tourism is greece

Tourism in Greece & the islands

Mykonos, one of the most touristy destinations in Greece

Tourism in Greece is a must! It is a beautiful country standing out for its mountainous landscapes, incredible weather, numerous beguiling islands , long sandy beaches, uncountable attractions of all kinds and many more! This is the perfect place to plan your holidays in one or many of the famous holiday destinations - Take a look at our travel guides !

Table of contents: • General info • Why Greece • Popular Destinations • Development

Greece is the ultimate tourist destination for many Europeans and attracts millions of visitors every year, who travel there for their summer holiday. This section provides information about Greek tourist destinations on the mainland and the Greek islands.

General information

Greek islands and the mainland host some of the top holiday destinations in Europe. According to the World Tourism Organization, Greece ranks 9th worldwide in terms of international tourist arrivals for 2022. According to the Border Survey of the Bank of Greece, the country receives at least 15 million tourists from abroad every year from 2015 onwards, with the only exception of 2020 due to the pandemic of Covid-19.

Most tourists come from Europe, especially the EU countries, and from the USA, while fewer originate from the other continents.

Why Greece?

Greece is a famous country, popular for its clean beaches and rich history . Hundreds of archaeological and historical sites gloriously depict the country's past - besides, there is a reason why Athens is called an open-air museum! The landscape is mainly mountainous and the terrain is very fertile in the valleys that are scattered along the Greek mainland. Greece is also surrounded by water - by the Aegean and the Ionian Sea in particular. The country features around 6000 islands and islets, but only 227 of them are inhabited. They are the most popular Greek destinations, especially in summer. Big or tiny, green or arid, ideal for cosmopolitan or relaxing vacations, one thing is for sure: all have the requirements and facilities to offer you memorable and safe vacations!

Some reputed island resorts are: • Mykonos , with its cosmopolitan character • Santorini , with the most romantic sunset in the world • Rhodes , the island of the knights, with its medieval castles and the butterflies • Crete , with its revolutionary spirit • Ios , with its wild nightlife • Corfu , with its Venetian style • Ithaca , the homeland of Odysseus • Samos , the greenest of all Greek islands • Skiathos , with its long and sandy beaches All these constitute just a few examples of the most famous Greek paradises. Many have airports and are easily accessible by plane from Athens or directly from other European cities. All of them are also accessible via ferry .

✔ TRAVEL TO GREECE WITH US Want to discover Greece and the Greek islands with ease and totally carefree? Take an organized island hopping tour or discover our tours of ancient sites . Want to make your own island-hopping trip? Book your ferries online and view more services that can help you organize your trip. Alternatively, you can send us your request!

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Most popular locations

Information about tourism in the most popular holiday destinations of Greece: Athens , Santorini , Mykonos , Paros , Skiathos , Rhodes , Kos , Heraklion in Crete , Zakynthos , and Corfu .

Development of tourism

The first hotel in Greece was established in Naflplio, the first capital of the Greek State, in 1834 and was named "LONDON Hotel". Then, the infamous "GRANDE BRETAGNE" in Syntagma Square welcomed its first guests in 1878, and, after that, the hospitality sector in Greece started to gradually grow.

Greek tourism started flourishing in the late 1960s and particularly in the early 1970s . At a slow but stable pace, Greece has today managed to become one of the most favorite tourist destinations among Europeans, Asians, and Americans.

The tourist season in Greece lasts from May to September , since the third-quarters of the tourism flow choose this time of year to come to Greece. The sunny weather, warm beaches, and variable landscapes invite people from all over the world to experience Greek hospitality and a peaceful way of life.

Tourism revenues contribute greatly to the Greek economy , with many describing tourism as the country's heavy industry. Many jobs have been created and businesses are continuously supported, by setting up numerous hotels, restaurants, cafes, gift shops and more in each area.

Efforts are being made to promote other forms of tourism; apart from summer holidays, winter tourist resorts, therapeutic spas, ecotourism, working holidays and discovery holidays have started to become popular, too. Also, island cruises and island-hopping itineraries are becoming ever more popular.

Are you still hesitating? We invite you to visit our web pages to get a sense of the astonishing beauty of Greece and the Greek islands. We provide you with a wide range of photos and an even wider range of information for more than 90 destinations . However, when it comes to Greece, pictures are not enough. You should come to experience its beauty by yourself!

You can find more info about Greece on the website of the National Tourism Organisation .

DISCOVER MORE ABOUT GREECE

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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.

1. Acropolis, Athens

2. acropolis museum, athens, 3. santorini, 6. the towns and beaches of crete, 8. metéora monasteries, 9. rhodes town, 10. zákynthos, 11. samaria gorge, 12. nafplio, 13. thessaloniki, 14. corinth canal, 15. mount olympus, 16. palace of knossos, 17. mycenae, 21. 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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Your Trip to the Greece: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Greece: The Complete Guide

A visit to Greece can be a dream vacation as long as you know what your dream really is and plan for it. The country's beautiful beaches and world-famous archaeological sites are just two (of many!) reasons to visit Greece . But whatever your reason, use this guide to learn more about the various regions of Greece, how to travel around the country and what to expect of Greece's food, culture, and sights.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : Spring and early fall are the best times to visit when there are fewer tourists but the sea is still warm and the weather fine for outdoor activities.

