number 1 tourist destination in greece

If you’re planning a trip to Greece in 2024, visit these 10 top destinations

Mar 4, 2024 • 6 min read

From iconic islands to major cities to the lesser-known, wild region of Epiros, our list of essential Greek destinations has a bit of everything © Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock

As its mythical Sirens were reputed to do, Greece has long lured travelers to its scintillating shores.

Across an expansive island archipelago, traditional whitewashed villages, azure seas and waterfront tavernas enchant visitors. Greece’s mountainous mainland, rich in UNESCO World Heritage–listed ancient sites, treasure-filled museums and spirited cities, is no less fascinating. As you contemplate your dream Greece itinerary, consider these 10 favorite places to add to it.

Wherever you walk in Greece’s storied capital, the ancients have walked before – whether you see the evidence or not. From the Acropolis  (whose jewel in the crown is the fifth-century BCE Parthenon ) to the underground metro (where some stations feature archaic finds), Athens  is teeming with historical sites , monuments and museums. A combo card affords entry to the Acropolis and six more sites; the Acropolis Museum is also a must-see.

Easy to tackle on foot, Athens is also one of Europe’s liveliest metropolises – and strolls through neighborhoods like old-town Plaka , flea market–famous Monastiraki and hip Pangrati are highlights. By night, catch a live band in gritty Gazi , catch a movie at an outdoor cinema in Thission or go bar-hopping off the main commercial street Ermou.

Local tip: Book tickets online for a reinvented Greek tragedy or dance troupe performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus amphitheater as part of the  Epidaurus Festival , which takes place each summer.

A collection of over 70 beaches, sea caves hidden beneath limestone cliffs and technicolor traditional boat houses are just some of the reasons why mineral-rich Milos has won the hearts of many travelers. Evidence of its volcanic origins can be seen in the almost lunar landscape of Sarakiniko , where the more daring dive into a jade-colored Aegean. Arrive early at Gerondas beach to nab the generous shade of caves and enjoy floating silently in still waters.

Planning tip: Save a couple of days to spend on Kimolos, a small island northeast of Milos reachable by ferry. One of its most impressive beaches is Prassa, where coarse, blindingly white sand shows off shallow, aquamarine waters to full effect.

Rhodes has long been the Dodecanese ’s biggest draw thanks to its atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage–listed medieval old town . Transformed in the Middle Ages by the Knights of the Order of St John into a formidable fortified city, it fell to the Ottomans, who erected mosques, baths and houses, many of which have been restored. Youngsters might envision armored men on horseback thundering down the cobblestoned Street of the Knights .

Make sure you visit the Palace of the Grand Master , which features stunning Roman and Early Christian floor mosaics, and the Church of Our Lady of the Castle.

Planning tip: Book a state-licensed tour guide to show you around the old town for a full picture of its long and fascinating history.

4. Santorini

Whether you’re coupled up or not, it’s hard not to fall for Santorini ’s charms. Whitewashed and pastel-hued, cube-shaped homes cling to steep cliffsides above a cobalt Aegean and the island’s famed caldera, formed by volcanic eruptions over millennia.

Weave your way through the narrow alleyways of the postcard-perfect village of Oia amid blue-domed churches. Bathe in thermal springs warmed by an active volcano, splay out on black-sand beaches and don’t miss the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri , which features an advanced drainage system.

Planning tip: Book a private tour of Santorini ’s smaller wine estates, whose new generation of vintners is breathing new life into traditional wines like mezzo and Nychteri.

In Greece’s west lies Epiros , a remote region of soaring mountain peaks, fast-flowing rivers and hidden rock canyons. Hike to the alpine heights of Mt Tymfi’s Dragon Lake, which freezes over in winter, or traverse the thick forests, inclines and descents of spectacular Vikos Gorge . Whitewater rafting thrills and spills await in the Voidomatis or Arachthos rivers, while canyoning enthusiasts can choose from routes of varying difficulty.

6. Kythnos and Serifos

If peaceful sandy shores, unassuming waterfront tavernas and sleepy villages are more your style, the low-key West Cyclades isles of Kythnos and Serifos are worth a stop. Kythnos has deep, sheltered bays and tamarisk-dotted silver-sand beaches, among them Lefkes and Naousa.

Wallet-friendly tavernas line the laid-back fishing settlements of Loutro and Meriha, while wind-whipped Serifos , a two-hour ferry ride from Piraeus , features sweeping sandy beaches, sheltered bays, ghostly mining relics and a jewel-like hilltop capital whose neoclassical town hall stands sentinel over the buzzy main square.

7. Thessaloniki

At the crossroads of East and West, where the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have held sway over the centuries, Thessaloniki tempts serious foodies. Bougatsa , a phyllo pastry pie usually filled with semolina custard, spinach or mince meat, makes for a hearty breakfast. Pick up olives and spices at the olfactory-awakening open-air markets and Pontic cheeses from indoor food hub Modiano , which dates back to 1922. In the former oil merchant district of Ladadika, mezedopolia serve dishes revealing strong Anatolian and Middle Eastern influences, customarily with the fiery clear spirit tsipouro .

Planning tip: Thessaloniki is also renowned for its fish and seafood, served with fervor and pride whether it’s a backstreet taverna or an upscale restaurant. Bookings are recommended for the latter.

Tranquil, turquoise seas, fir-studded hillsides and a regal capital make Corfu one of the most beautiful parts of the country to go sailing. The Ionian isle is the ideal starting point for novices who can take a sailing course and gain certification.

Afterward, join a flotilla for a leisurely cruise around Corfu, dropping anchor at Kalami Bay (of The Durrells fame) and lush Paleokastritsa. In Corfu Town , admire Venetian fortresses, the French-designed Liston Arcade and The Palace of St Michael and St George , built during the island’s British administration.

Planning tip: Few venture to Erikousa island, northwest of Corfu, which is blessed with pristine beaches and shallow cerulean seas.

Greece’s largest island, Crete  abounds in historical sites, well-preserved monuments and modern museums. A wander through the Minoan-era palaces of Knossos , Malia , Phaestos and Kato Zakros  won’t disappoint any fan of classical culture.

Stroll along the Venetian Harbour in Hania , lined with Ottoman monuments such as the Kioutsouk Hasan Mosque . Trek up to Byzantine and Venetian fortresses such as the Fortezza in Rethymno and Kastelli in Hania. In the east, the 16th-century Venetian fortress on Spinalonga islet reveals a harrowing, more recent past as a leper colony.

Among noteworthy museums are the Heraklion Archaeological Museum , Chania’s Maritime Museum of Crete , and the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna in Rethymno.

10. Mykonos

In the 1960s and 70s, Mykonos hosted roving hippies, celebrities and moneyed jet-setters who flirted and danced till the sun came up. While new five-star hotels and swanky brand-name restaurants may have altered the landscape and driven up prices, the fabled Cycladic isle still reigns supreme when it comes to summer nightlife in the Mediterranean.

Revelers can choose from the thumping bars lining Little Venice in Hora , as well as beach bars, cabaret restaurants and iconic clubs like seaside Cavo Paradiso , where illustrious music DJs fire up the crowd.

Planning tip: August is Mykonos’ busiest month. It’s also when you can witness the hottest DJs and surprise appearances by music artists, including prominent hip-hop names.

This article was first published Jul 5, 2021 and updated Mar 4, 2024.

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Greece

Written by Michael Law and Jane Foster Updated Sep 29, 2023

Home to some of the world's most important historical sites, along with some 6,000 islands, Greece is known for its natural beauty and fascinating culture. Ancient archaeological sites, cliffs tumbling into sparkling blue water, sand and pebble beaches, and a balmy Mediterranean climate make Greece one of Europe's prime places to visit for tourists .

Besides Athens, some of the top things to see on the mainland include Ancient Delphi and the monasteries of Meteora. But most people come here to catch a ferry or a flight to the islands: Santorini, Mykonos, Zakynthos, Corfu, and Crete are the most popular. Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions in Greece.

Acropolis, Athens

Acropolis museum, athens, the towns and beaches of crete, metéora monasteries, rhodes town, samaria gorge, thessaloniki, corinth canal, mount olympus, palace of knossos, víkos gorge.

Considered the symbol of Athens and Greece, and indeed of Western civilization, the Acropolis is a rocky mound rising in the heart of modern Athens, crowned by three magnificent temples dating from the 5th century BC. The best known and most distinctive is the Parthenon , originally made up of 58 columns supporting a roof and decorated by ornate pediments and a frieze.

Although the Parthenon steals the show, other highlights on the Acropolis hilltop are also spectacular. The ornate Temple of Athena Nike, the Porch of the Caryatids, and the Propylaea are not to be missed. Tear yourself away from the historic sights and wander over to the edge, panoramic views of the seven historical hills of Athens and the city are laid out below you.

Skirting the foot of the Acropolis and connecting it to the city's other major ancient attractions — the Ancient Agora , the Roman Forum , Kerameikos , and the Temple of Olympian Zeus — is a 2.5-kilometer walking path known as the Archaeological Promenade .

Author's Tips: For a fantastic nighttime view of the Acropolis, make your way to one of the rooftop restaurant patios on the pedestrian-only Apostolou Pavlou . Plan on getting to the Acropolis early to avoid ticket lineups, bus tours, crowds, and the heat if you are visiting in summer.

• Visiting the Acropolis in Athens: The Essential Guide
• Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens

The Acropolis Museum is one of Athens' most-visited tourist attractions. Designed by Swiss architect Bernard Tschumi, it is an ultra-modern glass and steel structure with light and airy exhibition spaces, built specifically to display ancient finds from the Acropolis.

Top things to see here include the 6th-century-BC Moschophoros (statue of a young man carrying a calf on his shoulders), the Caryatids (sculptures of female figures that held up the Erechtheion), and the highly controversial Parthenon marbles . From the museum's cafe-restaurant terrace, you can enjoy amazing views of the Acropolis itself.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens

Stunning Santorini is the most dramatic of all the Greek isles. It is best known for the west coast cliff-top towns of Fira and Oia , which appear to hang over a deep, blue sea-filled caldera. Made up of typical Cycladic whitewashed cubic buildings, many of which have been converted into boutique hotels with infinity pools, both Fira and Oia are considered romantic destinations, popular for weddings and honeymoons.

Things to do in Santorini include sunbathing and swimming at the black volcanic-sand beaches on the south and east coasts and visiting the archaeological site of Akrotiri , an Ancient Minoan settlement buried below lava following the volcanic eruption that created the caldera, some 3,600 years ago. The island has an airport and is served by ferries and catamarans from Athens' port, Piraeus.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Santorini

Many people consider Greece's most glamorous island destination to be Mykonos. After-dark activities center on Mykonos Town, noted for its chic boutique hotels, classy seafood restaurants, and live music venues. Other attractions include Paraportiani (a whitewashed church in Mykonos Town) and numerous sandy beaches along the island's south coast (served both by bus and taxi-boat from Mykonos Town).

The island is particularly popular with international celebrities. Mykonos has an airport and is connected by ferry and catamaran to Athens' port, Piraeus, and Rafina.

On the Greek mainland, Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built on the lower slopes of Mount Parnassus, overlooking a dramatic ravine, the site was sacred to the ancients, who came here on pilgrimages to worship Apollo (god of light, prophecy, music, and healing) and to ask advice from the mythical Oracle.

It is made up of the crumbling ruins of numerous temples, a theater, and a stadium, dating from between the 8th century BC and the 2nd century AD. Nearby, stands the Delphi Archaeological Museum , displaying an impressive collection of finds from the site. Delphi lies 180 kilometers northwest of Athens.

Delphi is about a 2.5-hour drive from Athens. It can easily be done as an overnight trip from the city, or even a day trip if you don't mind a long day.

• Read More: Visiting Delphi from Athens: Highlights, Tips & Tours

The massive island of Crete is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Greece. Blessed with some of the best beaches in Greece , the island draws visitors from around the world. Some of the most popular beaches on Crete range from small arcs of sand backed by restaurants and promenades to wide-open natural stretches lapped by incredibly clear waters and endless views across the sea.

But Crete is not all about beaches. It has its fair share of notable archeological sites, including the impressive Palace of Knossos, located near the pleasant city of Heraklion . The historical city of Chania and the laid-back town of Agios Nikolaos have wonderful old waterfront areas perfect for spending long afternoons on a café terrace getting lost in the views.

Get away from the bigger communities, and head to smaller towns like Plakias or Matala on Crete's south coast to find more remote beaches and beautiful mountainous backdrops.

If archeological sites, beaches, and historical towns weren't enough, the island has one of the most impressive hikes in the world : the Samaria Gorge.

One of Greece's top tourist destinations, Corfu sits in the Ionian Sea off the west coast of the mainland. The capital, Corfu Town , is a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to its elegant Italianate architecture — it was ruled by the Venetians for several centuries. Explore its romantic pedestrian-only streets to discover two 16th-century fortresses and the arcaded Liston, lined by old-fashioned cafes.

Away from the main town, the island is lushly beautiful, with rugged limestone rocks tumbling into the sea in its north and velvety green hills in its south. The most popular beach area is Paleokastritsa , on the west coast, about 25 kilometers from Corfu Town. Here, you'll find a collection of deep, curving bays sheltering sand and pebble beaches stretching into a clear blue sea. Corfu is served by an airport and ferries from Igoumenitsa and Patras on the Greek mainland. In summer, ferries sailing from Ancona and Venice also stop here.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do on Corfu Island

One of the most unusual things to see in Greece has to be the Thessaly Plain, where bizarre rocky outcrops are capped by the centuries-old monasteries of Metéora. On the UNESCO World Heritage list, six of the monasteries are open to the public. You need to climb up several flights of stone steps carved into the rocks to reach each monastery, and inside, you'll find flickering candles, religious icons, Byzantine frescoes, and burning incense.

Opening hours vary, and to see all six monasteries, you need to spend at least one day in the area. The nearest town is Kalambaka . Consider staying here, as it's a pleasant and relaxed place to visit, with small hotels and family-run restaurants serving traditional fare.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Metéora

Lying on the Aegean Sea, close to Turkey, Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands. Its capital, UNESCO-listed Rhodes Town, is one of Greece's top tourist destinations. It is enclosed by an impressive fortification system, including monumental towers and gates built by the Knights of St. John after they took control of the island in the 14th century.

The car-free cobbled streets of the old town are a joy to explore on foot. Nearby attractions include the pretty hillside coastal town of Lindos, and Marmaris on the Turkish coast, which can be visited by excursion boat. Rhodes is served by an airport, as well as regular ferries from Athens' port, Piraeus.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rhodes Town

Home to gorgeous scenery both above and under the sea surrounding it, Zákynthos (Zante) island is another top tourist destination in Greece. It is also easy to access, located just 16 kilometers off Peloponnese's west coast in the Ionian Sea.

Two of the biggest boasts on this geographically intriguing island are its pebble and sand beaches — Shipwreck Beach is the most famous — and stunning sea caves like the Blue Caves , off the island's northern tip. Inside, the sparkling water reflects the color of the blue sky on the cave walls to create a magical glow. The Blue Caves are only one of the many watery attractions around this island. There is also excellent snorkeling and scuba diving.

• Read More: Top Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Zakynthos

On the island of Crete, the Samaria Gorge is a top attraction for lovers of the great outdoors. Measuring 16 kilometers in length and, at its narrowest point, only four meters wide, it runs from Omalos (1,250 meters) in the White Mountains down to Agia Roumeli , on the Libyan Sea.

Depending on your level of fitness, it will take five to seven hours to walk. It is steep in parts and rocky, so you should wear good hiking shoes and carry plenty of water. The gorge lies within the Samaria National Park , and is on the UNESCO tentative list. Through summer, organized tours depart from Chania and Réthymnon .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chania

Often cited as Greece's most beautiful city, Nafplio is a popular weekend destination for wealthy Athenians. Built on a small peninsular on the east coast of the Peloponnese, it became the first capital of modern Greece in 1828 before Athens took over in 1834.

Take an afternoon or a day to wander through the old town, this car-free area is filled with Neoclassical mansions and proud churches and overlooked by the 18th-century Palamidi Fortress . Nearby attractions include Tiryns , Epidaurus Theater , and Ancient Corinth .

Thessaloniki doesn't seem to mind not being on most people's touring list. The locals are happy to have the place and all its sights to themselves. The main sightseeing attractions are its UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches , but worth investigating are several Roman monuments (including the Triumphal Arch of Galerius and the 4th-century Rotunda ), the 15th-century White Tower on the seafront, and an excellent Byzantine Museum .

Overlooking the Aegean Sea in northern Greece, Thessaloniki (Salonica) is the country's second biggest city after Athens. Founded in 316 BC due to its position close to both Bulgaria and Turkey, it has always been a crossroads of various cultures and religions.

One of the top day trips from Thessaloniki is to Mount Olympus , the highest mountain in Greece. Only 80 kilometers away on good roads, this impressive natural sight is well worth visiting. The most popular hiking trails depart from near the town of Prionia.

As you drive along the relatively flat highway 8 approaching the Peloponnese Peninsula, be sure to stop in at the lookout over the Corinth Canal. This canal, first dreamed about and attempted in 1 CE, was finally brought to fruition in 1883. Unfortunately for the builders, the canal was never particularly profitable or successful.

Park your car and walk out onto the bridge and give some thought as to how the original builders managed to dig down through the solid rock to carve out the canal.

Mount Olympus, famous home of the god Zeus, lies about halfway between Athens and Thessaloniki. Towering over the surrounding countryside at an impressive 2,918 meters, this mountain is a top recreation destination in the summer.

Three hiking trails lead to its summit, although most people take the two-day, one-night Priona trail. From the top, the views are unparalleled and well worth the effort expended to get here. You do not need any special equipment to do this hike, just a good assortment of clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and a taste for adventure.

One of the top archeological sites here in Greece, the Palace of Knossos is a must-see when visiting Crete. The site dates from the Late Minoan time period and has been very well restored. Although the standing buildings give you a real sense of what this place once looked like, as with many archeological sites in Greece, some portions require a bit of imagination.

The site is well laid out, with walking trails that wind their way past the main buildings and plazas. Be sure to check out the colorful paintings on some of the major structures near the end of the walkway.

The Palace of Knossos is located just outside of Heraklion , one of the main gateways to Crete. Tours can be easily arranged.

The impressive citadel of Mycenae is one of the top archeological sites south of Athens and well worth a visit for those interested in Greek history. Set impressively on a hill, Mycenae dates from around 1350 BCE, the peak of the Mycenaean civilization.

One of the key sights at Mycenae is the impressive Lion Gate. Set into the side of the hill, the gate is composed of perfectly inlaid stones over a rectangular doorway. This is the site where the famous gold mask was found by the explorer Heinrich Schliemann in the late 19th century. If the sun is getting to you, step inside the impressively domed Treasury of Atreus and enjoy some shade.

The island of Paros is sometimes overlooked by ferry travelers exploring the Cyclades, intent on visiting the more popular Santorini. However, this is a mistake. This laid-back island has everything that the busier islands offer farther south and north. The same whitewashed towns perched on the waterfront with patios full of laughing and smiling patrons are what you'll find here, but without the crowds.

Paros also has a fine selection of beaches and historical sites to explore. It's also a good spot to go if you are watching your costs; accommodation is cheaper here.

Another popular destination, Naxos is one of the largest Cycladic islands. This huge island is a fun place to explore, and with fewer tourists than places like Santorini or Mykonos. A couple of must-sees when exploring include the small towns of Filoti, Halki, and Apiranthos.

Take some time to wander through the main town, Chora of Naxos, especially the Kastro district. Here, you'll find a variety of shops selling all manner of souvenirs, along with cute restaurants with inviting patios.

If you want to hit the beach, Naxos does not disappoint. A couple to check out include Paradise Beach, Agia Anna, or Agios Prokopios. If you are into kiteboarding, the windswept Mikri Vigla is the place to go.

For a taste of quintessential Greece that's only a two-hour ferry ride from Athens , consider the delightful island of Hydra. Home to old mansions and white-washed houses adorned with bougainvillea and cobblestone streets the town has been attracting the creative set for decades.

The island is wonderfully car-free so walking is a pleasure, stroll the busy port area and be sure to check out the early 19th-century cannons along the waterfront. Should you need to get anywhere on the island, donkeys are the main mode of transport on land, and water taxis will be more than willing to take you to a secluded beach lapped by crystal-clear water.

Cat lovers will especially enjoy Hydra, it's known for its feline residents who are generally very friendly and always open for a tasty morsel of seafood.

Another one of Greece's premier natural attractions is the Víkos Gorge. Lesser known than the above profiled Samara Gorge on Crete, this incredible natural phenomenon is commonly known as the Grand Canyon of Greece. The gorge is a UNESCO World Heritage site and part of the larger Vikos–Aoös National Park.

An astounding 1,000 meters deep the canyon is one of the most amazing and easily accessible natural sights in the northwest area of Greece. If you want to just see the gorge from a lookout, one of the best is located at Oxya Viewpoint , where you'll be treated to views into the deepest part of the gorge.

For the more adventurous, a well-signposted 13-kilometer hiking trail takes you down into the gorge and back up the other side. The trail starts at Monodendri and ends at Vikos. Halfway through you can go for a dip in the icy cold Voidomatis Springs to cool off. The trail is considered moderately difficult and takes most people 4.5 to 5 hours to complete.

More on Greece

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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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Touropia Travel

Discover the World

26 Top Tourist Attractions in Greece

By Kaeylen McCrea · Last updated on May 5, 2024

Rich in ancient history, breathtaking beaches, awe-inspiring scenery, and Greek mythology, Greece is teeming with unique tourist destinations.

Greece is the birthplace of the Olympic Games, theatre, democracy, and famed philosophers, such as Plato and Aristotle. Greece consists of thousands of islands, some of the more well-known vacation spots including Santorini and Mykonos. The country’s cuisine is vibrant and rich. Olives are a popular ingredient in many Greek dishes, which makes sense why Greece is the third-largest producer of olives.

Between history, culture, cuisine, and nature, Greece is an undeniably attractive tourist destination you should not miss out on. It’s one of the sunniest places in the world, with plenty of rays for exploring ancient archaeological sites, tanning on white-pebbled beaches, and adventuring to your heart’s content.

To discover the best things to do in this Mediterranean country, use this list of the top tourist attractions in Greece and create your dream itinerary.

26. Balos Lagoon, Crete

Northwest of Kissamos and Chania, Balos Lagoon is well-known for its stunning natural beauty and perfect photo opportunities. The lagoon is located in Crete , the largest island in Greece , loved for its pristine beaches and ancient ruins.

Balos Lagoon twines between Cape Gramvousa and Cape Tigani. It exudes an unmistakable tranquility, attracting hundreds and thousands of people throughout the year. The white-sugared sands and shallow turquoise waters are ideal for inexperienced swimmers. Near the boundaries of the lagoon are deeper sections of water perfect for snorkeling.

The lagoon is protected under the Natura 2000 program, with rare species of plants and animals inhabiting the area. The monk seal and loggerhead sea turtle are examples of protected species in Balos Lagoon.

25. Naoussa, Paros

A fishing village in the Cyclades on the northeastern section of Paros Island, Naoussa attracts people from all over the world. They came here to admire its white washed buildings and enjoy its beaches for summer vacation.

Naoussa’s dazzling golden beaches, like Kolymbithres Beach and Monastiri, stretch along the natural bay. Many of these beaches, which vary from secluded to crowded, can be accessed on foot. However, some require trips by caiques, small fishing boats, that launch from the local port.

Naoussa is well-known as a summer hotspot but is also famous for its local wine production. It also features impactful historical sites like the Venetian Castle. The castle dates back to the 15th century. It was used to protect the island from pirates and later on as a defensive tower for the Ottomans.

24. Nafplio

A coastal city in the eastern Peloponnese , Nafplio is one of the most romantic cities in Greece. Its historic charm and classic architecture set the scene with flowing Turkish fountains, Byzantine churches, and medieval castles.

