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The 13 best places to visit in Greece this summer

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

When you’re sitting at your desk and dreaming of a holiday, you’re probably dreaming about Greece. Greece is pretty much what dreams are made of, after all, and it’s got the whole package; golden sands, blue waters, and enough of it to go again and again and never get bored. 

But Greece’s top islands and cities all offer something different. You’ve got the cosmopolitan metropolis of Athens , the Instagrammable white and blue houses of Santorini , and the hugely underrated island of Aegina just waiting to be explored. Whatever your style, here are the best islands, cities and towns to visit in Greece this summer. 

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

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

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Where to visit in Greece

1.  athens.

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

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

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

2.  Aegina

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

3.  Crete

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

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

Discover Crete:

📍  The best things to do in Crete

4.  Zakynthos

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

5.  Santorini

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

Discover Santorini:

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

6.  Tinos

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

7.  Naxos

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

8.  Corfu

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

Discover Corfu:

📍  The best things to do on Corfu

9.  Rhodes

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

Discover Rhodes:

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

10.  Kastellorizo

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

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

25 Best Things to Do in Greece

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

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

Here are the best things to do in Greece :

1. Tour the Acropolis

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

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

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

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

2. Climb Mount Olympus

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

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

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

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

3. Uncover Lake Plastira

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

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

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

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

4. Admire the architecture in Santorini

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

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

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

Check out this list of the best tours in Santorini

5. Visit the Delphi

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

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

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

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

Suggested tour : Delphi Guided Walking Tour

6. Explore the Samaria Gorge

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

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

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

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

7. Discover the Acropolis Museum

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

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

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

Book online : Acropolis Museum Tour

8. Marvel at the Epidaurus Theater

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

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

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

9. Visit the monasteries of Meteora

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

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

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

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

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

10. Go spelunking at Melissani Cave

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

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

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

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

Book online : Melissani Lake and Antisamos Beach Private Tour

11. Admire Hephaestus Temple

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

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

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

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

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

12. Marvel at the Corinth Canal

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

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

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

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

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

13. Learn some history at the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

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

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

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

14. Get a head for heights at Mount Athos

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

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

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

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

15. Explore the Palace of Malia

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

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

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

16. Enjoy Ancient Corinth

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

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

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

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

17. Visit the ancient site of Phaestos

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

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

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

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

18. Enjoy the myths and legends at Ancient Mycenae

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

20. Relax on Balos Beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

22. Visit the Vergina Royal Tombs Museum

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

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

23. Hike the Corfu Trail

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

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

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

24. Museum of Contemporary Art

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

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

25. Sunbathe in style at Psarou Beach

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

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

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

25 Best Things to Do in Greece:

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

The Journal

Travel Inspiration

The Best Places to Visit in Greece for the First Time: 14 Options

The Modern Travel Agency

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

Between the ancient city of Athens to Mykonos (the nightlife capital of the eastern Mediterranean) as well as many unique islands to explore, it can be tough to decide where to go in Greece for the first time. Below, we’re breaking down the best places to visit in Greece for first-timers. Whether you’re looking for incredible food  or the best beaches (or a bit of both), we’ve got you covered. 

For personalized recommendations, reach out to a Fora Advisor . Not only can your Fora Advisor provide expert travel suggestions and tips, but they can also unlock VIP perks at the best hotels in Greece (or anywhere). 

14 of the best places to visit in Greece for first-timers

Read on for 14 of the best places to visit in Greece, including some tried-and-true favorites as well as some off-the-beaten-path offerings.

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

Image courtesy of Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens

Considered by many historians to be the birthplace of Western civilization, Athens is an ancient city overflowing with culture. It’s also one of the best places to stay in Greece for first-time visitors. Remnants of Ancient Greece are prominently spread throughout the city’s narrow stone streets. The Acropolis (which has an accompanying museum), Hadrian’s Arc and the Temple of Zeus are among the most famous sites, but there are many more. (Insider tip: your Fora Advisor can help you arrange a private tour of the Acropolis, even one that’s after hours. Ask us how).

Athens is typically the hub city you’ll fly into on a trip to Greece, but it’s more than just a layover destination. It’s a great spot to sample Greek cuisine, local and upscale shopping, cultural experiences…the list goes on. 

But there’s plenty to do in Athens’ surrounding areas, too. To name a few, you can get off-the-beaten-path to Hydra , take a day trip to the Ruins of Delphi or enjoy a segue to the Athens Riviera. The latter is home to luxe resorts — like Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel, our top-booked hotel in all of Greece. More commonly known as the Four Seasons Athens , it’s worth noting that the property isn’t in Athens itself, it’s in the Riviera (driving from Athens proper takes anywhere from thirty minutes to two hours, depending on traffic). The One&Only Aesthesis is a welcome new contender to the hotel scene; it welcomed its first guests in November 2023. 

We recommend the Athens Riviera at the end of your trip – it’s a great spot for some quality R&R time, especially if you’ve had a jam-packed schedule in the rest of your trip. However, you might also opt for the Athens Riviera before your trip (or as a destination in itself). Just note that you’ll get a different, more laid-back vibe there than you will with the bustling city center in Athens proper. 

For more intel on Athens and the Athens Riviera, check out our guides to how many days in Athens you need or the best boutique hotels in Athens (A77 is a great local option that’s hidden behind a boutique clothing store). You can always connect with a Fora Advisor for a personalized itinerary.

Fora Perks at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens:

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

Fora Perks at A77 Suites by Andronis:

Complimentary air & concierge services.

Fora Perks at One&Only Aesthesis:

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

3. Mykonos: a vibrant island known for its party life

Image courtesy of Cali Mykonos

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

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

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

As for places to stay, Cali Mykono s is one of our favorite properties on the island (whether it’s your first visit or otherwise). Whitewashed villas built into a rocky hillside provide lavish furnishings and gorgeous views of the Mediterranean. It’s worth noting that Cali Mykonos is located on a quieter side of the island, so you’ll have a respite from the party crowds. 

If you’re traveling with a group, BlueVillas are a great option. They have different villas across the entire island, in a variety of different price points and sizes. Your Fora Advisor can help matchmake you to one that matches your travel preferences. BlueVillas are a great hybrid option between a hotel and rental home because their team can help to arrange private chefs, transportation and 24/7 bespoke service.

Fora Perks at Cali Mykonos:

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

4. Santorini: if you’re craving that Instagrammable moment

Image courtesy of Katikies Santorini

Santorini’s popularity puts it near the top of many travelers’ lists of where to go in Greece for the first time. Chances are, you’ve seen the island’s whitewashed cliffs more than a few times on your Instagram feed. 

Yes, Santorini is becoming more touristy, but if the destination is high on your bucket list, it’s still worth a visit. We recommend visiting in the shoulder seasons to avoid the crowds; May is a great time for fewer (but still a lot) of tourists, plus you’ll also get milder climates. 

Santorini’s sunsets are among the best in the world. Even locals often make a point of stopping whatever they’re doing to admire the coming dusk.Santorini’s popularity means there’s something to do for everyone here. You can take a boat tour of nearby islands, check out the local villages, go shopping, enjoy an Aperol Spritz with a stunning view… There’s a reason this is a bucket list destination for many. 

In terms of where to stay, if you saw Santorini on Instagram and you want to replicate that classic Santorini experience, Katikies is a great option. It’s got a boutique feel to it which serves the property well. It is worth noting that if you stay in the popular caldera area, you won’t get as much privacy, but if this is your must-have bucketlist spot, then it’s a good bet. Alternatively, Canaves Oia is located just on the other side (within a walkable distance) of the tourist hot spots, and it’s a respite in itself. 

Or, if you’re looking for a quieter, more intimate experience just outside of Santorini, Santa Irini Retreat is located on the nearby (and very small) island of Thirasia. A small home, Santa Irini Retreat is perfect for a group getaway, or, we’re daydreaming of the perfect small wedding hosted on the island. 

Fora Perks at Katikies Santorini:

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

Fora Perks at Canaves Oia:

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

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

Image courtesy of Minos Beach Art Hotel

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

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

“From secluded beachfront retreats to lavish resorts nestled in historical settings, Crete offers an array of unforgettable accommodations to suit every taste,” Fora Advisor Elizabeth Kaczka explained in her travel guide on the island .

For families, Elizabeth recommends the Elounda Gulf Villas & Suites, Elounda.

“Perched on a hillside overlooking the Gulf of Mirabello, the hotel is ideal for families and couples seeking ultimate privacy and personalized service,” she said.

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

Image courtesy of Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort, Paros

Paros is quickly rising in the ranks as one of the top islands to visit in Greece. It’s got a more laid back, quiet vibe, and is perfect for those who simply want to relax. The island offers a much more authentic experience than some of the more popular destinations: for example, you’ll find more local, boutique stores than the big chains like Gucci and Prada that you’ll see in Mykonos. The locals are friendly, Greek culture is celebrated, the scenery is extraordinary. Paros is a special choice with a boutique vibe that resonates well with people who love off-the-beaten-path travel .

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

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

Fora Perks at Parīlio, a Member of Design Hotels:

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

7–8. Thessaloniki & Mount Olympus National Park: a mix of contemporary Greek culture & natural beauty

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

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

From the iconic White Tower to the trendy neighborhood of Ladadika (The Met is a great choice if you don’t mind it’s slightly out-of-the-way location), Thessaloniki invites first-time visitors to wander a mix of trendy and ancient haunts, savor diverse cuisine and immerse themselves in its captivating mix of past and present.

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

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

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

Fora Perks at The Met, Thessaloniki:

Welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

9. Kefalonia: a special island for nature enthusiasts

The largest of the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia is home to dramatic landscapes and some of the best beaches in the Greek Isles. Myrtos Beach, for example, is consistently ranked among the world's best beaches. 

Other unique highlights include Melissani Cave and its enchanting blue lake, which offer a magical experience for visitors. And the island’s small villages, such as Fiskardo with its Venetian architecture, provide a glimpse into the island's rich history and culture. 

Celestial and Eliamos Villas Hotel are among the top accommodations on Kefalonia. Both cater to small groups and travelers seeking homey, spacious suites or private villas. 

Fora Perks at Celestial All Suites:

€20 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, upgrade & extended check-out whenever possible. 

Fora Perks at Eliamos Villas Hotel & Spa:

Breakfast daily.

10. Naxos: a lovely island ideal for tranquil getaways

Image courtesy of Naxian Collection

Like Kefalonia, Naxos offers an enchanting mix of ancient history and natural beauty. It is the greenest island in the Cyclades group, and offers valleys, mountains and landscapes that differ from the more arid terrain of other islands. Quiet beaches like Agios Prokopios and Plaka boast golden sands and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. 

The island is steeped in deep Greek mythology: it is known as the birthplace of Zeus. The island's deep history is evident in landmarks like the Portara (a.k.a. the ancient Greek Temple of Apollo), a massive marble gateway that stands as a testament to its ancient past. Traditional villages like Apiranthos and Halki invite visitors to explore cobbled streets, local crafts and authentic cuisine. Then lush landscapes provide a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering excellent hiking and cycling trails.

There aren’t many hotels and resorts on Naxos — which is part of its charm— but one place that stands out is the Naxian Collection. The resort is made up of a collection of whitewashed villas promising beautiful views, privacy and luxe amenities.

Naxos' close proximity to smaller islands like Paros, Antiparos and the Small Cyclades makes it convenient for island-hopping day trips.

Fora Perks at Naxian Collection:

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

11. Rhodes: one of the best places to visit in Greece for history buffs

Image courtesy of Rodos Park

The island of Rhodes (or Rodos) is best known for its walled, UNESCO-recognized medieval city center , which dates back to the 14th century. Yet, even within the castle walls, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Rhodes : narrow alleys host interesting shops, lively tavernas and local homes. It’s another island rich with Greek mythology history, and is believed to be the island where the sun god Helios resided. The island’s name comes from the nymph Rhodos, who bore seven sons to Helios.

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

If you’re looking to add on a lesser-known day trip, Rhodes' location in the Dodecanese chain close to Türkiye allows for easy day trips across the border.

Fora Perks at Rodos Park:

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

Image courtesy of Lesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort

Zakynthos isn’t quite as glamorous (or Instagrammed) as Mykonos, but it’s arguably just as electric, particularly in the region of Laganas. Along its rocky coasts, you’ll still find lavish resorts (like Lesante Blu) intermixed with nightclubs, bars and restaurants. A few crowd favorites include Rescue Club and CherryBay Beach Club. 

The island also hosts stunning natural beauty, with Navagio Beach being one of the top spots. Turquoise waves tumble over white sands while rougher seas are usually kept at bay by surrounding mountains and cliffs, which also happen to make the beach inaccessible by land. A Fora Advisor can connect you with the best boat tour operators on the island (our guide to exploring Zakynthos has more details). For animal lovers, it’s worth noting that Zakynthos is a major nesting ground for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle. Areas like Laganas Bay are protected as part of the National Marine Park to safeguard these nesting sites.

Fora Perks at Lesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort:

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

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

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

It is another island known as one of the top party islands in Europe, especially the Kavos area.On the coasts, beach resorts (such as Domes Miramare), clubs and taverns offer a lively nightlife scene. 

As you move inland, small towns showcase a quieter side of Greek island life and historical architecture. If you’re interested in spending a few days in Corfu , our guide offers itinerary ideas. 

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

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

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

Image courtesy of Domes White Coast Milos

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

The island also has beautiful outdoor offerings. It’s known for stunning beaches like Sarakiniko, as well as volcanic landscapes that formed the island’s geology.  

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

Fora Perks at Domes White Coast Milos:

A few tips for your first visit to Greece

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

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

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

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

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

Greece is largely a family-friendly destination 

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

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

English is widely spoken in urban areas & popular destinations

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

Greece is a great destination for island hopping

You don’t have to choose just one spot to visit in Greece. The islands are pretty easy to get around, and many travelers opt to include several in an itinerary (especially if you have a week or more for your vacation). A lot of travelers also pair Athens with an island visit. Reach out to a Fora Advisor to share your travel preferences, and they can help to make some recommendations for your trip.

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

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

For personalized travel recommendations, book and plan your trip with a Fora Advisor . They’ll help you navigate all your options — and can curate an itinerary that’ll take you to many of the best places to visit in Greece, including island hopping. Plus, they’ll help you unlock perks and insider experiences throughout your trip. Reach out to book today.

Other travel inspiration resources

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Florence, Birthplace of the Renaissance

Fora's Guide to Portugal Hotels: Lisbon Edition  

3 of the Top Hotels in Porto, Portugal

Morocco’s Best Places to Visit: 6 Captivating Destinations

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Everything You Need to Know to Plan Your Perfect Greek Islands Vacation

From choosing the right hotel to getting around, here's how to plan the ultimate island-hopping adventure in Greece.

Planning a trip to the Greek islands can be intimidating, even for the most seasoned travelers. With more than 200 inhabited isles (and about 6,000 islands and islets in total), the magnitude of the archipelagos is astounding. Each has its own character and aesthetic, from Cyclades islands dotted with white-and-blue houses to the lush and green Ionian Islands to the castle-lined Dodecanese.

Overall, Greece has six main island groups, plus a significant stand-alone: Crete. It's generally easiest to travel between islands within one group than to hop between archipelagos. In this guide, we'll break down the best Greek islands to visit, including what each island group is known for, and how to travel within each archipelago.

Getting Around the Greek Islands

While many of the Greek islands have airports, not all of them have international terminals. Many are serviced solely by domestic carriers like Aegean Airlines , and you can only fly from neighboring islands or Athens. However, some of the most popular islands (including Crete and Santorini) have international airports, where you can fly directly from cities in Europe or the Middle East.

Traveling by ferry simplifies island hopping, especially if you're just exploring one archipelago. In the Cyclades, Seajets is the high-speed ferry, though travelers can find all options (including less expensive ferries) via Greek Ferries . It is possible, of course, to rent a car in Athens — or on one of the islands — and drive it onto the ferry, essentially turning your island-hopping excursion into a seafaring road trip. However, it's easy to rent a car on the islands, too, provided you have an international driver's license with you.

When to Visit the Greek Isles

May, June, and late September are great times to travel if you're looking for nice weather but still hoping to avoid the crowds. The high season (mid-June to mid-September) offers more ferry routes, flight options, and open restaurants and beach bars, but it also means more tourists and higher prices. Each island group has its own weather to look into — Crete is warmest year-round, making it a great choice for late fall or winter. And while some Greek islands, such as Hydra, are full of locals and see tourists year-round, others, such as Santorini, get very quiet in the off-season (November to March). Here, we've put together an overview of each group of islands (and the highlights of each archipelago) to help you plan your next Grecian adventure.

The Cyclades Islands

Monica Farber/Travel + Leisure

This archipelago is the most common first stop for American travelers in Greece, with two of the most-visited islands: Mykonos and Santorini. A group of about two dozen inhabited islands (and 220 total isles), this bunch looks like all the postcards of Greece you've seen: white churches with blue domes and pink bougainvillea vines shading secluded side streets.

Mykonos is known for its nightlife and see-and-be-seen beaches, but it also has a gorgeous Cycladic village in its center, with windmills and winding lanes designed to confuse pirates centuries ago. Home to an array of top-notch hotels , Santorini is romantic and luxurious, beloved by honeymooners lounging in their private pools overlooking the caldera. For those looking for alternatives to Mykonos and Santorini, options abound. Up-and-coming Milos has otherworldly beaches and the famed sea caves, Tinos is the site of a famous Church of the Virgin Mary, and the rustic Lesser Cyclades (Koufonisia, Donousa, Schinoussa, and Iraklia) are great for camping. There are large islands, like Naxos and Syros, the archipelago's capital, and tiny ones with very little tourism, like Sikinos.

How to Travel the Cyclades Islands

The tourist season on the Cycladic islands runs from mid-April to mid-October (peaking in June, July, and August). If it's your first time in the area, you'll want to start by visiting Mykonos or Santorini. On Santorini, you'll find great wineries, like Venetsanos and Santo , while on Mykonos, it's the nightlife that will keep you coming back, with iconic clubs like Scorpios and Super Paradise Beach Club . When exploring some of the smaller islands, like Ios, Folegandros, and Milos, swim, snorkel, and wander the fortress-like capital of each island. The cobbled alleyways are home to shops, galleries, bars, and tavernas (on most islands the main town is called "Chora"; on Milos, it's "Plaka"). And don't miss sailing adventures around the Cycladic islands — look into companies like Polco Sailing on Milos and Sunset Oia Cruises on Santorini.

Where to Stay

On Santorini, start your trip by staying amid the iconic white-and-blue cliffside houses of Oia at Andronis Luxury Suites . Next, move along the caldera to the village of Imerovigli, where you'll find some of the most over-the-top and romantic hotels, including Andronis Concept Wellness Resort and Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection . Finally, stay a night in the old town of Pyrgos at Santorini Sky .

You have plenty of world-class options on Mykonos . Start your vacation, for example, at The Wild Hotel by Interni , which has a luxurious boutique atmosphere and a private beach for guests. Spend a few exceptionally romantic nights at Kalesma Mykonos , where each suite has its own infinity-edge pool — ideal for a honeymoon in Greece

Elsewhere in the Cyclades, look for luxury boutique hotels (many, like The Wild and Kalesma, are family owned). Try Milos Breeze on Milos, Coco-Mat Eco Residences on Serifos, Calilo on Ios, and the Naxian Collection Luxury Villas & Suites on Naxos.

The largest Greek island (and the southernmost, roughly halfway between Europe and Africa), Crete could be its own country. Because there's so much to explore, many travelers focus their energy on the 160-mile-long island rather than straying to other archipelagos.

How to Travel on Crete

The island has two main airports, making Crete very easy to get to from Athens. Once you're on the island, it's a good idea to rent a car; it takes about six hours to drive from one end of Crete to the other.

The island boasts some of the best beaches in Greece , including Elafonissi, with its unparalleled pink sand, and Elounda, known for its five-star beach clubs. Hike the Samaria Gorge (which takes five to seven hours through streams and between cliffs), or walk through wildflowers along paths in the mountain villages. Visit the ruins of the Knossos Palace, home of the Minoan empire (and the dreaded Minotaur monster), and the Boutari Winery if you're interested in sampling Cretan wines. Finally, if you have time for a day trip, the isle of Spinalonga, off the coast of Elounda, is worth visiting for its wild beauty and tragic history — it was home to a colony of people affected by leprosy until 1957.

Where to Stay on Crete

With picturesque olive groves sloping down to sandy beaches, Elounda has become something of a Cretan Riviera. This stretch along the island's northeast coast is lined with swanky resorts including Crete's only Relais & Chateaux property, the Elounda Mare , and the contemporary Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa .

Outside the island's capital city of Heraklion is the family-friendly five-star beachfront resort Amirandes , part of the national Grecotel chain (take a detour to have dinner on their farm, Agreco ). Moving west, you'll find the well-preserved Venetian town of Rethymno, and more historic boutique hotel options like Kapsaliana Village Hotel , built around an 18th-century olive oil mill, and Casa Delfino , a renovated 17th-century mansion inside the walled old town of Chania.

Saronic Gulf Islands

The closest island group to Athens is also home to some of the most scenic, under-the-radar isles. Hydra, Spetses, Poros, Aegina, and little Agistri are popular with Greek weekenders and European visitors but are less known to Americans.

How to Travel the Saronic Gulf Islands

The Nantucket of Greece, car-free Hydra is tiny but mighty. Spetses has green pine trees, yachts parked in the harbor, and traditional horse-drawn carriages along its waterfronts. Family-friendly Poros, with tree-shaded beaches and a charming town dominated by a clock tower, is popular among sailing aficionados. Aegina, the closest island to Athens, has a large port town, sandy beaches, and the ancient Temple of Aphaia dedicated to the goddess of Athena. Because the Saronic Gulf islands are so close to Athens, getting here is simple — a hydrofoil from the port of Piraeus ferries you from Athens to each of these destinations.

Hydra and Spetses are brimming with converted captains' homes (we like the Cotommatae on Hydra and Orloff Resort on Spetses). On Poros, Sto Roloi is a collection of traditional island houses turned into holiday villas, while Sirene Blue Luxury Beach Resort offers plush suites and villas with access to swimming pools and a private beach. Renting a villa through Five Star Greece is also an option, especially on Aegina where weekend homes outshine the hotels. The crown jewel of the Saronic Gulf is Spetses' harborfront Poseidonion Grand Hotel, established in 1914, which is just as lavish as its name suggests.