Language: Greek  . English is spoken in the cities and areas popular with visitors.

Currency: Euro (€)  .

Getting Around: Train service in Greece is limited. An exception is the InterCity Network run by TrainOSE that connects Athens to Thessaloniki and several other cities. Buses, including both local and intercity services, are run by regional cooperatives known as KTEL. The services are not nationally coordinated, so you need to look up KTEL for the region you plan to visit. This KTEL Macedonia website (covering the area around Thessaloniki) is typical. Athens and Thessaloniki have local and suburban public transportation systems. Athen's Metro (expanded for the Olympics) is particularly good, cheap, and clean. Hundreds of ferries connect the mainland to the islands and mainland coastal ports to each other. Private companies run the ferries, and there is no nationwide timetable. Save time and money by using the services of a Greek travel agent to book ferries and for information about buses and trains. Greek websites on these subjects are not well developed for international travelers, but agents are common in ports and city centers.

Travel Tip: Driving in Greece is not for the faint-hearted. Even though many of the highways have been improved in recent years, mountain roads can be hair raising. That, coupled with Greek driving habits, means that the country has a much higher accident rate than elsewhere in Europe.

Things to Do

Eighty percent of Greece is covered in mountains, divided into many peninsulas, and separated by canals  . There are also about 6,000 islands, 227 of them inhabited, and thousands of miles of coast. Getting from one part of the country to another can be complicated so it's important to know, in advance, what you want to do and where to find it:

• Two major cities, Athens , the center of Classical Greece, and Thessaloniki , the heart of Byzantine Greece, are hubs of culture, museums, fashion, nightlife, shopping, dining, and festivals. Both are good bases for touring.
• Fragrant woodlands, dramatic mountains, olive groves and sacred sites dedicated ancient oracles and gods cover mainland Greece. Byzantine fortresses and remote monasteries perch between deep, folded mountain valleys.
• Wherever you go in Greece you'll find thousands of years of history, from the earliest signs of democracy to the temples and theaters of the ancient world as well as the remnants of the Romans and the Byzantines. The Parthenon, the Acropolis , and the Temple of Apollo at Delphi are among the most popular sites.
• The thousands of Greek islands and beaches are an essential part of Greece and Greek culture and are surprisingly easy to reach by plane or ferry. Islands like Crete , Santorini , and Kefalonia are worth a trip on their own.

What to Eat and Drink

Though the foodie scene in the cities is becoming pan-European and international, the best things to eat in Greece are still fresh and local. Octopus and kalamari (fried rings of squid) are popular taverna fare. Fresh Greek salads with feta or local cheeses, a squeeze of lemon and tangy olive oil, are part of every meal. Look for sweets flavored with mastic, a gum from evergreen trees. You may be welcomed to your hotel with a spoonful of cherry or apricot jam and a glass of water.

Take some time to stop at a kafenio (cafe) for coffee and honey-soaked Greek pastries, like baklava and kataifi , or the custard pie known as galaktoboureko . A popular outdoor coffee drink, apparently invented accidentally in Thessaloniki, is frappé. It's made of instant coffee, ice water, and sugar beaten with an electric whisk to form a foam.

The Greeks these days are producing outstanding red and white wines from vineyards in Crete and Santorini. Ouzo, flavored with aniseed, is similar to French pastis drinks. It is sweet and robust and, when added to water, turns white. It packs a lethal punch. If you have a taste for firewater, try the raw spirit made from the byproducts of winemaking. It's called raki in Crete and Tsipouro or Tsikoudia everywhere else. As far as local beers are concerned, microbreweries have caught on, and there are excellent craft beer makers. Look for Red Donkey, a fruity amber ale from Santorini.

Learn more about what to eat and drink in Greece, including the top 10 dishes to try in Greece and the best restaurants in Athens .

Where to Stay

Accommodations in Greece range from quirky Athens boutiques in bohemian neighborhoods like Psirri to corporate giants, like the Athens Hilton in the city center or the luxury Hotel Grande Bretagne in Syntagma Square. The area immediately west of Syntagma Square and into Monastiraki has a concentration of moderately priced three and four-star hotels.

Learn more about the best hotels in Athens, as well as top neighborhoods to visit in Athens .

Getting There

The main international airport for Greece is Athens International Airport , with connecting flights to Thessaloniki, Kalamata , and several of the islands, including Crete and Santorini. Athens Airport is on a main highway and is about 20 minutes from the city center by car or taxi (taxi fares are set by law). Car rental, pick up and drop off, is easiest to arrange at the airport. The cheapest and fastest way to get to the airport from Athens is by Metro Line 3. The airport Metro station is well marked. There are also bus services from the airport to the ports of Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrio.

To find out more about getting to Greece, explore the best ways to get to Athens Airport , how to take the ferry from Athens to Santorini and how to avoid taxi scams in Greece .

Culture and Customs

Outside of the big cities and major tourist resorts, Greece is a relatively conservative country. In small towns and rural areas, women should dress modestly, avoiding bare shoulders, exposed bosoms, tight or very short skirts or shorts. Even in the cities, cover up before entering Greek Orthodox churches. And, if you are visiting monasteries like the ones at Meteora, don't wear trousers. If you do, the monks will give you wrap around skirts to put on over pants.