Only two hours from Athens, a trip to Nafplio opens up a world of local history to learn more about. The beautiful town was the first capital of the new Greek state until 1834 before the title was passed on to Athens. Walk down cobblestone alleys of medieval Old Town. Head to the Italianate Syntagma Square at the heart of the city. Here you will find two Turkish mosques and the Archaeological Museum, preserving historical artifacts dating back to the Prehistoric period.

Enjoy a stroll through Arvanitia Promenade, a scenic route with viewpoints of Akronafplia, the oldest of three Nafplio castles.

23. White Tower of Thessaloniki

Located in northern Greece in Macedonia, the White Tower of Thessaloniki is an iconic historic landmark.

Thessaloniki is Greece’s second-largest city. The ancient city is full of history, having played a vital role in the Byzantine period. The White Tower of Thessaloniki was around during a majority of the city’s historical turning points. It was termed “the Red Tower” and “the Tower of Blood” throughout Ottoman history. This was because of the tower’s role as a prison where brutal torture was enforced.

The monument houses a museum depicting the city’s history. At the top of the White Tower are awe-inspiring viewpoints of the Thermaic Gulf and the city. Outside the tower is the promenade, the popular seaside pedestrian street that routes past the White Tower.

22. Old Town of Rhodes

Encircled by medieval walls, the Old Town of Rhodes has been inhabited since medieval times. Along the walls are seven gates, said to enter another world, and walking through them, visitors will find one of the best-preserved fortified cities in Europe.

Rhodes was home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Colossus of Rhodes, a statue of the Greek sun god Helios. Unfortunately, the Colossus of Rhodes was disassembled and sold in AD 654 when the Arabs invaded Rhodes.

The main square, right inside Marina Gate, features a central fountain, cafes, and shops to explore. One of the prominent shopping streets, Sokratous Street, heads off from the square. Next, stroll down the Street of the Knights, a cobblestoned street lamp-lit route outstandingly preserved to relieve the days of medieval knights. Finally, visit Our Lady of the Castle, a Byzantine-style church estimated to have been built in the 11th century.

21. Acropolis Museum, Athens

Considered one of the most significant museums on earth, the Acropolis Museum homes the findings and replicas from the Acropolis of Athens .

The museum is only a short drive from the Acropolis archaeological site, where the famous tourist attraction, the Pantheon, sits. The museum features miniature replicas of the Acropolis after each major invasion in Athens, including Roman, Ottoman, and Persian. Continuing on through the Acropolis Museum is the display of the ancient Athenian neighborhood, which was discovered while building the museum.

One of the favorite attractions of the museum is findings from the Parthenon, the historic temple dedicated to the goddess Athena and one of the biggest attractions of Greece. The museum’s third-floor houses artifacts and sculptures from the Parthenon, including original marble inscriptions.

One of the Saronic Islands in the Aegean Sea, Hydra, is about a two-hour ferry trip from Athens.

As one of the most popular islands near Athens , the car-free island attracts visitors of all kinds, including famous ones like painters Henry Miller and Leonard Cohen. The island is known for its elegance, history, and it’s main port, surrounded by old churches and 18th-century mansions. Old canon bastions used to defend the island in the Greek War of Independence decorate the port.

The busy harbor is frequented by fishermen heading off to catch a hefty bounty. Some fishermen will use their boats to sell fresh catches after their return. Cats are a standard part of life in Hydra, many of which come to get their morning meal at the harbor.

Just wandering the streets of this enchanting town is one of the most rewarding things to do in Greece. First, have dinner at one of the restaurants for a fresh seafood dish caught locally. Then, stop at a cafe for a quick dessert or refreshing drink.

19. Mount Athos

Found on the edge of the Athos peninsula in Macedonia, Mount Athos is a holy mountain that has served as an Orthodox spiritual center since 1054. Women and children are forbidden to visit Mount Athos.

Twenty monasteries, including subsidiary establishments, decorate the slopes of Mount Athos. Since Byzantine times, Mount Athos has maintained a self-administered status, with its first constitution signed in 972.

To visit Mount Athos, a permit must be issued. Only ten non-orthodox and 100 Greeks and orthodox visitors are given permits daily, valid for four days. Mount Athos is a well-loved spiritual place where many men come to prioritize spirituality. Arriving at Mount Athos on a permitted visit, one will be overcome by structures that date back centuries on a thousand-year-old site.

Near Mykonos in the Aegean Sea’s Cyclades archipelago, Delos is the mythological birthplace of the twin gods Apollo and Artemis.

The island is an archaeological site featuring ruins of Doric temples, mosaics, and the famous Terrace of the Lions statue. The only inhabitants of the islands are archaeologists and caretakers of the island. There are no hotels or other stays to spend overnight on Delos. Once a religious center and commercial port, the island was quickly abandoned after several attacks and has stayed that way since 7 BC.

Excavations of Delos began in 1872, some of which continues to this day. A trip to Delos is one of the most popular things to do in Mykonos and offers a leap back in time. The island is an archaeological site dating back to the Archaic and Hellenistic periods.

17. Cape Sounion

At the southern point of Attica and the end of the Sounio Peninsula stands the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion.

Built in 5 BC to honor Poseidon, the structure was constructed entirely of white marble. The Temple of Poseidon is a renowned monument of the Golden Age of Athens. The Aegean Sea stretches out on three sides of the temple, and the scenery of the sunset descending into the sea is mesmerizing from this viewpoint.

The Temple of Poseidon had 34 columns. Only fifteen are left standing. If you look closely at one of the columns, you’ll find the name, Lord Byron. The famous poet inscribed his name during a visit to the historic site in 1810.

16. Epidaurus

Once a small city of ancient Greece, Epidaurus is a famous archaeological site found on the northeastern Peloponnese in Argolis.

One of the biggest tourist attractions of Epidaurus is the Ancient Theatre. The theatre was established in 4 BC to host religious ceremonies honoring the god Asclepius. It was also used to host plays and symposia and as a wrestling arena. This is because of the theatre’s outstanding acoustics and symmetry, which are used to host ancient Greek drama performances in the present day.

Epidaurus acted as a health center in ancient times, referred to as “The Asclepion.” Myths accumulated between the ill that stayed in the Asclepion. That the god Asclepius appeared in dreams and cured their ailments.

15. Portara, Naxos

The Portara is an iconic landmark on the largest Cyclades islands on the islet of Naxos.

A colossal marble doorway acts as the favored jewel and landmark of Naxos . The construction of the Portara began in 6 BC under the decree of tyrant Lygdamis. However, construction ceased when Lydgamis was overthrown, resulting in only the Portara, or “door,” being built. It was believed that the structure was meant to be a temple dedicated to Apollo, but there is some controversy over its original purpose.

The photogenic marble gateway of the Portara illuminates stunningly, whether it be sunset, sunrise, or at night. Stroll up the cobbled pathway to the Portara and explore the ruins and encompassing sights beheld there.

14. Corfu Old Town

The northernmost of the Ionian Islands, Corfu is found in the Adriatic sea near the western coasts of Albania.

Corfu is loved for its captivating architecture and history, with some buildings dating back to the Venetian period. Within Corfu’s Old Town are cobbled streets, old churches, charming shops, and adorable cafes.

For one-of-a-kind local finds, explore the local shops for clothes, sandals, trinkets, and fun souvenirs to take home. Many churches in Corfu’s Old Town are open to visitors looking to take a peek at the intricate design and architecture or simply to light a candle and say a prayer. Listen to live music as performers show off their talent to the crowds. Finally, get a taste of the local cuisine that fuses Greek and Venetian cuisine with an eastern twist.

13. Knossos Palace

The largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete, the Palace of Knossos, is the residence of the mythical King Minos, the son of Europa and Zeus.

Southeast of Heraklion in Crete, the palace symbolized the Minoan civilization. It was used as a political and ceremonial center for the Minoans. The palace was inhabited for a few thousand years until its destruction and the end of the Minoan civilization in 1375 BC.

The original Palace of Knossos, not the reconstructed one after its devastation, was four wings of four-story houses centered around a courtyard. A maze, or labyrinth, connected to the courtyard. In Greek mythology, the maze, or “Labyrinth,” was the home of the Minotaur that battled Athenian hero Theseus.

Combine a palace tour with a trip to the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion. Visit the museum first for a deeper understanding of the Palace of Knossos.

12. Ancient Mycenae

One of the major centers of Greek civilization, Ancient Mycenae is an ancient city and archaeological site and was a military stronghold that strong-armed the Cyclades, Crete, and southern Greece. The old archaeological site is southwest of Athens and north of Argos in the Peloponnese.

The first to speak the Greek language, the Mycenaens thrived until their eventual downfall around 1200 BC. After that, the Bronze-age acropolis was one of the greats, heavily impacting Greek culture and mythology.

Ancient Mycenae was also King Agamemnon’s home, who played a vital role in the Trojan War. Throughout the archaeological site are preserved finds like King Agamemnon’s palace, cisterns, Cyclopean architecture, and tombs. Some other noteworthy points of interest include the Tomb of Clytemnestra (the wife of King Agamemnon), the Museum of Mycenae, the Treasury of Atreus, and the Lion Gate.

11. Vikos Gorge

On the southern slopes of Mount Tymphe in the Pindus Mountains, Víkos Gorge is a favored hiking spot with numerous awe-inspiring viewpoints. It is documented in the Guinness book of records as the world’s deepest canyon in proportion to its width.

Often called the Grand Canyon of Greece, the gorge offers breathtaking views of nature’s wondrous capabilities. One of Greece’s most naturally stunning sights, this gem is a sight to behold.

The most frequently used starting point for trekking the Víkos Gorge is Monodendri, a village in Zagori. Take your time indulging your curiosity with a tour through Monodendri’s snaking alleyways and delectable food options. For a more appealingly gentle descent from hiking Víkos Gorge, take the trailhead at Dilofo, a scenic mountain village.

10. Navagio Beach

Commonly called Smugglers Cove or Shipwreck Beach, Navagio Beach is a famous pebble beach on the coast of Zakynthos in the Ionian Islands.

Surrounded by shimmering turquoise water and towering cliffs, the beach is only reachable by boat. The second most photographed site and one of the most popular beaches in Greece , Navagio Beach lives up to its reputation with spectacular scenery that exudes paradise.

On its shores lies a shipwrecked boat, “Panagiotis”. The ship attempted to transport cigarettes in 1983 illegally but washed ashore during a massive storm. Nevertheless, it has become one of the biggest reasons why millions visit Navagio Beach every year.

9 Lindos, Rhodes

A town on the island of Rhodes, Lindos preserves Greece’s second most visited archaeological site.

The legend goes that Danaus, the son of the King of Egypt, founded Lindos. Greek mythology believes that when Danaus fled his brother and Hera, he resided on the island before moving to Greece’s mainland.

The Acropolis of Lindos can be seen from every viewpoint in the town. On the first level of the acropolis is a Byzantine church of St. John established around the 13th century. There is also a big Hellenistic stoa and the remains of a temple. On the top of the stairs are the ruins of the Temple of Athena Lindia, a 4 BC sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Athena.

Visit the ancient theatre of Lindos, dating back to 4 BC. The historic amphitheater was used for festivals, plays, and athletic competitions. Admire the Church of Panagia, an elaborately designed chapel with a Rhodian campanile tower and hanging chandeliers.

An ancient town in Phocis, Delphi rests between the Phaidriades Rocks of Mount Parnassus.

A major religious center in the 6th century BC, the Panhellenic sanctuary of the god Apollo lies in Delphi. It was the sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, translating to “Athena who is before the temple (of Apollo).” Visitors would first see the sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, then reach the sanctuary of Apollo.

Archaeological finds discovered Mycenaean remains, showing the area was inhabited in 2 BC. The sanctuary was established in 8 BC, its influence extending over Greece. Pilgrims came to Delphi to meet the priestess of Pythia and the Oracle of Delphi, which was widely known for divining the future. Delphi was once home to the Pythian Games, second to the Olympics for Greeks, to honor Apollo.

Now, visitors to Delphi can tour the archaeological sites of these historic religious sanctuaries. Other noteworthy artifacts and educational information can be found at the nearby museum.

Referred to as Myzithras in the Chronicle of the Morea, Mystras is a historic town in the southeast of Peloponnese near ancient Sparta.

The settlement of Mystras began in 1249 with the construction of an amphitheater surrounding a fortress overlooking Sparta. However, after multiple attacks and occupations, by the Byzantines, Turks, then Venetians, Mystras was soon abandoned in 1832 with only ruins left behind.

The well-preserved archaeological sites feature Byzantine churches, fortress walls, and palace remains to peer over. The site is split between three sections—the fortress on the summit, the upper town, and the lower town.

Built by the Franks and preserved by the Turks, the fortress is historically outstanding, with stunning scenic opportunities from atop the hill. Within the upper and lower town sections are cobblestone streets worn down after centuries of use and numerous structures dating back to the 12th century.

6. Samaria Gorge

A part of the White Mountains National Park on the island of Crete, the Samaria Gorge is the longest in Europe.

Home to 70 species endemic to Crete, the gorge is an enriching masterpiece of nature. Thousands of people hike Samaria Gorge every day during its peak month of August. But before beginning your hike of the gorge, take a quick trip to the Museum of Natural History of Samaria Gorge. The museum presents a deeper understanding of the gorge’s historical and natural wealth.

Hiking the gorge is one of the most popular things to do in Greece. Begin your hike at Xyloskalo, or “wooden stairs.” Locals constructed the wooden staircase as an entrance to the gorge.

5. Myrtos Beach

Myrtos Beach is a famous beach found in the northwest part of Kefalonia Island in Pylaros.

Featuring a picturesque position at the base of two mountains, Myrtos Beach is frequently publicized as one of the best beaches in the world. Its breathtaking blue waters and shocking white pebbled shore make it an easy favorite as one of the best tourist destinations in Greece.

Sink your toes in the sand. Go for a swim and suntan on the sand. And take plenty of pictures while relaxing in paradise at Myrtos Beach!

4. Mykonos Town

One of the most featured destinations in Greece, the island and town of Mykonos is part of the Cyclades between Naxo and Syros.

The islands of the winds, Mykonos , is a luxurious holiday destination for romantic getaways and group tropical vacations. The town of Mykonos satiates a range of interests, from history and culture to food and nature.

Shop designer clothes at local boutiques around Mykonos Town. Find local pieces at various art galleries. Unwind at the picturesque beaches to catch some sun. Tour the archaeological sites, like the Ancient Delos, scattered with historic structures and ruins. Stroll through the streets surrounded by Cycladic architecture that has made the town of Mykonos well-known and well-loved for its unique setting.

3. Acropolis of Athens

A historical landmark above the city of Athens, the Acropolis of Athens preserves the remains of ancient structures that hold historical and architectural value.

Now an archaeological site, the military fortress established during the Neolithic period became a religious center dedicated to the goddess Athena. During the battle of Salamis in 480 BC, parts of the Acropolis were damaged. However, the structure was recovered and rebuilt by Pericles, the founder of the Athenian democracy, into the Acropolis observed today.

See also: Where to Stay in Athens

On the grounds of the Acropolis of Athens are different historical structures, including the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion. These buildings are temples dedicated to different elements of the Goddess Athena, each holding its own enigmatic pull. To the northwest of the Acropolis is the Areopagus, which functioned as the high court of appeal for cases of the law, and is now admired for its outstanding viewpoints of Athens.

Near the town of Kalabaka in central Greece, the Meteora is a famed rock formation home to one of the largest Eastern Orthodox monasteries. It is only second to Mount Athos.

Six monasteries are stabilized on natural pillars and massive boulders on the rock formations for a truly unique and stunning attraction of Greece. The area of Meteora combines medieval history, impactful religion, and breathtaking nature, having sheltered the monasteries for nearly a thousand years.

Rock climbers crowd from all over the world to take on Meteora. But, if you’re afraid of heights, consider taking Meteora on from the comfort of the ground. There are numerous hiking trail options, including leisurely strolls or strenuous climbs that travel through the refreshing landscapes stacked with towering rock formations. End, or start, your trip at the Natural History Museum of Meteora and Mushroom Museum. It is one of the few museums in the world dedicated to mushrooms.

1. Sunsets at Santorini

A famous tourist destination and island in the southern Aegean Sea, Santorini is adored for its unrivaled sunsets.

Created by volcanic eruptions, Santorini has impressively steep cliffs that offer some of the best sunset-viewing opportunities in the world. The two main towns, Fira (or Thira) and Oia have different rewarding perspectives for a romantic and unforgettable sight.

Book an evening cruise for views on the water to lose the bustling crowd and get the perfect spot for sunset viewing. Then, reserve a table at Ammoudi Fish Tavern in Ammoudi Bay for a romantic dinner while basking in bewitching pink and red hues. Atop Skaros is a historic Venetian fortress that avails clear views of the sea and sunsets at Santorini. Another ideal sunset viewing spot is at the 19th-century Akrotiri lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in Greece.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Greece

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Reader interactions.

May 28, 2019 at 6:44 am

77 year old USA couple just returned from a 7 week trip to Greece last week. Skipped the tourist spots and concentrated on the historic locations which made Greece a remarkable society for 1000s of years including Cycladic, Minoan, Mycenaean, and Byzantine.

April 24, 2017 at 12:23 pm

I’m 13years old and I have even been to Greece. It was one of the best places I’ve been in my life and I’ve been to some pretty cool places like Egypt.

February 2, 2015 at 9:57 am

I need to add Cape Sounion to this! The Temple of Poseidon. A couple of hours by coach from Athens. Absolutely amazing, stunning views and if you stay until sunset really quite breathtaking!!

December 1, 2014 at 1:28 pm

I visited Santorini in October last year . It is beautiful place to be but unfortunetely even in October overcrowded 🙁 Crete is a better destination in my opinion 🙂

April 14, 2014 at 8:07 am

I surely hope that I can visit Greece. It is so unbelievably amazing even just the pictures. Parthenon, Mykonos, and definitely Santorini are on top of my list 🙂

April 10, 2014 at 4:28 am

Sailing Greece in August 2014. Arriving early, where’s the best place to stay and the best things to do?

March 26, 2014 at 1:14 pm

Greece is so amazing !! I wish i could go there someday 😉

March 16, 2014 at 1:16 am

I would like to go to Santorini 😀

December 2, 2013 at 5:56 am

I will recommend you to complete the map of tourist attractions in Greece 2014 Aegina island. Its 1 hour far from peraeus harbour. We have ”flisvos” tavern at aegina ‘s port and we offer eating services for tourists Groups. Please have in your mind aegina island and i am waiting you coming in my taverna. To drink a glass of ouzaki eating octopus on bbq for free (only for you). Thank you very much.

July 3, 2013 at 6:31 am

Mykonos is the place to be!! I love this island. I ve been to Ornos, Elia and Ag. Sostis beach. Panormos is also great! Great beach and nice waters!Next to the beach there is a pool venue with djs! We went after the beach and they have pool afternoon parties. We had some cocktails and amazing food. Guilty Beach !!!!

October 23, 2012 at 1:38 am

I love Kefalonia and Myrtos beach is stunning…

December 9, 2011 at 6:49 pm

Greece is WONDERFUL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

September 11, 2011 at 11:47 am

Greece is wonderful place.Thasos is nice to see also

August 24, 2011 at 1:15 pm

Absolutely beautiful photos! Greece is a fantastic tourist destination! But I would like to add Sithonia, Halkidiki, to your list – lots of unspoiled nature and beaches, and not spoiled by tons of tourists…

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26 Top Tourist Attractions in Greece

Author: Destinations.ai · Updated on: June 13, 2024

Steeped in a legacy that dates back to the dawn of Western civilization, Greece stands as a beacon of cultural heritage and natural allure.

Your senses will revel in its tapestry of ancient marvels and scenic landscapes as you journey from mythic ruins to the glistening shores of its many isles. Here, history is remembered and felt in every stone and sunset.

An odyssey across this nation not only involves retracing the steps of philosophers and athletes of antiquity but also indulging in a culinary tradition that celebrates the olive amongst its many treasures.

Whether basking in the Mediterranean sun or savoring the stories etched into its venerable sites, Greece promises to captivate your imagination and satisfy your thirst for adventure.

Top Tourist Attractions in Greece

1. balos lagoon, crete.

Balos Lagoon , snug between the caps of Gramvousa and Tigani on Crete’s northwestern shore, boasts near-celestial appeal.

Its powdery white sands dissolve into shallow, mesmerizing azure waters, sheltering delicate ecosystems beneath the waves, where snorkelers delight in deeper aquatic realms.

You’re encouraged to wade into its serene embrace, ideal for those new to the joys of swimming in natural waters.

Imagine the soft crunch of sugar-like sands underfoot, the lagoon’s gentle breeze carrying hints of salt, and the distant melody of native birds.

This natural wonder is a sanctuary under Natura 2000, promising protection for its thriving flora and fauna; the elusive monk seal and the noble loggerhead sea turtle find refuge in its nurturing environment.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Northwest of Kissamos, near Chania
• Notable Wildlife: Monk seals, Loggerhead turtles
• Swimming Conditions: Ideal for beginners; excellent snorkeling spots
• Conservation Status: Protected Natura 2000 site

As you absorb the tranquil atmosphere, remember that this lagoon isn’t just a place but a living tableau steeped in a history that intertwines nature’s artistry with human appreciation.

2. Captivating Naoussa

In the heart of the Cyclades, your senses will savor Naoussa’s timeless charm. The village cradles a spectrum of golden sands along its embracing bay, where moments of solitude can be found on tucked-away shores or amidst the sociable hum of busier beaches.

Beaches to Explore:

• Kolymbithres Beach : Nature’s artistry is evident in the granite rock formations sculpting your view.
• Monastiri : Tranquility often whisks visitors away at this beach, which is hugged by nature’s embrace.

As you wander, the white-washed structures of Naoussa stand stark against the azure sky, a maze that echoes with whispers of history. Caiques offer passage to those stretches of coast beyond a casual stroll’s reach.

Historical Tapestry:

• Venetian Castle (15th Century) : A sentinel’s post against ancient threats, the structure still watches stoically over turquoise waters.

Savvy your palette with a glass of the local vintage, a legacy of the island’s viticultural heritage. In this blend of nature’s leisure and historical weight, Naoussa’s heartbeat thrums, a rhythmic invitation to both adventure and repose.

As you wander through the enchanting city of Nafplio , you’re walking on the cobblestones of history.

Picture yourself strolling under Venice’s influence, with Italianate designs gracing Syntagma Square, and amidst echoes from its days as the first capital of Greece until 1834. Your heart beats in time with the storied past of this romantic escape.

Historical Landmarks:

• Palamidi Castle : A fortress crowning the city, offering panoramic vistas.
• Bourtzi : An island fortress you can visit by boat; once a prison, now a stage for cultural events.
• The Archaeological Museum : Houses treasures from the city’s deep historical layers.

Cultural Experiences:

• Syntagma Square : The city’s vibrant center with charming cafes and notable structures.
• Old Town : Meander through labyrinthine alleys lined with Venetian, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences.
• Local Delights : Sample Greek coffee where past and present converge.

Take in the mix of culture with every turn; feel the cool sea breeze as you promenade around Arvanitia, with views of Akronafplia’s ancient walls.

Your senses will come alive with the sound of lapping waves, the sight of well-preserved castles, and the taste of rich coffee brewed with tradition.

See Related: How to Choose a Vacation Destination

4. The Emblematic Beacon of Thessaloniki

As you wander through Greece’s vibrant city of Thessaloniki , the White Tower is a sentinel of the city’s compelling saga.

This historic embodiment witnessed the ebb and flow of Byzantine prowess and Ottoman dominion in the heart of Macedonia in northern Greece. Nicknamed the “Blood Tower,” its walls echo tales of imprisonment and the echoes of the past.