The Ionian Islands

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Lush and green, the Ionian Islands (also known as "Eptanissia" or the "seven islands") offer unique local culture, music, art, cuisine, and architecture. While the Ionians are known, first and foremost, for Corfu, the six other main islands hold their own and attract their fair share of tourists, too.

How to Travel the Ionian Islands

On Corfu, you'll want to wander the streets of the island's UNESCO-protected Old Town . Near Corfu, tiny Paxos is covered in olive trees, with three charming bays and a satellite island, Antipaxos, known for its translucent waters. The largest of the Ionian Islands in size, Kefalonia is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Greece and has semi-wild horses running around Mount Ainos in its center. Zakynthos is home to Navagio Beach (also known as Shipwreck Beach), accessible only by sea, and iconic blue caves you can swim through. Lefkada, connected to the mainland by a bridge, has woodland villages and some of Greece's best beaches along its shores. Small Ithaka, known to Homer fans as the home of Odysseus, is still relatively undiscovered. Finally, Kythera is the outlier — it looks more Cycladic than Ionian and is more easily reached from the Peloponnese.

Corfu, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, and Kythera all have airports, which receive domestic flights from Athens as well as international charters and airlines.

On Corfu, options range from stylish seaside resorts like the Grecotel Corfu Imperial to historic 18th-century estates in the Tuscan-like interior such as the Pelecas Country Club . Near the Old Town, the first Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts property in Europe, Angsana Corfu , offers a gorgeous seaside enclave with 159 rooms and lavish pool villas.

On Kefalonia, the ultra-modern Tesoro Blu is an adults-only oasis just outside the village of Skala, and the Emelisse Nature Resort is a gem outside the picture-perfect town of Fiscardo. Its sister property on Ithaka, the Perantzada , is a contemporary hotel within a 19th-century mansion on the harbor in Vathy. Little Paxos is all villa rentals and rooms to rent except for a few intimate hotels, like Agali Hotel Paxos and Paxos Club Resort & Spa . On Zakynthos, Porto Zante Villas & Spa is a swanky oasis on the busy eastern coast, and in the quiet north of the island, near the blue caves, Nobelos is a four-suite, family-run hotel beloved for its organic restaurant.

The Sporades Islands

There are 24 of these green islands off of the northeastern coast of mainland Greece, but only four are inhabited — and if you've seen "Mamma Mia , " you know what they look like. Dark green pine trees, white churches, and lots of sand, rocks, and singing. It's all part of the Sporades experience.

How to Travel the Sporades Islands

Buzzy Skiathos is famous for its gold-sand beaches and nightlife, while low-key Skopelos is a natural paradise of white pebble coves, oak forests, monasteries, traditional villages, and lots of shipwrecks off the coast in the National Marine Park of Alonissos and Northern Sporades . Alonissos is at the center of the National Marine Park, a great base for fishing, bird-watching, and spotting the protected Mediterranean monk seal. Finally, Skyros is known for its ceramics and local crafts, churches, and gorgeous Chora, a mountaintop capital crowned by a Venetian castle.

To get to the Sporades, you can fly directly from Athens to Skiathos and Skyros. Skiathos is also served by a ferry from Thessaloniki. In summer, hydrofoils sail to all four islands from the port of Agios Konstantinos on the mainland. You can travel between the islands by ferry or private boat.

On these four islands, tourism is all about sailing, swimming, mountain biking, sea kayaking, and hiking. Hit the beaches — Skiathos's swanky Ambelakia to see and be seen, Skyros's Kalamitsa for wind-surfing, Skopelos's Hovolo for pine-scented breezes. Above all, do not miss sailing, swimming, or scuba diving in the marine park.

There are villas to rent all over the islands (like the ones with private pools run by Poikilma Villas on Alonissos). For a more full-service hotel, try the family-run Atrium Hotel above Agia Paraskevi beach in Skiathos, or the Adrina Resort & Spa on the beach in Skopelos.

The Northeast Aegean Islands

This collection of more than a dozen islands (the five most notable being Ikaria, Samos, Lemnos, Lesvos, and Chios) is the area of Greece closest to Turkey. For your journey here, you'll be richly rewarded with incredible beaches and natural wonders (a petrified forest on Lesvos, volcanic rocks and sand dunes on Limnos, and thermal springs on Ikaria).

How to Travel the Northeast Aegean Islands

Lemnos, Lesvos (also known as Mytilene), and Samos all have international airports, and Chios and Ikaria have domestic ones. There are several ferries from the port of Piraeus in Athens that can take you to these islands as well.

Visit the archaeological sites of the Temple of Hera on Samos, the acropolis on Thassos, the ancient city of Ifestia on Lemnos, and the magnificent castle atop Lesvos. While these islands are famous for their history, they're also known for their water sports. Keros Beach on Lemnos is one of the best places to kite- or windsurf in Europe. As for swimming, it's hard to beat the Seitani coves on Samos, Kipos beach on Samothrace, white-sand Seychelles on Ikaria, and Vatera on Lesvos.

Time-travel back to when Genovese nobility ruled Chios and stay at the majestic Argentikon Luxury Suites in a 16th-century estate. Sleep above popular Tsamadou beach at the Armonia Bay Hotel on Samos, overlooking the sea at Toxotis Villas on Ikaria, or on the beach in a luxury safari tent through Surf Club Limnos .

The Dodecanese Islands

This archipelago gets its name from the Greek number 12 (dodeca) because it contains — you guessed it — a dozen main islands and multiple smaller ones. Rhodes and Kos are the two largest islands, while the smaller 10 are quieter and less discovered.

How to Travel the Dodecanese Islands

Rhodes and Kos have international airports (making them popular among travelers who fly in from England and Germany), and Astypalaia, Kalymnos, and Karpathos receive domestic flights. All 12 main islands are served by ferries from the port of Athens, Piraeus.

Rhodes is known for its beautifully preserved walled city with Crusader castles and an ancient synagogue. And in the town of Lindos, there's an ancient Greek acropolis at the top of the hill, a medieval village in the middle, and a modern town on the beach at the bottom. Highlights on adjacent islands include the mansions of Kasos, the brightly painted houses of Kastellorizo, and the hilltop Chora (historic center) of Astypalea, one of the prettiest fortified villages in all of Greece. For a more active Greek isles experience, retreat to Karpathos to hike or windsurf, or scuba dive amid the World War II wrecks on Leros.

On Rhodes, soak in the atmosphere at Melenos Lindos , a 17th-century building with a pebbled mosaic roof deck offering sea views, set into the hill just under the acropolis. On Astypalaia, the island's breathtaking Chora is both the inspiration for, and the location of, Pylaia Boutique Hotel & Spa , which has a pool, spa, and ocean views from the Plori restaurant at its peak. And finally, on Patmos, overlooking the sea (and the famous Kalikatsou rock), The Petra offers luxurious suites equally convenient for the beach and the Monastery of St. John the Theologian .

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The 20 Best Places To Visit In Greece For An Unforgettable Family Travel Experience

Discover the top family-friendly destinations in Greece! From the sun-soaked beaches of Crete to the enchanting villages of Naxos, explore the best places to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Find the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure for your family getaway in Greece.

My family travels a lot. We love exploring new countries, cultures, and foods. But it’s rare that we visit the same destination twice. There are just too many places in the world that we want to visit.

But we made an exception for Greece . Not only did we visit twice. After traveling the Greek mainland, we came back just three months later to cruise the Greek islands.

What was the draw that brought us to this ancient country in the south of Europe? The truth is, it was our kids. We are passionate about family travel. One of the things that keeps our travels exciting for us and fun for the kids is having them be part of the travel planning.

The boys were right in the middle of reading an exciting book series that was inspiring their love of travel to Greece. The series by an author named Rick Riordan called Percy Jackson and the Olympians and was all about Greek Gods living in the modern world.

So when we told them about our upcoming travels to Greece, we let them choose their top places to visit. Unfortunately, there was no way that we could see all of them, but we did our best.

On our kids’ list of the places to visit in Greece were Athens, Sounion, Delphi, Olympia, Meteora, and Crete. These are all spots mentioned in their book series. But as a family, we knew we could add a few extra stops to our Greece itinerary.

Ultimately, on our family travels in Greece , we ended up visiting Athens, Sounion, Corinth, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Nafplio, Mystras, Monemvasia, Delphi, Olympia, Meteora, and finally, the Hill of Kolonos. We returned during the summer for a cruise that brought us from Kusadasi in Turkiye through Crete, Santorini, Mykonos, Milos, Athens, and finally on to Thessaloniki before returning to our four weeks of travel in Turkiye.

Why Should You Travel To Greece

We knew before we even left home that Greece was going to be incredible. It is after all, one of the top destination for family travel in the world. And with good reason.

Greece, as a country, can trace its history back a stunning 5,000 years. That’s a date that puts it on par with the building of the famous Step Pyramid in Egypt . Unlike many countries, the history of this incredible Mediterranean nation is recorded in detail.

The famous stories of Greek Gods on Mount Olympos can be tracked through some of the country’s most famous ruins, such as the Acropolis in Athens, the ruins of Delphi, and the Palace of Knossos on the island of Crete.

Greece helped to shape the world as we know it today.

But the allure of Greece goes far beyond its history. The country’s culture and culinary scene manage to cast its spell on travelers to this day, and with a vast coastline, stunning mountains, and some of the world’s best beaches, the natural beauty of Greece alone makes it a destination worthy of family travel.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Greece?

We traveled to Greece twice within one year. Once in late March and once in early August. The difference was staggering.

High season in Greece runs from early April through to October. Peak travel season takes place during the summer months of August and July. During those two months, especially in Athens and the Greek Islands, travel within the cities might seem a bit like squeezing yourself into a sardine can.

We visited Santorini at the height of the travel season, and although there were some quiet hidden gems on the island, the main tourist attractions were suffocating.

If you’re able to visit during the shoulder season from September through October or from March to June, you’re likely to face far thinner crowds and enjoy lower costs than you will during the peak season.

Winter in Greece can get cold with some rainfall and even snow in the mountains. Some sites, especially those on the islands may be closed for the season as, in some destinations, tourists vanish completely.

Best Places To Visit On The Greece Mainland

If you’re planning your travels and are wondering where to visit on the Greek mainland, you’ve come to the right place. Below, I lay out all of the best places to visit in the country and what makes each one so special.

Let’s face it, all roads through Greece begin in Athens. This is the country’s capital and its largest city. Athen has been at the heart of Greece for millennia and it’s home to some of the countries most famous attractions, the Acropolis and the Parthenon.

Athens is Europe’s oldest capital city, and it’s also home to the oldest street in Europe, Tripodon Street, in the city center. While the city’s history is its biggest draw, it is also a modern cosmopolitan hub. As you venture out from the historic center, with its narrow cobblestone streets and ancient monuments, you’ll find incredible museums and art galleries, amazing shopping, and some of the country’s best restaurants.

Central Athens is very family-friendly and easy to travel on foot. You’ll want to spend about two days exploring famous spots such as the Plaka, the Monastiraki shopping district, and the first modern Olympic stadium.

If you’re a fan of Greek mythology, Delphi is likely near the top of your top places to go in Greece. This ancient mountaintop temple was home to the Oracle of Delphi, who was believed to have delivered prophecies from the God Apollo from atop a rock.

On this temple complex on the Mountain of Parnassus, the Temple of Apollo is still standing along with the rock from which the prophecies were delivered. Along with many temples and buildings you’ll also find an ancient Olympic oval and the beautiful Athena Treasury.

We spent about three hours exploring the ruins of Delphi. Although, we could have easily spent another hour or more. The visit involves a lot of steep walks on slippery marble, so make sure you wear grippy shoes .

Delphi is located about two and a half hours from Athens and makes a popular day tour from the city. This is one of the most popular tour options from Viator .

Located on a series of narrow peninsulas jutting out into the Aegean Sea in northern Greece, not too far from the city of Thessaloniki, Halkidiki is an off-the-beaten-path Greek destination that families will love for its impossibly blue water and soft, sandy beaches.

While we didn’t get to Halkidiki on our visit to Greece, it’s high on our list of places to visit when we return.

The region is known for its crystal clear waters and exciting beach scene that draws families from across Europe and the world to high-end resorts such as Ikos Olivia.

Each of the Halkidiki peninsulas offers a unique charm that ranges from the energetic to the laid back. The region isn’t without its own history either. Nearby are the historical Mount Athos, a monastic city dating back 1,200 years.

Located south of Athens in the northeast of the Peloponnese, Epidaurus is one of the most popular archaeological destinations in Greece. What makes it so famous is the incredible quality of the ruins of this ancient city that was built around 400 BCE.

While you’ll find amazing buildings throughout this UNESCO World Heritage Site, the most famous is the remarkable ancient theater, which still hosts concerts and performances to this day. Tickets to the Greek dramas, concerts, and festivals at Epidaurus sell out incredibly fast. If you have a chance to book one, I highly recommend it.

If you’re as lucky as us, maybe an inspired singer will step into the theater’s sweet spot and serenade the crowd.

Wow, just wow. Meteora may be one of the most beautiful places that I have ever visited. Do not miss the sunset over this magical landscape.

Located in the region of Thessaly just outside the town of Kalabaka, right in the center of Greece, Meteora is made up of many vertical mountain tops that have been carved out by fault lines and erosion to create one of the most unique and awe-inspiring landscapes in the world, comparable to Cappadocia, Turkiye , but far more lush and green.

Located at the top of many of these mountains is a collection of beautiful hermit-like monasteries and nunneries, as well as cave churches that can be traced back to the 11th century CE.

If your love hiking and climbing, Meteora is an absolute paradise. You’ll find plenty of outdoor tours that can take you into some of the hidden areas of these mountains. This tour is the perfect introduction to rock climbing.

Thessaloniki

The city of Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece. It was the last stop on our Aegean Cruise through the Greek Islands before heading back to Turkiye.

At first glance, you’d be hard-pressed not to mistake the streets of Thessaloniki for Paris. That’s because the architect who was charged with designing the city’s layout was Parisian, and he wanted to model the city after his home.

While we were in Thessaloniki, we took in the views from the beautiful “White Tower” along the waterfront before strolling through the town to see Hadrian’s Wall before making a stop at the  Hagia Sophia . No, not THAT Hagia Sophia, which we had seen while exploring  Istanbul with our kids . This Hagia Sophia is much smaller and less intricately adorned, but its history uniquely parallels that of its more famous sister in Istanbul.

Thessaloniki is known for its lively atmosphere, vibrant street life, and thriving culinary scene. The city’s waterfront promenade, stretching along the Aegean Sea, is a popular spot for leisurely strolls, offering panoramic views of the sea and the cityscape. Meanwhile, Thessaloniki’s diverse neighborhoods boast an array of trendy cafes, traditional tavernas, and chic boutiques, creating a dynamic urban experience.

Messolonghi

Messalonghi is another of the places on my Greece bucket list for when my family returns. Located on the edge of the Kilsova Lagoon along the Ionian Sea in the west of Greece, this beautiful fishing town played a crucial role in the Greek Revolution in the early 1800s. The town’s defense against Ottoman forces is celebrated across the country every year.

This is one of the country’s hidden gems. Few tourists have had the luck of stumbling upon it yet. Those who do are welcomed with some spectacular attractions, such as the Garden of Heroes , which commemorates the fallen soldiers from the Greek Revolution and the country’s struggle for independence.

The unique lagoon that the city sits on the shores of spans over 160 kilometers and is a protected wetland renowned for its biodiversity and birdlife. It’s a fantastic spot for outdoor lovers and those who enjoy kayaking, hiking, and boating.

Sports have always been a big part of my family. My kids both play high-level hockey and are involved in track and field. I was a swimmer and competed in track and field in my youth. So when we had the chance to visit the place where it all got started, there was nothing that was going to stand in our way.

Olympia is one of the top places to visit in Greece for history and sports enthusiasts. After all, this former urban powerhouse was the location of the very first Olympic Games over 3,000 years ago.

While the site is mostly in ruins, you can still visit the ancient stadium as well as the very first Olympic Oval. If you look closely, you can still make out the starting lines. Olympia also has two stunning temples, the temples of Zeus and Hera.

We only had a very short time to visit, as we were coming to Olympia after visiting Delphi. But I’d recommend giving yourself at least a couple of hours to see Olympia thoroughly.

The town of Sounion on the southern tip of the Attica Peninsula about an hour from Athens was my family’s first stop in Greece. As I mentioned earlier, my boys’ love of the story series Percy Jackson and the Olympians fueled our desire to visit this country. And Percy Jackson himself was the son of Poseidon.

Well, Sounion is home to the Temple of Poseidon, so there was no better place to start our family travels in Greece than this historic destination.

This historic temple was built between 444 and 440 BCE and was dedicated to the famous God of the Sea. It’s perched dramatically atop a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea and there are breathtaking views from around it, especially at sunset.

The Temple of Poseidon isn’t Sounion’s only claim to fame, though. This quaint fishing town is surrounded by gorgeous landscapes and beautiful beaches. It’s a popular summer getaway known for swimming, snorkeling, and its coastal hiking trails.

As we were following in the footsteps of Poseidon through Greece, the next stop after the Temple of Poseidon in Sounion was the town founded by Poseidon’s son, Nafplios. The town of Nafplio.

The city was first founded under the name Argolis around 1600 BCE. It fell into disrepair for over a thousand years around 1000 BCE, but its rise began around 129 CE and it’s now one of the most popular places to go in Greece.

Nafplio’s Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets and waterfront plazas. The streets are lined with historic buildings, and while many of them are in need of repair, that simply adds to the city’s authentic charm.

Don’t miss a stop at Palamidi Fortress, a historic Venetian fortress. You can either climb the 999 steps to the castle or do what we did, which was drive up and save our legs. The castle offers a tremendous overlook of the city and the unique Bourtzi Fortress, a distinctive fortress and former prison located on an island just a short distance from land.

Far south in the Peloponnese is the city of Kalamata, home to the famous olives and the ancient ruins of Messenia. This is a quiet region of Greece that doesn’t see too many tourists, even during peak season, which is a shock as it is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.

Navarino Lagoon Beach is a pristine stretch of coastline along the waters of Navarino Bay. It’s known for its idyllic horseshoe shape, soft golden sands, and crystal-clear turquoise water set amidst a backdrop of lush vegetation and rugged cliffs.

One of the coolest attractions that we visited in Greece was the ruins of Mycenae. This famous archaeological site dates back to the Bronze Age and was an important location in the epic poems of Hom er and a crucial location during the Trojan Wars. It’s even believed that the famous Agamemnon was buried here in the Treasury of Atreus.

Wandering around Mycenae, you’ll find plenty of places to explore and a few places that might seem hidden. Don’t miss the gorgeous underground beehive tombs. These were traditionally used for storage, but one is the famous Treasury of Atreus.

Another notable site is the Lion Gate. This beautiful cornerstone is the sole surviving monumental piece of Mycenaean sculpture work. When the light hits the Lion Gate just right, everything within it gets a beautiful golden glow.

Oh, Mystras, you are so beautiful. We had planned for at least three hours to explore this incredible historic city sitting above the remains of Ancient Sparta. Unfortunately, the weather had other things in store. After just an hour, torrential rain came down, causing the entire site to close.

Located on the slopes of Tagetos Mountain, Mystras was the capital of this region of Morea during the Byzantine Empire, around the 14th and 15th centuries. It was a destination for artists, scholars, and theologians of the highest caliber.

The remains of this city are incredible. There are historic churches, houses, schools, and shops uniquely located in a way that conforms to the steep verticals of the mountain slope.

Getting to Mystras can be a challenge, and it’s a tough place to explore for those who are not in good physical condition. But I highly recommend a visit here. It’s remarkably beautiful, and I can’t wait to get back.

The tied-off island city of Monemvasia was our last stop in the Peloponnese before heading west toward Delphi and Olympia. The walled city was once a medieval fortress town and is perched dramatically on a steep rocky incline overlooking the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea.

What I loved most about Monemvasia is that its ancient charm has not been washed away by modern renovations. The city’s narrow, cobblestone alleys are a labyrinthine mess. One where you may find yourself walking on roofs or balconies as you try to zig-zag your way to your hotel or restaurant. It’s beautifully authentic.

Monemvasia has been called the “Gibraltar of Greece” due to its stunning location overlooking the water. And more than any of the other places that we visited in Greece, it was here that my whole family felt like we had been transported back in time.

We spent hours wandering the town’s imposing walls, ancient churches, and quaint squares. The town is also home to some gorgeous restaurants serving up ancient family recipes. One of our most unforgettable moments came from a visit to Tsimbidi .

This shop has been attempting to recreate the family’s original wine that first brought Monevasia to fame hundreds of years ago. Ships were sent here from across Europe to pick up the island’s famous nectar and return it for the enjoyment of the elite and royalty.

Best Places To Visit On The Greek Islands

Many families who travel to Greece may forget that the country even has a mainland. That’s because the Greek Islands are the premier draw for those looking for a beautiful island getaway.

Greek island cruises and vacations are extremely popular. These islands pack as much history, natural beauty, great food, and well-being as the mainland. But the experience out on the islands is completely unique.

Here are our top places to visit within the Greek islands.

Until recently, Milos has sailed relatively unnoticed among the more than 6,000 islands in Greece. But in the past few years, this quiet island in the Aegean Sea has started popping up on the travel radar. And with good reason. After all, Milos was our favorite stop on our Celestyal Cruise of the Greek islands .

Milos was made famous by the discovery of the famed Venus de Milos, also known as the Aphrodite of Melos, which has been on display in the Louvre Museum in Paris since 1821.

You can find a replica of this famous statue on a cliff overlooking an ancient Greek theater and the adorable fishing village of Klima. This tiny town is the perfect spot for a swim, and combining it with the hilltop town of Trypiti allows you to check out some of the island’s history, including the ancient Catacombs of Milos, among the oldest Christian catacombs in the world.

This laid-back island is a perfect destination for those who love to relax. And its home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, right up there with Horseshoe Beach in Bermuda and Boracay in the Philippines .