Nude and topless bathing is tolerated in many parts of Greece, and on some of the islands, like Crete and Spetses, a short walk beyond the end of a popular beach will take you to a nude beach area. But check with your hotel or a local taverna first. Nude bathing is still technically illegal. On the small islands and in more rural places, Greek families from the small mountain villages visit the beach on weekends with their families. Nude bathing that may be tolerated during the week is not allowed on weekends and school holidays.

Check out everything you need to know about nude bathing in Greece and discover Crete's best nude beach.

Money-Saving Tips

• Travel in the off-season: The most popular time to visit, with the highest prices from June to September. Visit in May or October, and the weather is reliably warm, but prices are much lower.
• Consider self-catering: That's what Europeans call vacation rentals. Efficiency apartments and small villas are usually cheaper than hotel accommodation, and you can save quite a bit by cooking some of your meals yourself.
• Rent an electric bicycle or moped: They're cheaper than rental cars and popular for getting around on islands and in coastal resorts. Just be careful. They are very noisy, and you may not be aware of traffic coming up behind you.
• Take advantage of what's free: Most museums and historical attractions have free admission on certain days or for certain groups of travelers. Look up the site you're interested in on the Greek Ministry of Culture & Sports website . In the left column of your attraction's listing, click on "Information," and you'll find all the free days.

Greek National Tourism Organisation . "General Info."

Greek National Tourism Organisation . "Geography."

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Planning a Honeymoon in Greece: The Complete Guide

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'Mamma Mia!' Filming Locations: The Complete Guide

How to Travel from Venice to Athens by Plane, Ferry, and Cruise

Traveling Safely in Greece

48 Hours in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary

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Greece’s Corinth Canal: The Complete Guide

Visit the Temples of the Greek Gods and Goddesses

How to Travel from Athens to Santorini by Ferry and Plane

The Towns of Santorini: The Complete Guide

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Greece's Newest Hotels Are Worth Planning a Trip Around

Santorini Map and Travel Guide

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The 13 best places to visit in Greece

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

There are many beautiful countries in Europe, but there is nowhere like Greece . The white and blue houses. The mountain views. The glistening blue waters and the secret hidden coves. It’s sometimes barely believable that Greece exists, but it does! And the best part? It’s absolutely massive, and there’s so much to explore. 

Different Greek islands do different things, so if you’re making the trip, you should first figure out what kind of holiday you’re after. Are you looking for something beachy, nature-y or a bit more cosmopolitan? Lemon trees, sunset cocktails or pure, unadulterated clubbing? Whatever you're looking for, our local writer has picked the best islands, cities and towns to visit. 

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

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

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Where to visit in Greece

1.  Athens

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

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

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

2.  Aegina

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

3.  Crete

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

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

Discover Crete:

📍  The best things to do in Crete

4.  Santorini

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

Discover Santorini:

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

5.  Zakynthos

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

6.  Tinos

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

7.  Naxos

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

8.  Corfu

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

Discover Corfu:

📍  The best things to do on Corfu

9.  Rhodes

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

Discover Rhodes:

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

10.  Kastellorizo

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

11.  Thessaloniki

Once the second city of the Byzantine Empire – and later a thriving Ottoman port city connecting east and west – Thessaloniki has only been part of Greece since 1912. And that really shows. This place doesn’t feel like Greece you see in tourist brochures: its central market, Kapani, has all the colour and chaos of an Istanbul bazaar, and much Ottoman architecture remains throughout the city centre – you can even visit the house where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the father of modern Turkey, was born. The harbourside Ladadika area hums with some of the wildest, most fun nightlife in the Balkan peninsula, with most bars and clubs open until 6am and beyond. The old town is perfect for the aimless morning-after mooch – and the ouzo and  bougatsa  breakfast pastries in these parts are unrivalled.

12.  Kalamata

The city of Kalamata in the Peloponnese is home to the ancient ruins of Messenia, the picturesque Navarino Lagoon beach, and also those very famous olives you may recognise the name from. Few tourists venture to these parts, which is great news for you. To explore the wider region, base yourself at the Ant Farm – a beautiful farmhouse just outside the city, where you can stay in one of ten treehouses nestled within the olive trees.

13.  Mykonos

Dubbed the ‘Greek Ibiza’,  Mykonos  is where you’ll find world-famous DJs headlining superclubs while a jet-set crowd mingle on yachts and private jets. But this Cyclades island is not just for the uber-privileged: there are plenty of cute hotels, affordable gourmet restaurants and quiet corners still relatively untouched by the tourism industry. So when you’re done hanging out at the beach clubs and traditional tavernas, just follow the tangled web of dirt-smattered backroads – chances are, there’ll be a heavenly beach waiting at the end.

Discover Mykonos: 📍  The best things to do in Mykonos 🏨 Amazing hotels in Mykonos

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The 31 best Greek islands to visit in 2024

From the gastronomic specialties of Sifnos to the enigmatic ruins of the Dodecanese, each Greek island has its own distinct character. Choose your own adventure and discover them yourself.

From the gastronomic isles of the Cyclades to the enigmatic ruins of the Dodecanese, each of the six main Greek island groups has its own distinct character. Yet, look closely and you’ll find that more unites than sets them apart: there are secluded towns loved by local gourmands, hidden coves brimming with mythical associations and, above all, a natural splendour that’s captured the minds of artists and adventurers through the ages.  