Within this cylindrical stone structure, history unveils itself in a museum that charts Thessaloniki’s journey through time. Every level ascended brings you closer to panoramic vistas that marry the urban landscape with the Thermaic Gulf’s azure expanse.

At the pinnacle, the city’s heartbeat synchronizes with the gull’s cry, and the horizon stretches, bridging the present with history.

Step outside to the promenade, and you’ll join locals on their seaside stroll, a tradition as enduring as the tower. Here, history isn’t just learned; it’s experienced in every sense.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Greece

5. Old Town of Rhodes

Imagine crossing time thresholds as you traverse one of the seven gates encircling Rhodes’ Old Town . Beyond, a medieval citadel breathes, standing among Europe’s most meticulously conserved fortifications.

Your footsteps resonate on cobblestone as you meander Sokratous Street, bustling with quaint cafes and curio shops in the square’s embrace, a short stroll from the Marina Gate.

The Old Town’s heart pulses with echoes of history; the colossal statue of Helios, the ancient Greek sun god, once crowned the island but now whispers its lore only through the wind.

As dusk descends, the cobbles of the Street of the Knights flicker under lamplight—a remnant of chivalry preserved in stone. And in the tranquility of Our Lady of the Castle church, Byzantine artistry envelopes you, harking back to its 11th-century origin.

• Marina Gate : Entrance to the main square
• Sokratous Street : Vibrant shopping avenue
• Street of the Knights : Cobblestoned, medieval ambiance
• Our Lady of the Castle : Byzantine church, 11th-century beauty

Here, every path, every wall, every shadow cast is a narrative of yore, inviting you to uncover the chronicles etched in the bedrock of Rhodes.

6. Athens’ Beacon of Heritage: The Acropolis Museum

Nestled close to its majestic counterpart, the towering Parthenon, the Acropolis Museum stands as a testament to Athenian splendor.

Within its walls, you wander through an echoing timeline, tracing invasions that shaped Athens—Roman, Ottoman, and Persian. Each conquest left its imprint, reflected in detailed miniature renditions of the fabled hill.

As you stroll deeper, you uncover an ancient Athenian district unfolding beneath your feet, exposed during the museum’s creation. Imagine the daily bustle that once filled these streets, a preserved slice of history.

Your path leads you to the museum’s pinnacle, the third floor—an intimate encounter with history. Here, the Parthenon’s legacy unfurls through authentic marble and inscriptions whispering tales of devotion to Athena.

Witness the tangible echoes of Greece’s most iconic sanctuary, standing as pillars of a civilization’s enduring legacy.

Stepping onto Hydra , you’re immediately enveloped by an air of grandeur frozen in time. Without the hum of cars, your ears tune into the natural soundtrack: the lap of waves against the stone quays and the distant hum of fishermen preparing for the day’s labor.

Your eyes catch the sunlight bouncing off the old mansions’ facades, their 18th-century elegance testament to the island’s rich history. You sense the stories embedded in the cobblestone alleys, once trodden by renowned artists seeking inspiration.

Must-Experience Highlights:

• Historical Port : Marvel at ancient cannon bastions and relics of the island’s role in the Greek War of Independence.
• Fishermen’s Bounty : Await the fresh catch by the boats as fisherfolk haul in and sell their aquatic treasures.
• Feline Welcoming Committee : Greet the local cats and the island’s residents, who revel in the fishermen’s company.
• Culinary Delights : Indulge in seafood from the surrounding azure waters at a harborside restaurant.
• Caffeine and Sweets : Savor the Greek coffee or a handmade sweet at a quaint café.

Remember, the essence of Hydra is not just seen but felt— it’s the whisper of history in the breeze and the taste of the sea in its gastronomy.

8. Mount Athos

As you traverse the rugged outskirts of the Athos peninsula, the imposing presence of Mount Athos evokes a profound reverence. Since 1054, this sanctuary has remained a bastion of Orthodox spirituality.

Entry is exclusive, safeguarding the sanctity of a landscape dotted with twenty monasteries, each a sentinel to history and faith.

A visit to this sacred place necessitates a special permit, a golden ticket that is fiercely limited in number; expect to be among a mere handful of daily visitors who gain this privilege.

The crisp air here is imbued with centuries of prayer and contemplation, a testament to a self-governing entity with roots stretching back to Byzantine sovereignty.

Here, spirituality commandeers a man’s journey, encouraging an introspective exploration amidst an architectural tableau that whispers the tales of a millennium.

The knowledge that the mountain’s borders have remained impervious to women and children for centuries only adds to its mystique, making your foothold on this soil echo an age-old tradition.

Nestled among the Aegean Sea’s sparkling waves, Delos’s i sle is steeped in divine legend, hailed as the sacred cradle where Apollo and Artemis emerged into the world. As you traverse its silent stones, the whispers of ancient Doric columns and vibrant mosaics beckon, offering glimpses into bygone glory.

Stand amidst the Terrace of the Lions and feel the weight of the phantoms of fervent worshippers and eager traders that once flooded this now-desolate sanctuary.

• Archaeological Riches : Uncover the faded splendors of sacred temples and intricate public spaces.
• Timeless Guardians : Encounter the majestic Lion statues that stand as eternal sentinels.
• Isolation Preserved : Embrace the tranquility, with no modern accommodations to disturb the historic panorama.

The once-flourishing Delos, forsaken after relentless invasions since 7 BC, endures as a relic of its past magn

10. Cape Sounion

Perched at the tip of the Attica region, the majestic Temple of Poseidon presides over Cape Sounion , surrounded by the vast expanse of the Aegean Sea.

Erected in the fifth century BC, this all-marble sanctuary was an offering to the god of the sea, Poseidon, symbolizing the Athenian Golden Age’s grandeur.

• Columns : Once featuring 34 Doric columns, today only 15 remain, whispering tales of ancient glory.
• Historical Mark : Among the marbled remains, you can spot the name of Lord Byron, the renowned poet who etched his signature in 1810.

Imagine the sun melting into the sea, its last rays caressing the marbles that have stood the test of time. While there’s a whisper of the historical brilliance that once defined the area, the serenity and the cyclic drama of the sunset captivate your senses here.

11. Epidaurus

Tucked away in the northeastern expanse of the Peloponnesian landscape, Epidaurus stands as a testament to ancient ingenuity. Your footsteps echo in the expanse of the Ancient Theatre, a structure revered for its exceptional acoustics and geometric harmony.

Erected in the 4th century BC, the theatre gathered crowds for spiritual rites and dramatic renditions dedicated to Asclepius, the healing deity.

Today, it’s common to overhear the soft rustling of pages as spectators ready themselves for a reenactment of classic Greek drama under the open sky.

As you wander beyond the theatre’s grandeur, whispers of the past follow you into the heart of Epidaurus—the Asclepion. This sanctuary, a nucleus of health and recovery in antiquity, conjures images of the ailing seeking nocturnal revelations from the divine within its hallowed confines.

Even now, one can almost hear the murmur of hope that once permeated this place.

12. The Gateway of the Sun God

As you traverse the landscapes of Naxos, your path leads to a breathtaking marvel – the Portara. This grand marble edifice frames the sky, a solitary portal that harks back to a grand vision unfulfilled.

Commissioned by the ruler Lygdamis in the 6th century BC, this massive doorway was the onset of a temple honoring Apollo. Political tides shifted, the tyrant fell from power, and the temple’s completion was forsaken.

Now, the Portara stands as an emblematic silhouette against the backdrop of the Aegean.

• Location: Islet of Palatia, Naxos
• Constructed: 6th Century BC
• Intended for: Apollo’s Temple

Set foot on the islet at dawn or dusk, and the doorway radiates with the sun’s golden hues. Linger here at twilight when the stars emerge and the night cradles Naxos, and feel the resonance of history around you, a centuries-old space where myth merges with the tangible.

See Related: Is Uber Available in Santorini, Greece?

13. Corfu Old Town

Nestled in the Adriatic’s embrace, Corfu whispers tales of yore through its Venetian-inspired façades. As you meander through Corfu Old Town’s labyrinth of cobbled alleys , you’ll stumble upon quaint boutiques offering an array of artisanal clothing and crafted sandals perfect for unique keepsakes.

• Architecture: Immerse yourself in history with a visit to centuries-old churches, their interiors adorned with meticulous artistry.
• Shopping: Discover charming trinkets and local crafts in small, welcoming shops.
• Culinary Delights: Savor the fusion of Greek flavors with a Venetian zest and an Eastern influence, a testament to Corfu’s storied past.

Feel the Old Town’s heartbeat through the melodies floating from street musicians, enriching the air with cultural vibrancy. Here, every stone-paved street corner every scented café serves as a bookmark in the hefty tome of Corfu’s narrative.

14. Knossos Palace

As you wander through the remains of Knossos Palace , you tread the very floors once ruled by the legendary King Minos. The echoes of ancient ceremonies still dwell amidst the ruins that once stood as a grand symbol of Minoan grandeur.

Location : Just southeast of Heraklion on Crete Island, a journey here is a pilgrimage to the heart of Cretan history.

Highlights :

• Central Courtyard : The nerve center of the palace, shaded by columns that once held up multiple stories.
• Labyrinth Myth : The complex layout is the supposed home of the mythical Minotaur, conjuring images of perilous mazes.

Expert Tip : Before exploring the serpentine stone corridors of Knossos, immerse yourself in the history displayed at Heraklion Archaeological Museum. It will enrich your palace experience tenfold.

The walls of this Bronze Age marvel whisper tales of power and myth. As you explore, let your imagination unfold the splendor and intrigue that dominated these lands over 3,000 years ago.

15. Ancient Mycenae

Journey into the heart of a civilization that once ruled the southern Greek world. Ancient Mycenae , a citadel set amid the rugged landscapes of the Peloponnese, whispers tales of power, conflict, and legendary figures from its ruins.

Your footsteps echo on the land once patrolled by King Agamemnon, the key to the Trojan War saga. Here, the massive Cyclopean Walls rise, a testament to Mycenaean engineering prowess.

In this fortress city, evidence of the first Greek speakers lays embedded in the soil, with their language resounding through time until their mysterious decline around 1200 BC.

At the Lion Gate, you stand before the emblem of a royal lineage – an entry fitting for the keeper of Clytemnestra’s tomb and a palace of ancient renown.

Explore the Treasury of Atreus, marvel at the precision of Mycenaean tombs, and ponder over relics in the on-site museum.

• Royal Tombs
• Museum of Mycenae
• Palace Remnants
• Cyclopean Walls

Absorb the ambiance that infiltrates this ancient stronghold; let the scent of wild thyme under the Mediterranean sun transport you back centuries. Mycenae’s influence on Greek culture is undeniable, much like the evocative stories in its stone.

16. Vikos Gorge

Amidst the jagged grandeur of the Pindus Mountains, your path leads to Vikos Gorge , renowned for its staggering depth when measured against its width.

A marvel often likened to Greece’s version of the Grand Canyon . It stretches before you with a wildness that echoes through its craggy vistas.

With each step from Monodendri, your gateway to this natural wonder, prepare to be captivated by the gorge’s vistas. The village’s labyrinthine streets are a prelude to the mesmerizing journey, inviting you to savor local flavors.

For those preferring just as scenic but gentler commencement to their trek, Dilofo’s quaint charm offers a softer descent into the gorge’s embrace.

The symphony of nature’s beauty at Vikos will resonate within you long after the echoes fade from its depths.

17. Navagio Beach

Nestled amidst the Ionian Islands, Navagio Beach is a coastal gem you’ll find on Zakynthos. Its sparkling, turquoise waters, hemmed by formidable cliffs, are accessible solely by sea, solidifying its allure.

• Accessibility: Sea access only
• Highlights: Pebble beach, panoramic views, a photogenic shipwreck
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light

Savored as one of Greece’s quintessential shores, the beach boasts the presence of the Panagiotis, a vessel with a storied past of clandestine excursions, now a striking relic amidst the pebbles since 1983.

The natural amphitheater of cliffs carries the whispers of the sea, inviting you into a timeless escape. As you set foot on the pebbly sands, prepare for a tableau that has captured the imaginations of travelers worldwide.

18. Lindos, Rhodes

Lindos , a jewel on the island of Rhodes, is a tapestry of history woven into its streets and edifices. Here, you walk in the steps of Danaus, the refuge of the mythic son of an Egyptian king.

• Acropolis’s Commanding Presence: Dominating the skyline, the Acropolis of Lindos reveals a multilayered past. The Byzantine Church of St. John stands as a testament to faith through the ages, its 13th-century foundations echoing chants of old.
• Sanctuary of the Divine: Rise the ancient stairs, and you’ll find the Temple of Athena Lindia, where worship from the 4th century BC still seems to whisper on the breeze.
• Amphitheater Echoes: The old theater of Lindos, carved in the 4th century BC, once resonated with the vitality of plays and competitions, now invites you to envision the spectacles that once were.

Feel the worn paths beneath your feet, touch the weather-beaten stones rich with lore, and let the scent of the Aegean Sea envelop you as you explore. RuntimeMethodspector

Nestled within the arms of Mount Parnassus, Delphi stands as a testament to ancient glory, wrapped in the embrace of the Phaidriades Rocks . Here, the whispers of antiquity echo among the ruins of two paramount sanctuaries: the forefront Athena Pronaia and the famed Apollo sanctuary.

Your journey through Delphi follows the footsteps of ancient pilgrims, ascending from Athena’s welcoming grounds to Apollo’s domain, where oracles once conversed with divinities.

The scent of bygone thuribles seems to linger as you traverse the sacred way, leading to the temple where the Pythia dispensed her enigmatic prophecies.

Ruins dating back to the Mycenaean era reaffirm a rich human tapestry long before Apollo’s seers gained renown. A flourish of cultural reverence, Delphi played host to the Pythian Games, rivaling the Olympics in splendor and scale.

Today’s Delphi offers a foray into the past with its sprawling archaeological wonders and a museum that houses profound vestiges of its spiritual heritage.

Here, your senses become the conduit to history, revealing the enduring allure of mankind’s quest for divine wisdom.

See Related: Best Cities in Greece to Visit

20. Mystras

Nestled in the southeast of the Peloponnese, the ancient stone whispers of Mystras hold tales of a bygone golden era.

As your footsteps echo on the cobblestone pathways, you’re following the traces of history that began with a fortress wrapped in an amphitheater’s embrace, casting its gaze over Sparta since 1249.

The cradle of Byzantine echoes and Venetian footprints, this hillside has ebbed and flowed through conquests, relinquishing its breath in 1832. Today, it stands sentinel to the march of time, its ruins—a tapestry of history.

• Fortress Peak: Climb for scenic vistas, where each stone has a saga.
• Upper Town: Amble through the lanes that royalty once walked.
• Lower Town: Explore the fabric of everyday lives in medieval Peloponnese.

Behold the Byzantine frescoes and formidable fortress walls, palpable with the weight of centuries past. These monuments, once alive with the hustle of medieval life, now share their story with the silence of the mountainside.

Savor the serene views, let the cool breezes whisper secrets of the realm, and relish the enduring majesty of Mystras.

21. Samaria Gorge

Nestled in Crete’s White Mountains National Park, Samaria Gorge stands as the majestic gateway to verdant landscapes and unique biodiversity. Known as Europe’s most extensive canyon, its rocky embrace houses over 70 Crete-exclusive species.

• Begin Your Trek: Your journey starts at Xyloskalo, the wooden stairs, where timber steps descend to nature’s grandeur.
• Museum Visit: Enrich your experience with a trip to Samaria Gorge’s Natural History Museum, providing insights into the area’s ecological and cultural tapestry.
• Peak Time: Prepare for the surge of fellow nature enthusiasts in August, when the gorge becomes a hiker’s hub.

As you trace the paths woven through the gorge, your senses come alive with the scent of pine and the soft murmur of wind through ancient trees. Each step is a story, a heartbeat of Greece’s natural splendor.

22. Myrtos Beach

Located: Northwest Kefalonia, Pylaros region Highlights:

• Scenery: Nestled at two mountain foots
• Shore: White pebbles contrast with azure waters
• Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, photography

As the mountains bow towards the sea, their stony arms cradle the renowned Myrtos Beach in their embrace. Picture yourself tracing the curve of the shoreline, each white pebble beneath your feet a testament to the natural artistry at play.

The waters, a spectrum of blues so vivid they seem to leap from an artist’s palette, beckon you for a refreshing dip. Your camera becomes your loyal companion, capturing the raw contrasts that unfold with every angle.

Here, nature choreographs a dance of beauty, inviting you into its tranquil rhythm.

23. Exploring Mykonos Town

In the heart of the Cyclades, Mykonos Town beckons with its vibrant culture and iconic Cycladic architecture. Imagine wandering through winding alleys, white-painted buildings trimmed in vibrant blues, creating a striking contrast against the cerulean Aegean skies.

Shopping and Art:

• Discover designer wear in chic boutiques
• Unearth unique local art in quaint galleries
• Bask on sunny shores
• Feel the warm, golden sand beneath your feet

Historical Exploration:

• Venture to the nearby island of Delos
• Explore ancient ruins that whisper tales of a bygone era

The sensory palette here is a mosaic: the salty tang of the sea air, the soft brush of a breeze that earned Mykonos its nickname, and the hum of a town rich in history and leisure.

As you absorb the town’s charm, you’ll understand why Mykonos captures hearts effortlessly with its unique blend of natural beauty and cosmopolitan flair.

24. Acropolis of Athens

As you stand atop the rocky outcrop overlooking Athens , the Acropolis is a testament to ancient glory. Its structures, full of historic and architectural significance, whisper tales from a distant past.

In its prime, this citadel received citizens’ adoration for the deity Athena. The once military fortress, established during the Neolithic era, now hosts remnants full of reverence.

When you visit, you’ll tread paths that Pericles envisioned after the Persian War’s devastation in 480 BC, which led to an ambitious rebuilding project, creating what you see today.

Main Attractions:

• Parthenon : The embodiment of Greek art, centralized worship of Athena.
• Temple of Athena Nike : An ode to victory, standing with elegant grace.
• Erechtheion : Unique for its Caryatid Porch, it marries myth with structure.

Nearby, the Areopagus hill offers more than history. Here, the ancient court’s echoes blend with panoramic views of Athens, a sight that captivates and lingers long after you’ve returned to the bustle of modern life below.

25. Meteora

In the heart of Greece, perched upon immense stone pillars, Meteora stands as a testament to human devotion and natural splendor.

Here, six Eastern Orthodox monasteries anchor themselves to the heavens, a sight rivaled only by Mount Athos in spiritual significance.

• Great Meteoron Monastery : The largest and oldest, a fortress in the skies.
• Monastery of Varlaam : A repository of frescos and artifacts.
• Holy Trinity Monastery : A climb of 140 steps for a panoramic vista.
• St. Nicholas Anapafsas Monastery : Offers a close-knit spiritual encounter.
• Rousanou Monastery : Intimate and inviting with a wooden bridge access.
• St. Stephen’s Monastery : Easily accessible with profound tranquility.

Rock formations rise like nature’s skyscrapers, challenging climbers while hiking trails weave through the valley. Your senses fill with the earthy fragrance of the forest, the sound of distant monastery bells, and the touch of rough stone under the hand.

Before departing, visit the Natural History Museum of Meteora and Mushroom Museum for an intriguing look into the region’s flora and a surprising dive into mycology.

Your journey through Meteora isn’t just a tour; it’s a voyage across nature and spirituality that nestles into your memory.

26. Sunsets at Santorini

The allure of Santorini’s sunsets is unparalleled, a jewel in the Aegean realm where nature’s artistry is displayed nightly within the stirring horizon. Where fiery shades embrace the sea, you witness a spectacle born from volcanic fury, now serene as dusk cloaks the caldera.

• Perched upon Oia’s summit , embrace the vista where the sun bows gracefully; your heart aligns with the quietude of descending light.
• In Fira , the day’s final rays crown the cliffs, painting moments in hues of amber and crimson, capturing the essence of Grecian magic.
• Venture across the waves on a twilight sail , meandering waters that spark reflections, escaping the shore’s clamor to cradle the perfect, unobstructed scene.
• Ammoudi Bay’s culinary treasures savored at the water’s edge, heighten the experience as colors waltz across the sky.
• History whispers at Skaros ‘ ancient fortress, a silent witness to time, offering solace and expansive views.
• At the historic Akrotiri lighthouse , time stands still, gifting observers with a sweeping panorama beneath the lantern’s steadfast gaze.

Each landmark is a testament to Santorini’s tapestry of natural grandeur and historical depth — where each sunset moment becomes etched in memory, yours to savor far beyond the island’s embrace.

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15 of the Best Towns and Cities to Visit in Greece

From historic hillside cities to island destinations, these are 15 of the best towns and cities to visit in Greece.

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More than 27 million travelers made their way to Greece in 2022 , visiting the country's gorgeous islands and coastlines, rural towns, and historic capital city of Athens. One look at its landscapes and it's easy to see why travelers dream of visiting Greece — but there's so much more to this Mediterranean nation. 

"Everyone knows that Greece boasts stunning crystalline waters that make you want to dive right in and historical sites that whisper tales of the past. Its culinary delights are a perfect way to wrap up a day of exploring its unique cultural riches and vibrant art scene, but what truly sets Greece apart is its people," Christos Stergiou , a travel advisor with True Trips, shared with Travel + Leisure . "Greeks have this incredible gift called philoxenia: hospitality taken to a whole new level. Our True Trips guests always describe the feeling of having new local friends who'll go above and beyond to make their journey unforgettable." 

Ready to plan your getaway? Here are 15 of the best cities to visit in Greece.

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Yes, a visit to Athens feels obvious, because not only is it the capital city, but it’s also home to the international airport you’ll likely fly into on your visit. That said, Athens is well worth a trip in its own right, as it’s home to some of the most important historical sites on Earth, including the must-see Acropolis. Need more? Here’s how to spend one perfect day in Athens .

Related: The Best Times to Visit Greece

Thessaloniki

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Thessaloniki, located in the northern part of the country, offers a blend of history and youthful energy that few cities can match. “I would recommend Thessaloniki for its long and epic history,” Peter Sommer, founder of Peter Sommer Travels , shared. “The historic center of Thessaloniki is filled with an extraordinary series of ancient monuments, many of them part of an imperial palace complex built by the Roman Emperor Galerius and vast in scope."

Sommer added that there are several museums to visit here, including the Museum of Byzantine Culture and the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki. “But history and archaeology aren’t the only reasons to come to Thessaloniki. It’s justly famed for its gastronomy,” Sommer added. “You can savor a huge selection of glorious local dishes and sample a cornucopia of excellent local wines.”

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Drive two hours east of Thessaloniki to find another northern city worth exploring — Kastoria. The scenic city sits perched on Lake Orestiada between the Grammos and Vitsi mountains. Visitors can enjoy peaceful boat rides on the lake with any number of outfitters lining the shores, or just watch the local fisherman go to work each day to reel in the catch. Or, book a tour with Adventures With Wine to bike the lake’s shoreline and see all the hidden nooks worth exploring. 

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“Ioannina truly shines as a city that's a hidden treasure, especially for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers,” Stergiou shared of the city that sits on Lake Pamvotida. It’s a spot that has inspired many creative talents thanks to its epic vistas, but more than that, Stergiou explained, it’s a fantastic home base for exploring more of the northwest region of Greece. 

“In addition to the beautiful lake that stands proud as the city’s landmark, the Byzantine castle, the scenic historical center, and the lively neighborhoods, Ioannina is a gateway to countless incredible experiences within a drive of an hour or two. From there, you can take daily trips to some of the most beautiful villages in all of Greece, such as Metsovo or captivating Zagorohoria, filled with breathtaking landscapes and charming stone houses.” 

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Kalamata, a city well-known for its olive production, is a place where travelers can get lost — in the best way possible. Come stroll its winding cobblestone streets, explore the castle, and visit museums like the Modern Greek Art Gallery for a well-rounded city escape in the Peloponnese region.