Walking along Sarakiniko Beach might feel a bit like walking on the moon. The shockingly white sandstone has been polished smooth by rain and waves, creating an otherworldly landscape that contrasts breathtakingly with the blue waters of the Aegean.

You’ll find family-friendly narrows where shallow water swimming is ideal, as well as towering rock arches where adrenaline junkies launch themselves into the waves below. It’s a must-stop for any visit. If you look carefully, you’ll also find a series of old mining tunnels that make for a perfect escape from the hot summer sun.

After Milos, the island of Mykonos was our second most cherished destination on our Greek Islands cruise. This energetic island is busy but not nearly as packed as its famous sister, Santorini. Yet despite its popularity, it was surprisingly easy to wander off the beaten track and escape the crowds.

The main stretch of Mykonos is where all of the bustling tourist crowds gather on a walk along the waterfront through the Old Port to the picturesque “Little Venice,” where whitewashed buildings stand shoulder to shoulder, overlooking the blue waters.

But as we passed this area with its wall-to-wall revelers and continued along to the island’s famous windmills, the crowds gave way, and we were welcomed into the mazelike streets of a beautiful and welcoming city. As we strolled along, we discovered a century-old bakery, an outdoor movie theater, and a beautiful view of daily life in one of Greece’s biggest tourist destinations.

The draw of Mykonos goes far beyond Mykonos Town, though. This island is known for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. Some of the more notable beaches include Platys Gialos, Psarou, Ornos, and Elia. However, the names that caught my attention were Paradise Beach and “SUPER” Paradise Beach.

I mean, that’s a pretty bold statement. They’re known for their crystal-clear waters and lively beach bars. But they are pretty touristy, so expect some umbrella-to-umbrella crowds.

For history lovers, the island of Delos is just a short boat ride away from the main town. The Ancient ruins here are said to be the birthplace of both Apollo and Artemis. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has highlights that include the Terrace of the Lions and the Temple of Apollo. You can also visit the island’s Archaeological Museum , which has loads of artifacts from the site.

The Island of Sifnos is a tiny island just a short distance from Athens. This relaxing getaway is a popular destination for those vacationing in Athens. It offers a quiet, relaxing escape from the tourist-heavy big city where you can find large stretches of sandy shore with very few crowds.

The island is popular for its beautiful landscapes, charming whitewashed villages, and laid-back atmosphere. You’ll also find some excellent food here. There are a wide range of tavernas and local eateries serving excellent Greek cuisine. Don’t miss the island’s specialty. A chickpea soup topped with sweet almonds.

As the largest of all of the Greek Islands, Crete is without a doubt on of the most popular destinations in Greece. The island’s history dates back an astounding 9,000 years. It’s this incredible island where the Minoan Civilization, the first civilization in Europe, came to be about 5,000 years ago.

The Minoan civilization flourished on the island, and some of its art and culture can be viewed on a visit to the popular Palace of Knossos, which was once the center of Minoan culture.

Beyond its history, Crete’s dramatic landscapes make it a paradise for hiking and outdoor lovers. The rugged gorges of Samaria and the soft sand beaches of Elafonissi and Balos are especially popular. Among its outdoor attractions is a wide range of SCUBA diving playgrounds along the island’s rugged coast.

Crete is a popular destination for small resorts and homestays. Take your time and slow travel the island to experience sipping a glass of raki with locals in a mountain village or wandering the narrow alleys of Chania’s old town.

Not far from the Gulf of Patras and the beautiful shores of Messalonghi sits the island of Kefalonia. I’ve been dying to visit here ever since I first heard about it from an Italian friend who visits every year.

The island’s rugged coastline and hilltop villages make for postcard-perfect scenery. But it also adds to the allure of an island known for beaches that you need to hike a bit to reach. Myrtos Beach, with its dazzling white pebbles and electric blue water, is one of the island’s most popular.

Kefalonia is a haven for snorkeling. The waters off its shores are lush with marine life and colorful corals. There are countless coves and sea caves that are accessible only by boat as well as abundant marine reserves.

One of the island’s most unique features is the underground Melissani Lake, a lake that lies inside the cave, with trees and forests surrounding it.

North of Kefalonia in the Ionian Sea is the large island of Corfu. Corfu is known as the Emerald Ise, thanks to its lush vegetation topping towering cliffs and azure coves. The island is a popular destination for sunbathing, swimming, boating, and snorkeling. But the rolling hills, olive groves, and beautiful villages of the island’s interior are truly what makes it one of the best places to visit in Greece.

This is an island that is best explored. Rent a car and drive through the small towns, stopping to talk with locals at tavernas and cafes. Ride a bike through hills dotted with olive trees and explore the historic monasteries hidden among cypress trees in lush valleys.

There are few places in Greece that epitomize the Mediterranean life more than the island of Santorini. This popular island known for its white-washed buildings topped with brilliantly blue roofs is picturesque. And it’s also one of the busiest places to visit in the Greek Islands.

During the high season, Santorini is loaded with tourists packed like sardines in search of the perfect photo of the island’s scenic skyline. But it’s possible to see another side of this island with a fraction of the crowds.

Head away from the tourist crowds in Oia and wander the maze of narrow alleys lined with quiet shops and cafes. Once you leave the main drag behind, the crowds drop away dramatically.

For something even better, head south to the town of Megalachori. This postcard-perfect city gets a fraction of the tourists as its sister in the north. It’s an authentic look at life on the island and my family’s favorite stop in Santorini.

Naxis us the largest of the Cyclades islands. the island is known for its gorgeous beaches including Agios Prokopios and Plaka Beach. But like Corfu, the real magic of this island lies inland with its quaint villages where time seems to slow to a craw.

Picturesque towns are connected by rolling hills and fertile valleys lined with wildflowers and citrus groves. The lush greenery seems almost surreal beneath the towering Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades Archipelago. The views from the summit over the shimmering waters below are spectacular.

The island’s capital, Naxos Town, features Venitian-style mansions centered around a massive marble doorway where the remains of the Temple of Apollo lie. Dotted around it are wonderful artisan shops, tavernas, and cafes serving up thick iced coffee.

Are You Ready To Visit These Incredible Places in Greece For Yourself?

Greece is a wonderful destination that offers a little something for everyone. There is a range of incredible landscapes, relaxing beaches, adorable towns, unforgettable food, and history that dates back as long as civilization itself. If you’re looking for an incredible family travel destination, this country might just be the perfect fit.

If you love family travel as much as we do, have a read of our Greece Family Travel Blog , and please join our  Family Travel Support Group on Facebook . You can connect with more family travelers just like you who love to explore the world.

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Home » Europe » Greece » 21 MOST Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece – 2024

21 MOST Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece – 2024

There’s a big reason Greece is a summer favorite. With its beautiful islands and beaches, legendary history, and second-to-none cuisine, it’s easy to see why!

I’ve realized that tourists are quick to forget that Greece has a spectacular mainland dotted with vineyards, mountains, lakes, and national parks.

So, I’ve created this one-of-a-kind guide to the most beautiful places in Greece, from tourist hotspots to hidden gems.

Pack your walking shoes and your bathing suits and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime as I run you through the epic beauty of the Greek islands, historical attractions, and inland gems.

Onto the good stuff. Here’s my handpicked guide to the most beautiful places in Greece .

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

2. Oia, Santorini

4. antiparos cave, antiparos, 5. apiranthos, naxos island, 6. navagio beach, zakynthos, 7. the zagori villages, 8. mount olympus national park, 9. kefalonia island, 10. acropolis of lindos, rhodes, 11. meteora, kalabaka, 12. kanali tou erota, corfu, 13. old town nafplio, argolis, 14. lake kerkini, 15. ermoupolis, syros, 16. the old venetian port of chania, 17. pyrgi, chios, 18. thessaloniki, 19. samaria gorge national park, 20. thassos island, 21. lalaria beach, skiathos, how to see beautiful places in greece, faqs about beautiful places in greece, final thoughts on beautiful places in greece.

Another one of the most famous islands in the Cyclades: Mykonos! It’s a bustling island that is almost synonymous with the term ‘Greek islands.’

While it sure is no relaxing beach haven and is instead filled with overpriced restaurants and tacky beach clubs, there is nothing bad to say about the beauty of Mykonos.

Still one of the top ten places to visit in Greece, this island is STUNNING!

A feast for the visual senses, Mykonos has a collection of traditional Cycladic architecture surrounding a truly Instagram-worthy fishing port. So, be sure to  bring your camera along  with you for this adventure!

The best way to explore the island is by quad bike . Cruise your way to the gorgeous Mykonos Windmills, the Paraportiani Church, and some more beaches like Platis Gialos Beach.

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Santorini is LITERALLY one of the most beautiful Greek Cyclades islands. Its fame rests on its unique architecture and traditional craftsmanship. Whitewashed houses terrace their way from the tallest hills down to the crystal-clear waterline. 

This picturesque island is located in the majestic Aegean Sea. And no matter which  area of Santorini you stay in, it’ll be awesome!

The heart of these pastel-coloured houses is in Oia, an iconic village that hugs a sunken volcano, pictured on just about every quintessential Santorini postcard. The best way to experience the beauty of Oia is to stay in one of these buildings and watch the sunset.

Today, there are plenty of high-end hotels or relaxed B&Bs that offer private infinity pools and cafes overlooking the Aegean.

Let’s take a step into the Peloponnese, an area well known for its archaeological remains and historic buildings.

Mystras is a mountainside village with enough archaeological importance to be classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And let me assure you, the title is well deserved! For anyone  backpacking around Europe , make sure Mystras is on the bucket list.

During the Palaeologan Renaissance, the town served as the capital of the Despotate of the Morea. Fast forward to today, and you’ll find one of the best-preserved Byzantine churches and fortresses in the world.

Perched on the slopes of Mount Taygetos, the fortress is an example of the grandeur of the old world. You have to visit this place with a guided tour.

Even if you haven’t visited Greece, you’ll likely have heard that some islands are tragically overcrowded with tourists. Well, to your pleasant surprise, Antiparos is the antithesis of this – pun intended. 

It’s one of the most beautiful islands for an off-the-beaten-track vacation, packed with one of Greece’s best beaches .

White-stone rocks merge with shimmering turquoise water, which is only disturbed by the odd sailboat or kayak.

Naturally, some of the best things to do here are to relax on the beach, swim in the warm water, and stroll around the island. It’s so small that you can lap it with a bike.

Best you take advantage of this unique place to visit in Greece before its beaches are packed with frolicking children and edgy youths.

The Greek islands sure aren’t known for their greenery and flora (aside from the flourishing bougainvillaea and wildflowers). However, with its mountain landscapes and fertile valleys, Naxos is one of the greenest islands in the Cyclades.

Beaches here are among Greece’s most idyllic, largely unpopulated by the tourist rush. Stay in Naxos , and you’ll soak up the beautiful sunshine while relaxing on the powdery Greek sands.

Apiranthos is a local village with century-old origins. Supposedly founded by Cretan prisoners in the 10th century, this town is home to only 1,000 people. Yet it houses five of the island’s most prominent museums. 

This artsy village sits on the slopes of Mount Fanari, overlooking the Naxian Mountains. It’s most famous for its stone-built towers, churches, and marble alleyways lined with craft shops and boutique exhibitions. It’s the perfect spot for slow travelers .

Navagio Beach is arguably the most photographed bay in the Cyclades. Translated to ‘Shipwreck Beach,’ the beach is named after the shipwreck resting on its golden sand. 

Its origins are largely unknown, with some believing it to have been a smuggler’s vessel.

The beach is located on the north-western coastline of Zakynthos in the Ionian Sea. To get there, you’ll need to arrive by boat or venture down a challenging hike through the white cliffs. 

Take my advice and visit the island between late May and October. That’s the best time to visit Greece ! When the sea is perfect for swimming and the sands are ideal for sunbathing.

If you’re adventurous, cycle through the inland villages and visit old stone homes, monasteries, and churches along the way.

Located in northwestern Greece, Zagori is one of the most naturally striking regions, home to around 45 traditional villages, each one more picturesque than the next. 

Blink once, and you might think you’re in Yosemite National Park. Blink twice, and you could mistake your surroundings for the Swiss Alps.

If you’re an avid hiker or trekker, you should add Zagori to your bucket list of adventures .

Spend your evenings in sleepy hamlets that have been standing for thousands of years. Also, you can have some days out in the pine-clad mountains cutting through one of the deepest canyons in the world. Trails link the 45 villages with century-old staircases and stone bridges. 

When you’ve reached your wits end with hiking, take off your hiking shoes and visit the hilltop castle, museums, and tasty restaurants. That’s where you find the real taste of history, culture, and local life in Zagori.

A short distance from the beaches of the Cyclades, Mount Olympus National Park is home to the iconic Mount Olympus. 

This mountain is the home of the Greek gods. It’s the center of the ancient Greek world and one of the most beautiful places in Greece.

Other than its iconic history, the expansive mountain range is a floral wonderland, home to a rich diversity of plants and animals. 

Hiking, mountaineering, and trekking are popular activities here . You can choose to join a group tour or venture into the unknown with a map and a bit of confidence.

Luckily for budget travelers in Greece , there are plenty of affordable hotels and campsites across this park. Well-maintained trails snake through the deep gorges, alpine flower fields, and thick forests, reaching the highest points in the country.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Located in the heart of the Ionian Sea, Kefalonia Island is a Mediterranean gem known for its beautiful beaches, rugged landscapes, and warm hospitality.

It makes a great place for adventures and water sports, like sea kayaking, boat tours and sailing, hiking and trekking ,

Put on your comfiest shoes and rent a bike. Cycle through the fishing villages of Psilithrias, Chalikeri, and Fiskardo. Even better? Visit Petani Beach and Myrtos Beach for a day of coastal bliss.

Another incredible place to visit here is the Agios Gerasimos Monastery. It’s a 16th-century church complex that is a treat to explore on foot. 

Unlike other Greek islands, Kefalonia isn’t crowded with tourists, and as a direct result of this, it’s quite affordable.

History lovers, this one’s for you! The Acropolis of Lindos is one of Greece’s famous archaeological sites .

It has recently boomed as an upscale destination for its gorgeous beaches, but its historical heritage has kept Western resorts from overriding the peaceful environment.

Standing 380 feet above the ocean, overlooking the Old Town of Lindos, the Acropolis of Lindos is as old as the history of ancient Greece itself.

The majestic fortress ruins are linked to the goddess Athena Lindia. It boasts a history involving the ancient Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Knights of Saint John, and even the Ottoman Empire. If you’re interested in brushing up on your Greek history and culture before you go, here’s our list of the best books about Greece .

There aren’t too many places where you can experience such rich history, culture, architecture, and natural beauty converge in one setting! So, do yourself a favor and take a guided tour !

Close your eyes and picture a castle on a hill in your favorite fairy tale. Got it? Welcome to Meteora.

The UNESCO WHS of Meteora is a rocky mountain home to a 14th-century monastery perched atop sandstone pinnacles. 

The hike might be a challenge, but not as challenging as it must have been for those who built it.

Named the “Canal of Love”, Kanali tou Erota is an iconic coastal village. Legend has it, that a swim in this water brings lovers luck. Pretty cool right?

It’s set on the popular island of Corfu yet is hidden between rock formations, making it a more private beach alternative.

There is no shortage of beautiful towns in Greece, but the Old Town of Nafplio has to be up there with the best.

The romantic Greek seaport founded by Poseidon’s son, Nafplios, was once the capital of the country. The Neoclassical and Venetian town is just a short drive from Athens, perfect for a day trip.

I bet you didn’t know Greece was home to one of Europe’s most important wetlands!

At the heart of the migratory bird route between the Black Sea and the Aegean Sea, this inland lake is a hotspot for flora and fauna and one of the unique places to visit in Greece.

Here at The Broke Backpacker , we love freedom! And there’s no freedom as sweet (and CHEAP) as camping around the world.

We’ve been camping on our adventures for over 10 years, so take it from us: the MSR HUBBA HUBBA is the best damn tent for adventuring…

The authentic Cyclades island of Syros is your answer to a less-busy version of Mykonos or Santorini.

The capital city of the island, Ermoupolis, is a seafaring village that was once one of the most prosperous in Greece.  

Take a step into the past, where the Old Venetian Port of Chania used to be a thriving seafaring harbor in the 14th century.

Today, you can sip cocktails on the harbor wall and enjoy a night out among the historic buildings.

Pyrgi, or the “Painted Village”, is an exquisite local town that could be mistaken for a Moroccan, Turkish, or Portuguese village.

Each building is intricately painted with unique black-and-white geometric motifs. It’s one of the few towns in the region that wasn’t destroyed by the 1881 earthquake.

Not your average beautiful destination, Thessaloniki is a large Greek city famed for its incredible street food scene and rich cultural heritage.

The area experienced influences from the East and the West, culminating in a cultural melting pot of color and flavor.

Because one national park on this list wasn’t enough, explore more of Crete’s coolest places , like the Samaria Gorge.

One of the most magnificent places for a hiking or kayaking trip, this deep gorge cuts through the rugged white-stone mountains of Crete. One thing you should consider however if visiting is that it can be hard to reach, so you should consider car rental in Crete as a transport option.

Nestled on the northern island of the Aegean Sea, Thassos Island is the perfect spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Here you can visit the archaeological museum of Thassos, visit some olive groves during harvest, or enjoy the calm atmosphere of “Marble Beach”.

Topping off the list with one last beach-of-note, Lalaria Beach is no doubt one of the most exquisite in the country.

With massive white cliffs and natural bridges rising from the clear sea, this white sand beach looks like the quintessential dreamscape.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

For digital nomads in Greece , it’s important to understand that getting from one island to another is super well-thought-out in Greece.

Chances are, your first point of entry will be Athens. If you’re headed to the islands, plenty of ferries are connecting the islands, as well as local flights to islands like Santorini, Corfu, and Mykonos. 

The price of a ferry depends on the time of year, route, and operator. Overnight ferries cost nearly half the price of a fast-ferry ticket, and less-popular islands are usually cheaper to travel to.

A ferry from Athens to Mykonos costs between €38 and €68 each way, while high-speed ferries can cost up to €85.

You can also use the city buses, electric trolleybuses, and Athens trams. Exploring the islands is best done by renting a car, which can cost between €14 and €55 per day.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

I would recommend ALWAYS getting  good quality insurance  when traveling, especially adventure style.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here are some answers to a selection of the most frequently asked questions about Greece’s beautiful places.

Which part of Greece has the best beaches?

Crete has one of the most unique beaches in Greece. From the pink sands of Elafonissi to the exotic Balos Lagoon-like beach, there’s a lot to see here. If you prefer something a little quieter, the beaches of Naxos and Paros (such as Plaka and Faragas) are ideal.

What is the most beautiful vacation spot in Greece?

I’ll let you in on a secret: Mykonos is truly the best! With its whitewashed cubic houses, pristine beaches, art-filled galleries, charming old town and vibrant nightlife, it’s the perfect spot for a holiday.

What is the most attractive island in Greece?

Santorini for sure! Shaped by a massive volcanic eruption, this gem captivates with its classic Cycladic architecture, sunsets, and crystal beaches, like Red Beach and Kamari Beach. It’s ideal for romantic trips or family vacations.

And there you have it, twenty-two of the most beautiful places in Greece! It wasn’t easy picking just a handful of places in such a large and diverse country.

We covered everything from exquisite natural coves to the best beaches on the map, impressive national parks, stunning ancient monasteries, and charming local towns across the country.

Greece has so many gorgeous places; you just have to visit to believe it. If you can only fit one of these places into your itinerary, do yourself a favor and head to Zagori and its villages.

This impressive canyon and mountain region offers the perfect combination of natural beauty and historic wonder!

• Check out the best hostels in Athens to kickstart your Greek adventure.
• Know where to stay in Greece BEFORE you land… trust me on this one.
• With the best sim card for Greece you can stay connected, always.
• Widen horizons and deepen your experience and impact as a volunteer in Greece .
• Let’s get you ready for your next adventure with our backpacking Turkey guide .
• With our packing list for Greece , you can stay prepared for anything.

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Mathilde Magnier

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20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece

This sun-blessed European country is equally known for its serene sandy beaches as for its vibrant ancient history. I love that all tastes are catered for here – from history fans and nature lovers to serious clubbers and beach dwellers. I’d love to share the places that have left a huge impression on me…

1. Santorini

Santorini is one of the Cyclades islands nestled in the Aegean Sea and it’s known as being one of the most romantic islands in the world. 

Spectacular sunsets, traditional whitewashed houses, interesting volcanic landscapes (the island was actually formed by a series of volcanic eruptions) and breathtaking ocean views are just a few of the things that make this island so unique.

I recommend heading to Oia where pastel-washed houses hugging the cliff face and couple’s roam round hand-in-hand.

The majority of shops selling postcards all over Greece will have photographs from Santorini, and once I visited, I realized why this gorgeous spot is so cherished! Yes it can get crowded in the summer months but it’s still a very special place. 

• Location: southern Aegean Sea, 120 miles southeast of the mainland.
• Location Map

My favorite highlights…

• Seeing the world-famous white and blue houses in Fira, Santorini’s beautiful capital. 
• Exploring Oia’s pretty white houses and the famous Insta-worthy churches with blue domes and gorgeous views.
• Going on an incredible half-day catamaran tour with Santorini Yachts, being out on the boat at sunset was a dreamy experience!
• Exploring the interesting black sand beaches of Perissa, Perivolos and Agios Georgios. 

Book A Trip!

We can book a Greek Island Hopping Trip through our free top-rated travel planning service!

Mykonos stands out as one of the most stunning – and Instagrammable – islands in the Aegean region. Belonging to the Cyclades group in the Aegean Sea, although Mykonos is a popular party island, it’s still blessed with plenty of natural and traditional beauty.

It has a collection of unique Cycladic architecture (stunning white-washed cube buildings) set around a picturesque fishing village bay.

The square whitewashed buildings sit closely together, forming a maze of narrow alleyways and streets, and they are highly photogenic! I love that the island’s extraordinary beaches also make a perfect backdrop for watching the sunset.

• Location: Aegean Sea, 93 miles east of Athens.