1. Nisyros: Walk on a volcano

According to Greek mythology, it was Poseidon who seized a chunk of Kos and hurled it on top of a fiery Titan called Polyvotis — creating the volcanic island of Nisyros, with its enormous, sulphurous caldera. The volcano is active, but travellers can still walk across its warm crust — it last erupted in 1888 and is carefully monitored. It can be visited on a day trip from nearby Kos, but it’s worth sticking around to explore the island’s little capital, Mandraki, with its colourful houses and Byzantine churches; the nearby thermal spring at Loutra; and the lofty village of Emporios, with its ruined Byzantine castle, natural cave sauna and mesmerising views over the caldera.

2. Kalymnos: Reach new heights

For a long time, the island of Kalymnos was famous for one thing: sponge-diving. But in 1996, a new focus emerged, when Italian rock climber Andrea di Bari, on holiday with his family, observed the island’s towering limestone cliffs. Before long, this isle emerged as a capital for climbing. Kalymnos now has over 4,000 routes for all abilities, and companies such as Climb in Kalymnos offer dedicated beginners’ courses. But it’s not all about sports here, as the island has retained its old-world charm. Wander the ruins of the Byzantine town of Kastro, high on the mountainside, or head east to Vathys and its fjord-like valley, flanked by fragrant citrus groves.

3. Kos: Pedal the ‘bicycle island’

Greece’s ‘bicycle island’, Kos has over 6,500 bikes to hire and is also crisscrossed with cycling trails, including a new eight-mile path that takes in the coast. When Kos’s Italian colonisers departed in 1943, they left their bikes behind, which were swiftly adopted by the locals. One of the best sights to explore by bike are the ruins of Asklepion, two miles outside Kos Town and easy to reach on two wheels. In 430BC, Kos native Hippocrates, the ‘Founder of Medicine’, created this healing sanctuary, which is arranged in terraces along the hillside. But you don’t have to be a keen cyclist to enjoy Kos — the island is also generously endowed with sandy beaches, and Kos Town is known for its crusader, Ottoman and Italian architecture set beneath clouds of fuchsia bougainvillea.

4. Tilos: Wander a ghost village

For centuries, the residents of Tilos built their homes inland, safe from marauders. But in the 1950s, when the villagers of Mikro Chorio found their wells running dry, they decided to relocate to the island’s port area — taking their roofs, doors and windows with them. Until recently, the only signs that Mikro Chorio ever existed were the whitewashed church and fawn-coloured stone walls, which snake over the hillside and act as a playground for goats. Now, though, one ruined home has been renovated and turned into an atmospheric summer bar. From 11pm when it opens, a shuttle bus runs here from nearby Livadia — and the sound of chatter and clinking glasses once again fills this ghostly village.  

5. Rhodes: Explore a woodland oasis

The island of Rhodes is best known for two historic sites — walled Old Rhodes Town, built by the crusading Knights of St John; and Lindos, a pretty 15th-century sea captains’ town set beneath an ancient, vertigo-inducing acropolis. But it’s also popular for its broad, sandy beaches, and the fact it receives over 300 days of sunshine each year. If you can tear yourself away from the sea, visit Seven Springs , a refreshing woodland oasis in the north east of the island, reached by wading through a dark, 180m-long irrigation tunnel. The effort is worth it: refreshing swims, a tall waterfall and pine-shaded hiking trails await, and there’s a taverna frequented by roaming peacocks.

6. Symi: Hike through old donkey trails

Pint-sized, little-known Symi beckons day-trippers from nearby Rhodes with its neoclassical, colourful main town and the revered, frescoed Panormitis Monastery, set in a small settlement on the opposite corner of the island. Linking the two through the forested interior are some near-forgotten mule paths, which fell into disuse after a road running the length of the island was paved in the 1960s. Choose to spend a few days in this Dodecanese destination and walk these storied dirt roads — at times, hardly more than a suggestion of a trail — to get to viewpoints rarely reached by foreign visitors.

( Why you should go hiking in Symi, Greece . )

7. Karpathos: Travel through time

One of the Dodecanese’s highest mountains effectively divides Karpathos in two. At the island’s northern end, the remote hamlet of Olympos was isolated until 1979, when a road was built through the wild terrain. Local women still wear flowery scarves and long skirts — plus enormous necklaces of gold coins on special occasions — and they keep to many traditional ways, baking bread in communal ovens and embroidering textiles. Stay overnight here, in a cosy apartment at Irene’s House or Olympos Archipelagos , with its sea views, to get a feel for Olympos’s old-world magic, and don’t miss a traditional laouto (lute) performance in the taverna.  

8. Lefkada: Set sail for the islets

Mountainous, wooded Lefkada, with its craggy coast, was a late-comer to tourism, so it can feel more authentically Greek than some of the most popular isles. And for those dreaming of sailing the islands, its port of Nydri is the best place to start: sheltered from winds, its bay is scalloped with secluded coves and its own archipelago of emerald islets. You can hire anything from a licence-free dinghy up to a large sailing yacht here, with which you can explore the secret inlets.  

9. Paxos: Jump into the blue

Renting boats, whether solo or with a skipper, is something you can do on stretches of most Greek islands. But the size of Pazos, a seven-mile by two-and-a-half-mile blot off the south coast of Corfu, means it can be circled in its entirety in just a few hours. This makes it perfect for beach-hopping and the chance to discover a number of Greece’s most secluded coves — some lined with olive and cypress trees, others barely wide enough for a couple of towels, all lapped by inviting, crystal-clear water. Summer days in this corner of the Ionian are mostly spent dropping anchor at whichever one takes your fancy, stretching out beneath the sun on the deck, then cooling off by diving straight into the water.