Related : This Less-visited Region in Southern Greece Has Idyllic Coastlines, Stunning Beaches, and Almost No Crowds

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Kalambaka, a city located in central Greece, is famous for its unparalleled view of the stunning Meteora. The city sits at the base of the towering rock formations topped with historic monasteries that date back as early as the 11th century. The complex of monasteries is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and you can visit many for a small fee.

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There are more than 6,000 Greek islands , and while many come with small populations, the island of Rhodes is positively metropolitan thanks to the city of Rhodes. Home to some 50,000 people, the city is famed for its ancient history and the duality of its New Town and Old Town. While there’s nothing wrong with New Town, Old Town is a walled-off time capsule to the past, and it's one of the largest remaining medieval settlements in Europe.

Nafplio, located in the eastern Peloponnese, is a seaside dream packed with Venetian architecture to explore. As Alys Colayera, lead travel expert for Greece at Black Tomato , shared, it’s a “great place to wander through the old alleyways, grab a strong cup of Greek coffee at a local coffee shop in the square, and take a boat to Bourtzi Castle if you are interested in architecture and history.” As for the name of the town, Visit Greece explained that it comes from its mythological founder, Nafplios, one of Poseidon's sons.

Related : The Ultimate Greece Packing List

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One more island city to explore is Chania on the island of Crete. It too is famed for its Venetian harbor and quaint old town. Explore its cobblestone streets, duck into museums like the Maritime Museum of Crete , and shop for souvenirs in its endless boutiques. Pro tip: Leather goods are famously great here, so go ahead and splurge on a bag or a pair of shoes. 

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While Larissa has a population of more than 130,000 people, it remains a place well in touch with Mother Nature. This city in central Greece is an agricultural hub, growing vegetables, grains, fruits, and more, so it's a great place to dig into some Thessalian cuisine. While in town, explore the Ancient Theatre of Larissa , dedicated to the god Dionysus, to learn more about the area's ancient history.

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History abounds in the southern city of Corinth, thanks to well-preserved ruins including the iconic Temple of Apollo and the Acrocorinth fortress. Just an hour from Athens, Corinth and the surrounding coastal towns make a perfect day trip from the capital city, says Colayera.

Related : 15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece

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If you’re making your way to the islands, odds are you’ll pass through the port city of Piraeus. Dozens of ferries come in and out of the harbor each day, but before you board one, spend a little time exploring the city by visiting places like The Hellenic Maritime Museum , which showcases Greece's rich seafaring heritage.

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Head north along the Aegean coast to Kavala, a hillside city with gorgeous beaches, sweeping vistas, and an exciting mix of ancient history and modern city life. You can’t miss its imposing aqueduct, which runs for almost 1,000 feet and dates to the 16th century. Once you’re done viewing that, head straight to The Acropolis of Kavala to learn more about this city’s fascinating history.

Related : 20 Best Beaches in Greece With the Bluest Water You've Ever Seen

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Find the party in Patras, a university port city in western Greece. Yes, of course, you’ll find history here, including inside the Archaeological Museum of Patras , which showcases goods from the surrounding region dating back to prehistory. But in Patras, you’ll also find a bustling (and modern) nightlife scene across several neighborhoods, including down Riga Feraiou Pedestrian Street, where you can snag a delicious bite of Greek food, too. 

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Explore one of the most beautiful places in Greece when you plot a trip to Corfu Town on the eastern coast of the island of Corfu. Here, travelers can explore the historic architecture that earned Old Town of Corfu a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Tour the fortresses, stroll through the town’s central market, and visit Spianada Square, the largest square in Greece.

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Which greek island should you visit our 2024 top picks.

With more than 200 inhabited islands in Greece, each with its own attractions, brilliant sunsets, postcard-worthy beaches and aquamarine waters, it can be a tall order to decide which one is best suited for your island-hopping vacation. That's why U.S. News took into account sights, seasonality, traveler sentiment and more to come up with this list of the best Greek islands. Now the only decision you'll need to make is which beach hat to pack. Have a favorite Greek island? Vote below to help determine next year's ranking.

Folegandros

Through the ages, Corfu's natural beauty has caught the eye of famous writers like Homer and Shakespeare, as well as ancient Venetian, French and British armies that fought to control the island. Today, it's a picturesque haven for travelers seeking some serious rest and relaxation. There are plenty of resorts overlooking the Ionian Sea and restaurants, bars and shops lining the streets in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town of Corfu. Here, you'll also find plenty of museums, palaces and historic estates to keep you busy. Also budget time for visiting Paleokastritsa, a tranquil seaside village home to a 13th-century monastery and top-notch scuba diving sites.

Santorini's classic Cycladic architecture (think: whitewashed buildings with blue-domed roofs) makes this archipelago one of the most stunning and frequented of all of the Greek isles. On the main island of Thira, you'll find beautiful red and black sand beaches and well-preserved archaeological sites thanks to its volcanic history. After exploring Thira's busy tourist sights, take a day trip to quieter Thirassia to experience its quaint villages and untouched wilderness. You'll also want to visit Santorini's acclaimed wineries. Most are concentrated in central Santorini and can be seen during a winery tour. And don't miss catching the sunset from Oia for a postcard-perfect view.

One of the most popular Dodecanese islands, Rhodes hugs Turkey's coastline. Rhodes' large footprint allows for a wide range of activities for vacationers to enjoy. The island's namesake medieval city, which historically hosted the Knights of Saint John, showcases its rich history with well-preserved Gothic structures and several museums. Meanwhile, turquoise waters and sandy stretches like Lindos Beach (which sits alongside a scenic seaside village) and Agathi Beach (set in a picturesque cove) will suit any beach bum, and nature lovers can delight in the verdant Valley of Butterflies. What's more, Rhodes' many villages and cities boast flavorful food offerings and lively nightlife scenes.

Since only a portion of Karpathos is developed for tourism, this Dodecanese island is a haven for those seeking a secluded, low-key getaway. Spend days swimming in crystal-clear water and lounging on unspoiled beaches like Apella and Kyra Panagia. Adventurers can try their hand at windsurfing, a popular activity in the southern bay of Afiartis, or hike some of the island's mountainous trails. Travelers who really want to get away from it all can also take a day trip via boat to Saria or Sokastro, uninhabited and undisturbed islets that were once connected to Karpathos.

Greece's largest island offers something for every traveler. Sun-seekers can lounge on Crete's sandy beaches (such as Vai and the pink sand Elafonisi), and nature lovers can hike through Samaria Gorge in White Mountains National Park. History buffs can explore ancient sites like the Venetian Fortezza in Rethymnon, or visit Heraklion to see the Palace of Knossos (where the mythical Minotaur reportedly roamed) and check out the esteemed Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Everyone will enjoy savoring authentic Cretan fare – including graviera (a Gruyere-like cheese) and dakos (barley rusk topped with tomato, oregano and olive oil) – at the island's tavernas.

Although much of Kefalonia's impressive Venetian architecture was destroyed during an earthquake in 1953, the island still feels magical thanks to its diverse landscape. Wander through charming villages like Assos and Fiscardo to see colorful houses and beautiful churches. Then, soak up some sun on one of the island's pebbly or sandy beaches (Myrtos is the most popular), or take a dip in the clear turquoise water to snorkel or scuba dive. If you'd rather get an adrenaline rush, hike to the top of Megas Soros (the highest point in the Ionian Islands) in Mount Ainos National Park or explore one of Kefalonia's underground caves.

Head to Zakynthos for its breathtaking yet rugged coastline full of hidden cove beaches, some of which are home to the endangered caretta caretta sea turtle species. Popular spots include Navagio (or Shipwreck) Beach – which can only be admired from a distance during a boat tour  – and the magical Blue Caves, where the reflection of the sky and the white limestone turns the water an ethereal shade of blue. Check out the Venetian Castle that overlooks Zakynthos' main town, then visit the Post-Byzantine Art Museum of Zakynthos to peruse art exhibits.

This small island's proximity to Athens makes it a popular weekend getaway for city-dwelling Greeks. But since Serifos is less visited by international crowds, the island retains a distinct authenticity and an opportunity to unwind. Here, visitors should embrace the art of doing nothing. But don't worry, the island's secluded stretches of sand like Ganema Beach (popular with the yacht crowd) and Psili Ammos (known for its soft sand) are perfect for doing just that. More social vacationers can also shop for souvenirs or sip ouzo at open-air cafes in the villages of Chora and Livadi.

Most Greek islands are known for their beaches, but Skiathos features some of the region's best. Here, you'll find more than 60 awe-inspiring options, including secluded Lalaria Beach and clothing-optional Banana Beach. Skiathos' vibrant blue water also makes it a terrific place to go sailing. Or, get picture-perfect views from above by hiking some of the island's 120-plus miles of trails. When you've gotten your fill of sun and sand, spend some time admiring the historic Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria. No visit would be complete without heading to Skiathos Town to eat authentic Greek cuisine and party at a local nightclub.

Spend your next vacation in Syros if you want to be surrounded by history and culture without rubbing elbows with hordes of tourists. Syros offers a quieter scene than other Cycladic islands, making it easy to leisurely meander through its charming towns. Check out Ermoupoli's architectural marvels, such as its town hall and the Apollon Theater, then climb the hill above Ermoupoli to Ano Syros, where you'll discover medieval fortifications and panoramic city views. After a few hours of sightseeing, unwind on one of Syros' sandy beaches.

Gorgeous scenery is available everywhere you turn on the Cycladic island of Milos. This volcanic island boasts more than 40 beaches surrounded by jaw-dropping rock formations (check out the lunar landscape at Sarakiniko), as well as houses sporting a variety of vibrant colors. Plus, Milos features multiple caves (including underwater options for scuba diving), hot springs and hiking trails. For a dose of local history, check out the island's catacombs, ancient theater and Archaeological Museum. The latter houses a life-size replica of Alexandros of Antioch's world-renowned Venus de Milo sculpture, which was discovered on the island in 1820.

An ideal spot for slow travel, Astypalea was made for long days of sunning on the sand, hiking through rocky countryside and perusing quaint villages. Shorelines here range from the sandy cove of Agios Konstantinos, which offers spectacular views of the hilltop village of Chora, to the rugged Kaminakia, which is worth the extra effort it takes to get there. Visitors can spend time hiking between beaches while passing Byzantine chapels and scenic monasteries along the way. What's more, the main village of Chora features a Venetian castle, idyllic old town streets to stroll through and a variety of locally produced cheeses and honey to sample.

Part of the Saronic Gulf, Hydra is one of the closest Greek islands to Athens and immediately stands out from its neighbors for its lack of motor vehicles. That's right – you'll have to meander your way around the car-free cobblestone streets on foot or on one of the many mules and horses that reside on the island. But such romanticism is a large part of Hydra's appeal to travelers. While here, walk the island's pebbly shorelines and explore its charming seaside towns like Hydra Town, where you'll discover lavish mansions (many now turned into museums) of elite families of yore and some of Hydra's best nightlife venues.

Folegandros offers a completely different experience than its Cycladic neighbor, Santorini. Here, you'll find undeveloped, hard-to-reach beaches surrounded by steep cliffs, lending a quiet remoteness far from the beach clubs of more touristy islands. Rugged beaches like Katergo and Livadaki are must-visits for their scenery and seclusion, while Agali is a top spot for its nearby tavernas. The clifftop old town of Chora, the largest village on the island, is also worth exploring for its whitewashed architecture, local culture and unbeatable sunset views.

Koufonisia's islands may be among the smallest of the Cyclades, but they offer everything you need for a relaxing seaside getaway. Pano Koufonisi (Koufonisia's only inhabited island) is where you'll find the destination's most beautiful beaches, some of which are clothing optional. After the day's adventures, eat, drink and shop in Chora, the island's capital. For a more secluded feel, take a day trip to Kato Koufonisi to swim or sightsee by boat. A third island, Keros, is not accessible because of its status as a protected archaeological site, but you'll likely see it from afar while traveling.

Paros, one of the most central Cycladic islands, is a mecca for water sports activities. At the island's sun-drenched beaches, travelers can windsurf, kitesurf, scuba dive and go boating, among other pursuits. Away from the water, visitors will find bustling Parikia, which boasts numerous boutiques, restaurants and bars. Paros' capital also features several noteworthy historical sites, including the sixth-century Panagia Ekatontapiliani (which means "Church with 100 Gates" in English) and a 13th-century Venetian castle. Arrive in summer to attend the Festival at the Park, a popular event held annually at the island's 800-acre Paros Park.

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades, meaning there's a lot more shore to go around. On this unassuming island, you'll find plenty of beaches to write home about, from popular Plaka to scenic Agios Prokopios, and lots of water sports activities. Due to the Meltemi wind that blows from the north, Naxos is an excellent destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing, so be sure to sign up for a lesson. Also save time for exploring ancient ruins like the temples of Apollo, Demeter and Dionysus.

9 Day Tour of Greece

Greek Island Odyssey

Island hop from Athens to Santorini via lesser-known gems in the Cyclades.

Starts at: Athens

Ends at: Athens

Duration: 9 days

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Editor's Pick

Emporio Beach on Kalymnos, in the Dodecanese.

© Pericles Merakos

40+ Amazing Greek Destinations to Visit by Region

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie, an adrenaline junkie or traveling with kids, there’s a destination in greece with your name on it..

By Greece Is team, edited by Paulina Björk Kapsalis | December 28th, 2018

Since the dawn of Greece Is, our mission has been to show Greece as it really is: multifarious, vibrant, a country of diverse nature and complex culture.

We’ve traveled from the very north, through the mountains of the mainland, to the tiniest islands in the south, and we’ve deep-dived into the cities and some of the most popular destinations, giving them our full attention in dedicated magazines.

We have covered many of our favorite destinations more than once, creating in-depth and off-the-beaten-path guides that help you get right to the good stuff.

But here we want to zoom out and provide a bird’s eye view – to help you choose from this incredible variety and find the perfect corner of paradise for you. In that spirit here are 40+ destinations, divided by region:

© Shutterstock

Picture a Greek island. What you imagine probably includes a myriad of sugar-cube-like houses with blue shutters. This architecture is typical of the Cycladic islands, which include some of the most famous Greek tourist destinations. Thirty-three islands comprise this island group, which lies in the heart of the Aegean . While each one has unique features, the group as a whole is mainly rocky and arid. However, the traditional fare is still made with delicious locally-produced vegetables, wild greens, and cheeses, as well as, of course, plenty of fresh fish and seafood (find out more here ).

Besides these destinations below, you can find articles about other Cycladic islands through the search feature on our site (type: “Cyclades”).

Best known for its bars, cocktails and pulsing music, Chora, the main town of Ios, is a great place for those used to partying all night, and those wanting to relive their youth. However, for those looking for some peace and quiet, there are also places on this island that provide tranquility and divine landscapes. Sightseeing should include visits to some of the many (rumored to be 365) churches, which adorn the island’s hills. Following the stone-paved path to Palaiokastro (the remains of a Byzantine fortress in the eastern part of the island), will grant you an unbelievable view of the silky sea.

Great For: bar hopping

Read more here .

Small and friendly, there’s only one town on this island, and this is where you’ll spend most of your time. Here, you’ll explore the alleys, the abandoned castle, the Archaeological Museum, located opposite the Panaghia Odigitria church, and enjoy the blossoming gardens in the yards of the traditional blue-and-white houses. You’ll want to leave town only to discover the many fantastic hidden beaches, for some of which you’ll need to hire a sea taxi. To get to others, put on some comfortable shoes and enjoy a leisurely hike.

Great for: peace and quiet

© Nicholas Mastoras

This island was created over eons by successive underwater volcano eruptions, and its magnificent rock formations will stay etched in your memory as the backdrop of the excursions you make here. People visit for the beaches. Each one more incredible than the last, they are characterized by moon-like landscapes, tall rock pillars that rise from the shallow turquoise water, and coves that were once the lairs of pirates. There are spots where the sea becomes a natural jacuzzi, with warm gases bubbling up from the seabed. Elsewhere, the sand is so hot that it is impossible to walk barefoot. Make sure you visit one of the villages featuring the famous “syrmata” – colorful boathouses dug out of the rock where fishermen traditionally stored their boats in the winter. Many of these have today been converted into unique holiday homes, some of which are available for rent.

Great for: bikini photo shoots

© Johnny Panopoulos

The most famous of all Greek party islands, Mykonos is a legend. Here, you’ll confuse your life for an MTV music video, as drinking and dancing is appropriate everywhere, at all hours of the day. The beach bars are among the best in the world. What you may not know is that Mykonos is also a great place to discover high gastronomy and shop in fantastic stores where Greek and international designer clothes and jewelry take center stage. For those looking for a profound cultural experience, tours by educated guides reveal the life of the island beyond the glitz and glamor, and take you to the unparalleled UNESCO World Heritage Site of the ancient sanctuary on the nearby island of Delos (see below). In our latest issue of Greece Is Mykonos (2018 edition) you’ll find all the tips you need to have the best possible time on the island.

Great for: getting over breakups

You can order our last issue dedicated to Mykonos, Greece Is Mykonos 2018, through our web shop , or read more here .

© Getty Images/Ideal image, Ephorate of Antiquities of Cyclades / Hellenic Republic, Ministry of Culture and Sports / Archaeological Receipts Fund

If you need a little time away from the buzzing beaches and bars of Mykonos, uninhabited Delos makes for an amazing day trip. Some two to three thousand years ago, life here, on the island that was believed to be the birthplace of the god Apollo, was flourishing. The island was characterized by rituals, festivals, theatrical productions, athletic games and comfortable living in fancy, mosaic-paved houses. Today, the ruin-strewn islet is an extraordinary outdoor museum, and one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites, visited by tourists from all over the world. Entrance to the archaeological site and museum costs 12€. Get here with one of the boats leaving every day from the Old Port on Mykonos.

Great for: history buffs, getting over a hangover

© Clairy Moustafellou

On this Cycladic island, you will never be bored. In fact, you’ll probably find you should have booked a longer stay, as the list of sights is much longer than what might first appear. The ruins of ancient temples and medieval castles, a hydrotherapy facility built in 1840, the iron bridges of the old mines, ravines and chapels are only a few of them. There are two central villages, Hora, aka Messaria, a classic Cycladic village where most hotels are found, and Dryopida, where you’ll discover caves with stalactites and stalagmites, and man-made tunnels. Get to Kythnos by boat from the ports of Piraeus or Lavrio in only a few short hours.

Great for: hikers and adventurous families

© Christina Karagiannis

While not actually a Cycladic island (it belongs to the islands of the North Aegean) we include it here because if you like the Cyclades, you’ll like Ikaria. During recent years, ever since the publication of Dan Buettner’s article about “blue zones” in National Geographic in 2005, where this island is described as one of the five places in the world where people live longer than normal, Ikaria has been in the public eye. Apparently, thanks to a healthy diet consisting of a little meat and fish, and lots of wild greens and herbal teas (among other things), and the seemingly simple daily routine, close social bonds and slow tempo, locals here enjoy longer lives. Come here to peek into their world, and take lessons home. Their traditional feasts, open to all, are also legendary.

Great for: not dying

This tiny island, with a population of fewer than 150 residents, only three easily accessible beaches (Stavros, Kedros and Kalotaritissa) and effectively only one developed village (the port of Stavros), has become a popular tourist destination in the last few years. It’s so popular indeed, that the peak of summer is no longer the prime time to visit. For the rest of the year, however, Donoussa is the tiny paradise many travelers are looking for. In October, the popular Donoussa Trail Running event takes place, attracting runners from all over Greece.

Great for: runners

Read more here . 

© Giannis Giannelos

For many people, whenever Greece is mentioned, an image of Santorini is the first one to come to mind. Considered the ultimate Cycladic island by many, the white and pastel houses and infinity pools of Oia and Thira are a honeymooners’ paradise, a bucket list staple, and a place where A-listers compete with cruise-loads of other tourists for the best spots to watch the sunset over the famed caldera. But there is much more to Santorini. A visit to a vineyard and a tasting of the island’s famous Assyrtiko variety wines is a must, as are excursions to the volcanic sand beaches and to the archaeological site of Akrotiri, “Greece’s Pompeii”. And there is so much more. In our latest issue of Greece Is Santorini (2018 edition) you’ll find all the tips you need to have the best possible time on the island.

Great for: getting engaged

You can order our last issue dedicated to Santorini, Greece Is Santorini 2018, through our web shop , or read more here .

The Ionian Sea, located south of the Adriatic between Greece and Italy , is dotted with islands some would argue are more beautiful than the Cyclades, as they feature a lot more green. You’ll also find some of the country’s most famous beaches here. Ionian cuisine consists of hearty, Italian-influenced rustic dishes (read more here ), that summer vacationers will be inspired to enjoy again in the winter.

Last summer, for the first time, travelers to the Ionian islands were able to easily hop between the islands, thanks to the operation of a new ferry line which linked all of the islands in the group for the first time.

Besides these destinations below, you can find articles about other Ionian islands through the “Destinations” tab on our homepage.

Popular as ever (actually seeing a 10% increase in the number of arrivals in 2018), Corfu gets seriously packed with people in the summer. Visiting in spring or early fall, the island is even more enjoyable. During these months, when the weather is not too hot, you can really enjoy the sights around the island. Take a stroll through the gardens of the Mon Repos estate, with its 2,000 species of plants, flowers and age-old trees, surrounding a British palace from 1831. In Corfu Town at night, when the stores have closed and most people are either sleeping or enjoying a drink at a bar, take a walk through the Old Town. Seeing it without the crowds can make you fall in love with Corfu all over again.

Great for: meeting (lots of) people

If you think you don’t know Zakynthos (aka Zante), you’re wrong. You’ve seen photos of it a million times, because the island is home to the most famous beach in Greece, and photos of it are used by travel agencies the world over. You know the beach; it’s the one in the cove with the shipwreck in the center, popular with families and base jumpers alike. Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach is worth putting on your bucket list, and you should go fast because, following a small landslide here last summer, no one knows if it will stay open to the same number of visitors in the future. But Navagio isn’t the only popular beach on Zakynthos, and watersport lovers are particularly at home here. One water sport, subwing, was even invented on the island.

Great for: adrenaline junkies

History and its remains set the main islands of the Dodecanese, in the southeastern Aegean Sea , apart from others. They were under the rule of the Knights of St John  for roughly two centuries (ca. 1306-1522), and under Italian occupation  for several decades (1912-1943), and all periods have left traces in everything from architecture to the local gastronomy (read more here ).

The name of this island group suggests the islands are fewer than they really are (“dodeka” = twelve). There are actually many more – fifteen main islands and 93 smaller islands to be exact, and we love too many of them to list them all here.

Besides these destinations below, you can find more articles about the Dodecanese islands through the “Destinations” tab on our homepage. You can also order our first magazine dedicated to the island group, Greece Is Dodecanese 2018, through our web shop , or read it here .

© Dionysis Kouris

Biking is the best way to get around on this island, with a bicycle path that runs all the way from Faros Beach in the east to Psalidi Beach in the west. In Kos Town, the path links two archaeological parks, making it easy to spend a day exploring the past. Everywhere you go on the island, in fact, history is on display. At Aghios Stefanos, you can have a swim right beside two Early Christian churches from the 5th-6th century. You’ll also find Byzantine churches on the island, as well as fortresses, Roman-era houses, and the Ascleipon – a Koan sanctuary dedicated to the divine healer Asclepius and his daughter Hygeia (Health, Hygiene), where Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, once trained to became a physician.

Great for: history buffs

The largest island of the Dodecanese deserves more than one visit. On your first, unless you’re staying for an extended period of time, you’ll have to choose between the sights. In the Old Town alone, the impressive buildings built by the Knights of Saint John in the 12th century, all deserve to be discovered. Restored by the Italians in the early 20th century, this part of town is still home to some 2,000 residents (who just happen to be living in a UNESCO World Heritage Site). A visit to the city of Lindos is also a must. Then there’s the Valley of the Butterflies, the Seven Springs, the castles and the little villages, the gorgeous Anthony Quinn beach, and much, much more. The only question is, where will you start?