My highlights…

• Taking Instaworthy photos of the famous and very beautiful Mykonos Windmills. 
• Exploring the striking Paraportiani Church at sunset.
• Dancing at Cavo Paradiso Mykonos, the awesome sea views are legendary and they didn’t disappoint!
• Relaxing on Platis Gialos Beach , which I personally thought was one of the most stunning beaches on the island.

3. Zakynthos 

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

Zakynthos Town has dozens of museums and a fascinating Venetian Castle on the hilltop. Picturesque mountainous villages are scattered across the countryside, including old monasteries which we could easily discover by car.

My personal must-sees include the locals meeting place Solomos Square, Strata Marina which was home to a collection of restaurants, bars, and cafes, Stranis Hill, which offered a magical view of the island, and ancient churches such as Aghios Nikolaos.

If you’re more adventurous, I recommend trying surfing or hiring a sailboat, trekking across the scenic mountainous region, snorkelling, swimming among sea turtles, and scuba diving.

• Location: Ionian Sea, 12 miles west of the Greek mainland.

My personal highlights…

• Heading to the the increasingly famous Navagio Beach and surrounding viewpoints to get some stunning Insta-worthy shots. It’s otherwise known as Shipwreck Beach due to the haunting remains of the ship here.
• Relaxing on my favourite beaches on the island, Banana Beach, Dafni Beach and Gerakas Beach. 
• Hiring a boat and skipper with Zakynthos Cruises and exploring the incredible Blue Caves and Keri Caves.

4. Kefalonia

The popular Greek holiday island has been made famous by the novel and film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin , which was set here.

Although there has been some development on the island, I loved that it still had a relaxed vibe and traditional Greek way of life with traditional tavernas, pretty harbours, rocky landscapes, stunning beaches, caves and just a handful of low rise mostly boutique-style hotels.

If you want to know what a pretty beach looks like, then you just need to visit Myrtos (located northwest of the island) which is a secluded and white shingly beach hidden in a stunning cove – the contrast of the bright blue waters and the sparkling white beach is really striking.

Location: Ionian Sea, 30 miles west of the western coast of the mainland.

• Exploring the highly photogenic Assos Village, I recommend sitting on the outside terrace of The MOLOS Traditional Tavern and watching the world go by!
• Relaxing on Petani Beach and Myrtos Beach which were my personal favourite beaches on the island.
• Visiting Agios Gerasimos Monastery a 16th-century church complex which had a zen-like courtyard, well-kept gardens and a striking monastery.
• Taking photos at the pretty Argostoli Harbour which was filled with Insta-worthy colourful houses.

Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands and another popular holiday island. Although it’s home to some lively party resorts, there are still many areas of outstanding natural beauty to discover and explore! It has gorgeous beaches, mountains, areas of lush green scenery and delicious traditional cuisine.

For the beaches I recommend heading to the golden sandy beaches of Lindos and St. Pauls. Lindos is more popular because of its turquoise waters and the view of the raised white-painted town from the beach and St. Pauls is smaller beach with a more intimate vibe.

As a history fan so I loved the Old Town of Rhodes, which is actually listed an UNESCO World Heritage and the ancient ruins here. Don’t miss the striking Acropolis of Lindos! 

• Location: southeastern Aegean Sea, 225 miles southeast of Athens.
• Eating at Rustico Restaurant, a cute tavern with a modern twist that offers outdoor seating and even vegan options. The Greek Salad was divine! 
• Exploring the coastline via a fast boat tour with Jet Boat Rhodes.
• Hiking along the coastal trail from Lindos to Saint Paul’s Bay which had really stunning views of the sparkling sea below.
• Relaxing on Agathi Beach which had soft golden sand and turquoise waters.

6. The Acropolis (and the rest of Athens)!

There are many breathtaking historical sites in this country but the Acropolis is considered the most important surviving building of Classical Greece and seriously it’s jaw-dropping!

It sits high on a rocky outcrop above the Greek capital of Athens , the ruins date from an incredible 447 BC and are made up of the Parthenon (which is dedicated to the maiden goddess Athena – gorgeous!), the Temple of Athena Nike, Erechtheion and the Propylaea (gateway to the Acropolis). We took a walk around and although the summer heat was a bit overwhelming, it was a very special place.

When here I definitely recommend making sure you take the time to explore the rest of Athens. It’s a unique city, gritty in some part, but it’s never boring.

It’s filled with eclectic neighbourhoods, incredible restaurants both modern and traditional, rooftop bars, bustling food markets, an amazing array of shops and great nightlife. It’s also a city where you stumble across well-preserved ancient history nearly every place you turn!

• Address: Acropolis of Athens Dionysiou Areopagitou Street Athens, 105 58
• Seeing the incredible ancient monuments – they seem to spring from literally every corner in the city, even in modern shops!
• Exploring interesting museums such as the Acropolis Museum , National Archaeological Museum and the beautiful Byzantine and Christian Museum .
• Exploring the hip and lively districts of Athens such as Plaka, Thissio and Syntagma which are filled with buzzy restaurants and bars.
• Going to the A For Athens Rooftop Bar for seriously incredible views of the city. It was very crowded when we went but I’d still recommend it!

I personally think Corfu is a gorgeous gem! This is one of the most popular islands in the Ionian archipelago, and I’m a huge fan of its stunning scenery, historic heritage which have been inspired by Venetian and Byzantine styles, its collection of beaches (both sandy and shingly), its lush green olive groves, traditional tavernas pretty secluded coves and its laid back, romantic vibe.

Definitely include a visit to Corfu Old Town, which is UNESCO listed and is filled with picturesque historic architecture, independent shops and cafes and pretty courtyards.

I highly recommend going on a boat tour for the breathtaking coastal views! 

• Address: Ionian Sea, northwest coast of mainland.
• Dining at the traditional Taverna Ninos, I highly recommend the homestyle gyros.  
• Relaxing on my favorite beaches, Paleokastritsa Beach and Voutoumi Beach which were both filled with stunning white sand.
• Visiting the cute residents at the Corfu Donkey Sanctuary, my personal favourite resident was Maios the hooligan!

Located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, half the island of Cyprus belongs to Greece and the other half to Turkey (the northern part).

The political situation there gives the island a slightly edgier feel and some areas are even completely no-go (the border separating the two islands, which runs through the once popular resort of Nicosia).

However, don’t let that put you off. When I visited, I found a stunning beauty spot with gorgeous beaches, sparkling turquoise waters, towering mountains, rugged cliffs, fragrant pine forests, and a fascinating history. The people were incredibly welcoming and friendly, and the food was especially divine! 

You can either look for the party zones, which are Nissi Beach in famous Ayia Napa and Paphos (slightly more chilled) or look for someone a little less developed. I recommend the Pissouri, Latchi, and Polis for quieter options.

For somewhere rustic, I’d suggest heading up into the mountains and staying in one of the traditional villages. You won’t find flashy hotels here, but there are authentic guest houses instead.

• Location: Eastern Mediterranean Sea, 500 miles southeast of the mainland.

My favourite highlights…

• Relaxing on the small but perfectly formed Sirena Bay which was a relaxing spot with soft golden sand. There isn’t many people here and plenty of sun beds.
• Going on a one-day private boat tour with a skipper, we went to gorgeous Cape Greco and snorkelling in the stunning blue lagoon.

Thassos is a stunning gem, with white sandy (and a few pebbly) beaches contrasting blue skies and turquoise waters, lush pine forests, pretty traditional villages, and rugged mountains.

Located in the North Aegean region, I love it for its charming traditional vibe, its collection of intimate low rise hotels, delicious local cuisine and hiking trails.

I would personally recommend trying water sports here, and scuba diving, water skiing, windsurfing and boating are all on offer and on dry land expect cascading waterfalls, pretty ravines and natural pools.

My favorite beaches included Chrissi Ammoudia beach which is filled with white sand, Kallirachi-Prinos which was long and wide and Maries-Prinos which had plenty of parasols!

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

• Location: northern Aegean Sea, 6 miles off the northeastern coast of mainland.
• Going on a sea-kayaking tour with Insula TASOS and exploring wonderful sea caves.
• Exploring the best beaches the island has to offer – Golden Beach, Paradise Beach, La Scala Beach and Metalia Beach.
• Checking out the island’s pretty waterfalls, I loved Maries Waterfall which was located in the western part of the island.

10. Naxos Island

Located on the southern side of Greece, Naxos is one of my favourite islands as it’s a quiet spot, relatively undiscovered by the tourist masses.

It’s home to the myth-surrounded Mt. Zeus and it’s also one of the greenest islands in the Cyclades, with tall pine tree covered mountains and lush fertile valleys.

I personally think that that beaches here are among the most beautiful in the country. They’re long and sandy, perfect for swimming, water sports and just relaxing.

I also loved the traditional white-painted villages and winemaking factories, as well as the picturesque port towns filled with whitewashed, cube-shaped houses and the interesting medieval Venetian mansions.

• Location: Aegean Sea, approximately 100 miles southeast of Athens.
• Hiring a catamaran with a skipper for the day and seeing the gorgeous surrounding waters in style! It was particularly amazing at sunset while sipping on prosecco! 
• Lazing around on the stunning beaches I personally loved the white sand of Plaka Beach, the clear turquoise waters of Agia Anna Beach and the fine light sand and shallow waters of Saint George Beach. 
• Going for a tasty vegan pizza and melon-based cocktails at the eatery Hug Me Naxos . I loved the trendy decor and vibe here!

11. Lefkada

Lefkada is located on Greece’s west coast and is actually connected to the mainland via a floating bridge and a causeway. It’s one of the few Greek islands you can visit by car.

I love it for its timeless villages surrounded by wild olive groves and rolling hills, spectacular inlets and little bays towards the south (which has perfect conditions for windsurfers and kite surfers) and crystal blue waters and truly stunning white beaches, many of which are like those in the Caribbean – yes, really!

Also expect traditional taverns serving freshly caught fish, pretty coves and charming traditional villages. For beaches I recommend heading for Egremni, Kathisma, and Porto Katsiki beaches, which are very Insta-worthy spots. 

I also liked visiting the zen-like Panagia Faneromeni Monastery, the Nidri waterfalls and the interesting ruins of the Castle of Santa Maura.

• Location: the Ionian Sea, 0.6 miles west of the mainland
• Going beach hopping and seeing all the incredible beaches here, my favourite was Egremni. 
• Visiting the Lefkas Earth Winery, the stunning surroundings and their special red wine were enough reasons to visit!
• Visiting the quirky Folklore Museum, I especially loved the historic pretty embroidery work! 

12. Samaria Gorge National Park and the rest of Crete

The Samariá Gorge is a National Park of Greece located on the pretty island of Crete and has been designated a World Biosphere Reserve and it receives more than half a million visitors annually! 

I loved walking through the gorge and passing the breathtakingly high cliffs along the way before reaching the small coastal village of Agia Roumeli. 

I definitely recommend taking the time to explore the rest of Crete which is the largest of the Greek islands. It’s a stunning destination filled with gorgeous beaches, ancient historic sites such as Knossos Palace, Phaistos Palace, Chania Old Town and Harbour and Gortyna, rugged mountainous landscapes, charming villages, friendly locals, lively nightlife, amazing restaurants, and great wine! 

• Location: eastern Mediterranean Sea, 99 miles south of the mainland.
• Hiking the Figou Gorge and Agia Irini Gorge trail where I saw some of the best of the park scenery.
• Getting to know the locals in the bars, restaurants, and cafes, they are seriously friendly! I loved “The chickpea” restaurant for its incredible paprika hummus.
• Visiting the incredible Balos Lagoon for Insta-worthy shots. 
• Visiting Takis Shelter , a social media star Takis is famous all over the world for rescuing dogs and housing them at his cage-free shelter. My favourite resident was the characterful Grioula.

13. Meteora, Kalabaka

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

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

Be warned that there is some stair climbing involved, but it’s worth it, it’s an awesome sight that personally left me speechless. If you want to see something a little different then I highly recommend it! 

• Address: Meteora Monasteries Meteora, Kalabaka 422 00 Thessaly
• Taking a camera and photographing it, this is a very unique and jaw-dropping spot! 
• Staying at the nearby Alsos Guest House, I loved the cozy vibe and the terrace with fabulous views where we ate breakfast! 

14. Nafplio

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

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

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

I also highly recommend taking a boat ride to the Venetian fortress of Bourtzi, visiting the War Museum, and the Byzantine 12th-century church. 

• Location: northeastern part of the Peloponnese peninsula 85 miles southwest of Athens.
• Exploring the photogenic and quaint Old Town. 
• Taking a trip to Palamidi Castle and climbing all of the 999 steps! 
• Sipping on an expresso and people watching in Syntagma Square.

15. Mystras, Peloponnese 

Mystras is a mountainous village near Sparti, Laconia, on mainland Greece. UNESCO classifies it as a World Heritage Monument.

It is famous for its archaeological site, as Mystras was a very important medieval town in the Byzantine Era.

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

• Location: Peloponnese region, 136 miles southwest of Athens. 
• Exploring all the historic sites and photographing the stunning views.
• Paying a visit to the Camera Museum which was filled with interesting retro artefacts.

16. Delphi Theatre, Phocis

Delphi   is an archaeological site and a modern town on mainland Greece. It is on the southwestern spur of Mount Parnassus in the valley of Phocis.

The Delphi theatre was constructed atop a hill facing the beautiful valley in the 4th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Built as Apollo’s sanctuary and oracle, its 35 rows could hold up to 5,000 guests, who in ancient times enjoyed plays, poetry readings, and musical events.

I personally think this is a stunning historic site, and I especially loved the views of the surrounding mountains.

• Location: Delphi 330 54

17. Mount Olympus National Park

Declared a National Park in 1938, Mountain Olympus is Greece’s highest mountain and stands at 9,573 feet!

This unspoilt attraction is located in mainland Greece and is filled with thick forests, alpine fields, rocky peaks, deep gorges, pretty waterfalls and rare plant species.

It’s located far away from crowded Greek hotspots and that’s why I love it so much here! There are some curious visitors though and campsites and inexpensive hotels have sprung up in the region to cater for them.

Litochoro is the main village and it can be easily accessed from Athens by train and bus. I highly recommend not missing the Ancient Dion Archaeological Museum at the base of Mount Olympus and the many excellent hiking trails. 

• Location: Mount Olympus National Park Litochoro 602 00 Pieria
• Going on a hiking tour to see the striking Enipeas Canyon complete with the spectacular Enipeas Waterfall and the emerald green pool below.
• Feeling brave and going on a beginners mountaineering tour are organized which set off from Litochoro. 
• Trying some of the local cuisine like Fasolada (a traditional Greek white bean soup) and Loukoumades (delicious deep-fried dough balls drizzled with honey).

18. Lake Kerkini

This is unique place located on mainland Greece. It’s actually located in the heart of the bird migration route is home to thousands of protected and rare birds, which is a truly incredible sight, especially the pelicans!

As well as lots of birds I also saw gigantic square meters of water lilies, and fantastic views of the Krousia and Belasica mountains.

It’s also home to buffalo herds, diverse fish varieties, over ten species of amphibians and nineteen species of reptiles.

Activities here include boat rides, kayaking, 4×4 off-roading tours, biking and hiking trails.

• Location: northern Greece, 62 miles northwest of Thessaloniki.
• Renting a boat and seeing the wonderful birds up close.
• Taking my camera and capturing the stunning wildlife and sunset.

19. Monemvasia Fortress 

Monemvasia Fortress is located along the Peloponnese coast which is on the eastern side mainland Greece and the first settlement can be traced back to the 6th century.

Both the sprawling Byzantine fortress and the superb beaches located nearby are open to locals and tourists who can’t get enough of this extraordinary place and with good reason, it’s a unique beauty spot! 

I personally think it’s a refined and idyllic spot and as a history fan I loved how I could spot the Ottoman, Venetian, Frankish, and Byzantine influences across the whole town.

I also recommend visiting the nearby interesting Kastania Cave, historic churches and the Emvasis Cafe which also serves delicious cocktails.

• Address: Monemvasia Fortress Monemvasia 230 70 Laconia, Peloponnese

Located in the northwestern part of mainland Greece, I’ve included the mountainous region of Zagori for its unique geology, dazzling natural beauty, and for being home to two popular National Parks.

It’s a historic and culturally rich place dotted with over forty traditional stone villages interconnected with both modern roads and 18th-century stoned arched bridges.

I especially loved the gorgeous Drakolimni Alpine Lake, the traditional Zagorohoria village, the Kalogeriko stone bridge, the stunning Papingo Rock Pools (where I swam), the intriguing 15th-century abandoned Monastery of Saint Paraskevi and the misty view from the monastery of Spileotissas on the Viodomatis River!

There was a lot to discover here so I recommend hiring a villa rental in the area like we did.

• Address: Pindus mountain range in the northwestern part of the country.

My favourite highlights… 

• I loved the walking across the divine Vikos Gorge from the Astrakas Mountaintop to the cascades of the Voidomatis River, the backdrop of Mount Timfi was spectacular! 

Where is Greece?

Greece is located in South Eastern Europe and borders the Ionian and Mediterranean Seas to the north, Albania, Bulgaria , and North Macedonia to the east, and Turkey to the east. 

16 thoughts on “20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece”

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

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

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

Yes, please. This summer if possible.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks Lizzie! 🙂

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Must See In Greece | 20 Places You Have To See

Greece, a southeastern European country, is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. As the cradle of Western civilization, it is home to some of the world’s most ancient and influential historical sites. The country’s history spans from the Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations around 2000 BCE to the Classical period of the 5th and 4th centuries BCE, which saw the rise of city-states like Athens and Sparta. Greece later experienced the Hellenistic period, the Roman era, and the Byzantine Empire before falling under Ottoman rule for several centuries. In 1821, Greece fought for and won its independence, eventually establishing the modern Greek state.

Overview of Greek Culture and Cuisine

Throughout history, Greek culture has significantly influenced the arts, philosophy, science, and politics. The country is renowned for its contributions to theater, architecture, sculpture, and the birth of democracy. Greek mythology and religion have also left a lasting impact on global art and literature. Traditional Greek music and dance continue to play a vital role in cultural celebrations and festivities.

Greek cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors characterized by the use of olive oil, fresh vegetables, herbs, grains, and seafood. Popular dishes include moussaka (an eggplant and meat casserole), souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), and Greek salad. Feta cheese, olives, and yogurt are also common ingredients, while desserts like baklava and loukoumades (honey-soaked doughnuts) offer a sweet conclusion to any meal.

Importance of Tourism in Greece

Tourism is a vital component of the Greek economy, accounting for a significant portion of the country’s GDP and employment opportunities. Visitors are drawn to Greece’s stunning landscapes, sun-kissed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-famous archaeological sites. From the bustling metropolis of Athens to the serene tranquility of the Greek islands, there is something for everyone in this enchanting country. Greece’s warm hospitality and vibrant culture create an unforgettable experience for travelers, making it a must-visit destination for tourists worldwide.

Acropolis and Parthenon

The Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a symbol of ancient Greece and its most iconic landmark. Situated on a rocky hill overlooking Athens, the Acropolis is home to several significant ancient structures, the most famous being the Parthenon. Dedicated to the goddess Athena, the Parthenon is a masterpiece of Doric architecture and a testament to the brilliance of ancient Greek civilization. As you wander the Acropolis, be sure to take in the stunning panoramic views of Athens below.

Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora of Athens, located at the base of the Acropolis, was once the heart of public life in ancient Athens. It served as a gathering place for political, social, and commercial activities. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of various temples, stoas, statues, and the well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus. The reconstructed Stoa of Attalos, which houses the Museum of the Ancient Agora, offers a glimpse into ancient Athenians’ daily life and commerce.

Plaka District  

Plaka, situated on the northern slopes of the Acropolis, is Athens’ oldest and most picturesque neighborhood. With its narrow cobblestone streets, neoclassical architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, Plaka is a must-visit area for travelers. Browse through the many artisan shops, enjoy traditional Greek cuisine at local tavernas, and visit the quaint churches that dot the district. Take advantage of Anafiotika, a small, charming section of Plaka that resembles a Cycladic village with its white-washed houses and blue accents.

National Archaeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum in Athens is one of the most important museums in the world, showcasing a vast collection of artifacts from ancient Greece. The museum’s exhibits span from the Neolithic period to the Classical era, providing visitors with an extensive overview of Greek history and culture. Highlights include the gold Mask of Agamemnon, the bronze statue of Zeus or Poseidon, and the stunning frescoes from Akrotiri on Santorini. A visit to this museum is essential for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Greece’s rich archaeological heritage.

Temple of Apollo

Nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, Delphi was once considered the center of the world in ancient Greek mythology. It is home to the Temple of Apollo, where the famous oracle Pythia delivered cryptic prophecies to those who sought her guidance. The temple, dedicated to the god Apollo, was built in the 4th century BCE and features well-preserved Doric columns that offer a glimpse into its former grandeur. A visit to the Temple of Apollo allows you to walk in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims and imagine the rituals and ceremonies that took place there.

Ancient Theater

Perched above the Temple of Apollo, the Ancient Theater of Delphi offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Built in the 4th century BCE, the theater could accommodate approximately 5,000 spectators and was the site of various performances and religious events during the Pythian Games, which were held in honor of Apollo. The theater’s excellent acoustics and impressive preservation make it a remarkable site to explore.

Delphi Archaeological Museum

The Delphi Archaeological Museum houses a remarkable collection of artifacts discovered at the Delphi archaeological site. The museum’s exhibits showcase the history and significance of the ancient sanctuary and the oracle of Delphi. Some of the museum’s most notable artifacts include the Charioteer of Delphi, a well-preserved bronze statue from the 5th century BCE; the Sphinx of Naxos, a monumental marble statue that once stood on a tall column; and the intricate friezes from the Treasury of the Siphnians. A visit to the museum enriches your understanding of Delphi’s role in ancient Greece’s religious, political, and artistic life.

Monasteries Meteora

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Monasteries Meteora is an awe-inspiring geological wonder known for its towering sandstone rock formations and the breathtaking monasteries perched atop them. These ancient monasteries were built by Eastern Orthodox monks seeking solitude and spiritual connection, starting in the 14th century. Today, six monasteries remain open to visitors, each with its own unique history, architecture, and frescoes. Some of the most famous monasteries include the Great Meteoron, Varlaam, and Roussanou. Visitors must climb a series of steps carved into the rock to reach the monasteries, making the journey a memorable experience.