( Why you should try beach-hopping by boat around Paxos, Greece .)

10. Corfu: Head for the hills  

With its Venetian-style capital and sandy beaches, Corfu is one of Greece’s most-visited islands. It’s worth heading for the hills here. Old Perithia , the island’s highest village, was founded in the 14th century, but by the 1950s its inhabitants had left, leaving only a taverna for hikers. In 2010, a couple from the UK fell in love with the village, buying a property (now a boutique B & B ) and kicking off its slow restoration. Today, it’s a riot of wildflowers in spring.    

11. Zakynthos: See the blue caves  

This is an island of white-sand beaches, but its north coast, with sheer cliffs rising out of the sea, is truly spectacular. The best-known precipices surround ‘Shipwreck Beach’, where a rusting cargo ship rests, slowly sinking into sands — though it’s currently only accessible to view from afar due to the risk of landslides. Other cliffs help form the Blue Caves, a labyrinth of pale rock that reflects the shimmering electric blue of the waters. Boats can enter the largest cave, where you can dive in for full immersion.

12. Kefalonia: Kayak secret coves

The biggest Ionian island, mountainous and green like a vast turtle’s shell, is surrounded by cliffs and coves — including the deep blue Melissani Cave on the east coast — and many of them are only accessible from the sea. In a kayak , you can paddle between the beaches at leisure, or embark on a longer guided trip, staying in inns on the way. For a challenge of a different kind, drive 1,628m up Mount Ainos, the highest peak in the area, for an eagle’s-eye view of the Ionians.  

13. Samothraki: Meet the Great Gods

Samothraki, in the far northeast Aegean, is a small island with a mythical past. The Greek sea god Poseidon is said to have sat on Mount Fengari here — at 1,664m, the second highest in the Aegean — to watch the Trojan War, while in ancient times, numerous pilgrims would make the difficult voyage here to worship at the Sanctuary of the Cabeiri, or Great Gods. Now in ruins, this temple complex was home to a mystery religion, and very little is known about its secret rites. Anyone, from kings to slaves, could be initiated, and historical figures are thought to have been members — among them Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great. After, head to the village of Therma, a 10-minute drive along the coast to the east, for its hot springs and nearby waterfalls so bucolic, you’d almost expect to come across a nymph.  

14. Lemnos: Explore a Greek desert  

It can be difficult to believe that, in among the pretty harbour towns, the Greek islands are also home to one of Europe’s only deserts. Pachies Ammoudies, on Lemnos, one of the largest islands, resembles the Sahara on a smaller scale, its soft dunes constantly shifting with the wind. The best way to explore it is by hiring a 4WD in the capital, Myrina, and heading out at dawn or dusk, when the sand takes on an orange glow. Myrina itself was named after the Queen of the Amazons — the   island is believed to have once been the home of the warrior women visited by the Argonauts — and you can spend hours exploring its traditional coffeeshops and colourful harbour. Also don’t miss the ruins of Poliochni, a settlement thought to be older than nearby Troy on the Turkish mainland.

15. Ikaria: Dance until dawn  

Ikaria, in the far east of the Aegean, is closer to Izmir in Turkey than Athens. It is known for lying in a Blue Zone — an area where people have a longer, healthier life expectancy — with about one in three living into their 90s. The list of potential reasons is long, ranging from the healthy local diet to the lack of stress, but visit this island between May and September, and it’s likely you’ll discover one more — nobody wants to miss the next paniyiri. The island’s saint’s day festivals happen almost daily in different villages. Fuelled by the island’s heady natural wine, they involve all ages dancing in unison together — placing their hands on each other’s shoulders and spiralling in time to traditional violins. When you’re partying until dawn, it can be easy to lose all track of time.

16. Lesbos: Discover the ouzo effect  

Ouzo, Greece’s favourite anise-flavoured spirit, is largely produced on Lesbos, with its traditional villages and gnarled olive groves, where 16 dedicated distilleries work to make over half of the national supply. And for fans of the spirit, Plomari, on the south coast, shines like the North Star — it’s here that travellers can find the Ouzo Museum , and learn about the drink’s history and the variety of Greek herbs that go into making it, alongside tours of the copper stills. Each brand is different, and some are difficult to find beyond the island, so it’s also where you’ll find the best opportunities for tastings. Order with water on the side to observe the famous ‘ouzo effect’ — despite both liquids being clear, when combined the result turns milky-white.  

17. Santorini: Sip volcanic wines

This island may be best known for its vertiginous villages on the edge of the caldera, but it’s also one of Greece’s top wine producers. Because of its volcanic soil, Santorini was spared from the lice epidemic that decimated Europe’s vineyards in the 19th century, and its indigenous white grapes, Assyrtiko, Athiri and Aidani, flourish, their vines pruned to resemble baskets to protect them from the wind. The resulting wine is bone dry and mineral rich — but you can also find the naturally sweet Vinsanto here, made from sun-dried grapes to produce a tipple that was popular in the Middle Ages. Try both kinds at the Santo , the island’s largest cooperative in Pyrgos. Or visit the organic Hatzidakis estate, located inside a cave.    