Great for: the easily bored

You can order our print issue dedicated to Rhodes, Greece Is Rhodes 2018, through our web shop , or read it here .

The overall atmosphere on Patmos is at once cosmopolitan and discreet – a unique combination. The monastery that crowns the main village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built near a cave where Saint John the Theologian is said to have penned the Book of Revelation. In addition, the main town, Chora, is special as it was built to resist attacks from pirates. Built just below and around the fortified monastery, the 16th century homes all stand close together, and feature flat rooftops. They were built this way so as to create an “overhead” transport and communication network, so that vulnerable parts of town could be quickly reinforced. The island also features some fantastic beaches, and an overall low-key vibe.

Great for: movie buffs (the International Aegean Film Festival is held here in July)

© Perikles Merakos

Many consider the main town of this butterfly-shaped island, also known as Astropalea by its roughly 1,200 permanent residents, to be the prettiest in the Aegean. Belonging to the Dodecanese but located near the Cycladic islands, the architecture reflects a beautiful blend of the two island groups; Dodecanesian features such as pastel hues, large windows and a tendency for ornamentation are mixed with Cycladic elements such as rectangular lines, the use of white and smaller structural openings. Watching the moon rise above the castle is a must here.

Great for: family vacations

© Nicolas Smalios

In the past, the people of Kalymnos were known as experts when it came to exploring the depths of the sea, as it was defined by one of the most dangerous professions in the world: sponge diving. Today, many visitors to the island will instead explore its peaks, as it’s been discovered as a great rock-climbing destination. With more than 3,800 routes and dozens of schools, the peaks are crawling with climbers in the summer and autumn. Of course, diving is still possible as well. Home to the first-ever state-owned school for professional divers, the island is exempt from the diving restrictions that exist nearly everywhere else in Greece and is ideal for underwater explorations. You can learn more about the history of sponge diving in Kalymnos at the small Naval Museum and at the Traditional Kalymnian House.

Great for: climbers and divers

© George Tsafos

On Karpathos, you’ll want to go beyond the main harbor, as the natural attractions, museums and sights are spread across the island. The village of Olympos is like a small time capsule. Due to its remote mountain location, this village remained a closed society for centuries, with electricity and road access available only since the late ‘70s, and while tourists have found their way here today, it still feels like a living folk museum. Sporty and outdoorsy types will love Karpathos for its rugged landscape (great for hiking and rock-climbing) and beaches (with good windsurfing opportunities and interesting places to dive and snorkle).

Great for: visiting at the end of August, for the unique panigyri (traditional feast) hosted by the people of Olympos at the remote cave church of Aghios Ioannis.

The main town on Leros, Lakki, was built from scratch by Italian dictator Benito Mussolini in the 1920s, in order to establish a base for the Italian Navy. Featuring a mix of Modernist, Bauhaus, Renaissance, Venetian and Islamic elements, with large light-colored surfaces, horizontal openings and Cubist whimsy, it’s considered to be the only true rationalist town outside of Italy, and has been dubbed “the weirdest town in Greece.” War history buffs should check out the preserved coastal batteries and the Tunnel War Museum. Offshore, numerous barges, landing craft, airplanes and anti-submarine nets remain visible on the seabed all around the island. 

Great for: architecture aficionados and shipwreck divers

On this volcanic island, you can take a walk around one of the most accessible hydrothermal craters in the world, with a diameter ranging from 260m to 330m and a depth of 27m, with an otherworldly surface of hydrogen sulfide-puffing holes (fumaroles). The Volcanological Museum, the only one of its kind in Greece, located at a prime spot on top of the caldera and offering panoramic views of the Stefanos crater, features a collection of 250 volcanic rocks and is a great source of information about volcanoes. Swimming here is also an experience, whether at Hohlaki Beach, with its big blue-black volcanic pebbles, or in the natural hot baths, located approximately 1.5km from the main town of Mandraki. 

Great for: mineral lovers

Kastelorizo

Reaching Kastelorizo, the first thing you see is enough to make you fall in love. The small, car-free main town looks like a painting, with its colorful houses and its harbor full of caiques. Only about 500 people live on this Instagrammable island, but that doesn’t make it boring; there are plenty of things to see and do. You’ll find the Aghios Nikolaos Castle, built by the Knights of the Order of Saint John in the 14th century, a 4th c. Lycian Tomb and two museums mere walking distance from the port. Perhaps the most memorable experience however – aside from hanging out in the beautiful port – is a visit to the famous Blue Cave, accessible by boat. The opening in the rock is so small that the boatman will ask you to lie flat to enter. Swimming in the cave, in the stunning reflected light, is a unique experience.

Great for: instagrammers

The Tiny Islands of the Dodecanese

There are many more wonderful destinations in the Dodecanese that we love – too many to include here, but some other tiny islands worth visiting are:  Telendos , where you can explore a sunken city with just a mask and snorkel, Arki , boasting the famous Tiganakia beach, Kasos , with its exceptional local cuisine, Symi , home of the important Monastery of Panormitis, Tilos , where the very last wild elephants in Europe lived, Marathi , Lipsi ,  Agathonisi and Pserimos where all the clothes you need is a swim suit, and Halki , the smallest of them all, where time literally stands still (or at least the clock in the church tower does to spare the residents the noisy tolling of the bell).

Greece’s largest island, situated in the southern Aegean Sea , is known for its varied and rugged terrain. Walking it from end to end (on the E4 European long-distance path) takes about a month, and every destination on the island offers its own specific charm. The largest cities, Heraklion, Rethymno and Hania (east to west, respectively), are situated on the island’s northern coast, but excursions to the villages in the mountains and on the southern side will provide memories to last a lifetime – not least thanks to the food. Many medical studies have found the Cretan diet to be of significant benefit to human health (read more here ).

Besides these destinations below, you can find articles about Crete through the “Destinations” tab on our homepage. You can also order our first magazine dedicated to the island, Greece Is Crete 2018, through our web shop  or read it here .

© Getty Images/Ideal Image

The city whose harbor once served as a port for Knossos, the Bronze Age capital of the Minoan civilization, is today’s capital and university town of Crete. While it’s certainly not the most beautiful city on the island (the towns below are hard to beat), it is vibrant and happening. Come here to enjoy the local nightlife, including some obligatory raki and meze at the kafeneia (traditional cafés), and to visit one of the most famous archeological sites in all of Greece – the Palace of Knossos. Lately, many efforts have been made to improve the city, making it more pleasant for locals and attracting more visitors as well. And it has paid off. In fact, Heraklion is one of Europe’s fastest growing tourism destinations today.

Great for: hanging out with 20-somethings

Read more about the city here , and about the surrounding region here .

Known as the “Venice of the East”, Hania’s Old Town is considered one of the best-preserved in Greece. Neolithic people, Minoans, Mycenaeans, Dorians, Romans, Andalusian Arabs, Byzantines, Venetians, Genoese, Egyptians and Ottomans all left their unique mark for all modern-day visitors to see. The Venetian harbor is almost distractingly charming, but you shouldn’t miss the rest the town has to offer. A popular August destination among young Greeks, the nightlife here is excellent, and the beach parties are some of the best in the country – as are the beaches in the region in general, with Elafonisi, with its pink sand, being the most famous. In the nearby Akrotiri area, one can trace the evolution of religious customs across the centuries, visiting the many monasteries and chapels.

Great for: history buffs, party people

Built on a cape, Rethymno boasts a wonderful old harbor, full of color, lined with Venetian and Ottoman buildings that have been reflected in its calm waters for centuries. Another historic town, the Venetians turned Rethymno into one of the most important cities on the island and created its strong association with the Renaissance, which is celebrated during the Renaissance Festival every summer. It’s worth paying visits to the Fortezza, the Venetian citadel, built between 1573 and 1580. Within the Old Town, look for the 16th-century Venetian Loggia, a splendid Palladian-style architectural masterpiece, the Rimondi Fountain (1626), which once supplied Rethymno with cool water from Mt Vrysinas, and the Neratze Mosque, with its three domes and 27m-tall minaret. The southern coast of the region also boasts some of the islands most impressive beaches.

Great for: explorers and history buffs

Read more about the city of Rethymno here , and about the surrounding region here .

© Nikos Kokkas

The Lasithi region, featuring the little town of Aghios Nikolaos, is full of surprises. Many visitors base themselves at the award-winning resorts in Elounda, featuring some of the best spas in the world. Here, you’re only a short drive and a boat ride away from the island of Spinalonga, a popular archaeological site with pending UNESCO World Heritage status (you might remember it from Victoria Hislop’s “The Island”). In Aghios Nikolaos, built on the site of the ancient city of Kamara, overlooking Mirabello Bay, you should visit Voulismeni Lake, which is connected to the sea by a narrow channel. A wonderful natural attraction, it’s also a place where you can feel the pulse of the town – full of life in summer, and the venue for an international cliff-diving competition.

Read more about the region of Lasithi here , and the town of Aghios Nikolaos here .

© Mythical Peloponnese

Peloponnese

This peninsula south of the Greek mainland covers over 21,500 sq. km, and comprises a source of incredible natural wealth . With a 1,200-kilometer coastline, it’s as well-suited for summer vacations as the islands, yet the mountains, with their forests, lakes, rivers and waterfalls and even a ski resort also provide picturesque escapes for those who dislike the heat, as well as for relaxing winter getaways. And that’s not to mention incredible cultural sites like Ancient Mycenae, Ancient Olympia, Ancient Messene, Mistras, Nafplio, Monemvasia and more. In short, the Peloponnese has all the natural and cultural capital needed for all kinds of tourism. The local cuisine is dependent on nature, earthy and simple, utilizing the best seasonal produce.

Besides the destinations below, you can find more articles about the Peloponnese through the “Destinations” tab on our homepage, or order an issue of Greece Is Peloponnese (2015-2016) through our web shop .

In the Ilia region, many cruise ships dock at the little port of Katakolo, a small village that resembles those on the Ionian islands. The main reason to come here is Ancient Olympia – the birthplace of the Olympics and one of Greece’s most revered ancient sites – which is busy from early in the morning. Here you’ll learn all about the early Olympic games, and pose for some fun photos at the starting line of the Stadium. It is worth it to pair a walk around the site with a visit to the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of the History of the Ancient Olympic Games, which are home to many interesting displays. South of Katakolo is the renowned Kaiafas Lake, where many come for waterskiing and healthy dips in the water of a local thermal spring.

Great for: educational family vacations

© Hayley Prokos

More than olives (though the olives are pretty damn good), the south Peloponnesian city of Kalamata features everything you want from a city destination: sights, a historic district, and plenty of dining and entertainment options. Combining all of these elements, in summer, you can often catch a play in the old fortress above the agora, or a performance at the renowned International Dance Festival. All of this, plus it has plenty of options for swimming and exploring. Of course, your visit won’t be complete without a trip to an olive mill. Take a walking tour of the fields, learn the process of producing olive oil and participate in a tasting.

Great for: foodies, city breakers who have already seen Athens & Thessaloniki

Methoni & Koroni

These two small castle towns, only a half-hour drive apart, on the southwestern side of the Peloponnese, are a great 2-for-1. With similar histories (their castles flourished during the Venetian occupation, between 1207-1500), they are equally charming, featuring traditional settlements, rose bushes and catacombs – all set against the infinite blue of the sea. As tourist destinations, they complement each other, especially for guests who come for the watersports; Koroni can be great for classic surfing, and Methoni draws kite surfers. Note that Zagka Beach, located beneath the castle of Koroni, and a portion of Memi Beach are favored nesting sites for the sea turtle Caretta caretta (about 45 nests are observed every year).

Great for: GOT fans and reenactors looking for inspiration, surfers, lovebirds

Greece’s mainland is as diverse as the country is as a whole. Considering the giant beach-side family resorts, the rural mountain settlements, the tiny fishing villages, and the vibrant cities, it’s impossible to define the mainland as a whole. This year alone, we fell in love with several small towns and villages, rekindled our love affair with major cities, and discovered natural landscapes and wildlife few would imagine to find in Greece.

Besides the destinations below, you can find articles about the Greek mainland through the “Destinations” tab on our homepage.

According to a recent survey, archaeological attractions are no longer the sole reason that many tourists come to Athens; they’re also attracted by the city’s modern cultural life, its residents’ attitude, and its entertainment and leisure scene. In our latest print issue of Greece Is Athens (Winter 2018-2019 edition), we dive into the creative side of the city; the exciting art scene, the rise of shared work spaces, the quirky boutique hotels, and much more. Of course, the ancient sites are always a reason to come to Athens – even if you’ve seen them before. The Acropolis Museum (ranked sixth in the world by TripAdvisor), for example, will be granting public access to a whole new subterranean level in 2019.

Great for: city breaks

Soon, you’ll be able to order our last issue dedicated to Athens, Greece Is Athens Winter 2018-2019, through our web shop (for now, you can order the summer issue).

Thessaloniki

If you have yet to visit Greece’s second largest city – yes, you have missed out, but the good news is that this destination just keeps getting better and better, inspiring a huge surge in popularity (for the period January-September 2018, overnight lodgings reached 2.59 million). Research says that the main reason people visit is the city’s distinct personality. In other words, you don’t come here for one sight or experience, but for the whole package; the city has become attractive for its highly sophisticated gastronomy, its modern cafés and bars, its intimate and contemporary museums, the numerous Byzantine, Ottoman and Jewish monuments that are scattered throughout, the aura of nostalgia of the Ano Poli (Old City), and the youthful vibes in the fast-evolving Ano Ladadika district.

Great for: film buffs (the city’s main film festival is hosted annually in November)

You can order our last issue dedicated to Thessaloniki, Greece Is Thessaloniki 2018-2019, through our web shop , or read it here .

Lake Kerkini

Kerkini – one of Europe’s most important wetlands and part of the Natura 2000 network of protected sites, and an artificially created freshwater lake here attract over 320 species of birds every year, including flocks of pink flamingoes, white-fronted geese, and pelicans. Here, no expertise is needed to birdwatch, and it’s an amazing experience. However, there is more to do as well. Among other things, you can relax in the Byzantine bathhouse, go on a 4×4 safari or a two-day horse-riding excursion, or visit the WWII Fort Roupel, near the Greek-Bulgarian border (here, soldiers and officers will give you a tour of part of the fort, a WWII memorial, and the military museum that houses weapons, medals, uniforms and photographs).

Great for: birdwatching

© Nikolas Mastoras

For those visiting Thessaloniki, Kavala, less than an hour’s drive away (5.5-6 hours from Athens), makes an excellent day excursion. Amphitheatrically built overlooking the sea, the coastal city is divided into the New Town, and the Old Town. In the Old Town, elements harking back to a number of eras and architectural styles coexist throughout the narrow lanes, under the city’s castle. Plenty of Ottoman buildings here are worth a visit (most famous is the Imaret, which now houses a hotel). Also worth visiting are the Archaeological Site and Museum of Philippi, the Sacred Baptistry of St Lydia, and the House of Mohammed Ali.

Great for: day trips from Thessaloniki

Inhabited since antiquity, as is evidenced by the walls of its acropolis, Amfissa is a great destination for visitors intrigued by the history and evolution of traditions. Homes, shops and cafes have all been preserved to look as they did when they were first erected, and the love of all things retro goes far beyond architecture and interior design. This is one of the few Greek towns that has been characterized in its entirety as an archaeological zone, and the people here are proud of their traditions. Carnival, in February/early March, is a great time to visit. During this time of year, thousands of people, dressed in elaborate costumes featuring leather, bells and ropes, the three elements of the area’s traditional crafts, gather to celebrate a local carnival tradition based on a haunting love story.

Great for: photography

Steeped in the history and elegance of its nautical traditions, this seaside village was listed for preservation in 1978 and is a protected heritage site today. In recent decades it has become a tourist and yachting destination, though it has managed to remain relatively low-key. During most of the year, that is, because this is another place that goes all out for Carnival. On the first day of Lent, known in Greece as Clean Monday, chaos and mayhem reign through the streets of the otherwise quiet village. This is the “alevromoutzouroma,” or “flour war” an old custom of unknown provenance whereby revelers throw colored flour at each other and blacken their faces with coal.

Great for: celebrating apokries (the Greek carnival) in February/early March

Living up to its name, Karditsa is situated in the very heart of Greece (Karditsa literally means little heart), and therefore works as a great starting point for excursions. Nearby cities include Volos, Lake Plastira, Meteora, Larissa and Trikala. Proximity to sights is an advantage within the town as well, as everything is within a stone’s throw, and it’s easy to get around by foot or by bike. Pay a visit to Pafsilypou Park, with its wild peacock family, the Archaeological Museum, where you’ll learn about Neolithic households, as well as the day-to-day lives of people in Thessaly during the Bronze Age, and spend some time at the meze restaurants, which are always full of people sipping tsipouro and playing backgammon.

Great for: short breaks

The 19th and early 20th c., when the premium Basma tobacco variety began to be widely cultivated here, were Xanthi’s golden years. The profitable product attracted affluent families and workers from many different areas. The city’s economic growth was accompanied by significant cultural and artistic development, and the tobacco merchants built impressive mansions in what’s now known as the Old Town. Today, the mansions are home to everything from museums and art galleries to schools and offices. Xanthi is a great base for the outdoorsy, with the Nestos River, popular for kayaking, rafting and more, just 15km away.

The mountains of Nafpaktia, in the southwest mainland of Greece, are a popular weekend destination – mainly during the colder months. In the depths of winter, the green hills are hidden beneath a white blanket, and in fall and spring, the steep hiking paths take you by gurgling brooks to fairytale waterfalls in the forest. The village squares, where you’ll find kafeneia (traditional cafes) and shops selling local products, are stone paved and shaded by huge plane trees. However, the accommodations here are of the kind that will also make you feel content with staying inside, as most are beautiful and stone built, featuring fireplaces and cozy common areas.

Great for: curling up with hot beverages

© Xrysostomos Fountas

One of the most enchanting historic cities in Greece, Ioannina is built on the shores of Pamvotida Lake which boasts a gorgeous promenade running by the water’s edge, and old monasteries on an island at its center. While history is traceable everywhere in this city, being a university town with 15.000 students attending each year (a lot in relation to the city’s 65.000 permanent residents), it also has a young and contemporary vibe, boutique hotels and plenty of fun places to dine, drink, and shop. In the winter the fog that often envelops the town leaves impressions that last a lifetime.

Great for: culture lovers

© Olga Charami

Located 355km north of Athens (about a 3.5-4-hour drive), Larissa is a natural stop on the way to many more famous destinations around Greece such as Meteora, Mount Olympus, Thessaloniki, or Halkidiki. However, there’s a rather unique reason to visit Larissa that makes it a worthwhile destination all on its own: it’s a coffee lovers paradise. Research indicates that the citizens of this town are the number one coffee consumers in Greece, and as a result, cafes offering specialty coffees (single-origin and with specific harvesting and roasting methods) are rapidly on the rise.

Great for: caffeine addicts

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Greek Culture, Travel Information, Itineraries, Life in Greece

Popular Tourist Attractions in Greece

Some of the major tourist attractions in Greece include the Acropolis, Santorini, Ancient Delphi, the medieval town of Rhodes, and the majestic Meteora Monasteries.

Best Greek tourist attractions 

There are many popular tourist attractions in Greece. The combination of UNESCO World Heritage sites, beautiful islands, quaint towns and villages, and spectacular beaches, attracts several millions of visitors every year.

However, Greece can be a very confusing country for people who haven’t visited before! Which is why I’ve put this list together – I’m Greek, and have traveled extensively around my country, including over 60 of the Greek islands. 

Most people have heard of the capital and biggest city in Greece, Athens , the volcanic island of Santorini and the cosmopolitan Mykonos town. However, there are dozens more places you should visit in Greece, such as Cape Sounion, Ancient Delphi, Meteora, Ancient Mycenae, Ancient Epidaurus, Milos island and Thessaloniki.

All of these places (and hundreds more!) are often just as interesting, if not more so, than the “big name” destinations. So, here are a few popular places and some lesser known attractions in Athens and Greece.

The UNESCO site of the Acropolis in Athens 

The Athens Acropolis is the most visited ancient site in Greece. In 2022, about 3 million people visited this UNESCO World Heritage Site!  

The Acropolis is a whole ancient citadel built up on a hill. Visitors will see the remains of several temples and other buildings, such as the Ancient theatre of Dionysus and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus.

The most famous temple in the Acropolis is the Parthenon, which was built in the 5th century BC, to honour the goddess Athena. Other temples include the Erectheion, and the temple of Athena Nike.

You can easily visit the Acropolis on your own – just be prepared for some steps. However, I recommend taking a guided tour if you get the chance, in order to find out more about life in Ancient Athens. I’ve taken a few guided tours over the years and I always learn something new! 

Here’s how to book an Acropolis guided tour .

Apart from the Acropolis, there are six more ancient sites in Athens. You can visit all of them on the combined ticket to all the archaeological sites in Athens . 

The Ancient Agora in Athens

Close to the Acropolis, you will find the large archaeological site of the  Ancient Agora . In ancient times, the Agora was the centre of political, social, commercial and financial life.

I personally find it fascinating to walk around the Agora and imagine life 2,500 years ago!!

Visitors can see plenty of ancient ruins, including the exceptionally well-preserved temple of Hephaestus. The renovated Stoa of Attalos hosts the excellent archaeological museum, where you can read a lot of information about life in Ancient Athens.

Speaking of which, here’s a cool story in Greek mythology about how Athens took its name .

The Athens Acropolis Museum

Another famous tourist attraction in Athens is the Acropolis museum , which is located very close to the Acropolis. Exhibits include the Caryatids and other statues, sanctuaries, everyday items used by ancient Athenians, and many other artefacts.

The Acropolis museum has a separate ticket, and it can’t be combined with the Acropolis or any other attractions in Athens. There is also a great cafe with a view to the Acropolis.

As you would expect, there are dozens more museums in Athens , which will appeal to anyone with an interest in Ancient Greece, the Byzantine Empire or contemporary art. If you wanted to visit all of them, you could easily spend a couple of weeks in the Greek capital.  

Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion

If you get tired of the busy Athens centre, you can easily escape to the coast. Many people visit the Athens coastline, known as the Athens Riviera. Others take a half-day trip from Athens to the amazing Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion.

This impressive ancient temple was built a few years after the Acropolis. The location, overlooking the Aegean Sea, is simply spectacular. The best time to visit is at sunset, to enjoy the awesome views.

Here is some more information: Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion . 

Modern Athens

While the main attractions in Athens are connected with our capital’s long history, the lively, modern city has a lot more to offer.

Some of my favourite things about Athens are the vibrant markets, the impressive  street art , the  amazing food , the  Greek coffee culture  and the everyday life.

I also really enjoy walking on the numerous romantic pedestrian only streets, like Dionysiou Areopagitou. This guide explains how to see Ancient Athens for free ! 

And finally, if you are interested in seeing an alternative side of Athens that not many visitors fully experience, you can always go on a street art tour or a mythology walking tour of Athens.

The volcanic island of Santorini

People come from all over the world to see this little gem of an island, Santorini. The iconic  white-and-blue houses  and the incredible views to the volcano are really unique.

You can’t run out of things to do in Santorini. To begin with, there are plenty of tours that will help you discover the island and its stunning sunsets, such as sailing trips or winery tours .

Another popular activity are guided visits to the ancient site of Akrotiri , on the island’s south coast. This is an ancient Minoan settlement, which was buried under tons of debris and dirt in the 17th century BC. It was only discovered by archaeologists 150 years ago.

Activities you can do on your own include  hiking from Fira to Oia , exploring the photogenic beaches, and relaxing at a café with a view to the caldera, sipping on a glass of local wine.