Scenic views and hiking opportunities

Meteora’s dramatic landscape offers incredible panoramic views and numerous hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Well-marked trails weave through the rock formations, providing close-up views of the monasteries and the surrounding countryside. Hiking through Meteora allows you to immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty and serenity while exploring hidden caves, hermitages, and other historical sites. Guided tours are available for those who prefer a more structured experience.

History of the region

The history of Meteora dates back to the 9th century when hermit monks first settled in the area, seeking isolation and spiritual contemplation. The construction of the monasteries began in the 14th century, utilizing an ingenious system of ropes, pulleys, and baskets to transport materials and people up the sheer cliffs. Over time, Meteora became an important center for the Orthodox faith and a refuge during times of political instability. Today, Meteora is a site of religious significance and a testament to the ingenuity, dedication, and resilience of those who built and maintained these remarkable structures.

Thessaloniki

White Tower

The White Tower is the most iconic landmark in Thessaloniki and a symbol of the city’s rich history. This cylindrical tower, built in the 15th century during the Ottoman period, once served as a defensive fortification and later as a prison. Today, it houses a museum that showcases the history of Thessaloniki through various exhibits and multimedia presentations. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for a stunning panoramic view of the city and the Thermaic Gulf.

Archaeological Museum  

The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, as it houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the region’s ancient past. The exhibits span from the prehistoric period to the Roman era, highlighting the city’s cultural and historical significance throughout the centuries. Notable artifacts include the Derveni Krater, a magnificent bronze vase from the 4th century BCE, and the extraordinary gold treasures from ancient Macedonian tombs.

Ano Poli (Upper Town)  

Ano Poli, or Upper Town, is the oldest and most picturesque part of Thessaloniki, featuring traditional Ottoman-era houses, winding cobblestone streets, and charming squares. This historic district offers a glimpse into the city’s past, with its well-preserved Byzantine walls and narrow alleys. Stroll through Ano Poli to discover hidden gems, such as the Church of Osios David, which boasts remarkable early Christian mosaics, or enjoy a meal at one of the many traditional tavernas with spectacular views of the city below.

Rotunda of Galerius

The Rotunda of Galerius is an impressive Roman structure dating back to the early 4th century CE. Originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Galerius, the Rotunda has served various purposes throughout history, including a Christian church and a mosque. Its remarkable architectural features include a massive dome, one of the largest from the Roman period, and well-preserved early Christian mosaics. Today, the Rotunda is open to the public as a historical monument and a testament to Thessaloniki’s diverse cultural heritage.

Oia Village

Oia is a picturesque village perched on the northern tip of Santorini and is famous for its stunning sunsets, blue-domed churches, and charming white-washed buildings. With its narrow streets, boutique shops, and excellent dining options, Oia is the perfect destination to explore on foot. Take advantage of the opportunity to witness the breathtaking sunset, which attracts visitors from around the world and is best enjoyed from the castle ruins or a waterfront restaurant.

Fira Fira  

The bustling capital of Santorini is known for its dramatic cliffside location and panoramic views of the caldera. The town features a mix of traditional Cycladic architecture and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for shopping, dining, and nightlife. Visitors can explore the winding streets, visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, or hike along the caldera’s edge to enjoy the stunning scenery. For a unique experience, consider taking the cable car or a donkey ride from the old port to Fira’s center.

Akrotiri Archaeological Site

The Akrotiri Archaeological Site is a well-preserved Minoan Bronze Age settlement that was buried under volcanic ash during the Theran eruption around 1600 BCE. The ash preserved the site’s buildings and artifacts, providing valuable insights into the ancient civilization that once thrived on Santorini. Visitors can walk along the covered walkways and view the remarkable frescoes, pottery, and other artifacts that have been uncovered during the ongoing excavations. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric past of the island.

Red Beach, located near the village of Akrotiri, is one of Santorini’s most famous and unique beaches. Its striking red cliffs and dark sands create a stunning contrast against the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea. Visitors must follow a short trail from the nearby parking area to access the beach, but the breathtaking view is well worth the effort. The beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, and its crystal-clear waters make it an ideal location for snorkeling.

Windmills 

The iconic windmills of Mykonos are a distinctive feature of the island’s landscape and a symbol of its rich history. Built between the 16th and 20th centuries, these white-washed structures once played a crucial role in the island’s economy by milling wheat. The most famous windmill, Kato Mili, is located in Chora (Mykonos Town) and offers picturesque views of the sea and Little Venice. Be sure to catch a stunning sunset from this vantage point as the windmills are silhouetted against the sky.

Little Venice

Little Venice is a charming waterfront district in Mykonos Town, known for its colorful 18th-century buildings with balconies that seemingly hover over the sea. The area was named after its resemblance to the famous Italian city, and it’s an ideal spot to enjoy a leisurely stroll, dine at a seaside restaurant, or sip a cocktail at one of the many trendy bars. The picturesque setting of Little Venice and its lively atmosphere make it a must-visit destination on Mykonos.

Paraportiani Church 

Paraportiani Church, located in the heart of Mykonos Town, is a unique architectural marvel and one of the island’s most famous landmarks. The church is a complex of five smaller churches built at different times between the 14th and 17th centuries, creating a fascinating amalgamation of styles. The white-washed walls and irregular shapes of Paraportiani Church make it a popular spot for photography and a stunning example of traditional Cycladic architecture.

Delos Island

Just a short boat ride from Mykonos, Delos Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Greece’s most significant archaeological sites. According to mythology, Delos was the birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis. The island was once a thriving religious, cultural, and commercial center during the Classical period. Today, visitors can explore the ancient ruins, including the Terrace of the Lions, the House of Dionysus, and the Sacred Lake. The Archaeological Museum of Delos houses a vast collection of artifacts discovered on the island, providing further insights into the lives of its ancient inhabitants. A day trip to Delos is a must for history enthusiasts visiting Mykonos.

Knossos Palace  

Knossos Palace, located just outside the city of Heraklion, is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and the ceremonial and political center of the ancient Minoan civilization. The site, which dates back to around 2000 BCE, features a complex labyrinth of rooms, courtyards, and staircases adorned with vibrant frescoes and intricate carvings. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins and imagine the splendor of the palace during its heyday. Knossos Palace is an essential destination for anyone interested in Minoan history and culture.

Elafonisi Beach

Elafonisi Beach, situated on the southwestern coast of Crete, is a natural wonder known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and pink-tinged sands. The beach is part of a protected nature reserve, which includes a shallow lagoon and a tiny island that can be reached on foot when the tide is low. Elafonisi is the perfect destination for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling, offering a serene and idyllic setting for visitors looking to relax and enjoy the beauty of Crete’s coastline.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum 

The Heraklion Archaeological Museum, located in the city of Heraklion, is one of the most important museums in Greece and is dedicated to studying and preserving Crete’s ancient Minoan civilization. The museum’s extensive collection includes artifacts from the Neolithic period to the Roman era, focusing on Minoan culture. Highlights of the museum include the famous Phaistos Disc, the colorful frescoes from Knossos Palace, and an impressive collection of Minoan pottery. A visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is essential for anyone interested in exploring the rich history of Crete.

Samaria Gorge National Park 

Samaria Gorge National Park, located in the White Mountains of western Crete, is a stunning natural attraction and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The park is home to the Samaria Gorge, one of the longest gorges in Europe, which stretches for 16 kilometers (10 miles) from the Omalos Plateau to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli. The hike through the gorge offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, with steep cliffs, lush vegetation, and the opportunity to spot rare flora and fauna, including the endangered Cretan wild goat, or kri-kri. The challenging but rewarding trek through Samaria Gorge is a must for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Crete.

Old Town 

The Old Town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, boasting a rich history that dates back to the Knights Hospitaller’s rule in the 14th century. The town’s narrow cobblestone streets, fortified walls, and charming squares create an enchanting atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. Explore the Street of the Knights, visit the Archaeological Museum, or wander the alleys to discover hidden gems and experience the town’s unique blend of Byzantine, Gothic, and Ottoman architectural styles.

Palace of the Grand Master  

The Palace of the Grand Master, located in Rhodes Old Town, is an impressive medieval fortress that once served as the residence of the Knights Hospitaller’s Grand Master. The palace features imposing towers, a vast courtyard, and a wealth of well-preserved frescoes and mosaics. Today, the palace houses a museum showcasing artifacts from the island’s ancient past and a collection of medieval art and furniture. A visit to the Palace of the Grand Master offers a fascinating insight into the history and culture of Rhodes during the time of the knights.

Lindos Acropolis 

The Lindos Acropolis, situated on the east coast of Rhodes, is an ancient archaeological site perched on a cliff overlooking the picturesque village of Lindos and the stunning Aegean Sea. The site features a mix of ancient ruins, including the 4th-century BCE Temple of Athena Lindia, a Hellenistic stoa, and a Roman-era staircase. The dramatic setting of the Lindos Acropolis, combined with its historical significance, makes it a must-see destination for visitors to Rhodes.

Valley of the Butterflies  

The Valley of the Butterflies, also known as Petaloudes, is a lush nature reserve on the western side of Rhodes, which is home to a unique natural phenomenon. From June to September, the valley is filled with thousands of Jersey Tiger Moths, attracted by the sweet scent of the Oriental Sweetgum trees that grow in the area. The picturesque valley features a network of walking trails, bridges, and waterfalls, offering a peaceful and enchanting setting for visitors to enjoy. The Valley of the Butterflies is a perfect destination for nature lovers and families looking to explore Rhodes’ natural beauty.

Old Town  

The Old Town of Corfu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a charming and vibrant destination characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, Venetian architecture, and picturesque squares. The town’s strategic location in the Ionian Sea has resulted in a unique blend of cultural influences, including Byzantine, Venetian, French, and British. Visitors can explore the historic sites, such as the Old Fortress, the New Fortress, and the Saint Spyridon Church, or enjoy shopping and dining at the numerous boutiques and tavernas that line the streets.

Achilleion Palace  

Achilleion Palace, located just south of Corfu Town, is a stunning 19th-century palace built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, also known as Sisi. The palace’s architecture, artwork, and gardens are inspired by Greek mythology, particularly the hero Achilles, for whom the palace is named. Visitors can tour the lavish interior, featuring grand frescoes, sculptures, and ornate furnishings, and stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, which offer panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. Achilleion Palace is a must-visit destination for those interested in history, art, and architecture.

Paleokastritsa Monastery

The Paleokastritsa Monastery, situated on a hill overlooking the picturesque Paleokastritsa Bay, is a historic and tranquil destination offering stunning views of the coastline. Founded in the 13th century, the monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and features a small museum, a traditional olive press, and beautiful gardens filled with cypress and olive trees. Visitors can explore the monastery’s grounds, attend a religious service, or enjoy the serene atmosphere and breathtaking bay views.

Sidari Beach

Sidari Beach, located on the northwestern coast of Corfu, is a popular destination for its unique geological formations, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters. The beach is famous for the Canal d’Amour, a series of striking sandstone rock formations that create natural tunnels, caves, and coves along the shoreline. According to local legend, couples who swim through the Canal d’Amour will be blessed with everlasting love. Sidari Beach offers a range of water sports, sunbathing spots, and beachfront bars and restaurants, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing day by the sea.

Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach)  

Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is one of Greece’s most famous and picturesque beaches. Located on the northwest coast of Zakynthos, the beach is accessible only by boat and features a rusted shipwreck that ran aground in the 1980s. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, the beach’s crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sands create a stunning and secluded paradise. Visitors can take a boat trip to Navagio Beach, sunbathe on the sands, or capture the perfect photo of this iconic destination.

Blue Caves  

The Blue Caves are a series of natural geological formations along the northeastern coast of Zakynthos, characterized by their mesmerizing blue waters and distinctive arched rock formations. Accessible by boat, the caves allow visitors to swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, which are illuminated by the sunlight reflecting off the white limestone seabed, creating a magical blue glow. Boat trips to the Blue Caves often include stops at nearby attractions, such as Navagio Beach and the Keri Caves.

Turtle Island (Marathonisi)

Turtle Island, also known as Marathonisi, is a small, uninhabited island off the southern coast of Zakynthos that is an important nesting ground for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). The island’s pristine beaches, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal destination for swimming, snorkeling, and observing the local wildlife. Visitors can take a boat trip to Turtle Island and explore its natural beauty while learning about the conservation efforts to protect the sea turtles and their nesting sites.

Keri Caves  

The Keri Caves, located along the southwestern coast of Zakynthos near the village of Keri, are a series of natural caves and rock formations that can be explored by boat. The caves feature stunning turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and hidden coves that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Some of the caves are large enough for boats to enter, allowing visitors to get an up-close look at the impressive geological formations. A visit to the Keri Caves offers a unique and adventurous experience for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Zakynthos.

Portara  

The Portara, also known as the Temple of Apollo, is an iconic landmark situated on a small islet near the harbor of Naxos Town. This ancient marble gateway is all that remains of a 6th-century BCE temple dedicated to Apollo. The Portara offers stunning views of Naxos Town and the surrounding sea, particularly during sunrise and sunset when the sun’s rays beautifully illuminate the monument. Visitors can take a leisurely walk from the harbor to the Portara, capturing unforgettable photos and soaking in the island’s rich history.

Chora (Naxos Town)  

Chora, or Naxos Town, is the bustling capital of Naxos and a charming destination that combines history, culture, and scenic beauty. The town’s narrow, winding streets are lined with white-washed houses, colorful bougainvillea, and numerous shops, cafes, and tavernas. The Venetian-era Kastro, the Archaeological Museum of Naxos, and the picturesque waterfront promenade are key attractions. Chora offers a delightful mix of history, shopping, dining, and nightlife, making it a must-visit destination on the island.

Agios Prokopios Beach  

Agios Prokopios Beach, located on the western coast of Naxos, is one of the island’s most popular and beautiful beaches. The beach features a long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. Agios Prokopios offers a range of amenities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, and a variety of beachfront bars and restaurants. The beach’s stunning setting and lively atmosphere make it a favorite destination for both tourists and locals alike.

Temple of Demeter  

The Temple of Demeter, situated in the village of Sangri on Naxos, is an important archaeological site that dates back to the 6th century BCE. The temple, dedicated to the goddess of agriculture and fertility, was built from local Naxian marble and once featured a distinctive Ionic architectural style. Today, visitors can explore the temple’s ruins and learn about its history at the nearby museum. The Temple of Demeter offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s ancient past and is a must-see for history enthusiasts visiting Naxos.

Hydra Town  

Hydra Town, the main settlement on the island of Hydra, is a charming and picturesque destination characterized by its well-preserved stone mansions, narrow cobblestone streets, and bustling harbor. The town has a unique atmosphere due to the absence of cars and motorbikes; donkeys and boats are the primary means of transportation on the island. Visitors can explore the quaint shops, art galleries, and traditional tavernas that line the streets or relax at one of the many waterfront cafes while enjoying the stunning harbor views.

Historical Archives Museum

The Historical Archives Museum, located in Hydra Town, is housed in a beautiful 19th-century mansion and showcases Hydra’s rich history and culture. The museum’s collection includes various artifacts, such as manuscripts, paintings, photographs, and historical documents, that provide insight into the island’s maritime and revolutionary past. A visit to the Historical Archives Museum is a must for those interested in learning more about Hydra’s fascinating history and its role in the Greek War of Independence.

Ecclesiastical and Byzantine Museum

The Ecclesiastical and Byzantine Museum, situated within the Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Hydra Town, is a small but captivating museum that exhibits a collection of religious artifacts and art. The museum’s displays include rare icons, vestments, manuscripts, and other ecclesiastical treasures that date back to the Byzantine and post-Byzantine periods. A visit to the Ecclesiastical and Byzantine Museum offers a glimpse into the island’s spiritual heritage and artistic tradition.

Scenic walks and coastal views  

Hydra offers numerous scenic walks and hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the island’s natural beauty and enjoy breathtaking coastal views. Some popular routes include the walk from Hydra Town to the village of Kamini, the hike to the Profitis Ilias Monastery, and the coastal path to the picturesque fishing village of Vlychos. These leisurely strolls and more challenging hikes provide an opportunity to experience the island’s unspoiled landscapes, secluded coves, and panoramic vistas, making them a must-do activity for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Hydra.

Chora (Serifos Town)

Chora, also known as Serifos Town, is the picturesque capital of Serifos, perched on a hilltop and offering stunning views of the island and the Aegean Sea. The town features traditional Cycladic architecture, with narrow, winding streets, white-washed houses, and blue-domed churches. Visitors can explore the town’s Venetian castle ruins, visit the Folklore Museum, or relax at one of the charming cafes and tavernas that offer delicious local cuisine. Chora’s enchanting atmosphere and panoramic views make it a must-visit destination on the island.

Livadi Beach  

Livadi Beach, located on the southeastern coast of Serifos, is a beautiful sandy beach known for its calm, crystal-clear waters and vibrant atmosphere. The beach is well-organized, offering sunbeds, umbrellas, and a variety of beachfront bars and restaurants. Livadi Beach is also conveniently located near the island’s main port, making it an easily accessible destination for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the lively beach scene.

Monastery of Taxiarches 

The Monastery of Taxiarches, situated in the central part of Serifos, is a 17th-century fortified monastery dedicated to the Archangels Michael and Gabriel. The monastery is nestled in a serene, mountainous landscape and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the monastery’s impressive architecture, admire the beautiful frescoes and icons, and learn about its rich history and cultural significance. The Monastery of Taxiarches is a spiritual and historical treasure that should not be missed.

Hiking opportunities

Serifos offers many hiking opportunities, with a network of well-marked trails traversing the island’s diverse landscapes, including rugged hills, verdant valleys, and picturesque beaches. Some popular hiking routes include the trail from Chora to the Monastery of Taxiarches, the coastal path from Livadi Beach to the secluded Agios Sostis Beach, and the challenging hike to the island’s highest peak, Mount Troulos. Hiking on Serifos allows visitors to immerse themselves in the island’s natural beauty, explore hidden gems, and enjoy stunning vistas of the Aegean Sea.

Byzantine Castle Town

Byzantine Castle Town, often referred to as the “Gibraltar of the East,” is a stunning medieval fortress town located on a massive rock formation off the southeastern coast of the Peloponnese. The town’s well-preserved Byzantine castle, narrow cobblestone streets, and stone-built houses offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. Visitors can explore the town’s numerous churches, including the 12th-century Church of Christ Elkomenos, and stroll along the fortified walls while taking in the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.

Church of Agia Sofia

The Church of Agia Sofia, perched on a cliff overlooking Monemvasia, is an impressive 12th-century Byzantine church dedicated to the Holy Wisdom. The church’s unique octagonal structure, well-preserved frescoes, and captivating atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for history and architecture enthusiasts. The climb up to the church is steep, but the panoramic views of the castle town and the surrounding sea are well worth the effort.

Archaeological Collection of Monemvasia

The Archaeological Collection of Monemvasia, housed in a former mosque, showcases a range of artifacts and findings from the town’s rich history. The collection includes pottery, sculptures, inscriptions, and architectural fragments that date back to the Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman periods. Visiting the museum provides a fascinating insight into the town’s past and the various civilizations that have left their mark on Monemvasia.

Scenic coastal views

Monemvasia offers an abundance of scenic coastal views, with its dramatic cliffs, azure waters, and picturesque beaches. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the town’s fortified walls, capturing stunning photos of the fortress and the sea, or venture beyond the castle town to explore the island’s hidden coves and tranquil beaches. Monemvasia’s unique combination of natural beauty, history, and architectural charm make it an unforgettable destination for travelers exploring Greece.

Ancient Olympic Games Site

Olympia, located in the western Peloponnese, is an important archaeological site and the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games. Established in the 8th century BCE, the Games were held in honor of Zeus and attracted athletes from all over the Greek world. Visitors can explore the extensive ruins of the ancient sanctuary, including the remains of the gymnasium, the Palaestra, and the Temple of Hera while walking in the footsteps of ancient athletes who once competed for glory and honor.

Archaeological Museum of Olympia

The Archaeological Museum of Olympia houses a remarkable collection of artifacts discovered at the site of ancient Olympia. Highlights of the museum include the famous statue of Hermes of Praxiteles, the Nike of Paionios, and an array of intricate sculptures from the Temple of Zeus. The museum’s exhibits provide a fascinating insight into the Olympic Games history, the site’s religious significance, and the artistic achievements of ancient Greece.

Temple of Zeus  

The Temple of Zeus, once considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was Olympia’s largest and most impressive temple. Built in the 5th century BCE, the temple was dedicated to Zeus and housed the colossal gold and ivory statue of the god created by the sculptor Phidias. Although only a few columns remain standing today, the temple’s ruins still evoke a sense of awe and offer a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Olympia.

Stadium  

The ancient Stadium of Olympia, located just beyond the Temple of Zeus, was where the Olympic Games athletic events took place. The stadium, which could accommodate up to 45,000 spectators, features a simple design with a rectangular running track and grassy slopes for seating. Visitors can walk through the arched entrance, known as the Krypte, and stand on the original marble starting blocks used by ancient athletes, imagining the excitement and energy that once filled the venue during the Games.

Ancient Theater  

The Ancient Theater of Epidaurus, located in the northeastern Peloponnese, is one of the best-preserved and most famous ancient Greek theaters. Built in the 4th century BCE, the theater is renowned for its exceptional acoustics, elegant design, and harmonious integration with the surrounding landscape. With a seating capacity of approximately 14,000 spectators, the theater is still used today for various performances, including plays and concerts. A visit to the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus offers a unique opportunity to experience the splendor of ancient Greek drama and architecture.

Asclepeion 

The Asclepeion, situated near the theater, was an ancient healing center dedicated to the god of medicine, Asclepius. The site, which dates back to the 6th century BCE, was once a popular destination for those seeking cures for various ailments. Visitors can explore the extensive ruins of the Asclepeion, including the remains of the temples, baths, gymnasium, and dormitories that once accommodated patients. The serene setting and the site’s fascinating history make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Epidaurus region.

Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus  

Located on the grounds of the Asclepeion, houses an impressive collection of artifacts discovered at the site. The museum’s exhibits include a variety of sculptures, inscriptions, medical instruments, and votive offerings that provide insight into the ancient healing practices and religious beliefs associated with Asclepius. A visit to the Archaeological Museum of Epidaurus offers a deeper understanding of the site’s history and its significant role in the lives of the ancient Greeks.

Lion Gate  

The Lion Gate, located at the entrance to the ancient citadel of Mycenae, is a monumental symbol of the Mycenaean civilization that flourished in the Late Bronze Age (circa 1600-1100 BCE). Built around 1250 BCE, the gate is adorned with a striking relief of two lions flanking a central column, making it one of Europe’s earliest examples of monumental sculpture. The imposing structure provides a sense of the power and grandeur of the Mycenaean civilization and marks the entrance to a fascinating archaeological site.

Treasury of Atreus  

The Treasury of Atreus, also known as the Tomb of Agamemnon, is a remarkable example of Mycenaean tholos or beehive tomb architecture. Dating back to around 1250 BCE, the tomb features a monumental entrance, a long, vaulted passageway, and a circular burial chamber with a corbelled dome. The tomb’s impressive construction and the rich grave goods found within suggest that it was built for a high-ranking Mycenaean ruler, reflecting the wealth and artistic achievement of the civilization.

Archaeological Museum of Mycenae

The Archaeological Museum of Mycenae, situated near the ancient site, showcases an extensive collection of artifacts discovered during excavations at Mycenae and the surrounding area. The museum’s exhibits include a range of pottery, jewelry, weapons, frescoes, and other items that offer insight into the daily life, burial practices, and artistic achievements of the Mycenaean civilization. A visit to the Archaeological Museum of Mycenae is essential for a comprehensive understanding of this influential Bronze Age culture and its impact on the development of ancient Greece.

Heraion of Samos  

The Heraion of Samos is an ancient sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Hera on the island’s southeastern coast. The site, which dates back to the 8th century BCE, features the remains of several temples and altars that were once part of a thriving religious complex. The largest and most impressive temple, the Heraion, was one of the most prominent temples in the ancient Greek world. Today, only a single column remains standing, but the site’s fascinating history and picturesque setting make it a must-visit destination on the island.

Pythagoreion  

Pythagoreion, an ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage Site on the southern coast of Samos, is named after the famous mathematician and philosopher Pythagoras, who was born on the island. The site features an array of archaeological remains, including the ruins of the ancient city walls, an ancient theater, and Roman baths. Visitors can explore the site’s rich history and admire the stunning views of the harbor and the Aegean Sea.

Tunnel of Eupalinos  

The Tunnel of Eupalinos, also known as the Eupalinian Aqueduct, is an impressive engineering feat located near Pythagoreion. The tunnel was built in the 6th century BCE to bring fresh water to the ancient city from a nearby spring. The 1,036-meter-long tunnel, which was excavated simultaneously from both ends, is considered a masterpiece of ancient engineering. Guided tours of the tunnel offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the remarkable ingenuity of the ancient Greeks.

Samos Wine Museum  

The Samos Wine Museum, located in the town of Malagari, celebrates the island’s long tradition of winemaking, which dates back over 3,000 years. The museum showcases the history of Samos wine production and provides information on the local grape varieties, vinification techniques, and the island’s unique terroir. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the museum, followed by a wine tasting featuring the island’s famous sweet Muscat wines and other local varieties. The Samos Wine Museum offers a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts and those interested in the island’s rich viticultural heritage.

Tips for planning a trip to Greece

• Best times to visit: The ideal time to visit Greece is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists. The summer months (July and August) can be hot and crowded, while the winter months (November to March) are cooler and have fewer tourists, making it an excellent time to explore the mainland’s historical sites.
• Transportation options: Greece has a well-developed transportation network, including flights, ferries, trains, buses, and car rentals. For island hopping, ferries are the most popular and convenient option, while flights can save time when traveling between major cities and islands.
• Accommodation recommendations: Greece offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and boutique guesthouses to budget-friendly hostels and vacation rentals. Consider booking accommodations in advance when planning your trip, especially during peak travel seasons.

Greek Hospitality and Cultural Experiences

One of the most memorable aspects of traveling in Greece is experiencing the warm and welcoming Greek hospitality. Be sure to engage with the local people, savor traditional Greek cuisine, and immerse yourself in the country’s rich history and culture. Participate in local festivals, visit small villages, and explore the many archaeological sites to gain a deeper understanding of Greek life, both past and present.

Lesser-known Gems in Greece

Kastellorizo Island  

Kastellorizo, also known as Megisti, is a small yet charming island located in the southeastern Mediterranean near the Turkish coast. With its colorful neoclassical houses, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and warm hospitality, Kastellorizo offers an authentic and tranquil Greek island experience. Notable attractions include the Castle of the Knights, the Archaeological and Folklore Museum, and the Blue Grotto, a stunning sea cave accessible by boat.

Kardamyli Village (Peloponnese) 

Kardamyli is a picturesque seaside village nestled in the Mani Peninsula of the southern Peloponnese. Surrounded by olive groves and rugged mountains, Kardamyli offers a mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and traditional architecture. Explore the Old Town, visit the fortified tower houses, and enjoy leisurely hikes through the Vyros Gorge. Kardamyli is also an excellent base for exploring the nearby villages of the Mani Peninsula and the stunning beaches along the coast.

Ioannina (Epirus)  

Ioannina is a historic city located in the Epirus region of northwestern Greece, known for its beautiful lake, vibrant cultural scene, and rich history. The city’s attractions include the Ioannina Castle, the Byzantine Museum, and the ancient theater of Dodoni. Ioannina is also an excellent base for exploring the dramatic landscapes of the nearby Vikos Gorge and the picturesque stone-built villages of the Zagori region.

Pilio (Thessaly) 

Pilio, also known as Pelion, is a mountainous region in Thessaly, famous for its lush forests, traditional stone villages, and beautiful beaches. Pilio offers a unique combination of mountain and sea, with opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and relaxing on pristine beaches. Explore the charming villages of Makrinitsa, Portaria, and Tsagarada, and visit the nearby archaeological site of ancient Demetrias. Pilio is a perfect destination for those seeking a lesser-known and diverse Greek experience.

Greece is a treasure trove of fascinating history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this travel guide has provided an overview of some of the most captivating destinations in the country, both well-known and off the beaten path. As you plan your journey, remember to embrace the warmth of Greek hospitality, delve into the rich cultural experiences, and explore beyond the popular tourist sites to discover the true essence of this remarkable Mediterranean destination. No matter where your travels take you, the beauty and diversity of Greece are sure to leave a lasting impression, inspiring you to return and explore further. Happy travels!

FAQs About Greece

Q: what is the best time to visit greece .

A: The best time to visit Greece is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists. The summer months (July and August) can be hot and crowded, while the winter months (November to March) are cooler and have fewer tourists, making it a great time to explore the mainland’s historical sites.

Q: What currency is used in Greece? 

A: Greece uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency.

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Greece? 

A: Greece is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area. Visitors from many countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, can enter Greece without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, checking the latest visa requirements for your nationality is essential before planning your trip.

Q: How do I get around Greece? 

A: Greece has a well-developed transportation network, including flights, ferries, trains, buses, and car rentals. For island hopping, ferries are the most popular and convenient option, while flights can save time when traveling between major cities and islands.

Q: Is Greece safe for tourists? 

A: Greece is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it is essential to practice common-sense safety precautions, such as safeguarding your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas.

Q: Can I drink tap water in Greece? 

A: Tap water is safe to drink in most parts of Greece, especially in major cities and towns. However, on some islands or remote areas, it may be advisable to drink bottled water.

Q: How widely spoken is English in Greece? 

A: English is widely spoken in Greece, especially in tourist areas and major cities. Many Greeks working in the tourism industry speak English, and you’ll often find menus and signs in English as well.

Q: What are some traditional Greek foods I should try? 

A: Some traditional Greek dishes to try include moussaka, souvlaki, tzatziki, dolmades, spanakopita, and Greek salad. Don’t forget to try the famous Greek yogurt and honey for dessert.

Q: What is the tipping culture in Greece? 

A: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Greece. In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is customary for good service. For other services like taxis, rounding up the fare is usually sufficient.

Q: What is the time zone in Greece? 

A: Greece is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2). During daylight saving time, Greece operates on Eastern European Summer Time (EEST), which is UTC+3.

Q: What type of power outlets are used in Greece? 

A: Greece uses Type C and Type F power outlets, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. Travelers from countries with different plug types may need to bring a power adapter.

Q: Are credit cards widely accepted in Greece? 

A: Credit cards are widely accepted in Greece, particularly in larger cities, tourist areas, and major hotels and restaurants. However, carrying some cash for smaller establishments or remote locations is always a good idea.

Q: Is public Wi-Fi available in Greece? 

A: Public Wi-Fi is available in many cafes, restaurants, hotels, and some public spaces in Greece. However, it is essential to use caution when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks and consider using a VPN for added security.

Q: What are some must-visit Greek islands? 

A: Some must-visit Greek islands include Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Zakynthos, Naxos, and Hydra. Each island offers unique attractions, landscapes, and cultural experiences.

Q: Are there any specific dress codes I should be aware of when visiting Greece? 

A: There are no strict dress codes for general travel in Greece, but it is advisable to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, such as monasteries and churches. Covering shoulders and knees is generally expected in these settings.

Q: How do I greet people in Greece? 

A: The most common greeting in Greece is “Yasou” (pronounced “YAH-sue”) for informal situations, which means “hello” or “good health.” In more formal situations, you can use “Kalimera” (good morning) and “Kalispera” (good evening).

Q: What are some popular Greek souvenirs to bring home? 

A: Some popular Greek souvenirs include olive oil, olives, Greek honey, worry beads (komboloi), traditional ceramics, handmade leather sandals, and local wines and spirits like ouzo.

Q: What kind of accommodations are available in Greece? 

A: Greece offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and boutique guesthouses to budget-friendly hostels and vacation rentals. When planning your trip, consider booking accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Q: Do I need to purchase travel insurance for my trip to Greece? 

A: While not mandatory, purchasing travel insurance for your trip to Greece is highly recommended. Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unexpected events, giving you peace of mind during your travels.

Q: Can I rent a car in Greece? 

A: Yes, you can rent a car in Greece, provided you have a valid driver’s license from your home country and, in some cases, an International Driving Permit (IDP). Renting a car is a great way to explore Greece at your own pace, especially when visiting the mainland and larger islands. Keep in mind that driving in Greece can be challenging due to narrow roads, mountainous terrain, and local driving habits.

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7 Beautiful Greek Islands Ideal When You Are Exploring Greece Alone

Last Updated on August 27, 2024

Greece is often considered one of the top destinations for romantic holidays where you can bask in the sun with your loved ones. However, even if you are heading solo you can still make the most of Greek islands that offer you the comfort and convenience you seek.

If you are a woman traveling solo you can add Greece to your list. This allows you to make the most of the facilities and amenities that are available and you can still sit back and enjoy the stunning views and sunsets that Greece has to offer.

With its low crime rate, Greece is one of the popular destinations that can make things easier for you. Hence, you can look for amazing Ionian & Aegean villa holidays that can help you make the most of your trip to Greece.

Here are 7 stunningly beautiful Greek islands that you can add to your list when you are going for a solo trip to Greece.

7 perfect Greek islands for a solo trip

While Santorini is often dubbed as one of the most romantic places in Greece, you can still visit the place alone. In fact, you can take benefit of the family-friendly accommodations and modern facilities that would come to your rescue. Santorini is known for its low crime rate and that can allow you to make the most of your trip.

Being solo allows you to explore the town at your own pace. The island can provide you with lanes that pass through charming villages which you can explore. You can also find various solo-friendly accommodations that make things easier for you. If you prefer to indulge in Greece you can always find luxurious hotels and resorts that will take care of your personal needs and help you make the most of your time.

Nestled in the Ionian Sea, Corfu is one of the popular Greek islands that has so much to offer. Hence, it is one of the top choices for various solo female travelers who count on options that they can choose from. With its rich history, lush greenery and mountainous landscape you can have a great time here.

Corfu also has a variety of accommodations perfect for solo exploration. This means that you can decide where you want to stay based on your budget and preferences. Apart from being visually appealing, Corfu can provide you with tons of options like museums and vibrant markets that you can explore. You can walk the Old Town and have a great time alone browsing through shops, cafes and restaurants.

With its lively nightlife and stunning beaches, Mykonos is among the top places where you can enjoy your Greek holidays. The island is perfect for solo women who seek adventure and fun. With numerous transportation options, Mykonos is perfect for women travellers who want to keep a check on their budget as well.

Here you can also find female-friendly accommodations that would provide you with an additional sense of security. If you love to socialize Mykonos is a great place where you can meet up with other solo female travelers. You can explore beach clubs and charming towns together and that can help you create memorable moments.

On the other side of the spectrum, Naxos is ideal for solo women looking for some downtime. The island offers a great laidback experience and you can put your feet up and relax with the scenic view you get here. The best part about Naxos is its welcoming environment and friendly locals that make you feel at ease and comfortable.

With its low crime rate, you can enjoy your time in Naxos. You can walk through the picturesque villages and various historic sites. In terms of accommodations, you can choose from various cosy guesthouses to luxurious boutique hotels that allow you to indulge and treat your senses.

If you are someone who loves to read a book, hike around the island and discover some ancient ruins Naxos is one of the best places to visit in Greece .

Nestled in the Ionian Sea, Lefkada is the only island connected to the mainland with a floating bridge. This means that you can access this island if you have a private or rental car. For many solo female travelers, this can be a blessing as you can explore the island at your own pace.

With its compact size and well-developed infrastructure women travelers do not have to worry when in Lefkada. The island can provide you with a variety of female-friendly accommodations. Hence, you can choose from budget and luxury boutique hotels, resorts and villas that suit your preferences.

Lefkada is ideal for those who love adventure and would want to try hiking, enjoying water sports activities, strolling fishing villages and so on. Lefkada is also known for its stunning beaches, trendy cafes and highly-rated restaurants that ensure you can have a great time here.

Women love options and if you are one of those, Crete is the best Greek island for you. Being the largest Greek island you can find a vast number of accommodations here. You can choose from a variety of female-friendly accommodations that make you feel at ease and at home.

Crete beaches are equally pristine and beautiful and you can spend plenty of time here enjoying the Aegean Sea. While the island is large the crime rate is very low which makes it a great place for solo women travelers. With friendly locals and warm welcoming vibes, Crete can instantly make you feel at home.

If you have exploration in mind, Crete can provide you with tons of options for cultural and outdoor activities. Hence, the island is perfect for all kinds of travelers who want to make the most of their time.

If you are looking for a picturesque island in Greece where you can be safe, Rhodes fits the bill.  This is one of the popular Greek islands that offer some stunning views of Greece’s natural beauty. With its welcoming and friendly locals, Rhodes will not disappoint especially when you are a woman traveling alone.

Even if you are not looking for adventure you can still visit the pristine beaches of Rhodes where you can spend your time under the sun. Apart from this, Rhodes can offer you ancient ruins and charming fishing villages that tell you stories of Greece’s heritage. You can walk through the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers fascinating details about Rhodes’ heritage and past.

Hence, Rhodes is ideal for those who want an immersive and engaging experience without compromising on safety. With excellent accommodations and dining options, Rhodes provides a complete summer holiday experience.

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written by Dre Roelandt

updated 27.08.2024

Fancy exploring the history of the UNESCO-listed Corfu Town? Or perhaps you'd rather while away your days on Paleokastritsa's pebbly shores, ouzo in hand? From the raucous tavernas of  Sidari to the understated elegance of Roda, Corfu's accommodation runs the gamut from backpacker digs to luxury villas. Here’s our guide to the best area to stay in Corfu, with tips and recommendations from our local travel experts.

Corfu Town: best area to stay for first-time visitors

Kassiopi: best area to stay for family-friendly holidays, ipsos beach: great place to stay for beach vibes, paleokastritsa: to stay at one of the most beautiful places, roda: best place to stay for a traditional stay, agios stefanos: best place to stay or great views, agios gordios: best area to stay for couples, barbati: to get away from the crowds, glyfada: where to stay in corfu for beach lovers, sidari: best area to stay for nightlife.

If you're a first-timer to Corfu, you can't go wrong with the island's capital. Its UNESCO World Heritage status is well-deserved thanks to its charming Old Town, where narrow, winding streets are lined with beautiful Venetian-style buildings. You’ll want to check out both the Old Fortress and New Fortress — two iconic landmarks that showcase the town’s rich strategic history.

When you’re ready to relax, head to the Liston, a lovely French-designed arcade with a touch of Parisian flair. It’s a great place to have a coffee, and people watch. And don't miss the Corfu Public Market — the fresh cheese and olives are perfect for a picnic, which you can enjoy right there in the Liston.

While you’re in town, don’t miss the Museum of Asian Art, housed in the grand Palace of St. Michael and St. George, or the Church of Saint Spyridon, dedicated to the island’s patron saint. Both are well worth a visit.

Best hotels in Corfu Town

• Best for a boutique stay : Siora Vittoria Boutique Hotel . This elegant 19th-century mansion features luxurious rooms with antique furnishings. Its central location and personalised service make it a great choice for a refined, intimate experience in Corfu Town.
• Best for history : Mon Repos Palace .  This was once a royal summer residence and offers neoclassical architecture and lush gardens. You’ll get a mix of regal charm and modern comforts, plus it’s close to the sea.
• Best for the self-catering : Nostalgia Corfu Town Apartments . These stylish, fully-equipped apartments offer a home-away-from-home vibe with a central location and modern amenities, perfect for independent travellers who want to experience local life.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Corfu Town to fit any budget.

Corfu Town is the best area to stay if it's your first time © Shutterstock

Got the kids in tow? Kassiopi, a charming fishing village on Corfu’s northeast coast, is the perfect spot for a family-friendly holiday. The calm, shallow waters of Kalamionas Beach are ideal for young swimmers, and the rock pools around the headland offer endless fun for curious little ones. The village is compact and easy to get around, with traffic-free zones that let kids explore safely.

For a bit of history, check out the Byzantine castle ruins overlooking the harbour, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. 

For some extra fun, hop on a glass-bottom boat trip to spot marine life—octopuses often make an appearance, much to the delight of kids and teens. You can also enjoy mini-golf at Kassiopi Golf Fun Park or go horseback riding at Diethneis Ippikoi Agones. If you're up for a day trip, Aqualand Water Park is just a short drive away and sure to be a hit with the whole family.

For a sweet treat, head to Lime Lounge for homemade ice cream.

Best hotels in Kassiopi

• Best for a boutique stay: Melina Oasis Boutique Hotel . This adults-only retreat offers a tranquil escape with stunning sea views. With stylish rooms, an infinity pool, and excellent dining, it’s perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway.
• Best for families: Limani Apartments . These spacious, well-equipped apartments provide a comfortable base for families. Featuring a large pool, a playground, and proximity to the beach, they cater to all ages.
• Best for budget travellers: Sunflower Apartments & Studios . Offering great value without compromising comfort, these affordable accommodations include a pool, garden, and kitchenettes in each unit, making them ideal for budget-conscious travellers.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Kassiopi to fit any budget.

Portokalopita, orange pie Corfu, Greek dessert © AS Food studio/Shutterstock

If you're after a lively beach scene , Ipsos is where to stay in Corfu. Located on the island's northeast coast, Ipsos Beach is known for its long, pebbly shoreline and crystal-clear waters. The beach has earned a Blue Flag for its cleanliness and excellent facilities, making it a top spot for sun-seekers. With lush green mountains as a backdrop, Ipsos offers a picturesque beach setting.

The vibe here is lively and youthful, especially along the bustling beachfront promenade, which is packed with bars, restaurants, and shops.

Ipsos is also a hotspot for nightlife, with beach bars serving cocktails and playing music late into the night. The Phantom is a local institution—a popular open-air club that keeps the party going into the early hours. Castaways is another favourite, famous for its happy hour deals and themed nights.

For thrill-seekers, parasailing provides an incredible bird’s-eye view of the coastline, while jet skiing and banana boat rides are also popular ways to enjoy the water.

Best hotels in Ipsos Beach

• Best for a boutique stay: Dominoes Corfu . This stylish, adults-only hotel features modern rooms with sea views. Its rooftop bar, infinity pool, and beach proximity make it perfect for a relaxing, upscale beach holiday.
• Best for families: Costa Hotel . This family-friendly hotel includes spacious rooms, a large pool, and a kids' club. Its beachfront location and all-inclusive options are ideal for stress-free family vacations.
• Best for couples:  Dorotea Luxury Rooms . Offering elegant, romantic rooms near the beach, this hotel provides a peaceful retreat with modern amenities and personalised service, making it perfect for couples seeking a quiet getaway.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Ipsos Beach to fit any budget.

Where to stay in Corfu depends on what you want out of your trip © Shutterstock

If you’ve seen a postcard of Corfu, chances are it was taken in Paleokastritsa. Often called the jewel of Corfu, this breathtaking resort on the island’s northwest coast is a must-visit. The area is famous for its six stunning coves with crystal-clear waters, making it one of the most picturesque spots on the island. Perched on a hill, the 12th-century Monastery of Paleokastritsa offers incredible views of the sea, while the legendary 'Bella Vista' viewpoint is said to be where Odysseus was shipwrecked in Homer’s Odyssey.

Beyond lounging on the beach, you can explore the magical sea caves by boat, visit the nearby Angelokastro castle for panoramic views, or go diving with Achilleon Diving Center to discover Paleokastritsa’s underwater wonders. For the best views in town, grab a table at Nereids Restaurant.

Best hotels in Paleokastritsa

• Best for a boutique stay: San Georgio Boutique Hotel . This charming hotel offers stunning bay views from its hillside location. With individually designed rooms and a beautiful pool terrace, it’s perfect for a romantic, scenic stay.
• Best for luxury: Akrotiri Beach Resort Hotel . This upscale resort features panoramic sea views, multiple pools, and direct beach access. Its spacious rooms and excellent facilities make it ideal for a luxurious beach holiday.
• Best for families: Hotel Apollon Corfu . This family-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms, a large pool, and organised activities for children. Its proximity to the beach and local attractions makes it great for family adventures.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Paleokastritsa to fit any budget.