18. Syros: Listen to Greek blues

Rebetiko, known as the Greek blues and often featuring soulful lyrics on migration, poverty, misfortune and unrequited love, has roots in the years of mass unemployment following the Greece-Turkey Population Exchange in 1923. One of the genre’s greatest composers, Markos Vamvakaris, came from Ermoupoli on Syros, and live performances still ring out from bars on balmy nights here, especially during the summer Rebetiko Festival. Visit Ermoupoli itself, the neo-classical capital of the Cyclades, with its Catholic and Orthodox hilltop neighbourhoods, marble-paved Miaoulis Square and opera house. Don’t miss its speciality loukoumia (Turkish delight), introduced to the island by refugees from the then-Ottoman ruled islands of Chios and Psara.

19. Sifnos: Cook like a Greek

Sifnos is where the father of modern Greek cuisine, Nikolaos Tselementes, was born in 1878. The island’s specialities are worth looking out for, with chickpea stews and braised lamb mastelo still slow cooked in the traditional way in stoneware pots. Learn some of the island’s recipes by helping to prepare a typical meal at Narlis Farm , just outside Apollonia, where farmers have produced organic fruit and vegetables for generations according to traditional Cycladic methods, using very little water. Sifnos is exceptionally pretty, with the whitewashed villages Apollonia, Artemonas and Kastro, sandy beaches with seaside churches, and landscapes dotted with chapels, crisscrossed by miles of trails.

20. Tinos: Embark on a food weekend

In recent years, Cycladic Tinos has become famous among Greeks as an island of gastronomy. Blessed with fertile land and a resulting bounty of locally grown produce, it’s a magnet for chefs from nearby Athens, who’ll often leave their city restaurants in the warmer months to head here. Tinos Food Paths, a festival of gastronomy celebrated each year in the second week of May, marks the beginning of the season of indulgence. Come to join in the summer feast: start the morning sipping silty Greek coffee with a crispy filo pastry; recharge mid-afternoon with an acai bowl of wild strawberries; and round the day up trying local specialities, from fourtalia — a fluffy omelette made with potatoes — to louza , the island’s spice-cured pork.

( How to plan a food weekend on the Greek island of Tinos . )

21. Milos: Stay in a syrmata  

Volcanic Milos is an island of colour, with rock formations in shades of red, yellow and blinding white. Similarly bright doors and windows adorn its traditional syrmata — the huts found only around Milos and neighbouring Kimolos, carved into the soft volcanic cliffs by fishermen sheltering their boats for the winter. Some have been converted into quirky places to stay — a bit cramped, with just a bed and bathroom, but right on the water’s edge. On land, seek out the catacombs (the only ones on a Greek island), the ancient theatre and the replica of the Venus de Milo, marking the spot where the original was found.

22. Naxos: Find the marbles

Fine, white marble has been quarried and sculpted on Naxos since prehistoric times; the archaeology museum , in the Venetian castle on top of Naxos Town, is packed with remarkably well-preserved marble Cycladic idols from 3200-2300 BCE, smoothed with the island’s native emery. Elsewhere on the island, giant kouros (naked male youth) statues, carved in the 6th century BCE, were abandoned when flaws in the marble were discovered: today, two lie near the quarries in Apollonas. Naxos has a relaxed and family-friendly vibe, with walking trails and swathes of sand south of Naxos Town.

23. Agistri: Snorkel in clear coves

Less than an hour from Athens’ port city of Piraeus, Agistri is the smallest of the inhabited Saronics. Surrounded by twinkling waters, its pine trees cling to the cliffs that curl around its mainly pebbly beaches. Aim for the little peninsula of Aponisos, with its turquoise coves perfect for snorkelling, just a short bus ride from Skala and Megalochori, Agistri’s main towns. Or head out with Interdive and sail in its traditional wooden ship to the uninhabited islet of Dorousa, whose fish-rich waters and shipwrecks are exciting terrain for experienced divers.

24. Poros: Wander in a lemon forest  

Poros is so close to the Peloponnese that the 400-metre-wide channel separating the two is nicknamed Greece’s Grand Canal. A favourite past time in pretty Poros Town is lingering in a waterfront taverna and watching all the ships pass by, including ferries zipping across to Galatas, a port town on the mainland. Near there is a lemon forest that becomes intoxicating in May, when the trees are in bloom and the citrusy scent drifts across the channel on the breeze. For a perfect day out, hike up to the pretty blue-and-white clocktower in Poros Town for views over the lemon forests.  

25. Spetses: Get to know Bouboulina

Thought to be the world’s first female admiral, Laskarina Bouboulina, who grew up in Spetses, raised a small fleet during the Greek War of Independence in the 1820s and won Greece’s first naval battle aboard her flagship, Agamemnon. Her bronze statue stands near the harbour, and now her descendants run the charming Bouboulina Museum in her former mansion — where she was assassinated in a family dispute. Pine-clad Spetses later became the summer retreat of wealthy Athenians and, in 1914, was the first Greek island to get a hotel, the luxurious Poseidonion Grand Hotel , which still dominates the harbour today. The rest of the waterfront, still bristling with cannons, is filled with neoclassical former captains’ mansions, villas, black-and-white pebble mosaics and horse-drawn carriages. Visitors can cycle to the beaches — many sandy — and later dine in the bars and restaurants in the Old Harbour.

