Updated on: July 8, 2024 / 11:07 PM EDT / CBS News

After hitting Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, Beryl  churned across the Gulf of Mexico and made landfall over the middle Texas Gulf Coast as a Category 1 hurricane early Monday, the U.S. National Hurricane Center said. Beryl began weakening after making landfall and was downgraded to a tropical depression later Monday.

The storm blew past the Cayman Islands and Jamaica last week, initially making landfall over the island of Carriacou in Grenada while tearing through the Caribbean , strengthening at times to a Category 5 hurricane — the  strongest rating .

What is Beryl's projected path?

The hurricane center issued an update Monday evening saying Beryl was bringing flooding and the risk of tornadoes across portions of eastern Texas, western Louisiana and Arkansas.

As of 8 p.m. EDT, all  tropical storm warnings  and storm surge warnings for Texas had been lifted.

Beryl's eye "will move over eastern Texas today, then move through the Lower Mississippi Valley into the Ohio Valley on Tuesday and Wednesday," the hurricane center said. "Steady weakening is forecast, and Beryl is expected to become a post-tropical cyclone on Tuesday."

"An additional 4 to 8 inches of rainfall with localized amounts of 12 inches is expected across portions of eastern Texas through tonight," the hurricane center said Monday evening. "Considerable flash and urban flooding as well as minor to isolated major river flooding is expected. Heavy rainfall of 3 to 5 inches, with locally higher amounts, is expected across portions of far southeastern Oklahoma, Arkansas, and southern Missouri through Tuesday."

Before reaching the U.S., Beryl made landfall in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula on Friday as a Category 2 hurricane, just northeast of the resort town of Tulum, before weakening to a tropical storm and moving back into the Gulf.

Beryl became the  first hurricane  of the 2024  Atlantic hurricane season  at the end of June and rapidly strengthened. It was the first major hurricane east of the Lesser Antilles on record for June, according to Philip Klotzbach, Colorado State University hurricane researcher.

Brian McNoldy, a tropical meteorology researcher for the University of Miami, told the AP that warm waters fueled Beryl, with ocean heat content in the deep Atlantic the highest on record for this time of year.

Beryl also set records  as the first June hurricane ever to hit Category 4, the farthest east a storm has ever hit Category 4, and the first storm before September to go from tropical depression to major hurricane in under 48 hours, CBS News weather producer David Parkinson reported.

Beryl was also the earliest Category 5 hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic basin and was only the second Category 5 storm recorded in July since 2005, according to the hurricane center.

Brian Dakss, Alex Sundby and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Cara Tabachnick is a news editor at CBSNews.com. Cara began her career on the crime beat at Newsday. She has written for Marie Claire, The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal. She reports on justice and human rights issues. Contact her at [email protected]

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• Most People in 35 Countries Say China Has a Large Impact on Their National Economy

People in middle-income countries are more likely than those in high-income countries to view China’s economic influence positively

Table of contents.

• Overall favorability of China
• Confidence in Xi
• How much influence do people think China has on their country’s economy?
• Do people think China’s economic influence is positive or negative?
• Views of Chinese firms operating abroad
• Concerns about China’s territorial disputes with its neighbors
• Evaluations of China’s contributions to global peace and stability
• Acknowledgments
• About Pew Research Center’s Spring 2024 Global Attitudes Survey
• The American Trends Panel survey methodology

This Pew Research Center analysis focuses on public opinion of China in 35 countries across the Asia-Pacific region, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East-North Africa region, North America and sub-Saharan Africa. Views of China are examined in the context of long-term trend data.

For non-U.S. data, this analysis draws on nationally representative surveys of 40,566 adults conducted from Jan. 5 to May 21, 2024. All surveys were conducted over the phone with adults in Canada, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom. Surveys were conducted face-to-face in Argentina, Bangladesh, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ghana, Hungary, India, Israel, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, the Philippines, Poland, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tunisia and Turkey. In Australia, we used a mixed-mode probability-based online panel.

In the United States, we surveyed 3,600 adults from April 1 to April 7, 2024. Everyone who took part in this survey is a member of the Center’s American Trends Panel (ATP), an online survey panel that is recruited through national, random sampling of residential addresses. This way nearly all U.S. adults have a chance of selection. The survey is weighted to be representative of the U.S. adult population by gender, race, ethnicity, partisan affiliation, education and other categories. Read more about the ATP’s methodology .

Throughout the report, we analyze respondents’ attitudes based on where they place themselves on an ideological scale. We asked about political ideology using several slightly different scales and categorized people as being on the ideological left, center or right.

• In most countries, we asked people to place themselves on a scale ranging from “Extreme left” to “Extreme right.” The question was asked this way in Argentina, Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Israel, Italy, Mexico, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Peru, the Philippines, Poland, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Turkey and the United Kingdom.
• In Australia, the scale ranged from “Left” to “Right.”
• In Japan, Singapore, South Korea and Thailand, ideology was measured on a scale from “Extremely progressive” to “Extremely conservative.”
• In the U.S., ideology is defined as conservative (right), moderate (center) and liberal (left).
• Ideology was not asked about in Ghana, India, Kenya, Malaysia, Sri Lanka or Tunisia. 