A tail of two kitties, Ionian Coast, Corfu © Gemma Lake

Roda, a charming fishing village on Corfu’s north coast, is the ideal spot if you want to experience the real Corfu and get a taste of traditional Greek island life. This sleepy village has managed to resist overdevelopment, preserving its authentic, laid-back atmosphere—perfect for those looking to truly unwind.

The village’s main attractions include its long, sandy beach with shallow waters, making it ideal for families. History buffs will appreciate the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to Apollo. In the evenings, the village square becomes the heart of the community, where both locals and visitors gather to enjoy a meal or a drink.

For a taste of traditional Corfiot cuisine, head to Yiannis Taverna, a cosy, family-run spot serving home-cooked Greek dishes. Another local favourite is Boukari Beach Restaurant, renowned for its fresh fish caught daily by local fishermen.

If you're visiting in August , don’t miss the annual Roda Folklore Festival, where you can immerse yourself in traditional music, dance, and cuisine. 

Best hotels in Roda

• Best for a boutique stay: Aqua Luxury Suites by Estia . This upscale hotel, located on the caldera, offers amazing views, private hot tubs, and personalized service. Its sleek, modern design blends seamlessly with Santorini's natural beauty.
• Best for families: Eleni Apartments . These spacious apartments with kitchenettes are great for families. Located in the quiet area of Imerovigli, it has a peaceful vibe, friendly staff, and convenient access to local amenities and attractions.
• Best for budget travellers: Alexandros Studios Apartments . Found in Perissa, these well-kept apartments offer great value. Enjoy the nearby black sand beach, on-site pool, and comfortable rooms without spending too much. Ideal for travellers looking to save money while having a pleasant stay.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Roda to fit any budget.

Best area of Corfu to stay for first timers in Corfu Town  © Shutterstock

Agios Stefanos, nestled on Corfu's northwest coast, is famous for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and nearby islands. From many vantage points in the village, you can gaze across the strait to the beautiful islands of Mathraki, Othoni, and Ereikoussa. The picturesque harbour, surrounded by lush hillsides, is a must-see, lined with traditional tavernas that add to the village's charm.

This small fishing village has retained its authentic Greek vibe while offering modern amenities for visitors. The relaxed, slow pace makes it a perfect escape from busier resorts.

For dining with a view , try Galini Restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh seafood on a terrace overlooking the harbour, with stunning sunset views. If you're after something more casual, Fantasea Bar & Restaurant is right on the beachfront, serving up great cocktails and Mediterranean dishes.

A boat trip to the nearby Diapontia Islands is well worth it. The waters around here are crystal clear and perfect for snorkelling.

Best hotels in Agios Stefanos

• Best for a boutique stay: Hotel Olga . This family-run hotel provides stunning sea views from its hillside location. With traditional architecture and warm hospitality, it offers an authentic Greek island experience.
• Best for families: Tereza's Sunset Hotel . This comfortable hotel features family rooms and a large pool with panoramic views. Its friendly atmosphere and proximity to the beach make it ideal for family vacations.
• Best for couples:  Nafsika Hotel . This adults-only hotel offers breathtaking sea views and a peaceful atmosphere. Its romantic setting and excellent service make it perfect for couples seeking a tranquil getaway.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Agios Stefanos to fit any budget.

Idyllic Agios Stefanos is where to stay in Corfu for great views © Shutterstock

If you’re searching for the perfect spot in Corfu for a romantic escape, Agios Gordios is a top choice. This small resort on the west coast is known for its stunning beach, framed by dramatic cliffs and lush green hills. The golden stretch of sand, combined with the iconic Ortholithi rock rising from the sea, creates a breathtaking backdrop.

Agios Gordios offers an intimate and relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for couples looking for a peaceful getaway . The village is small and charming, with cosy tavernas and bars. As the sun sets, the beach lights up with a soft glow, setting the mood for romantic evening strolls. For cocktails with a view, head to Stefano's Cocktail Bar, perched on a hill with panoramic views of the bay.

Best hotels in Agios Gordios

• Best for a boutique stay:  Nobile Boutique Hotel . This stylish, adults-only hotel offers elegant rooms with sea views. Its rooftop terrace, infinity pool, and close proximity to the beach create a romantic atmosphere for couples.
• Best for families:  Apart Hotel Blumarin . These spacious apartments come with kitchenettes and balconies. The hotel's pool and beach access make it ideal for family holidays.
• Best for budget travellers:  Pink Palace Beach Resort . Known for its lively vibe and affordable rooms, this beachfront resort offers bars and a range of activities, making it popular among young travellers.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Agios Gordios to fit any budget.

Htapodi Ksydato, Corfu food, Greece © Gemma Lake

If you’re not a fan of fighting for beach space , Barbati is where you’ll want to stay in Corfu.

This destination is perfect for a quieter, more secluded holiday. The main draw is the stunning Blue Flag beach, a long stretch of white pebbles nestled against olive groves and pine forests.

Barbati is a small village with just enough amenities to keep things comfortable without feeling crowded or touristy. The area is all about enjoying nature and the beautiful surroundings.

The clear waters are excellent for snorkelling, and there are several secluded coves nearby to explore. For hiking enthusiasts, there are great trails from Barbati: you can hike towards Spartylas for scenic vineyard views or head towards Kassiopi for stunning coastal vistas.

Best hotels in Barbati

• Best for a boutique stay: Oceanis Rooms Apartments . These modern, stylish apartments offer stunning sea views and direct beach access. With a peaceful atmosphere and excellent amenities, they're perfect for a relaxing getaway.
• Best for families: Hotel Odeon Barbati . This family-friendly hotel features comfortable rooms and a large pool area. Its proximity to the beach and local tavernas makes it great for laid-back family vacations.
• Best for couples: Pantokrator Hotel . This adults-only hotel, located on a hillside, offers panoramic coastline views. Its tranquil setting and romantic ambience make it ideal for couples seeking peace and privacy.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Barbati to fit any budget.

Loggas beach on the northwest side of the island, close to Cape Drastis © Shutterstock

Glyfada, on Corfu’s west coast, is the ideal spot for anyone looking to spend their time lounging by the beach. The main draw here is Glyfada Beach, a beautiful crescent of golden sand surrounded by lush, wooded hills. It’s widely considered one of the island’s most beautiful beaches.

This west coast resort has everything you need for a perfect beach day, with well-equipped sunbeds, umbrellas, and a range of watersports on offer. The vibe in Glyfada is mostly relaxed. This is a great place to sunbathe, watch the sunset, and have dinner or a cocktail after.

For dining, Pazuzu Beach Restaurant & Bar offers a chic beachfront setting and an eclectic menu. If you’re in the mood for traditional Greek fare, Elia Restaurant is a great choice, focusing on fresh, local ingredients.

There’s no shortage of activities in Glyfada. You can try windsurfing or paddleboarding, join a game of beach volleyball, or simply soak up the Mediterranean sun. 

Best hotels in Glyfada

• Best for a boutique stay : Domes of Corfu, Autograph Collection . This upscale resort features stylish rooms, multiple pools, a spa, and direct beach access, making it perfect for a high-end beach getaway.
• Best for families: Pelekas Monastery . This family-friendly hotel offers spacious rooms and extensive grounds. It has a large pool, kids' club, and is close to the beach, making it ideal for a fun family vacation.
• Best for budget travellers: Pink Palace Beach Resort . Known for its lively atmosphere and affordable rooms, this beachfront resort has bars and water sports facilities, attracting young, budget-conscious travellers.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Glyfada to fit any budget.

Kitten in Avlaki, Corfu © Gemma Lake

Sidari, on the north coast of Corfu, is renowned for its vibrant nightlife scene. One of its main attractions is the famous Canal d'Amour, a unique rock formation with a local legend that it brings luck in love. The long sandy beach is perfect for relaxing during the day before the evening begins.

The atmosphere in Sidari is energetic and fun-loving, ideal for dancing the night away. For a great beachside cocktail, head to Mojitos Beach Bar, which offers a party atmosphere right on the sand. Before you hit the clubs, stop by The Orchard Restaurant for delicious Greek and international dishes.

Sidari’s nightlife caters to all tastes. Bed Rock Club is a favourite for rock and indie music, while Bolero Bar provides a more laid-back vibe with live music. If you want to party until dawn, Montecristo Club keeps the beats going into the early hours.

During the day, Sidari offers plenty of activities, from watersports and exploring unique coastal rock formations to taking a boat trip to the nearby Diapontia Islands.

Best hotels in Sidari

• Best for families: Sidari Water Park Hotel . Featuring its own water park, this resort is a hit with families. It offers comfortable rooms, multiple pools, and entertainment programs for non-stop fun.
• Best for couples: Palma Sidari Corfu . This adults-only hotel offers a peaceful retreat from the nightlife. With stylish rooms, a relaxing pool area, and proximity to the beach, it’s great for couples.
• Best for budget travellers: Del Mare Beach Hotel . This affordable beachfront hotel offers comfortable rooms and a large pool. Its central location and friendly vibe make it popular among budget travellers looking for sun and nightlife

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Sidari to fit any budget.

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.

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Living In Greece: Essential Expat Guide 2024

• Last Updated: August 27, 2024

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This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know about moving to Greece and establishing your new life there, ensuring your transition is as smooth as possible. 

In this guide:

• The legalities of moving to Greece:  Visas and residency options for non-EU nationals.
• Costs and expenses  associated with moving to and living in Greece.
• Greece as a retirement destination.
• Healthcare and health insurance:  Your options and costs.
• Travel, public transport, infrastructure .
• Housing and accommodation:  Available real estate, renting, and buying.
• Education and schools .
• Where to live in Greece:  Overview of the most popular expat destination.

Greece highlights

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• Attractive weather, climate, and lifestyle : With an average of over 2,500 hours of sun annually, warm to hot summers, and mild winters, it is an ideal destination for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Low crime levels: Greece has an overall falling crime rate, with lower levels than the UK or the USA. Both violent crime and drug-related crime rates are considerably lower in Greece.
• English is relatively widely spoken in major tourist destinations. This is less true in more rural areas, but either way, some knowledge of Greek would be very useful.
• Good quality healthcare : A National Health System (ESY) provides free or low-cost healthcare to all eligible residents. Private facilities are widely available, very well equipped, and staffed with English-speaking specialists.
• A superb retirement destination thanks to its lifestyle, climate, residency options, the cheapest Golden Visa in the EU, and lenient tax regime offered to foreign retirees.

Moving to Greece

Foreign citizens can move to Greece to live permanently. EU citizens must apply for a residence permit after three months, which is more of a formality. Non-EU citizens must go through a more thorough immigration process. 

Residency in Greece for non-EU citizens

Non-EU citizens do not have automatic rights to settle down in the EU.

You have to follow non-EU application procedures.

Many non-EU citizens, including Brits, USA citizens, etc., can stay in Greece for up to 3 months without a visa. After this, you will need to apply for permanent residency.

Generally, this must be completed at the Greek consulate in your home country before you travel to Greece.

Different residency permits are available depending on your purpose for moving to Greece. The most popular are financially independent persons (FIP), Golden Visa, and digital nomad visa.

You can find all the details in our guide Greece: Visa & Residency Options for non-EU Nationals.

Golden Visa program

You can invest €250,000 in property in Greece or €500,000 if you buy in Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini, and receive residency in 60 days. You must also get a Greek tax number and a Greek bank account during this time.

Doing this provides you with a 5-year renewable residency permit covering spouses and children. It also provides you with access to national healthcare and schooling.

The advantage to this over standard citizenship application is that it’s generally quicker and saves a lot of paperwork.

If you have questions or need more information, see our complete Guide to EU Golden Visa Schemes .

The cost of living in Greece

Greece uses the Euro, but living here is generally cheaper than in other European nations such as France and Germany. It is much more affordable than in North America.

Here’s how the cost of living in Greece compares to some Northern European and North American countries:

The cost of living is higher in cities, particularly ones with a lot of tourism.

For example, rent in the center of Athens will set you back about €1,200 for a good (but not luxury) one- or two-bedroom apartment. Travel for half an hour north to Maorusi, and for the same money, you can find a spacious 3-4 bedroom apartment.

Here are the basic expenses in various cities across Greece:

Generally speaking, an expat with a monthly income of €2,200 will be able to live quite comfortably almost anywhere in Greece.

Greece as a retirement destination

According to the  Expatra Global Retirement Index , Greece consistently scores high as a retirement destination and is in our 20 Best Places To Retire In The World .

The index is based on the  Expatra Global Retirement Survey that asks international retirees to rate their retirement destination’s infrastructure, climate, ease of settling down, value for money, friendliness, and other aspects of life in their retirement destination.

Here’s how Greece scores:

Greece’s main advantages as a retirement destination are the flat tax regime offered to foreign retirees, an affordable Golden Visa program, and a FIP visa and residency option.

Travel connections

Athens International Airport is the primary gateway and offers international flights all year round.

Major cities and popular tourist destinations, such as Thessaloniki , Heraklion (Crete) , and Rhodes , also have international airports. However, some of them offer flights only to Athens during the winter time. To travel further, you can use connecting flights in Athens.

International ferries connect Greece to the following countries:

Italy : Greece has ferry routes to Ancona, Bari, Brindisi, Venice, and Trieste.

Turkey : Ferries connect several Greek islands, such as the Dodecanese and the Eastern Aegean islands, to various Turkish ports along the Aegean coast.

Cyprus : The ferry travels weekly from Limassol (Cyprus) to Piraeus (Greece) between June and September.

Albania : Ferry connections between Greece’s Corfu port and Albania’s Sarandë port are accessible throughout the year. The ferry journey is a quick 30-minute ride, and ticket prices typically begin at approximately €20.

Public transportation

Public transport in Greek cities, especially Athens and Thessaloniki, is fairly reliable and convenient.

The capital city, Athens , has buses, trams, the metro, and a suburban railway. The Athens Metro, in particular, is efficient and connects key areas. Tickets are affordable, and various options include daily and monthly passes. As an example, a 5-day ticket costs €8.20.

Greece’s second-largest city, Thessaloniki, also has a bus system, although it’s less extensive than Athens. The city is known for its compact size, making it walkable for many residents.

Public transport can be pretty patchy on the islands, with larger islands offering more options. Many expats prefer to own a car as it makes travel easier.

Buses and trains

KTEL buses provide intercity transportation across the mainland.

Greece has a limited railway network. The rail service primarily connects major cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Patras. Trains are known for being scenic, but their schedules may not always be the most practical option for transportation.

Ferries play a crucial role in island connectivity. The main routes include:

• Piraeus (Athens) to the Cyclades : Piraeus is the primary port of Athens and serves as the gateway to the Cyclades islands. Major destinations in this group include Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, Naxos, and more.
• Piraeus (Athens) to the Dodecanese : Piraeus also offers ferry connections to the Dodecanese islands, including Rhodes, Kos, and Patmos.
• Piraeus (Athens) to Crete : Ferries run from Piraeus to the island of Crete, with Heraklion and Chania being popular ports of arrival.
• Thessaloniki to the Northern Aegean Islands : Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, offers ferry routes to the Northern Aegean islands, including Thassos, Lemnos, and Samothrace.

Renting a property in Greece

The standard minimum rental contract in Greece is three years. You might be able to arrange a shorter lease, but this will be on a case-by-case basis. However, monthly payments will often be lower if you commit to a longer contract.

Most rental agreements require a deposit equivalent to two month’s rent, and utility bills may or may not be included in the rental price.

It’s safest to deal through an estate agent, as private rentals can often be a minefield for anyone not fluent in Greek. Either way, it’ll help to bring a translator along to ensure there are no snags.

Rent increases must be stated in the contract, so read the fine print. Similarly, you can only be evicted for not paying rent, so renters generally have more rights in Greece than in countries like the UK or the USA.

Here is a list of documents commonly required when renting a property in Greece:

• Valid ID: You must provide a valid passport or national ID card to prove your identity.
• Proof of income: Landlords often require proof of income to ensure you can afford the rent. This includes recent pay slips, employment contracts, or bank statements.
• Residence permit: If you are a non-EU citizen residing in Greece, you may be asked to provide a valid residence permit.
• Rental application form: Some landlords or rental agencies may require you to complete a form with personal details, employment information, and references.
• References: Providing references from previous landlords or employers can help build trust and demonstrate your reliability as a tenant.

Buying a property in Greece

Once you’ve found an area that is right for your needs, the next logical step is to buy a property. The best way to do this is with the Golden Visa, as it brings a lot of advantages, but not everyone has the spare cash to invest.

Please note that these average property prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the specific location, property type, and market conditions. It is recommended to consult with local real estate professionals for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

When buying a property, you must declare whether it’s for residence or investment purposes. This doesn’t make a difference to your eligibility, though. Greece charges an annual property tax that’s determined by the property’s purpose and must be declared on your annual tax returns. As a result, you must have a Greek bank account and tax number to purchase a property.

In border areas, such as Rhodes and Crete, properties are restricted, and your application must go through a committee. EU residents will generally face little difficulty with this process, but the same isn’t always true for non-EU residents.

Again, an estate agent can help ensure everything is above board. When working out your budget, factor in legal, surveyor, and notary fees, plus a minimum 10% deposit.

You’ll probably find it difficult to get a mortgage through a Greek bank, so many expats do so through international lenders. However, this requires more documentation, including proof of funds and their source.

Taxes in Greece

Greece has no lower income tax threshold, meaning you pay tax on everything you earn. Up to €20,000, you’ll pay 22% tax. Up to €30,000, you’ll pay 29% tax, and up to €40,000, you’ll pay 37% tax. Anything over €40,001 is counted as the highest bracket of 45%.

Anyone working self-employed in Greece must pay their taxes up front, but these are then offset against your annual tax returns. This can prove difficult in the first year because you need extra money available, but it gets easier once you generate income.

Obtaining a tax number

The AFM number is the Greek personal Tax Identification Number (TIN). You will need it when you connect utilities, buy property, apply for your driver’s license, etc.

To get your Tax ID (AFM), book an online appointment on myAADElive ; you can switch the language to English in the top right corner. For the appointment, you will need the following:

• mobile number
• ID or passport info
• your digital application submission code

Taxes for foreign retirees

Greece has introduced a retirement income tax of 7%. To qualify, applicants must not have been tax resident for at least 5 of the previous six financial years. Also, applicants must receive their pension from a country in a double taxation agreement with Greece.

After you have applied for the alternative tax regime, the 7% tax rate will become effective the following tax year and will last for 15 years. After that, you will pay normal Greece tax rates on your income.

If you come from the UK, you can sometimes choose whether to pay your taxes in Greece or your original country. This will depend on which country has the lower tax rate, but be aware that you’ll be subject to the tax laws of the country where your tax is paid.

Business taxes in Greece

Greece’s current corporate tax rate is 24%, reduced from 28%. So, if you’re considering setting up a business in Greece, it only makes sense if their corporation tax rate is lower. For comparison, corporate tax is currently 19% in the UK and 28% in the USA.

How to open a bank account in Greece

To open a standard bank account while you’re living in Greece, you’ll need several documents from your home country, including:

• Birth certificate
• Recent utility bill
• Salary evidence
• Tax residency certificate
• At least 12 months of bank statements

Standard bank accounts are needed to become a Greek tax resident and will come with a debit card for payments.

An alternative is to open an international bank account with a company like Barclays. Doing so can make sense if you’re planning on splitting money between countries, but you’ll still need a specifically Greek account for things like paying taxes and purchasing property.

Internet connection and mobile services

The most commonly used mobile service providers in Greece are Cosmote, Wind, and Vodafone. The one that offers the best coverage may depend on the specific area of Greece you’re visiting.

For northern Greece, Cosmote typically provides better coverage, while for islands or more remote regions, Vodafone and Cosmote offer the best coverage.

Internet speeds in Greece have significantly improved in recent years.

However, not all buildings have upgraded their infrastructure to match these faster speeds. So, the quality of your internet connection may vary depending on your specific location.

When renting a property, it is advisable to enquire about the quality of the internet connection in the building itself rather than in the area.

On average, the following speed is available in various areas:

Note: The internet speeds listed above are the average download speeds for residential connections. Prices are approximate and may vary depending on the service provider and subscription package.

Healthcare and health insurance in Greece

Greece has a reasonably good national healthcare system, which you can enter after three months of residency if you pay social insurance contributions.

Tip : If you’re from the UK and can apply for an S1 form, this will entitle you to state healthcare paid by the British government.

State-funded healthcare

To be eligible for state healthcare, you must be a taxpayer and a resident.

Greece’s healthcare is funded by EFKA – a public insurance system that receives social security payments.

If you work in Greece, whether as an employee or self-employed, you must register with Greek authorities and obtain a social insurance number. Once you start making social insurance contributions, you’ll be entitled to state-run healthcare on the same basis as a Greek citizen.

In most cases, foreign retirees have to take out private health insurance.

Private healthcare

Many expats opt for private or international health insurance because the private healthcare sector doesn’t have waiting lists and offers better facilities and English-speaking doctors. You’ll find more private options available in urban areas, but there are still private hospitals in rural areas, too.

To make sure you get the best value for money, compare international health insurance options from various providers to find the best deal. 

It’s fairly standard for expats to switch to a local private health insurance plan once their residency is confirmed. You can expect to pay upwards of €130 per person per year, but this will depend on your age and any existing health conditions.

Accessing state healthcare

You’ll need to do the following:

• Register as a resident.
• Get a Greek social insurance (AMKA) number through your local citizens’ service center.
• Register with the Greek National Organisation for Healthcare Services Provision ( EOPYY).

By registering with the EOPYY, you can see an EOPYY doctor for free; treatment in a state hospital is free if an EOPYY doctor has referred you.

However, there are some healthcare services that you will still need to contribute towards, such as prescriptions. Depending on the medicine, you’ll pay around 25% of the cost of prescriptions.

Where to live in Greece

Greece offers many different living environments, depending on your needs and goals. Here is a quick rundown of the best places to live in Greece.

The most vibrant – Athens

As the capital city, Athens has everything you could need. It’s close to the Greek islands and has good international connections. Add in the historical interest and bustling nightlife, and it’s got the potential to be at the top of most people’s lists.