When to visit Santorini

Some people will find my suggestion to visit  Santorini off-season  rather strange. However, if you are not a huge fan of crowds, inflated prices and lots of pre-planning, winter might be the best time to visit Santorini.

You probably won’t be able to swim, but you might have the entire Oia to yourself, like we did when we visited in late November.

If you visit in summer, prepare yourself for crowds. This tiny island, with a population of less than 20,000 permanent residents, receives around 2 million visitors a year!

Consider staying outside Fira and Oia, so that you can have some peace and quiet in the evenings. You may find my article on  things to avoid in Santorini  helpful.

How many days to spend in Santorini  is also an often asked question. For us, four days / three nights were just the perfect time in Santorini when we visited in November. If you are going in summer you could add an extra day, which you could spend on the beach.

The nightlife in Mykonos Town

Mykonos was a popular Greek destination long before Santorini came into the picture. Since the 1960s, international jet-setters and many Greeks visited the cosmopolitan destination to see and be seen.

The island quickly developed a reputation for wild parties, crazy clubbing and a gay-friendly scene, at a time when the rest of Greece was still fairly conservative. Its main attractions were the numerous sandy beaches and narrow streets in the car-free old town.

These days, Mykonos is included in many people’s Greece itinerary, often combined with Athens and Santorini. Getting from Santorini to Mykonos is very straightforward – you just need to hop on a ferry .

Is Mykonos worth it?

I encourage you to do some research before you decide if Mykonos appeals to you. First of all, here’s a quick guide on where is Mykonos .

If you are thinking to  island hop in Greece on a budget , it’s best to leave Mykonos out of your itinerary. Everything on the island is expensive, from luxury hotels and restaurants to hiring a car , or umbrellas and loungers on the beaches.

Many visitors have mentioned that Mykonos was their least favourite island in Greece. They said that the landscapes weren’t as unique as in Santorini, while it was also very crowded.

That said, I know people who visit Mykonos on an annual basis and love it. All these people can’t be wrong!

I was super lucky to visit  Mykonos with no other tourists , in summer 2020, and had a blast with the splendid beaches – but obviously this was an extremely rare occurrence. I also did a superb kayak trip that was one of the highlights of my trip! 

UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ancient Delos

If you decide to go to Mykonos, by all means take a half day trip to the nearby archaeological site of Delos, where you can explore the impressive ruins of several Roman monuments. 

This dry, uninhabited island used to be the commercial hub of the Cyclades during the ancient times. Today, it is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.

More info here: Archaeological site of Delos

The landscapes in Milos island

Close to Santorini and Mykonos, you will find Milos . This Greek island has been gaining popularity within the last few years. It is ideal for people who want to relax, but are also keen on exploring different beaches and authentic villages.

Milos has amazing beaches, dramatic landscapes, quaint villages, lovely hiking paths, beautiful views and a wild side which is very different from most other Greek islands.

The lovely coastal villages of Klima and Pollonia should definitely be on your Milos itinerary. And don’t miss out on the inland villages, like  Plaka  and Tripiti.

Milos has a long history of a thriving mining industry. My advice is to rent a 4WD for a day or two, and get off the beaten track. Make sure you visit the excellent mining museum, which will help you put things into context.

Even better, book a Milos tour and learn the exciting history of some of the island’s deserted and functioning mines. 

One of the highlights in Milos is the  sailing trip around the island . This is often the only way to explore the amazing rocky coves, such as the famous Kleftiko. (In fact, there’s a hiking path to Kleftiko , but it’s not for everyone).

The boat will also drop you off some of the island’s best beaches, where you can swim and snorkel without the crowds.

I absolutely recommend visiting Milos – I have been there twice and would definitely go back! Go there before it gets too popular – and try to ignore the paradox in this suggestion.

Here are a few more guides about Milos:

• Reasons to visit Milos Greece
• Best beaches in Milos
• How to get to Milos
• How to get around Milos

Chania town and the Palace of Knossos in Crete

Crete is Greece’s largest island. It could easily be an independent country, as it’s 26 times the size of Malta. In fact, if you visit a few times, you will start thinking it’s an independent country indeed!

Crete has some tourist attractions that are very popular with visitors. You will find magnificent archaeological sites, lovely coastal towns, gorgeous beaches, wild gorges, delicious food, and lots of soul.

The picturesque coastal  town of Chania  and the  archaeological site of Ancient Knossos attract travellers from all over the world.

Along with the  beaches of Balos and Elafonissi , the  archaeological museum of Heraklion , and the Samaria National Park, they are the top attractions in Crete.

What makes Crete so special?

If you want to dive deeper into the real  Greek culture , consider staying in Crete for a few more days. The soul of the island will slowly unfold, and more so if you share the favourite local alcoholic drink,  raki .

Spend some time in the smaller towns, and the coastal villages on the south, with a view to the Libyan Sea. You will enjoy a unique side of Greece that few tourists get to experience.

It’s hard to put into words what makes Crete an ideal Greek destination. You have to go and experience it yourself. And yes, I am biased – Crete is one of my favourite places in Greece, if not the world!

The medieval Rhodes town

The  island of Rhodes , along with the rest of the Dodecanese, only became part of Greece in 1948. Before that, it was occupied for a few decades by the Italians, while in the past it was home to the Knights Hospitaller and the Ottomans.

The Medieval castle in Rhodes town is unlike anything else you have seen in Greece, and it’s deservedly a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take at least a couple of days to explore this fascinating town, where the past meets the present.

Rhodes is Greece’s fourth biggest island, and there are several lovely beaches all around the island . If you are only going for a couple of days, you can stay in Rhodes Town and go for a swim on the local sandy beach.

If you are staying longer, rent a car and explore the island. Discover Cars is a good place to compare prices and book a holiday car.

Start with the archaeological site of Lindos, swing by the famous Anthony Quinn beach, and perhaps venture out to Prasonissi beach on the south. Or take a kayaking tour in Rhodes to explore the coastline!

During summer, Prasonissi island is connected with Rhodes through a narrow sand path. In winter, the sea covers the path and high tide makes this impossible.

Rhodes island has some of the mildest weather in Greece, and many locals swim all year round. If you are looking for a Greek holiday without too many crowds and you are flexible in terms of when to visit, go in late autumn. You will experience a quieter, more authentic side of the island.

For more information, check this article on hottest Greek islands in October – Rhodes is one of them.

You will also find this article helpful: How to get around Rhodes

Explore the Peloponnese

Few first-time visitors opt for a visit to the  Peloponnese . However, the southernmost region of mainland Greece combines everything – picturesque towns, lovely beaches, and tons of archaeological sites.

Any visit to the Peloponnese will pass by the  Corinth Canal , which separates the Peloponnese and  mainland Greece . Take some time to appreciate the impressive engineering feat.

The idea for the canal’s construction was first conceived during the time of Ancient Corinth, during the 7th century BC. Numerous attempts took place over the centuries, and the canal was eventually completed in 1893.

In October 2019, a huge passenger boat,  MS Braemar , navigated through the canal. Hats off to the captain! Here’s a breathtaking 52-second video . 

The charming coastal  town of Nafplio  is a popular day trip from Athens. It was Greece’s first capital after the liberation from the Ottoman Empire, and many of the beautiful neoclassical buildings have been preserved.

Stroll around the town, and take in the pretty buildings and large squares. Don’t forget to go up the Venetian castle for awesome views.

UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Peloponnese

If you are trying to tick off monuments in your UNESCO World Heritage list, the Peloponnese is a fantastic region to explore.

The  Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus  is world-famous for its excellent acoustics. Despite numerous efforts, noone has managed to reproduce these acoustics, even with modern techniques.

Actors from all around the planet have performed in the theatre. If you are in Greece in summer, you could plan to attend a performance – book your tickets early, as some shows are sold out.

The massive  ancient site of Mycenae  is often combined with Epidaurus and Nafplion on a day trip from Athens. The site, known as Agamemnon’s kingdom, was extremely important between 1,600-1,100 BC.

The Mycenaean civilization reached its peak at around 1,350 BC. Most of the crumbling ruins which visitors can see today date from that period.

The archaeological site of Ancient Olympia is another fascinating place in Greece. Consider going with a guide, in order to learn more about the origins of the Olympic Games and the customs of the times. 

And let’s not forget the Byzantine site of Mystras. If you are looking for a unique place to stay in that area, have a look at this article on Euphoria Retreat , a luxurious hotel with amazing spa facilities!

The amazing Meteora monasteries

The  Meteora monasteries are among the best tourist attractions in northern Greece. The incredible rocky landscape provides an excellent backdrop for six functioning monasteries that have been built on top of the huge rocks, hundreds of years ago.

The monasteries are open to the public on a rotating basis, and each of them is closed once a week. Make sure that you are dressed appropriately, and cover your shoulders and knees.

In my opinion, the most impressive monasteries are Moni Megalou Meteorou (Great Monastery) and Moni Varlaam, but all six of them are very unique. 

Unless you are going on an  organized tour , I would suggest at least one full day in Meteora to better appreciate the area. There are many accommodation options at nearby Kalambaka, where you can get to by  direct train from Athens  in about 5 hours.

The archaeological site of Delphi

The impressive UNESCO World Heritage  Site of Ancient Delphi , the ancient navel of the earth, is the most popular Greece tourist attraction in central Greece.

The site is located up on Parnassos mountain, around three hours away from Athens by bus. It is often combined with Meteora monasteries on a  two-day trip from Athens . 

Once you walk in the main complex, you will soon see the theatre and the temple of Apollo. This is the area where Pythia, the Oracle, used to give her ambiguous prophecies. 

Fun fact: when we were at school we were told that she was smoking bay leaves in order to give more accurate prophecies. For people past the age of primary school, this is probably questionable!

This is also the area where, 2,500 years ago, visitors could read the famous quotations known as the Delphic Maxims . Many of them are still relevant today!

Unless you have walking difficulties, do go up all the way to see the Ancient Stadium, which was constructed in the 4th century BC. This is where the “Pythia” Games used to take place, in honour of Apollo.

This is the best preserved stadium in all of Greece, with a capacity of around 6,500 spectators.

After your visit to the archaeological site, spend some time in the well-arranged Delphi museum. Among other artefacts, you will see the famous charioteer, whose gaze seems to follow you all around the room.

Thessaloniki in Northern Greece

Thessaloniki is the second biggest city in Greece, yet, it doesn’t often feature in people’s itineraries. It is located in Northern Greece, a 4-hour train trip from Athens .

The vibrant coastal city was one of the most important cities of the Byzantine Empire, second only to Istanbul. It is known for its historical sites, especially the Roman monuments and UNESCO listed Byzantine churches.

Visitors will fall in love with the beautiful, 6-km long coastal promenade. It passes by the city’s symbol, the White Tower, which was once a prison and has been transformed into an fascinating museum.

Here are all the reasons why Thessaloniki is absolutely worth visiting !

Nearby attractions include the area of Chalkidiki, known for its beautiful beaches, and the magnificent UNESCO archaeological site of Vergina. Here are some of the best day trips from Thessaloniki .

Corfu island and the old town

Corfu island is located to the north west of mainland Greece, in the Ionian Sea. It is a popular, cosmopolitan destination, best known for the UNESCO-listed Corfu town and the fantastic beaches.

The beautiful Ionian island has a long, interesting history. The Old Town of Corfu, modeled after the city of Venice, is one of the most impressive Greek cities.

Visitors can stroll around the cobbled streets and enjoy the numerous historic and architectural landmarks, such as the Venetian castles and neoclassical houses. There are also few museums, where you can find out more about Greek culture over the millennia.

Nature lovers will not be disappointed either. The green, mountainous island offers plenty of opportunities to relax.

The main resort areas have been developed around some of the island’s best beaches, and offer all tourist amenities. If you like exploring, you can also find off-the-beaten-track bays and coves with crystal-clear water.

Have a look at this guide explaining where is Corfu , how to get there and what there is to do.

Other popular Ionian islands include Zakynthos, known for the iconic Shipwreck beach, and Kefalonia.

FAQs regarding tourist attractions of Greece

Here are some questions visitors ask:

What is Greece’s known for tourist attractions?

Some of the best known attractions in Greece include the Acropolis, the Acropolis museum, the volcanic island of Santorini, the ancient theater of Epidaurus, the ancient site of Knossos in Crete, Meteora monasteries, and dozens of beautiful beaches.

What should you not miss in Greece?

First time visitors to Greece should visit Athens, to learn more about ancient history and the Greek Gods, and at least one Greek island, to enjoy the lovely sandy and pebble beaches.

What is the number one attraction in Greece?

The number one attraction in Greece is the Acropolis of Athens. In August 2019, over half a million tourists visited the ancient monument.

What is Greece famous for?

Greece is known world-wide as the cradle of western civilization, the birthplace of democracy and the place where the Olympic Games first happened. Modern Greece is also known for its natural beauty and hundreds of Greek islands.

Why Greece is so popular?

Greece has been a popular destination for several decades. Its long history, lovely landscapes, pristine beaches, warm weather, delicious food and ease of access are all great reasons to visit Greece.

Main tourist attractions of Greece

I hope this blog post has given you a first idea of the main tourist attractions to visit in Greece. If you have been to Greece already, you must have seen some of them. Also, take a look at this guide on driving in Greece .

Before you go, here are some useful words and phrases in Greek ! 

Hi! I am Vanessa from Athens , and I love helping visitors discover Greece. The above places and attractions are all worth visiting when you are in Greece. If you have been to all of them, check out this article which points to some lesser known sites.

2 thoughts on “Popular Tourist Attractions in Greece”

What a wonderful outline of your beautiful country. My wife and I will be visiting in spring 2022 and this outline allows us to plan for our 3 day stay. Our visit will be developed from your outline. Thankyou.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mani Peninsula

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Methodology

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

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The best Greek islands to visit in 2024

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Lord Byron was on to something when he waxed lyrical about the Greek islands. But with more than 200 inhabited to choose from, which ones are the very best Greek islands? Here regular isle-hopper Rachel Howard reveals the ones to get in a speedboat for in 2024, with where to stay recommendations chosen by the editors of Condé Nast Traveller .

How we choose the best Greek islands

Here, we've ranked the best Greek islands, from 1 to 31. While we love and highly recommend every island on this list – and advocate visiting all of them throughout your lifetime, if you can – we've also edited the list in order so if it's your first time planning a visit to this magical corner of the world, or you just want to branch out from your usual summer isle trip, we can help you choose where to go next. The order below reflects our well-travelled team's personal opinions, the landscapes, food, beaches, hotels and more.

For more recommendations, see our round up of the best Greek Islands hotels .

Which is the nicest Greek island to visit?

All have their advantages, but in terms of meeting the sweet spot of authentic island charm, smart hotels and relative ease of accessibility, we recommend venturing to the more underrated islands such as Milos (direct flights from Athens) and Paros (direct flights from London).

Best for: A photogenic and dramatic coastline

Everyone knows the  Venus de Milo (which has stood in the Louvre since the 19th century). Until recently, very few had heard of  Milos , the volcanic island where Aphrodite’s graceful likeness was discovered. Those in the know jealously guard their treasured island, and especially its 70 (or more) beaches — surely the most diverse and dramatic coastline of all the Greek Islands.

Little by little, though, Milos is being discovered. Instagram is saturated with no-filter shots of the undulating white cliffs at Sarakiniko, the bottle-green swimming hole at Papafragas, and colourful, rickety syrmata, tiny boat houses wedged between rock and sea. (You’ll find the best photo opportunities at Klima and Mandrakia). This painterly landscape was shaped by the minerals that have long been a source of wealth – obsidian, alum, barite and sulphur, which still bubbles up in the island’s many hot springs. As the 11,000-year-old mining industry is gradually giving way to tourism, several chic hotels have made an appearance. Go now, before the trickle of visitors turns into a tide.

Where to stay on Milos:

• For romance: Domes White Coast Milos or White Pebble Suites
• For families: Captain Zeppos
• For an eco-retreat: Skinopi Lodge
• For an authentic stay: Achinos By The Sea

For more recommendations, see our guide to the best hotels in Milos .

Best for: Friendly locals and long beaches

Though not quite as big a secret as it used to be, Paros is still one of the quieter islands, mainly frequented by island hoppers, Greeks in-the-know and those in search of an authentic taste of Grecian life.

The pace here is altogether slower than on some of its neighbouring islands, with villages, dotted high and low across the landscape, sprawling out across interwoven pathways (often without car access), lined with outdoor eateries, private homes and quaint boutiques selling locally-made wares.

The sweet spot here is, though the island has certainly been gearing up for tourism in a way it hasn't done historically (thanks, in large part, to the new luxury hotels strung round the coastline), much of it remains calmer, more rustic and — crucially — cheaper.

In short, for travellers willing to part with the familiar streets of Santorini or the mecca of the masses, Mykonos, the rewards are sweet, with a charming mix of cubist villages , long beaches and coves, wandering goats and old monasteries. A mixture of hospitality, informal ease and wildness.

Where to stay on Paros:

• For romance: Cosme or Parocks
• For a beachside location: Avant Mar
• For views: Mythic
• For a private stay: this sunset Airbnb villa for two

For more recommendations, see our guide to the best hotels in Paros .

Best for: A long weekend with the art crowd

You know when Dakis Joannou, Greece's foremost art collector, is on Hydra. His yacht,  Guilty , is painted in gaudy 'camouflage' by Jeff Koons. Every summer, Joannou invites big hitters such as Matthew Barney and David Shrigley to create site-specific installations in the Greek island's old slaughterhouse. Even the school is commandeered for exhibitions in the summer holidays. Car-free and protected by a preservation order, Hydra has always been the artists' muse of the Greek Islands. Leonard Cohen set the scene in the 60s; now Brice Marden, Sadie Coles and Juergen Teller have homes here. Athenian artists take up residence at the School of Fine Arts, one of the vast, grey, stone mansions overlooking the horseshoe harbour. Musicians of all stripes rehearse and record at the  Old Carpet Factory , an 18th-century residence whose double-height ceilings and underground cistern have incredible acoustics.

Less than two hours from Athens , Hydra fills up with chic Greeks at weekends. They come to disconnect and slow down, but also to see and be seen. Wily cats and weary donkeys patrol the back alleys, but all the action happens along the waterfront. Oh look! There's Olivia Palermo at The Pirate Bar and Chloë Sevigny shaking her tail feather at Hydronetta beach bar. Who cares if there are barely any beaches? You can always find a slab of sun-baked rock from which to leap rock from which to dive into the clearest water in the world. See our full guide to  Hydra, Greece .

Where to stay in Hydra:

• For a boutique stay: Orloff Boutique Hotel
• For a beachfront stay: Onos Residence
• For a group: Mirkella sleeps 12 people
• For a couple: A Cycladic home in Idra

Best for: A sizzling food scene and romantic hotels

Sifnos owes its foodie reputation to its most famous descendant, Nicholas Tselementes, who wrote the first Greek cookbook in 1910. Forget souvlaki and moussaka: here, chickpea croquettes and stewed capers are taverna staples. The island is peppered with potteries that produce the earthenware casseroles used for revitháda (baked chickpeas) and mastelo (lamb with red wine and dill). Traditional dishes are slow-roasted in a wood-fired oven at To Meraki tou Manoli, a local institution on sheltered Vathy bay. (While you’re there, invest in some timeless tableware from Atsonios Ceramics, in business since 1870.) In postcard-pretty Artemonas, all roads lead to Theodorou, purveyors of nougat wafers and almond sweets since 1933. You can eat in your bikini at Omega3 , where locally foraged and fished ingredients are given an exotic twist: baby-calamari tempura, smoked eel in chilled melon soup with wasabi, and chickpea sorbet with wild apricot jam and pine nuts. In 2021, Omega3’s previous energetic head chef Giorgos Samoilis opened Cantina , an equally experimental restaurant in Seralia, a pretty little bay below the beautiful medieval village of Kastro. Lobsters are plucked straight from the sea at Heronissos, then served with spaghetti on the jetty. It's just the right balance of low-key luxury and unspoiled authenticity. Rather like Sifnos itself.

Where to stay in Sifnos:

• For romance:  NÓS
• For a boutique stay:  Verina Astra
• For families:  Verina Terra
• For a laidback stay: Sifnos House
• For something unique:  This windmill Airbnb

5. Santorini

Best for: Honeymooners

Cooing American and Chinese honeymooners line up to take selfies as the sun sinks behind  Santorini 's caldera, the flooded volcanic crater. That view may be a romantic cliché, but it still takes your breath away. A volcanic explosion blew out Santorini's heart 3,500 years ago, leaving black-sand beaches, vertiginous cliffs in psychedelic hues, and swirling rumours about Atlantis in its wake. The eruption also preserved the ancient city of Akrotiri under layers of ash, and created fertile ground for exceptional Assyrtiko grapes and Vinsanto wines. (Sample them at Domaine Sigalas and Vassaltis wineries, paired with delicate dishes that let the grapes sing.)

Apart from a boat trip to the smouldering crater of Nea Kameni and hot springs at Palia Kameni, there's not much to do but gaze at the mesmerising views from your suite, dangling on the edge of the caldera. Most places to stay are concentrated in Oia and Imerovigli, but the inland village of Pyrgos is up-and-coming. Go for a twilight Bellini at Franco's Cafe and visit Emporio, with its smattering of old-school coffee shops and Airbnbs. For a glimpse of Santorini before the onslaught of cruise ships and Instagrammers, explore the quieter south (but keep your discoveries to yourself).

Where to stay in Santorini:

• For laidback luxury: Perivolas and Santo Mine Oia Suites
• For glamour: Nobu Hotel
• For families: Andronis Boutique Hotel and Domes Novos Santorini
• For the wine: The Vasilicos
• For groups: Elilia Superior Villa sleeps 8 people
• For something unique: this cave house

For more recommendations, see our guide to the best hotels in Santorini and the  best Airbnbs in Santorini .

Best Greek island for: Culture and off-season cachet

On Syros, capital of the Cyclades, you won’t find sugar-cube villages and whitewashed lanes. The colourful 19th-century city of Ermoupoli is built on twin peaks – one Orthodox, the other Catholic, the heritage of a long Venetian occupation. There’s still a strong Italian flavour in Ermoupoli’s marble piazzas, princely mansions, and miniature replica of La Scala, the showpiece of a year-round cultural scene. Syros hosts festivals of animation, dance, digital art, film, classical music, jazz and rembetiko, the Greek blues popularised by local musician Markos Vamvakaris. A few rembetiko joints have survived in the upper town, Ano Syros.

Once Greece’s ship-building centre, Syros' industry centres around the yard in Neorio. But the most splendid legacy of the shipping industry are the manor houses in Vaporia and Poseidonia. The beaches are slightly less splendid — with the exception of Delfini, Varvarousa, and Aetos in the wild north. But fabulous seaside tavernas abound:  Iliovassilemar on Galissas beach for samphire and sea-urchin salad and rockfish soup;  Allou Yialou in the pretty seaside village of Kini for lobster with orzo. In Ermoupoli, the finest places to eat and drink are around Androu Street: Ousyra , where the chef plates up Greek-ified pasta and beautifully balanced salads, and  Django Gelato , where the pistachio gelato reigns supreme, and the fig sorbet made in August can sell out in less than half an hour. Perhaps the prettiest restaurant of all is  Mazi , a vine-covered courtyard festooned with bougainvillaea. Before you leave, stock up on loukoumi (rose-tinted Turkish delight) and San Michali cheese from  Prekas delicatessen , and visit Zeyelo for hand-made wooden sunglasses. For more recommendations, see our insider  guide to Syros .