Prior to 2024, combined totals were based on rounded topline figures. For all reports beginning in 2024, totals are based on unrounded topline figures, so combined totals might be different than in previous years. Refer to the 2024 topline to see our new rounding procedures applied to past years’ data.

Here are the questions used for the report, along with responses, and the survey methodology .

People around the world feel China’s economic influence where they live, according to a new Pew Research Center survey of 35 countries.

Large majorities in nearly all the nations we polled – spanning six continents and ranging in income level – say China has a great deal or a fair amount of influence on their country’s economic conditions.

And China’s economic influence is now felt more widely than it was when we last asked this question in 2019. In 10 of the 13 countries where trend data is available, a larger share say China has a great deal of impact on their country’s economy than said so five years ago.

But whether people see this influence as positive or negative varies widely. In most of the middle-income countries included in the survey, people tend to view China’s economic influence as a good thing. But in the high-income countries, people tend to see it as a bad thing.

• In the 17 middle-income countries surveyed, a median of 47% of adults say China has a positive influence on their country’s economy, while 29% say it has a negative impact.
• In the 18 high-income countries surveyed, a median of 57% of adults say China’s economic influence is negative , while 28% say it’s positive.

For this report, we grouped countries into high-income and middle-income categories based on definitions from the World Bank .

Americans are the most likely to have negative views of China’s economic impact. About three-quarters say China’s influence on the U.S. economy is negative. (Read more about Americans’ views of China in our May report.)

Where views on China’s economic influence have changed, they have generally become more negative. In Argentina, Brazil, Israel, Japan, South Korea and Tunisia, more say China has a negative economic influence on their country than said so in 2019. (Read more about perceptions of China’s economic impact in Chapter 2 .)

Overall favorability of China follows a similar pattern to views of its economic influence:

• Across the high-income countries surveyed, a median of 70% view China unfavorably . 
• Across the middle-income countries surveyed, a median of 56% view China favorably . (Read more about favorability in Chapter 1 .)

These are among the key findings of a new survey of 44,166 people in 35 countries conducted from Jan. 5 to May 21, 2024.

The report also includes some questions only asked in the Asia-Pacific region or in specific middle-income countries.

Views of Chinese firms are mixed

China launched its Belt and Road Initiative in 2013. Today, more than 10 years into the initiative, the country’s global outward foreign direct investment is close to $3 trillion . And according to a Bloomberg analysis of data from China’s Ministry of Commerce, its investments overseas are at their highest point in the last eight years.

At the same time, controversies have arisen about the environmental impact of Chinese firms operating abroad, how their workers are treated , and even whether Chinese investments benefit local economies or act as harmful competition .

Still, people in a number of middle-income nations have a positive impression of Chinese companies operating there. Across the nine nations where we asked about this, a 72% median say Chinese companies are good for their country’s economy. Views are most positive in Thailand (81%), Kenya (80%) and Bangladesh (79%), though a majority or plurality hold this view in each of the nine surveyed countries.

When it comes to whether Chinese companies work to protect the environment in these countries, opinion is a bit cooler. A median of 63% say Chinese companies do work to protect the environment. But in Ghana and South Africa, large shares say they do not.

Opinion is even more mixed on whether Chinese companies in each country treat local workers fairly. In Ghana, Nigeria, the Philippines and South Africa, around four-in-ten or more do not think Chinese companies operating in their country treat local workers fairly. (Read more about views of Chinese firms in Chapter 2 .)

China’s territorial disputes concern many in Asia-Pacific countries

China is party to multiple territorial disputes in the Asia-Pacific region, whether related to the South China Sea , the East China Sea or even specific borders such as those between China and India . Of the 10 Asia-Pacific countries we surveyed, majorities or pluralities in all but Thailand are at least somewhat concerned about these territorial disputes.

In the Philippines, for example, where border tensions with China largely center on the Second Thomas Shoal of the Spratly Islands , 91% say they are concerned about territorial disputes between China and its neighbors, including 65% who are very concerned. (Since fielding, the conflict has flared up over a collision in the area between Chinese and Philippine ships.)

Around three-quarters or more in Australia, Japan, Malaysia and South Korea also express concern. (Read more about views of China’s territorial disputes in Chapter 3 .)

In the Asia-Pacific, views differ on whether China contributes to global peace and stability

Across the Asia-Pacific region, we also asked people whether China contributes to peace and stability around the world. Opinion is divided: In Malaysia and Thailand, around two-thirds or more see it playing this role. About three-in-ten or fewer say the same in Australia, India, Japan and South Korea.

When we asked this question in 24 countries in 2023 , Australians, Japanese and South Koreans were some of the least likely to say China contributes to global peace and stability. They remain some of the most critical, but to a lesser extent than last year. Still, these three publics are generally less likely to say China plays this stabilizing role than to say the same about other regional powers we asked about (Australia, India and Japan).

(Read more about views of China’s role on the world stage in Chapter 3 .)

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ABOUT PEW RESEARCH CENTER  Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. It is a subsidiary of  The Pew Charitable Trusts .

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