26. Aegina: Trace ancient Greece

Outside of Athens, surviving ancient peristyle temples are rare in Greece, but you can find a beautiful one just an hour from Piraeus by ferry — the Temple of Aphaia, on Aegina. Isolated on a pine-covered hill overlooking the island’s biggest beach resort, Agia Marina, the temple was built around 500 BCE — decades before the Parthenon. Sadly, like the Parthenon, it was stripped of its marble friezes by antiquarians, inspired by Elgin, who shipped them to Munich. Aegina has many other feathers in its cap: pretty Aegina Town, the first capital of Greece, where the scent of roasting pistachios fills the air. A remnant of this can be explored at the Archaeological Site of Kolona nearby, which contains the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, and a neighbouring archaeology museum. The ruins of another former capital, Byzantine Paleochora, can be found to the east above Agios Nektarios, one of the biggest churches in Greece, built for the most recent Greek Orthodox saint, who died in 1920.  

At first sight, looming into view as the ferry approaches its harbour, Hydra might seem like any other Greek island: fluttering white-and-azure flags, whitewashed houses, busy tavernas. Except the B & B owners who gather beside its dock, ready to pick up visitors and whisk them to their premises, don’t wait in their cars, like they would elsewhere. This mountainous island, off the east coast of the Peloponnese, is entirely pedestrian. Even bicycles are banned, thanks to a 1950s law that sought to keep it as it’s always been — a labyrinth of alleys to be explored on foot, by boat or, better yet, in the saddle. As you discover hilltop monasteries, cliffs paths and sandy beaches, you’ll find it’s a destination where the journey really does make the experience.

( How to explore the car-free island of Hydra, Greece . )

28. Skopelos: Hike wildflower trails

The emerald sea reflects the pine trees covering Skopelos, a serene island of pebble-strewn coves that’s great for walks and views. Near the town of Skopelos, piled high in the shadow of a Venetian castle, wildflower-dotted trails lead to six Byzantine monasteries on Mount Palouki. You can also hike to the Sedoukia, a collection of Neolithic tombs, or to the wedding chapel of Agios Ioannis — of Mamma Mia! film fame — perched high on a rock overlooking the sea near the island’s second town, Glossa.

29. Skyros: Meet Skyrian horses

Isolated from its sisters, Skyros has a whitewashed capital, Chora, that curls around a castle-crowned crag overlooking a vast beach. The northern half of the island is wooded, while the wild, rocky south is where a few of the last little Skyrian horses roam. Introduced in the fifth century BCE by Athenian colonists and isolated ever since, they’re the descendants of the horses depicted in the Parthenon Marbles. With only around 200 left, they’re one of the rarest breeds in the world.

30. Skiathos: Hit the beach

Cosmopolitan Skiathos, beside Skopelos, owes its popularity to its 62 beaches, which offer a stretch of sand for every taste. Koukounaries and Vromolimnos are best for watersports, while Aselinos is ideal for those after a quieter time, with just a few places to eat. Lalaria, meanwhile, is spectacular and silvery, and Kechria, with its sunbeds amid the olive trees, is perfect for a lazy afternoon punctuated by lunch in the taverna. As the sun sets, pretty, fun-loving Skiathos Town buzzes into life.

31. Alonnisos: Enjoy aquatic adventures

From May to October, boats head out on day trips to explore the waters off Alonnisos, which is part of Europe’s largest marine park. Here, endangered monk seals are protected along with dolphins and over 80 species of bird. Experienced divers can tour the ‘Parthenon of shipwrecks’, a fifth-century BCE vessel laden with amphoras that sunk off the coast of nearby islet Peristera and now forms the core of Greece’s first underwater museum .  

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15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thessaloniki

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

Messolonghi

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

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

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

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Tips for your next trip.

A delicious visit to Athens' museums

Beautiful atriums and courtyards, balconies with breathtaking views and green gardens have been shaped as part of museum premises in Athens promise to offer you relaxing spots before or after your culture-oriented visits.

Athens Riviera

You don't need to get on a ferry to escape the bustle of the Greek capital: take a short bus ride and you'll find superb local beaches along the sheltered Saronic Gulf...

Museum cafés in Athens

LGBTQ+ Journeying to Athens

Filming in athens.

SUMMER HOLIDAY (1963)

Four London bus mechanics strike up a deal with London transport. They do up a double-decker London bus, drive it around Europe as a hotel and if they make it, they will in turn own and be in charge of a whole fleet. While on the road in France, they pick up three ladies whose car breaks down and offer to take them to their next singing job in Athens!

DIRECTOR: PETER YATES FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

THE BOY ON A DOLPHIN (1957)

A sponge diver ( Sofia Loren) on Hydra island discovers a sunken ship filled with artifacts, including a priceless ancient gold statue of a boy on a dolphin. She and her boyfriend enlist the help of an American archaeologist, but her boyfriend can't afford the asking price and ends up turning to an art collector for help.

DIRECTOR: JEAN NEGULESCO FILMING LOCATION: HYDRA, ATHENS, RHODES, KORINTHOS, POROS, KALABAKA, DELOS, DELPHI, SANTORINI

IN THE COOL OF THE DAY (1963)

An English book publisher, who is taunted and tormented by a grudging, embittered, anti-social wife, falls hopelessly in love with a fragile American girl, who has been sheltered and protected to the point of absurdity by her adoring husband. The couple soon run off to Greece together to pursue their romance.