Athens also has the most developed infrastructure, so it is the number one destination for digital nomads because of its fast internet and good travel connections.

The cheapest – Sparta and Poligiros

House prices are surprisingly low in Sparta, but this is mainly because of its remote location. Nestled in the foothills of Mount Taygetos, residents can enjoy the lush countryside, quiet living, and close proximity to the sea.

Similarly, Poligiros sits about an hour’s drive from Thessaloniki, which has an international airport with good connections. The town also has an annual carnival in August that shouldn’t be missed.

The quietest – Ampelakia

Ampelakia is located in Thessaly, and this mountainous region means it’s fairly quiet with little tourism. The closest airport is in Volos, around 90 minutes away, meaning you still have good international connections but can enjoy some peace and quiet, too.

Greek islands

Among the most popular Greek islands for expats are Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.

Santorini , with its iconic whitewashed buildings and breathtaking sunsets, entices expats with its unique charm and vibrant nightlife.

Mykonos , famous for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and stunning beaches, appeals to expats seeking a glamorous lifestyle and a thriving party scene. It is also the most expensive area in the whole country when it comes to real estate.

Crete , the largest of the Greek islands, allures expats with its affordability, good travel connections, decent infrastructure, and picturesque landscapes.

• Living In Crete
• Living In Santorini
• Living In Corfu

For more information, visit our guide to the best places to live in Greece .

Living in Greece – summary

Although making the jump to living in a new country can be daunting, it’s worth taking the chance if you can. Greece offers everything you could want from a new life abroad, including great weather and lower living costs.

Completing the paperwork on your own is possible, but remember that you can hire legal help to make things quicker and easier. Either way, it’s worth it for the new life you’ll end up living.

You might find useful:

• The Best Places To Live In Greece For Expats – a detailed overview of the most popular expat locations in Greece.
• The Expat Guide To UK Pensions Abroad: Understand Your Options
• The Essential Guide To Cost-Effective International Removals – read about international removals options and how to keep costs down while getting a quality service.
• Didn’t find what you were looking for or need further advice? Comment with your questions, and we will do our best to help.

Helpful external links:

• Guidance and information for UK citizens moving to Greece – UK government .
• US Embassy and Consulate in Greece: US citizen services – gr.usembassy.gov
• Moving to Greece for EU nationals – www.gov.gr
• Starting a business in Greece – www.gov.gr.
• Greece travel updates – travel.gov.gr
• Find your local EFKA branch

Jacob Powell

Jacob is a freelance writer based in Swansea, Wales. He lives with his partner and two dogs, Merlin and Matilda. After gaining his BA and MA in English Literature, Jacob decided to take his writing full time.

He writes for Expatra alongside a number of other regular clients. After his parents emigrated to France in January 2020, Jacob has a special interest in all things expat related and even plans to retire abroad himself someday.

You can contact Jacob on LinkedIn: Jacob Powell

I am going to apply for a FIP Residence Permit and wanted to know if I can use my TRICARE For Life medical plan as proof of medical insurance? It provides medical coverage everywhere in the world as long as I pay the medical bill first then request reimbursement from TRICARE afterwards.

Hi Joe, It depends on the conditions of your insurance plan. Generally, for FIP visa a comprehensive EU-wide medical insurance coverage is required, including repatriation cover, with no co-payments, cooling off periods or coverage exclusions.Insurance policies requiring patients to pay more than 20% of a charge are not accepted. Hope this helps,

I am a retired US Army veteran looking to retire to Greece with my wife and have so many questions. We were looking at possibly the Golden Visa option but looking at your sight saw a FIP option as well. Looking for advice or any expat similar to me that I could get in contact with to get some insight.

Hi Eric, thanks for commenting. If you want a chat with expats in Greece, the best way is to join a facebook group called Expats In Greece and speak to the people who have done the move. If you need professional assistance, our Greece experts Kostas Sakellariadis and Dimitris Varvatakos can answer your questions about FIP and Glden Visa and provide assitance with whichever you choose. You can get in touch with them via email: [email protected]

Best of luck,

Does anyone know a workaround to the Greek notaries strike, so we can complete on our property sale in Crete? Has anyone used an international notary, can you recommend?

Hi Rod, I have contacted our Greece expert Kostas with your question. Here’s hi answer: The abstention of the Notaries ended yesterday (09.01.2024), so for the mentioned case I do not believe that there will be any further delays. If the problem continues or someone wants some legal support, they can contact our lawyer Ms. Nakka Andriana directly: [email protected] Hope this helps,

I dont have a rental contract can I get a resident permit

Hi Trevor, what visa are you applying for? Are you already in Greece or applying from your home country?

@Ola Degteva, I am looking at getting the bio metric residents card. I live in Rhodes

Can we still move and live in Greece without buying a property for €250.000

Yes, of course, Fran. Check out Financially Independent Persons visa: https://expatra.com/greece/greece-residency-options/

I am a British staying in Greece under a 3 month visa

However I want a study a 1 year Greek course at an official school. How can I extend my stay and who do I speak to regarding this please

Hi John, If the schools is officially accredited, speak to their admission office. They will have a full list of documents and provide advice and support. Hope this helps

Great article! My brother and I inherited a building in Marousi with two apartments, but we love Naxos. What are the pros and cons of moving there vs staying in Athens? We are planning to spend most of the year there when we retire (I got my Greek citizenship (also Canadian and US) but we live in California, my wife is a Canadian American). Does Naxos have decent healthcare?

Hi Chris, Naxos is lovely, reasonably priced, and not as touristy as Santorini or Mykonos, but it still gets busy in the tourist season. There’s a general hospital there and healthcare clinics. There is an airport and regular connections to the port of Piraeus.

My husband and I bought a property in Greece a year ago and we want to move to Greece permanently. The house was less than 250k, I know it’s hard to get a visa. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Hi Sue, this might be helpful: https://expatra.com/greece/greece-residency-options/ Have a look to see if you can qualify for other options rather than the golden visa. Let us know if you need professional assistance with a FIP option.

I’m looking for a guide to applying for the heating allowance. Can you help please?

Hi, this might be helpful: https://kefaloniapulse.homeinkefalonia.properties/?p=41780

I inherited my mother’s house in Rhodos and I decided to spend most of my time living here. I’m 74 and retired with a pension and social security in the USA. My problem is leaving Greece and returning every 3 months is expensive.

Hi Jonathan, you need to apply for a residence permit. The Financially Independent Persons Visa will be your best route if you qualify financially. Let us know if you need legal advice and help with this, we can recommend somebody to help you.

I wonder if you can help me. I have a Greek residency permit (beige card) from when I lived in Greece in 2020 before brexit. But because I left in 2021 and didn’t return until now. I have lost my beneficy status. I intend to live in Greece to work and purchase property. So I need a long term residency permit. The police told me I had lost my rights and to go to the immigration/aslym center. But the British Consulate said The system allows for permitted absences from your country of residence. I’d encourage you to discuss your circumstances with the Greek authorities. I’m really confused what I need to do!! Nobody seems to know. Can you help at all?

Hi Gemma, the best way is probably to consult an immigration lawyer. British citizens who had lived in the EU pre-Brexit had a certain time window to settle their status and it looks like you missed it. However, a lawyer might offer some kind of solution. Or you can apply as a non-EU citizen and choose one of the options discussed in the guide.

Hi Jacob / Ola ,

I have found your website the most informative amidst a lot of confusing misinformation. I am planning on moving permanently to Kefalonia Greece , with my partner. Would you be so kind as to clarify some points please . We are both UK retired residents , and currently live there . My private pension pays me circa £1,500 a month , we have no other income . I do however have in excess of £ 50,000 disposable savings ( and funds under the golden visa threshold to purchase a property ). Would this meet the criteria for us both to gain a Type-D visa , and ultimately a full residents visa on arrival in Kefalonia . When applying for a residents Visa , do we again have to provide financial details to forfil the financial independent persons criteria or is it transferred from the Type-D application. Any other useful information you could provide , would be greatfully recieved .

Kind regards

I was just wondering if you know anything about the tax situation between Greece and the UK. I am hoping to move to Greece in the near future on a FIP visa. However, I will still be being paid in the UK by a UK company. I was just wondering if you know where I would have to pay tax? Also if the UK company would have to pay tax in Greece?

Thanks so much!

Thank you for the comment. Unfortunately, we cannot help you here as we are not tax specialists. Taxation of such kind is a highly complex matter and it’s best to consult a qualified tax advisor who understands international taxation rules and tax residency.

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7 great places for solo travelers in Europe

Aug 26, 2024 • 8 min read

Sicily, with its many incredible historic sites, is great for solo travelers © Giovenda / Shutterstock

Europe, with its  compact size, captivating cities and endless outdoor pursuits, has long been a top solo travel destination for people of all ages. But with so much continent to explore, narrowing down exactly where to take your solo sojourn can be tough. Luckily, the benefit of traveling alone is not compromising on the destination, so you can follow your heart to some of Europe ’s most unique and intriguing places.

To find those spots, we asked our expert writers to share their recommendations for the best places to fly solo in Europe. Here's where to go. 

1. Sicily, Italy 

Recommended by Nicola Williams

On an island where kaleidoscopic cultural and historical riches are all-consuming, travel companions can risk becoming a tiresome distraction. Solo Sicily is unfettered joy. Its sparky combo of seaside, mountains, sassy food, sun-filled wine and spitting volcanoes means you never "get bored". Indeed, there is a deeply moving aura to this sun-scorched island lapped by three seas that inspires quiet contemplation and a reassuring ease with one’s own company.

Start your journey on the Ionian Coast in Sicily’s hypnotic east: join a guide up the explosive slopes of Mt Etna and locals at Catania ’s chaotic fish market . Savor vino bursting with sunshine in volcanic vineyards. If you’re a drama queen, star-lit performances at ancient Greek theaters in Syracuse and Taormina will leave you spellbound for days – as will the paradise-on-earth Aeolian archipelago , with cobalt-blue waters and clandestine coves to match every mood and moment. In the west , capital city Palermo weaves captivating stories in glittering gold mosaics in the Cappella Palatina at Palazzo dei Normanni , while Stanze al Genio – the unusual palazzo home and majolica tile museum of an art collector – is one of Italy’s loveliest solo B&B stays. Ditto for the oddly romantic, evocative quarry garden Giardino dell’Impossible with enchanting rooms on butterfly-shaped Favignana.

2. Naxos, Greece

Recommended by Helen Iatro

With its white sand beaches and shallow seas, you’d be forgiven for thinking Naxos is exclusively for families. But the Cyclades’ largest isle has set its sights on drawing solo travelers to experience its myriad attractions, from a fortified capital and farm-to-table cuisine to dopamine-spiking watersports. Start with a walk through medieval main town Hora and admire the Venetian-era Glezos and Della Rocca Barozzi towers . Next, try your hand at wind surfing with an expert instructor at Flisvos Sport Club on Agios Georgios beach. If two wheels are more your style, join a Naxos Bikes e-bike and hike tour through olive groves to Mt Zeus, the island’s highest point at 1,003m (3,290 ft).

Afterwards, you’ll make a stop at Halki village to sample Naxos’ aromatic PDO citron liqueur at a small distillery. Immerse yourself further in the island’s culinary traditions with a visit to a dairy farm hosted by Philema Food Tours. You’ll chat with farmers, feed the animals and assist in making Naxos’ hallmark arseniko cheese. With tummy sated, center yourself with sunset yoga at Kite beach in Mikri Vigla. Soul in Motion’s Melina Rigopoulos leads sessions between June and September, along with occasional retreats.

3. Aix-en-Provence, France

Navigating the notoriously feisty metropolis of Marseille in France ’s hot south solo is not for everyone. Meandering the graceful boulevards of its cleaner, safer, slower-paced little sister, a 45-minute bus or train ride away, most definitely is. Open your foray in chichi Aix-en-Provence with a café crème and croissant beneath emerald-leafed plane trees at Le Forbin , footsteps from fountain-stitched main avenue Cours Mirabeau. Time slows at the town’s Musée Granet in Quartier Mazarin, packed with pieces by Picasso, Matisse, Monet and local lad Paul Cézanne who painted nearby Montagne Ste-Victoire numerous times (following in his footsteps by e-bike is an inspirational day trip, either solo or with a group tour).

Don’t miss 13th-century Église St-Jean de Malte next to the art museum and the flower gardens of palatial art gallery Hôtel de Caumont (1742), a five-minute walk away. Grab a smoothie, shake or chai latte afterwards at Book In Bar ; this English-language bookshop-cafe is a honeypot for students from Aix’s prestigious university, should you fancy mingling. Come dusk, take a people-watching pew on a cafe terrace on buzzing rue de la Verrerie, place Richelme or Forum des Cardeurs. For a more intimate scale and vibe, gravitate to place de l’Hôtel de Ville.

4. Palma de Mallorca, Spain 

Recommended by Chloe Braithwaite 

Palma de Mallorca is a welcoming city, with its well-lit public spaces, beautiful beaches and glut of restaurants, markets and historic sites. That means solo travelers won’t struggle to have the perfect relaxed day alone. Start your visit at Mercat de Santa Catalina, the oldest food market in the city, brimming with tapas and local produce. Nearby, Lluís Pérez Pastisser is a delightful pastry cafe known for its croissant ibérico con tomatitos : a flaky croissant filled with ibérico ham and tart cherry tomatoes. Excellent coffee can be found at Café Riu Tort, while Mistral Coffee prides itself on beans roasted locally.

Spend your day strolling along Passeig des Borne , a tree-lined boulevard dotted with both luxury and mainstream shops. For a satisfying lunch, El Toque de Queda offers a range of charcuterie boards with local cheeses, or try La Vasca for authentic Basque flavors. Spend your afternoon exploring cultural landmarks like the Catedral de Mallorca with its tranquil Bishop’s Garden and the historic Banys Àrabs (Arab Baths). In the evening, head to Cineciutat, a non-profit cinema that showcases films in their original languages. Then end the day with a visit Bar La Sang for natural wines, or reserve a spot at Vermutería La Rosa for a traditional vermouth tasting.

5. Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Recommended by Monica Suma

Bohemian, slower-paced Cluj-Napoca in northwestern Romania, is everything that the much larger, rowdy (and often chaotic) capital of Bucharest is not. Despite being Transylvania ’s biggest city and the country’s second-largest, Cluj (as it’s more commonly referred to as) exudes a different feel that is more relaxed ⁠– perfect for solo travelers. And that’s in part due to the thousands of students studying here, as well as the compact layout of the city. The city dates to pre-Roman times ("Napoca" originates from the Dacians), but its superb Baroque architecture, stemming from the Austro-Hungarian era, stands out. Easy to explore and becoming increasingly in demand as the tech sector flourishes, modern Cluj is artsy, heaps of fun, and delightfully cosmopolitan.

It hosts the fêted Transylvania Film Festival and the massive crowd-pulling Electric Castle and Untold festivals (stay away in late July and early August unless you book months ahead or can pay exorbitant accommodation prices). These days, contemporary energy comes in high doses. So do specialty coffee shops dotted around the center, the highest number per capita in the country ( Narcoffee Roasters is fab). The food scene is equally exciting. Country-chic Casa Boema is an enduring favorite for its oasis-like courtyard terrace. Best of all, nature is within sight. Walk up to Cetăţuia Park for panoramic views of the city – one nestled between the Transylvanian Plain and Apuseni Mountains.

6. Vipava Valley, Slovenia

Recommended by Daniel James Clarke

If you're solo tripping, Slovenia's Vipava Valley is the place to be sipping – especially as you'll never be drinking alone. In this wine-obsessed, welcoming community, sharing a bottle of your own-grown best with strangers is standard. Hundreds of family-owned, small-batch cellars such as Cejkotova Domačija hide under the valley's fertile carpet, stacked with casks aging the native, golden-hued, fruity Zelen grape. Cycling between these underground tastings is a solo traveler's dream. Gently rolling countryside roads flit through manicured vines and fragrant orchards, dramatic karst mountains looming beyond. If a two-wheel tasting tour isn't appealing, board the seasonal wine train instead for a five-hour, friends-guaranteed rail ride, pit-stopping at local villages and vineyards. Volunteer during September's harvest, and you'll practically become part of the family.

Viapava's spirit isn't solely found in a glass, though. Sober solo adventures abound. Hike atop the Trnovo Forest Plateau for emerald valley panoramas. Paraglide higher still courtesy of the fierce, locally treasured bora wind. A handful of hostels offer community, while creative connections are plentiful at Sinji Vrh Pension 's artistic workshops.

7. Faroe Islands

Elemental, ethereal and utterly enticing, the Faroe Islands arc from the wild North Atlantic like uncut emeralds scattered by a storm. At first glance, this seemingly inhospitable land commandeered by sheep, gannets, and puffins appears an audacious expedition. But look closer, and you'll find a tight-knit community that's long embraced solo travelers. In fact, every year, the islanders do exactly that, inviting maintenance-assisting volunteers to stay in their farms or homes. Heimablídni  (Faroese for home hospitality) is so ingrained that family-hosted, breaking-bread spreads are standard. Some require group bookings, while others, like Heima í Stovu's supper club, or Durita and Fróði's traditional Faroese feast of skerpikjøt (air-dried lamb) and ræst (fermented lamb and fish), welcome sharing, storytelling strangers.

Away from Tórshavn 's turf-roofs and contemporary cultural spaces, bite-sized adventures abound. Hikes to seemingly levitating Lake Sørvágsvatn or cinematic Kallur Lighthouse need no support. Well-kept roads, underwater island-linking tunnels, and regular ferries keep communities connected, and a surprisingly decent bus network affords solo, car-free exploration. Amidst soaring sea stacks, ocean-plunging cascades, or scenic fjord-flanked Saksun, you'll feel like a true castaway – but you're never far from a heartwarming chat with a cuppa.

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Mapped: New mpox cases reported. What countries have it now?

A new, potentially more deadly strain of the virus is rapidly spreading within Africa and has been discovered in Asia and Europe.

Uganda has reported two new cases of the clade 1b strain of  the mpox virus .

The health ministry has announced that one of the patients is a truck driver and that both are in isolation at a hospital in Entebbe, about an hour south of the capital.

Keep reading

Public health emergency as global mpox cases confirmed, what is mpox and how do you protect yourself, thailand says mpox detected in european who travelled from africa, mpox not the new covid, says who.

As mpox spreads, concerns are rising about the confirmed cases of 1b, a new and potentially deadlier strain.

Where has mpox spread?

Burundi, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Liberia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, the Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, South Africa, Sweden, Thailand and Uganda have reported cases – a total of 18.

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the virus a “public health emergency of international concern” while emphasising that mpox is “ not the new COVID “.

This is the second emergency alert relating to mpox from the global health agency in two years.

Mpox has been identified in Africa since 2022, originally traced to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

The current outbreak is mostly triggered by Clade 1, believed to be a more serious variant that can spread through skin-to-skin contact.

In 2023, a new strain of Clade 1 was discovered in DRC – Clade 1b.

A different outbreak of the virus’s earlier Clade 2 variant is also spreading, although at lower levels, with more than 100 countries reporting infections by last month.

Clade 2 is believed to cause milder infections and has a fatality rate of 0.2 percent compared with 3.9 percent for Clade 1.

Here’s where mpox disease has spread from January to August this year:

According to data from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), WHO, and the governments of Kenya, Mozambique, Uganda and the Ivory Coast, variants of Mpox have been detected in these countries this year:

Clade 1 and Clade 1a

• Burundi (eight cases, zero deaths)
• Cameroon (35, two)
• Central African Republic (213, zero)
• Republic of Congo (146, one)
• DRC (13,791, 450)
• Rwanda (two, zero)
• Uganda (four, zero)
• Kenya (one, zero)
• Mozambique (one, zero)
• Ivory Coast (28, one)
• Ghana (four, zero)
• Liberia (five, zero)
• Nigeria (24, zero)
• South Africa (22, three)

The DRC is experiencing the biggest outbreak of the disease ever recorded with thousands of people infected as of August 21. The government declared an epidemic in December 2022 .

Nearly all reported Mpox cases – 96 percent – across Africa are in the DRC, where children younger than 15 account for 60 percent of the cases, Africa CDC said.

The new Clade 1b strain has been detected in countries neighbouring the DRC: Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda, which had not previously reported any cases since the outbreak began in 2022.

In West Africa and Southern Africa, the outbreaks are linked to the Clade 2 variant. Cameroon is reporting both Clades 1 and 2.

So far, 541 deaths have been recorded from mpox, with 535 in the DRC (97 percent). The Africa CDC does not classify deaths according to strain.

• Pakistan (one, zero)
• Philippines (one case, zero deaths)
• Thailand (one, zero)

The Philippines, Thailand and Pakistan reported new mpox cases in August.

In Thailand, authorities confirmed a new case of Clade 1b on Thursday, Asia’s first case of the new strain.

The individual, identified as a 66-year-old European male, reportedly returned from an unnamed African country currently experiencing a “large” outbreak of the Clade 1 variant.

He reportedly does not have serious symptoms and was believed to have transited through a Middle Eastern country en route to Thailand.

In the Philippines, authorities said the milder Clade 2 variant has been confirmed in the most recent case there – a 33-year-old Filipino male with no travel history.

The patient is the country’s 10th confirmed case since 2022 and authorities say mpox has likely been spreading quietly for a while.

Pakistani authorities said its first patient reported this year is a male infected with Clade 2.

However, authorities said last week they are trying to trace the patient, who is believed to have travelled to another province before the test results were released.

•  Sweden (one case, zero deaths)

Sweden reported an mpox case on August 15 which was confirmed to be the more serious Clade 1 variant.

It is “highly likely” that Europe will record more cases of Clade 1 because of frequent air travel between Europe and Africa, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

However, sustained transmission might be low in Europe if cases are quickly diagnosed and if testing, surveillance and contact tracing are used, the agency said. The European Union has ruled out closing its borders to hard-hit countries.

Americas, Middle East, Oceania and Antarctica

No countries in North or South America have reported new Clade 1 cases so far.

However, they should be “alert” to possible Clade 1 and Clade 2 cases, the Pan American Health Organization said on August 9.

The region reported more than 62,000 cases of the Clade 2 virus from 2022 to July 2024, including 141 deaths.

There are no confirmed cases of Clade 1 in Oceania or the Middle East.