Where to stay on Syros:

• For a boutique stay: Xenon Apollonos
• For glamour: Hotel Ploes
• For romance: Aristide Hotel
• For groups: Fanya is a villa that sleeps 10
• For families: Villa Evangelini

7. Folegandros

Best Greek island for: Authenticity with a bohemian buzz

The village square should be your first port of call on any Greek island: settle into your favourite café, pick up local gossip, and adjust to the languid pace of life. On Folegandros, this presents a challenge: the cliff-hanger capital, Hora, has not one but three squares, each brimming with a jumble of cafés, tavernas and dinky raki bars. We recommend  Pounta , where the Danish owner makes and sells the lopsided cups and bowls in which your coffee and Greek yogurt are served. From Hora, zigzagging steps lead up, up and away to the only real landmark, Panagia church; make the pilgrimage at sunrise (perhaps after an all-nighter at dimunitive Astarti bar).

Folegandros – which means ‘iron hard’ in ancient Greek – is as barren as its name suggests. Fruit trees are protected from fierce winds by rings of stones. You won’t find sandy beaches lined with sunbeds; only limpid, pebbly coves, such as Katergo, Ambeli and Livadaki. Set in the rocks above Agios Nikolaos bay, Papalagi serves big fat prawns and whole grilled octopus on a wooden deck aligned with the horizon. Water taxis service some beaches in high season; otherwise you’ll have to scramble down rocky footpaths to cool off. On your way home, stop at Mimis or Synantisi in Ano Meria for the island speciality of  matsata (goat or rabbit stew with hand-made pasta).

Where to stay on Folegandros:

• For luxury: Gundari
• For views: Anemomilos
• For families: Anemi
• For beach access: Blue Sand hotel
• For a private stay: Maistros

Best for: Families and sunshine all year round

Greece's largest island, the birthplace of Zeus,  Crete has ancient ruins, snow-capped peaks and beaches galore. Sunshine is pretty much guaranteed year round, but spring is especially lovely for rambling and sightseeing. The Minoan palace of Knossos is glorious, despite the steady stream of coach parties (go early: it opens at 8am); but there are stunning ancient sites, such as Aptera and Malia, peppered all over the island. The 16km-long Samaria Gorge also teems with pilgrims, but there are hundreds more canyons to explore, often with only the elusive kri-kri (wild goats) for company. One of the most staggeringly beautiful hikes is through the Aradena Gorge in the wild and rugged Sfakia region, ending at Marmara, a translucent cove on the Libyan Sea, for a cooling dip and lunch at one of Crete’s finest tavernas, Dialiskari.

With the exception of Elounda – a pocket of bling popular with oligarchs – the north-east coast is scarred by over-development. Head west to the Amari valley or Apokoronas for authentic villages surrounded by olive and orange groves. Or go south, where you'll find the  best beaches in Crete – try Ligres, Sougia, or Kedrodasos. Alternatively, take a back-to-nature break at Milia Mountain Retreat, a 16th-century hamlet powered entirely by solar energy. Everything on the mostly organic menu is grown, caught or reared locally. In fact, it’s almost impossible not to eat well on Crete, which produces superb cheese, honey and olive oil, as well as delicious goat, rabbit and smoked-pork dishes. Time slows almost to a standstill in the mountain villages, where locals with formidable whiskers welcome you with shots of raki (Cretan grappa) for breakfast and celebrate saints' days with a volley of gunshots. Even the road signs are peppered with bullet holes.

Where to stay in Crete:

• For families: The Royal Senses Resort & Spa and Cretan Malia Park
• For romance: Acro Wellness Suites
• For a great location: Blue Palace Resort & Spa
• For a village stay: Kapsaliana Village
• For a private stay: Azure Awe
• For a group: Cien sleeps 16 people

For more, see our edit of the  best hotels in Crete .

Best of the Greek islands for: character and lush landscapes

Corfu is the It Girl of the Ionian islands. The cosmopolitan capital is a charming clash of Venetian, British and French colonial influences. Evenings kick off with cocktails on the Liston (a colonnade modelled on Paris's Rue de Rivoli), followed by dinner at  Salto , an unpretentious wine bar and bistro on the edge of the Old Town.

With its pastel villages, rolling olive groves and grand manor houses, the rest of the island recalls  Tuscany – but with some of the  best beaches in Europe . The smart set stay on Corfu's north-east coast (nicknamed Kensington-on-Sea) where the Rothschilds like to unwind. It's wall-to-wall Sloanes and speedboats at Agni, a tiny fishing village with three rival tavernas (Toula's is the best). From here, you can rent a boat and putter to your own cove: perhaps Nissaki, Agios Stefanos or Kerasia. These idyllic bays still resemble the 'delectable landscape' that  Lawrence Durrell fell for in the 1930s – now back in vogue thanks to the ITV series, The Durrells . Or venture inland to  Ambelonas , an enchanting winery, restaurant and cooking school that specialises in unusual local dishes, such as roast pork with quince and crème brûlée with Corfiot kumquats. Steer clear of the south, especially Kavos – unless you happen to like wet T-shirt contests.

Where to stay in Corfu:

• For a standout spa: Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa
• For all-inclusive: Ikos Dassia
• For romance: Domes Miramare
• For families: Domes of Corfu
• For groups: Emerald Oasis sleeps 10 people

For more, see our pick of the  best hotels in Corfu .

Best for: Endless sandy beaches

Naxiots once made considerable fortunes exporting potatoes, cheese, marble and emery. Locals bequeathed undesirable seaside plots – useless for farming – to their laziest offspring. When tourists cottoned on to the island's scores of fabulous beaches, these wastrels found themselves sitting on gold mines. The west coast of Naxos is fringed with mile upon mile of powdery sands. Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna delight toddlers and teenagers alike with their shallow waters and beach bars. As you head south, the beaches get wilder: Plaka, where you can gallop across the dunes on horseback, Mikri Vigla for windsurfing and kitesurfing, and crystal-clear Kastraki.

Should you tire of frolicking on the shore, three supersized kouros statues are hidden in the hills and there are dozens of drowsy villages to explore. Try kitron, the local citron liqueur, at the Vallindras distillery in Halki or sample homemade wine and arseniko cheese under the plane trees in Ano Potamia village. No wonder Herodotus described Naxos as “the happiest of islands."

Where to stay in Naxos:

• For romance:  Naxian on the Beach
• For laidback luxury:  Kavos
• For a private stay:  Eye of Naxos Sky
• For families: Hidden Hill

11. Cephalonia / Kefalonia

Best Greek island for: Laidback family holidays

Casting Penélope Cruz as a Greek peasant is improbable. Shooting a World War II film on an island flattened by an earthquake in 1953 sounds even crazier. And yet  Captain Corelli's Mandolin put under-the-radar Kefalonia (Cephalonia) in the spotlight in 2001. The dramatic scenery still lives up to the hype: milky-white Myrtos beach, the island's pin-up; pine-fringed Horgota beach; and the giddying heights of Mount Ainos, a national park where wild horses roam. Outdoor Kefalonia organises four-wheel-drive safaris, if you can't face the hairpin bends. Surprisingly, the two prettiest seaside villages – Assos and Fiskardo – didn't make the cut. But the yachting set has discovered their photogenic charm. Everyone from John Galliano to Jon Bon Jovi has jumped ashore to taste the seafood pasta at  Tassia Restaurant in Fiskardo, washed down with local Robola and Muscat wines. (We recommend the organic muscat from the 19th century  Haritatos Vineyard in Lixouri, also an enchanting setting for wine tasting.) The rocky coastline around Fiskardo is deliciously pristine: go snorkelling at tiny Dafnoudi or Emblisi, flanked by slabs of limestone that turn the water electric blue.

Where to stay in Kefalonia:

• For an adult-only retreat:  F Zeen
• For families:  Emelisse Nature Resort
• For groups:  Odyssea sleeps 12 people
• For a private stay:  Wilderness Whisperings house
• For something unique:  This sky high villa

See our guide to the best hotels on Kefalonia for more.

Best Greek island for: Walking trails and wild beaches

Divided by four mountain ranges, Andros is like several islands in one. Lush valleys, rushing streams, handsome villages, and wild, windswept beaches are connected by a well-maintained network of hiking trails, making this an excellent off-season destination. Many of Greece’s powerful shipping dynasties hail from Andros; they have bequeathed the island with grand estates, splendid museums, and an elegant neoclassical capital. The marble-paved streets of Chora are full of unexpected treasures: a tiny, open-air cinema showing black-and-white classics, great pizzas and cocktails in a  converted slaughterhouse , sublime sundresses and sandals at  Waikiki boutique. Inland, there are fortified monasteries, ice-cold waterfalls, and fantastic farm-to-table tavernas like Kosses in Ano Fellos, Fofo’s in Livadia, and Tou Josef in Pitrofos to explore. And then there are the mind-blowing beaches: from the spectacular sandy bays of Zorkos, Vitali, and Vori on the north coast to the mellow beach bars at Apothikes and Chryssi Ammos, or the sunset views and old-school fish taverna at Agia Marina, there are options for whichever way the wind or your mood is blowing. You could spend weeks on Andros and still have more to discover.

Where to stay on Andros:

• For sea views: Aloe on the Rock
• For a guesthouse stay: Melisses
• For privacy: Onar
• For a village stay: Touchstone House
• For groups: Five Star Greece

13. Serifos

Best Greek island for: Naturists and purists

The sleeper hit of the Cyclades, Serifos is the summer retreat of interior designers and architects who prefer to keep the sandy beaches to themselves. (One French home-owner is so protective of her hideaway that she tells all her friends she summers on nearby Sifnos.) Even in  August , you’ll find coves where you can skinny dip in blissful solitude. That’s because the best beaches (such as Kalo Ambeli and Skala) are only accessible via bone-rattling dirt roads or donkey tracks. Better still, rent a motor boat from the laidback harbour, Livada. Make sure to moor outside Anna’s taverna on Sikamia beach for freshly caught fish and garden-grown salads.

In the cascading hilltop Hora, there’s barely any nightlife, no smart boutiques or fancy hotels. But who cares when you can kick back with fennel pie and raki at  Stou Stratou , pick up Natassa Kalogeropoulou’s minimalist ceramics at  Kerameio , and listen to Greek folk in the open-air amphitheatre? And all less than three hours from Athens.

Where to stay on Serifos:

• For romance: Chill & Co.
• For groups: Lenia sleeps 12 people
• For something unique: This 19th century captain’s house

14. Mykonos

Best of the Greek islands for: Decadent parties and five-star hotels

Mykonos had LGBTQ+ clubs and sunrise parties long before rave culture was even invented. Its bohemian allure hasn’t faded since the 1960s, although the once naked beaches now have nail bars, personal trainers and house music pumping out all hours. The influx of supermodels and superyachts has inspired hot new hotels and restaurants. The hippest place to show off your abs is  Scorpios , a louche beach bar that puts Ibiza 's finest in the shade (book a cabana to watch the sunset). After hours, it's always Astra, where you might find Keith Richards chatting up Karolina Kurkova. The LGBTQ+ crowd has dwindled, but drag queens and oiled bodybuilders make a splash at Jackie O' , overlooking Super Paradise beach.

If the glitzy excess gets too much, escape to Fokos taverna for superfood salads and lamb chops, or Kiki's, an off-grid grill-shack overlooking Agios Sostis bay, where even Naomi Campbell has to queue for a table. Or cruise over to the tiny island of Delos, an archaeological sanctuary that once thronged with 30,000 sun worshippers (the temple is dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of light).

Where to stay in Mykonos:

• For romance: Cali Mykonos
• For families: Santa Marina resort
• For the party scene: Soho Roc House
• For a laidback stay: Once in Mykonos
• For groups: Bluewave XL sleeps 36 people

For more recommendations, see our guide to the  best hotels in Mykonos .

15. Zakynthos / Zante

The best Greek Island for: seaside holidays with toddlers or teens

Zakynthos, or Zante, has shrugged off its reputation as a destination for lads on tour (as long as you avoid Lagana and the built-up south coast) by rebranding itself as one of Greece's greenest islands. It's not just the emerald hills sliding into the electric blue Ionian: much of the south coast is a nature reserve where endangered loggerhead turtles hatch in the sand. The turtle beaches are off limits, but there are countless coves in every hue of green and blue. Favourites are tiny Xigia, with its bubbling underwater springs, and craggy Porto Limnionas, with sunbeds wedged between the rocks and palm-frond umbrellas positioned between the pine trees. Skinari is the starting point for boat trips to the most famous landmarks, the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach, where a rusting liner leans into the chalky cliffs. From Keri, you can cast away for Marathonisi island, another turtle sanctuary.

The mountainous interior, all sleepy stone villages poking out of pine forests, is great for hikes and bikes. ( Eco Zante can arrange outdoor activities guided by insiders.)  Askos Stone Park is a wildlife sanctuary inhabited by deer, chinchilla, and dozens of other species. After exploring the Venetian castle high above the harbour, treat the kids to thin-crust pizzas (with grown-up toppings like bresaola, aubergine, and gorgonzola) at  Alesta on cute St Mark's Square.

Where to stay in Zante:

• For families: Porto Zante
• For romance: Zante Maris Suites and Olea All Suite Hotel
• For a private stay: Halcyon Seas
• For a group: Ble Kyma sleeps 12 people

16. Amorgos

Best for : Deep-blue seas and wide-open spaces

It’s not easy to get to Amorgos. In high winds, the fast ferries stay grounded and the slow boat takes upwards of eight hours from  Athens . When you disembark at Katapola, a sleepy harbour lined with great little fish tavernas (our favourites are Prekas and Mouragio), a sign announces: 'Welcome to Amorgos. Nobody will find you here.'

That’s just the point. This craggy Cycladic island has always attracted loners, hikers, divers and pilgrims, who shuffle up the cliff face to the Monastery of Hozoviotissa, a sliver of white dangling 300 metres above the sea. The water here is a million shades of blue and so startlingly clear you can see every sea urchin lurking on the rocky shore. Even the sage-scented hiking trails are called Blue Paths, because the sea and sky are visible in all directions.

With a population of under 2,000, the locals are outnumbered by shaggy goats that blend in perfectly with the burnished landscape and hippie vibe. But you don't have to be a recluse to fall for Amorgos. There are plenty of all-day spots and a few late-night bars where Amorgos groupies meet, summer after summer: Jazzmin, in Hora, for backgammon and cocktails; Pergalidi in Langada for herbal infusions and jazzy tunes; Seladi in Tholaria, with giddying views and a telescope for stargazing.

Where to stay on Amorgos: There are very few hotels on Amorgos, beyond basic rooms to let.  Vorina Ktismata is the exception, with seven smart apartments looking out across Hora’s white-washed rooftops.

Best for: The perfect balance of seclusion and sophistication

One of the tiniest Ionian islands, Paxos packs a big punch. Not for its five-star hotels (there are hardly any) or its sandy beaches (practically none), but for its electric blue sea and three dinky harbour towns, each one so pretty it’s impossible to pick a favourite. In laid-back Loggos, on the northeast coast, star-spangled evenings are spent on the waterfront terrace of Taxidi bar, where the owner, Spiros, often jams with local musicians. You could while away days in the waterfront cafés of Lakka, watching lissom sailors hop on and off their  yachts . Protected from the wind but with a lively social scene, the main port of Gaios is characterised by Venetian architecture and a high quota of stylish Italians, who own pale stone villas hidden in the wooded interior or on the crest of the limestone cliffs along the western shoreline. For the many British Paxos aficionados, all roads lead to  Ben’s Bar , a happy-go-lucky hangout on Monodendri beach, where you can laze under the olive trees with French toast and Piña Coladas. Make sure to rent a motor boat to putter along the coast to pebble coves such as Marmari and Kipiadi, or across to Antipaxos, an even smaller island that’s a hit with the yachting set. Paths through vineyards and orchards trickle down to bays with sea so clear it looks retouched.

Where to Stay in Paxos:

• For an authentic stay: Paxos Villa
• For a great location: Oneiro
• For groups: Panayia View sleeps 14 people

18. Lefkada

Best for: Sailors, surfers, and superstar beaches

Lefkada is something of an anomaly. Unlike the other Ionian islands, it’s accessible from the mainland via a causeway on the northern tip. It’s also easily reached from the  UK , with direct flights to Preveza, a 40-minute drive. Lefkada’s main town, flattened by an earthquake in the 1950s, certainly won’t take your breath away, but those famous cliff-backed beaches, Egremni and Porto Katsiki, sure will. You’ll find sheltered beaches no matter which way the wind is blowing; but if you’re here for the swell, the south coast is fantastic for windsurfing (head to Vassiliki or Sivota, home to the world windsurfing championships) and Agios Ioannis bay billows with kite-surfers. At Nidri, ignore the unlovely bars and watersports centres, and hop on a boat to explore the little isles nearby. You can  swim through sea caves near Kalamos; eat seared tuna with tarama at Errikos taverna on Meganisi, a favourite of reclusive billionaires; and watch the sunset with a basil-infused Mastiha and tonic at Mylos bar, a converted windmill on Kastos.

Want to cool down or escape the summer crowds? Drive through forests of chestnut and pine into Lefkada’s mountainous interior to the somnolent villages of Karya (home to an enchanting textile museum), Eglouvi (to play backgammon under plane trees) and Exanthia (to watch the setting sun from up in the clouds at Rachi restaurant). You might even see paragliders leaping off the mountain.

Where to Stay in Lefkada:

• For romance: Ibid
• For views:  New Morning villa

Best Greek island for: A mythical retreat for lovers and loners

Despite its legendary stature, the homeland of Homer's hero, Odysseus, remains surprisingly under the radar. Ithaca’s turquoise and emerald coves are popular with the sailing set, but few visitors venture into the forested hills. So you might be the only person exploring the eighth-century BC ruins of Odysseus’ palace, or making the heady trek to the church of Anogi, covered in Byzantine frescoes (ask for the key at the village coffee shop, where the owner will cook you a set menu of whatever is available – maybe a tomato salad, some local cheese and braised goat – straight from her garden or neighbours’ fields).

From Anogi, it’s an exhilarating two-hire hike down to Kioni, a miniature port where you’ll find  Spavento , the perfect pier-side café-bar. Go any time of day or night for ice-cream sundaes, excellent cocktails, and a soundtrack to make your heart sing. The waterside tavernas at the drowsy fishing port of Frikes are unfailingly delightful, especially  Ageri . The deep, sheltered harbour town of Vathy is barely livelier, but the mood can be deliciously mischievous at Mylos bar. Beaches are mostly small and pebbly, but the sea is as clear and refreshing as gin. Authentic, unspoiled and infuriatingly (or gratifyingly) hard to reach, rugged little Ithaca is somewhere you can still disappear.

Where to stay on Ithaca:

• For a private stay: Ithaca Airbnb house
• For families:  Levendis Estate

Best for: Traditional villages and knockout tavernas

Tinos has more than 50 villages, each vying to be fairest of them all. In Pyrgos, famous for its marble craftsmen, sculpted birds and flowers decorate every doorway. In Volax, basket weavers squat outside cottages surrounded by giant boulders, seemingly flung from the heavens by Zeus in a fit of pique. There's even a village called 'love’, Agapi, where you can tuck into wild-fennel fritters at the only taverna. Tinos takes its food culture seriously: there are artichoke, caper and honey festivals.  Marathia launched the island’s farm- (or fishing-boat-) to-table scene, elevating local ingredients into complex modern dishes. For a perfect meal in perfect surroundings, go for cuttlefish risotto and octopus caramelised in grape must at Thalassaki, served on the jetty in Isternia bay, then watch dusk bleed into the horizon from Exomeria bar.

Tinos is only 20 minutes from Mykonos, so it's a wonder it isn't overrun with tourists. The harbour is swarmed on 15 August, however, when Orthodox pilgrims flock here to kiss the Virgin Mary at the Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria, one of the holiest sites in Greece. Otherwise, the island is miraculously untouched. Solitary chapels and whimsical dovecotes stud thyme-scented hills, dropping to sandy bays whipped by the meltemi wind. There's a nascent surfer scene on Kolibithra bay, where a VW camper van has been converted into a cute beach bar.

Where to stay in Tinos:

• For a guest house stay: Xinara House
• For a private stay:  The Detailor

Best for: Stark mystique and show-stopping villas

Patmos has an indefinable je ne sais quoi – an otherworldly quality that radiates from its crowning glory, the medieval Monastery of St John. This turreted fortress, bursting with Byzantine relics, is named after John the Divine, who conjured up his apocalyptic revelations in a cave nearby. Pure-white Hora, a World Heritage Site, is where A-listers and fashion editors stay. High walls and heavy doors conceal magnificent mansions dating back to the 16th century. The almighty church has kept nightlife in check. If you must see and be seen, head to quietly glamorous Astivi or Stoa Theo's bar, on miniature Agia Lesbia, in Hora. Beach life is generally languid and low-key; Psili Ammos and Livadi Geranou are our favourite hideouts. Dinner reservations are essential at Benetos, for Med-Asian fusion on an organic farm, and Lambi for grilled fish on a purple pebble beach.

Joining the Patmos in-crowd requires commitment. There's no airport and it's a nine-hour ferry journey from Athens, which keeps the hoi polloi at bay. Seriously reclusive types hop on a fishing boat from Patmos to Marathi and play castaway at Pantelis, a divine taverna with modest rooms to let. Read our full guide to  Patmos , the spiritual Greek island.

Where to stay in Patmos:

• For a guest house stay: Pagostas
• For a private stay: Patmos 360
• For a village stay: Eirini

Best for: Travelling back in time

When the writer Lawrence Durrell arrived in Rhodes after World War II, he found an island devastated by centuries of crusaders and invaders. Like the fallen Colossus, it was 'a Rhodes dispersed into a million fragments, waiting to be built up again.' Since then, Rhodes has reinvented itself as one of Greece's top travel destinations. The big draw is the medieval citadel in Rhodes Old Town: stroll along the battlements and you'll spy Byzantine churches, Roman ruins, synagogues and minarets. In the maze of alleys, seek out Marco Polo Mansion, a 15th-century guest-house decorated like a pasha's harem, with an enchanting restaurant in the garden.

Upmarket hotels are clustered around Lindos, its magnificent acropolis surrounded by slate cliffs and emerald coves. Go for the views – and the sublime octopus ragout at Mavrikos restaurant.

As you head south, high-rise resorts give way to stretches of golden sand, such as Glystra, Tsambika, and Fourni. Inland, you'll find alpine forests (Mount Attavyros), hilltop castles (Monolithos), faded frescoes (Saint Nikolaos Fountoukli) and ancient ruins (Kamiros). Marooned on the southern tip, Prasonisi is a powdery peninsula where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean. One side is calm, the other choppy – a metaphor for this island of two halves.

Where to stay in Rhodes:  

• For romance: Casa Cook
• For history: Kókkini Porta Rossa
• For a boutique stay:  Melenos Art Boutique Hotel

Best for: Castaway coves and a picture-perfect port

Little Symi has the prettiest port in Greece. As you round the headland, neoclassical mansions in every shade of apricot and peach rise like a mirage from the sea. Built by 19th-century sponge and spice merchants, the whole town is now a national monument. You need strong legs to explore – it's about 500 steps up to the crumbling acropolis – but you won't need a car. The only proper road peters out at Panormitis monastery, a major pilgrimage site. Ravishing beaches such as Agios Giorgos Dysalona (backed by monumental cliffs) and Marathounda (where goats will try to filch your picnic) are only accessible by boat or on foot. In the rugged hinterland, more than 100 monasteries are hidden among the pine and cypress forests.

With its laid-back glamour, luminous sea and almost tropical microclimate, Symi is a hit with French and Italian yachties. You'll find them eating flash-fried baby shrimp, a local specialty, at Tholos, a sensational taverna where the harbour views almost steal the show.

Where to stay in Symi:

• For a hotel stay: The Old Markets
• For a private stay: On The Rocks

24. Astypalea

Best for: Escaping the crowds

A throwback to a gentler, slower, more elemental way of life, Astypalea is surprisingly easy to get to (daily one-hour flights from Athens). Every gap in the burnished hills frames a different view of Hora, cascading from the Venetian castle to seaside Skala. The scent of saffron biscuits wafts through the whitewashed lanes. Tucked beneath the battlements, Castro bar has a magical terrace that seems to float above the archipelago.

The nearest beach is Livadi, a sort-of-resort surrounded by citrus orchards. The rest of the island is stark and wild. Treacherous tracks hurtle down to shingle bays such as Vatses, with a rocking beach bar, and Kaminakia, where Linda's farm-to-table taverna serves the best roast goat in the Dodecanese. If you really want to be alone, rent a motorboat from Maltezana, an old-time fishing village, and putter to Koutsomiti and Kounoupes, tiny islands connected by a double-sided beach. At Vathy, a lagoon where erotic graffiti was etched into the rocks 2,500 years ago, the only taverna is called Galini (Peace). Which sums up Astypalea perfectly.

Where to stay in Astypalea: Saluti da Stampalia Suites , with seven subdued but very stylish sea-view rooms, has upped the ante on an island where most accommodation is uninspired.

25. Skiathos

Best Greek island for: Flopping onto a sandy beach with a good book

Skiathos may be the smallest of the Sporades islands, which counts among its number sleepy Alonissos and the pretty  Mamma Mia! location of Skopelos, but it’s by far the most popular, especially with families, who come for the baby powder-soft sandy  beaches and laid-back vibe. The island has some of the finest beaches in Greece, with the tree-lined, turquoise-watered Koukounaries in the south the most celebrated and the busiest (forget about getting a sun lounger here in peak season). Those in the north of the island, which can only be accessed by a steep, winding drive through pine groves, are more rugged and windswept but no less idyllic – emerging onto Elia beach on the west coast, with its crystal-clear sea and rickety wooden taverna, is like stepping into a little slice of paradise.

As dusk falls the town starts to liven up, with most of the action centred around Papadiamantis Street, the main shopping drag. Stroll down it on the way to dinner and browse smart boutiques selling handcrafted jewellery and knick-knacks, or pick up local delicacies from the upmarket Ergon deli (reopens in May), which also has outposts in  Athens , Thessaloniki and Mayfair. The buzziest restaurants are clustered around the harbour, with Bourtzi, perched atop a tiny rocky island, the best spot for sundowner  cocktails and The Windmill a favourite for elegant suppers. For the most charming setting, head to Sklithri and book one of the taverna’s tables right on the beach. Order an ice-cold Mythos beer, baked feta and a platter of perfectly-chargrilled and out-of-this-world delicious vegetables then watch the sun set over the Aegean, with your toes in the sand.

Where to stay in Skiathos:

• For a hotels stay: Elivi Skiathos
• For a private stay: Villa Azalea

Best for:  Low-key authenticity all year round

Unusually for Greece, Aegina is truly an island for all seasons. Only about an hour’s ferry ride from Piraeus, the unpretentious port (briefly the first capital of modern Greece) has a lived-in charm. Athenian weekenders come for the excellent seaside ouzeris; Skotadis, on the harbourfront is the standout. Classicists come to explore the portside antiquities of Kolona, the hilltop temple of Aphaia (allegedly the template for the Parthenon) and the ghostly Byzantine chapels at Paleochora. Canny ex-pats have snapped up properties in Pachia Rachi, a stone village with sensational views across the straits to the Peloponnese. The Dumas family, heirs to the Hermès fortune, have been discreetly spending their summers here for decades. With its soft light and gentle landscapes, Aegina has always been a muse for Greek artists and writers, including the prolific painter Nikos Nikolaou, whose former home and atelier is now an  enchanting guesthouse and museum (open on Saturdays by appointment). Thanks to a tight-knit community of locals, Athenian escapees, and cosmopolitan emigrés, there’s always something interesting afoot: live music at Proka bar or  Il Posto , a cosy Italian restaurant in Kypseli village, an exhibition in the 17th century Markellos Tower, or a travel writing and ceramics retreat at  Oikia Karapanou , one of many stately homes in various states of ruin and repair that dot this incredibly diverse island. The only thing Aegina doesn’t have is great beaches — perhaps that’s what has spared this accessible island from over-development. This is an island that doesn’t depend on foreign tourists and is all the better for it.

Where to stay on Aegina:

• For a hotel stay: Nikolaou Residence
• For something unique: this bohemian artist's house
• For a group: Villa Calypso sleeps 11 people

27. Kastellorizo

Best of the Greek islands for:  Castaway dreams and swimming through caves

Michael Anastassiades, Lynda Benglis, Savvas Laz, Silvia and Nicoletta Fiorucci… the number of artists, designers and their patrons who summer on tiny Kastellorizo is remarkable. Covering less than 5 square miles, with fewer than 500 inhabitants, this sun-blistered fleck lies just over one nautical mile from Turkey’s Anatolian coast. You can sail across to the town of Kaş for kofte and a trawl though the flea market and be back in time for a sundowner at Faros, a day-to-night hangout in the old lighthouse beside the mosque. A confluence of Levantine influences draws a culturally curious crowd to this remote Aegean outpost. Once a thriving maritime economy, Kastellorizo was bombed during World War II and then virtually abandoned. Gradually, the handsome sponge and spice merchants’ houses in vibrant shades of turquoise and terracotta are being revived as artists’ residences (such as Fiorucci’s 4Rooms), or enchanting guesthouses like  Mediterraneo . You can dive straight from Mediterraneo’s sundeck into the port, where sea turtles bob alongside colourful fishing boats. There’s not much action beyond the waterfront strip known as the  kordoni , or shoelace: a little snorkelling, cave swimming, or boat-watching, a ramble along goat tracks, a slow supper of stuffed onions under the fairy-lit plane trees at Ta Platania, or perhaps some yoga in the wild on the even tinier islet of Ro. This is a pure and simple Greece.

Where to stay on Kastellorizo:

• For a boutique stay:  Casa Mediterraneo
• For romance:  Mediterraneo
• For groups:  The Admiral’s House

28. Antiparos

Best for:  Relaxed cool

This tiny island packs a surprisingly hip scene into its low-slung hills and shallow coves. Most of the action centres around the dinky port, where life drifts by in the waterfront cafés and the lively strip that leads to the square. Every season, more upmarket restaurants ( Yam ,  Lollo’s ) and boutiques ( More than This ,  Zali ) spring up alongside classic dive bars like  Doors and Lucky Luke. At dusk, all roads predictably lead to  Sunset bar for a spritz; after hours, everyone stumbles to cult disco La Luna, where both the décor and music are stuck in the ‘70s and ‘80s.

By day, the scene is way more mellow: brunch at  Margarita’s in town or  Time Marine  on Psaralyki, one of a string of shallow, narrow beaches along the southern coastline. Beyond the modest, boxy houses of the harbour town are dozens of sensational villas designed by in-demand architects. The fanciest properties are scattered around Soros and Agios Georgios bays, where you’ll also find two of the island’s best tavernas,  Peramataki and  Captain Pipinos . The latter is a short boat or kayak ride from Despotiko island, where goats roam around the semi-excavated sanctuary of Apollo. The beauty of Antiparos is that nothing is more than ten minutes away, and after a couple of days, you’ll feel like a regular, bumping into the same good-looking faces wherever you go. If you get cabin fever, you can hop on the 7-minute ferry to Paros for kite surfing, windsurfing, fine dining, or village hopping.

Where to stay on Antiparos:

• For a hotel stay: The Rooster
• For a private stay: Antiparos Escape Villas  and Oliaros

Best of the Greek islands for:  Distinctive architecture and good vibes

Long overlooked because of its chequered history – this Dodecanese Island was an Italian naval base from 1912-1943, and later became the site of a notorious insane asylum — Leros is all the better for flying under the radar. The vast natural harbour of Lakki (an excellent marina for sailboats) still bears the surreal hallmarks of Fascist rationalism, an Art Deco mirage that’s like a faded version of Miami on the Med. The colourful neoclassical houses of Agia Marina and Platanos have a more lived-in feel, peppered with appealing patisseries, antique shops, and B&Bs. Italian cognoscenti and Turkish yachties have discovered Leros for one very good reason:  Mylos by the Sea , arguably the best seafood restaurant in Greece, with a hopelessly romantic setting overlooking a windmill jutting out to sea. Sunset watchers converge on  Harris Bar , another windmill poised between the medieval castle of Panagia and Panteli’s pebbly beach. Most beaches on Leros may be small and scrappy, but the water is luminous and there are just enough low-key beach bars like  Zephyros  and  Lime . Since restaurants cater mainly to Greeks, the food scene is authentic and affordable: Thea Artemis taverna on gentle Blefouti bay, Lychnari in Lakki, and the cult souvlaki joint Yparxo in Platanos are local favourites. Although there’s a tiny domestic airport, there are no international flights or big, branded resorts on Leros. Instead, there are family-run guesthouses brimming with character, where you feel more like a friend than a room number.

Where to stay on Leros:

• For glamour:  Villa Clara
• For (vegan) romance:  Archondiko Angelou
• For a private stay:  Lakki Old Farmhouse

30. Spetses

Best of the Greek islands for:  Family holidays with the smart society set

If it weren’t for Sotirios Anargyros, Spetses might be as barren as its more bohemian neighbour, Hydra. In the early 20th century, after making a killing in tobacco, Anargyros bought up huge swathes of the island and planted thousands of pine trees. Anargyos also founded the famous boarding school (whose grounds are a lovely spot for an evening stroll) that inspired a certain English teacher to write ‘The Magus’, and built the Poseidonion, a grand harbourfront hotel that has been gloriously restored (there’s no finer place for an aperitivo). From the heirloom-filled mansions built on shipping fortunes to the horse-drawn carriages and tasteful yachts, the whole place reeks of old money. But there’s plenty of new-fangled fun too: late-night bars ( Bikini  or retro-cool  Bar Spetsa ), two open-air cinemas, stylish boutiques ( The Closet , whose resident cats are an attraction) and expensive restaurants ( Patralis  and  Tarsanas  vie for the best fish soup). In the summer, Spetses is a sociable place to see and be seen. But it’s also lovely off-season, when you can hike the gentle green hills or cycle the coastal road that circles the island (there’s even a Tweed Run in October). Compact, well-kept, and easily accessible from Athens (2-3 hours by catamaran), Spetses is a people-pleaser for all ages and seasons.

Where to stay on Spetses:

• For glamour:  Poseidonion Grand Hotel
• For families:  Orloff Resort
• For a private stay:  Magus House

Best for: Unassuming villages and world-class climbing

This latest island to be added to this list, for years, Kalymnos was unmoved by – if not outright hostile to – the arrival of mass tourism in Greece. The island lies too far from the mainland for the casual tourist to reach: the ferry was infrequent, the journey too long and the mountainous terrain a deterrent to building an airstrip. In the meantime, flat and eager Kos became a tourist spot. Kalymnos remain undiscovered, and you are still likely to arrive by ferry via its noisier neighbour. In 1996, so the legend goes, the sheer limestone cliffs of Kalymnos caught the eye of an Italian tourist who also happened to be a rock climber. He returned the following year to pen the first routes, putting Kaymnos on the rock climbing map. Today there are more than 4,000 routes of various levels of difficulty on offer, making the island one of the best destinations for the sport in the world. Beyond the climbing, much of the island remains untouched by time, dotted with charming villages, little harbours, calm crystalline swimming and stalls selling hot apple loukoumades. Panos Karnezis

Where to stay on Kalymnos:

• For a hotel stay: Kantouni Beach Boutique Hotel
• For a villa stay: Five Star Greece
• For a cabin stay: Pirates of Kalymnos

Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Travel and tourism in Greece - statistics & facts

What are the leading inbound tourism markets in greece, what are the most popular destinations for greek tourists, key insights.

Detailed statistics

Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in Greece 2019-2034

Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Greece 2019-2023, by type

Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in Greece 2019-2034

Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic

European countries with the highest number of inbound tourist arrivals 2019-2023

Number of inbound tourists in Greece 2005-2023

Further recommended statistics

• Basic Statistic Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in Greece 2019-2034
• Basic Statistic Travel and tourism: share of GDP in the EU-27 and the UK 2019-2023, by country
• Basic Statistic Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Greece 2019-2023, by type
• Basic Statistic Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Greece 2019-2023, by tourist type
• Basic Statistic Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in Greece 2019-2034

Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in Greece 2019-2034

Total contribution of travel and tourism to GDP in Greece in 2019 and 2023, with a forecast for 2024 and 2034 (in billion euros)

Travel and tourism: share of GDP in the EU-27 and the UK 2019-2023, by country

Share of travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in European Union member countries (EU-27) and the United Kingdom (UK) in 2019 and 2023

Distribution of travel and tourism spending in Greece in 2019 and 2023, by type

Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Greece 2019-2023, by tourist type

Distribution of travel and tourism spending in Greece in 2019 and 2023, by type of tourist

Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in Greece 2019-2034

Total contribution of travel and tourism to employment in Greece in 2019 and 2023, with a forecast for 2024 and 2034 (in million jobs)

Inbound tourism

• Premium Statistic Number of inbound tourists in Greece 2005-2023
• Premium Statistic Leading international travel markets in Greece 2019-2023, by arrivals
• Premium Statistic Average length of stay by inbound tourists in Greece 2023, by country
• Premium Statistic Number of inbound tourist visits to Greece 2019-2023, by region
• Premium Statistic International travel receipts in Greece 2003-2023
• Premium Statistic International tourist expenditure in Greece 2019-2023, by purpose of trip

Number of international tourists in Greece from 2005 to 2023 (in 1,000s)

Leading international travel markets in Greece 2019-2023, by arrivals

Leading inbound travel markets in Greece from 2019 to 2023, by number of arrivals (in 1,000s)

Average length of stay by inbound tourists in Greece 2023, by country

Average length of stay of international visitors in Greece in 2023, by country (in number of overnight stays)

Number of inbound tourist visits to Greece 2019-2023, by region

Number of international visits to Greece from 2019 to 2023, by region (in 1,000s)

International travel receipts in Greece 2003-2023

Value of international travel receipts in Greece from 2003 to 2023 (in million euros)

International tourist expenditure in Greece 2019-2023, by purpose of trip

Value of international travel receipts in Greece from 2019 to 2023, by purpose of travel (in million euros)

Inbound tourist destinations

• Premium Statistic Number of international air arrivals in Athens, Greece 2010-2023
• Premium Statistic Number of international air arrivals in Thessaloniki, Greece 2010-2023
• Premium Statistic International air arrivals to South Aegean region of Greece 2010-2023, by island
• Premium Statistic Number of international air arrivals in Crete, Greece 2010-2023
• Premium Statistic Leading inbound travel markets in Crete, Greece 2019-2023, by number of visits
• Premium Statistic International air arrivals on the Ionian Islands, Greece 2010-2023, by island
• Premium Statistic Leading inbound tourist markets in the Ionian Islands, Greece 2019-2023

Number of international air arrivals in Athens, Greece 2010-2023

Number of international air arrivals in Athens, Greece from 2010 to 2023 (in 1,000s)

Number of international air arrivals in Thessaloniki, Greece 2010-2023

Number of international air arrivals in Thessaloniki, Greece from 2010 to 2023 (in 1,000s)

International air arrivals to South Aegean region of Greece 2010-2023, by island

Number of international air arrivals on selected islands in the South Aegean region of Greece from 2010 to 2023 (in 1,000s)

Number of international air arrivals in Crete, Greece 2010-2023

Number of international air arrivals on the Greek Island of Crete from 2010 to 2023 (in 1,000s)

Leading inbound travel markets in Crete, Greece 2019-2023, by number of visits

Number of inbound tourist visits to the Greek Island of Crete from 2019 to 2023, by country of origin (in 1,000s)

International air arrivals on the Ionian Islands, Greece 2010-2023, by island

Number of international air arrivals on the Ionian Islands in Greece from 2010 to 2023, by island (in 1,000s)

Leading inbound tourist markets in the Ionian Islands, Greece 2019-2023

Leading inbound tourist markets in the Ionian Islands in Greece from 2019 to 2023 (in 1,000 visits)

Domestic tourism

• Premium Statistic Total number of domestic trips in Greece 2015-2022
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic trips in Greece 2015-2022, by type
• Basic Statistic Number of domestic arrivals in tourist accommodation in Greece 2013-2023
• Basic Statistic Number of overnight stays at tourist accommodation in Greece 2013-2023, by origin
• Basic Statistic Domestic tourism spending in Greece 2019-2034

Total number of domestic trips in Greece 2015-2022

Total number of domestic trips in Greece from 2015 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Number of domestic trips in Greece 2015-2022, by type

Number of domestic trips in Greece from 2015 to 2022, by type (in 1,000s)

Number of domestic arrivals in tourist accommodation in Greece 2013-2023

Number of domestic arrivals in tourist accommodation establishments in Greece from 2013 to 2023 (in millions)

Number of overnight stays at tourist accommodation in Greece 2013-2023, by origin

Number of overnight stays at travel accommodation establishments in Greece from 2013 to 2023, by type of tourist (in millions)

Domestic tourism spending in Greece 2019-2034

Domestic tourism expenditure in Greece in 2019 and 2023, with a forecast for 2024 and 2034 (in billion euros)

Outbound tourism

• Premium Statistic Number of outbound tourists from Greece 2005-2023
• Premium Statistic Leading outbound travel destinations from Greece 2016-2023
• Premium Statistic Outbound travel expenditure in Greece 2003-2023
• Premium Statistic Outbound travel expenditure in Greece 2016-2023, by destination

Number of outbound tourists from Greece 2005-2023

Number of outbound travelers from Greece from 2005 to 2023 (in 1,000s)

Leading outbound travel destinations from Greece 2016-2023

Leading destinations for outbound travelers from Greece from 2016 to 2023 (in 1,000s)

Outbound travel expenditure in Greece 2003-2023

Value of international travel payments by residents of Greece from 2003 to 2023 (in million euros)

Outbound travel expenditure in Greece 2016-2023, by destination

Value of international travel payments by residents of Greece from 2016 to 2023, by country of destination (in million euros)

Accommodation

• Basic Statistic Number of tourist accommodation establishments in Greece 2013-2023
• Basic Statistic Number of tourist accommodation establishments in Greece 2023, by type
• Premium Statistic Number of hotels and similar accommodation in Greece 2013-2023
• Premium Statistic Travel and tourism revenue in Greece 2017-2029, by segment

Number of tourist accommodation establishments in Greece 2013-2023

Number of travel accommodation establishments in Greece from 2013 to 2023

Number of tourist accommodation establishments in Greece 2023, by type

Number of travel accommodation establishments in Greece in 2023, by type

Number of hotels and similar accommodation in Greece 2013-2023

Number of hotels and similar accommodation establishments in Greece from 2013 to 2023

Travel and tourism revenue in Greece 2017-2029, by segment

Revenue of the travel and tourism market in Greece from 2017 to 2023, with a forecast until 2029, by segment (in million U.S. dollars)

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Greece to Restrict Cruise Visits as Islands Struggle With Tourist Crowds

In a country where vacationers are a keystone of the economy, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is embracing a European trend toward tighter tourism regulation.

By Niki Kitsantonis

With the treasures of its history, the beauty of its islands and the golden sands of its beaches, Greece offers tourists many reasons to visit. But a seemingly endless influx in recent years has caused headaches at some of its most popular destinations.

So this weekend, its prime minister proposed an array of measures aimed at curbing some effects of the growing crowds.

The changes include hefty increases to docking fees for cruise ships at some of Greece’s most popular islands, and limits to daily cruise ship arrivals. The rules aim to reduce the strain that the vacation industry places on communities and echo a pushback against overtourism in several other major European destinations.

“Tourism supports the economy with significant resources and jobs, but it has its own particular social impact,” Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said during his annual state of the economy speech in Thessaloniki on Saturday night. He added that he was “very concerned about the image on some of our islands some months of the year due to cruise ships.”

More details will be announced next week, he said.

Discontent over tourism has flared across Europe since pandemic-related travel restrictions receded. In April, Venice introduced an entry fee of 5 euros , about $5.50, on certain days. In July, protesters in Barcelona marched in exasperation with tourist numbers .

And after those cities diverted cruises from busy ports, officials in Amsterdam decided to cut cruise traffic in half by 2026, before eventually closing its terminal , citing worries about overcrowding and pollution.

The issue carries particularly high stakes in Greece, where tourism accounts for about a fifth of economic output. A record 33 million people visited last year, according to the Bank of Greece , which said numbers were up a further 15.5 percent in the first half of 2024.

Vacation rentals and foreign buyers have also driven home prices to a level that many locals say they struggle to afford on many islands , while a wave of villa construction has contributed to water shortages.

“We’ve had yet another extremely successful tourism year,” Mr. Mitsotakis said, noting that the sector was going “from record to record.”

To address overcrowding, disembarkation fees for cruises would be increased, he said, with larger rises for particularly popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini, where the authorities and residents have been pushing for constraints.

Fees will rise to 20 euros for those islands during the high season, he told a news conference on Sunday, a steep hike from the current charge of 35 cents for Santorini. Some of the additional revenue will go toward local infrastructure, he said.

The government will also increase a lodging tax paid by hotels and rental accommodations on the islands, with those proceeds going toward local communities to help them during the peak season, Mr. Mitsotakis said.

And property owners who offer long-term leases, rather than the short-term rentals generally given to international visitors, will be exempt from paying rental tax for three years, he said.

Mr. Mitsotakis also heralded restrictions, to be announced in coming weeks, on runaway construction on the most overdeveloped islands, apparently targeting vacation homes. “Let’s take action and put the brakes, wherever needed, on islands where we believe that the situation has reached a point that the infrastructure is essentially being tested,” he told reporters.

The cruise industry is booming in Greece, with a projected increase of 20 percent in ship arrivals this year, totaling more than eight million passengers, according to Giorgos Koubenas, the president of Greece’s union of cruise-ship owners, who said revenues this year were projected at €2 billion.

Santorini, with its volcanic beaches and dramatic caldera, is Greece’s most popular cruise destination, with 1.3 million cruise visitors last year, according to the Hellenic Ports Association. An official there provoked an angry backlash on a particularly busy July day when he urged residents — population 15,500 — to stay home to make way for an expected 17,000 visitors.

The mayor, Nikos Zorzos, said that the authorities did what they could to keep daily visitors under 8,000, but that itineraries were set two years in advance, causing some “very difficult days.”

“It’s important that each island has the ability to regulate the situation locally,” he said, “that local authorities have control in such significant issues that directly influence the daily lives of residents.”

Some residents of smaller islands, however, say they fear that restrictions will push the problems of cruise traffic onto them.

“I’m very worried,” said Thodoris Halaris, a 64-year-old resident of Amorgos, an island of about 2,000 that received its first large cruise ship last month. Cruises risk crowding out the regular visitors he rents to, he said, and don’t suit the island’s relatively small beaches.

“It’s like the theater of the absurd,” he said. “Fifty people swimming on a beach and a 250-meter cruise ship docked in front of them.”

Konstantinos Revinthis, the mayor of Serifos, said he was persuaded to oppose cruise visits after a medium-size liner brought some 2,000 passengers to his island of roughly 1,000.

“We don’t have the infrastructure to host so many people,” he said.

Niki Kitsantonis is a freelance correspondent for The Times based in Athens. She has been writing about Greece for 20 years, including more than a decade of coverage for The Times. More about Niki Kitsantonis

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Greece to introduce cruise passenger fees and rental bans to fight overtourism

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , GREECE / Created : Sep 8, 2024, 21:09 IST

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Greece is implementing new measures to address overtourism, including fees for cruise passengers and increased lodging taxes during peak season. Popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos are particularly affected. The country als … Read more

Greece is implementing new measures to address overtourism, including fees for cruise passengers and increased lodging taxes during peak season. Popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos are particularly affected. The country also plans to restrict the number of cruise ships by 2025 and expand its Golden Visa program to include investments in local startups. Read less

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Greece is implementing new measures to address overtourism, including fees for cruise passengers and increased lodging taxes during peak season. Popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos are particul...