DIRECTOR: ROBERT STEVENS FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, DELPHI

FOR THE LOVE OF BENJI (1977)

Even when he is supposed to be on holidays, Benji the dog is never far away from adventure. While traveling to Greece with his owners, Benji has a run-in with a secret agent (Ed Nelson), who hides something on him that a lot of unsavoury characters seem to want. Once in the foreign land, Benji becomes separated from his owners, and has to navigate his way through Athens with everyone chasing after him. All Benji wants is to be reunited with housekeeper Mary (Patsy Garrett) and the kids.

DIRECTOR: JOE CAMP FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

AMERICA AMERICA (1962)

Somewhere around 1900, a young Greek man lives a miserable life in a small village in Turkey as a member of the Greek minority. When the oppression by the Turks increases, his father provides him with the family treasures and sends him to Constantinople. There, he is supposed to make money and get the family to join him. But his own dream is going to America...

DIRECTOR: ELIA KAZAN FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

ATLAS (1961)

An evil king Praximedes is convinced to settle his dispute with his political rival by staging a battle to the death between their respective champions, and convinces superhero Atlas to fight for him. But Atlas eventually realises the king's true nature and turns against him...

DIRECTOR: ROGER CORMAN FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

BACKFIRE (1964)

A gold smuggler hires our hero to transport a stolen fortune to a new hideout. The smuggler sends him moll to accompany (and spy on) the hero. The two set out for Beirut to get instructions as to where the gold is located. They travel throughout exotic southeast Europe and the Middle-East seeking further instructions, never realizing that they have had the gold with them all along...

DIRECTOR: JEAN BECKER FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

GIRL ON THE BRIDGE (1999)

Adèle (Vanessa Paradis ) a waif who is unlucky in love decides to take her own life by jumping from a Paris bridge, when she gets a strange proposition from Gabor (Daniel Auteuil), a professional knife thrower. Together, their luck is unstoppable, and they have an almost psychic bond. But fidelity is not easy, even for those that are perfectly mached.

DIRECTOR: PATRICE LECONTE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

THE TWO FACES OF JANUARY (2014)

A con artist ( Viggo Mortensen)and his wife (Kirsten Dunst) find themselves in deep trouble in Greece after the former murders a detective. To escape from Greece, they must trust a stranger (Oscar Isaac) who is inherently untrustworthy.

DIRECTOR: HOSSEIN AMINI FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, CHANIA, HERAKLION

IN THE FADE (2017)

Katja's life falls apart in the blink of an eye when two neo-Nazis kill her husband and 6-year-old son in a bomb attack. Her quest for justice soon pushes her to the edge as the two suspects stand trial for murder. The movie has won the Golden Globe Award for Best Foreign Language Film while Diane Cruger won the award of Best actress at Cannes Festival.

DIRECTOR: FATIH AKIN FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

IT HAPPENED IN ATHENS (1962)

During the first modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896, a poor shepherd decides to complete in them, while a glamorous actress promises to marry one of the winners of one of the games.

DIRECTOR: ANDREW MARTON FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

JUPITER'S THIGH (1980)

A honeymoon turns into a breathless country chase for a police inspector and a researcher of ancient Greek civilization.

DIRECTOR: PHILIPPE DE BROCA FILMING LOCATION: KALABAKA, PARGA, CORFU, ATHENS

MALE HUNT (1964)

A Frenchman is getting ready to marry the woman of his dreams. He begins to have second thoughts though when his best friend, a sworn bachelor, tells him that women only use marriage to exploit men. Under that influence, he leaves for Greece on his own.

DIRECTOR: EDOUARD MOLINARO FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, RHODES

MY LIFE IN RUINS (2009)

A Greek-American tour guide (Nia Vardalos) leads and assorted group of misfit tourists around Greece. In a hysterical clash of personalities and cultures, everything seems to go wrong.Until one day, a very special tourist (Richard Dreyfuss) shows her how to have fun and take a good look at the last person she'd ever expect to find love with: her quiet and sexy Greek bus driver (Alexis Georgoulis).

DIRECTOR: DONALD PETRIE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, OLYMPIA, DELPHI

NEVER ON SUNDAY (1960)

A look at the life of Ilya, (Mercouri) a carefree Greek prostitute, who lives in the port of Piraeus and meets an American scholar Holmes (Dassin), an American tourist and classical scholar who adores all things Greek. The two try to change each others' perception and way of living for the better. The movie won the Academy Award for Best Original Song (Manos Hadjidakis for "Never on Sunday").

DIRECTOR: JULES DASSIN FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, PIRAEUS

NEW YORK STORIES (1989)

Τhree stories happening in New York. The first, by Scorsese, is about a painter who creates his works helped by high volume music and an attractive assistant; second, by Coppola, is about a rich and bold 12 years old who helps her separated parents to reconciliate; third, by Allen, is a witty piece of comedy about the impossibility of getting rid of the son's role. The one of Coppola includes a concert on top of the Acropolis Hill.

DIRECTOR: WOODY ALLEN, FRANCIS FORD COPPOLA, MARTIN SCORSESE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

A WOMAN AT HER WINDOW (1976)

The wealthy Austrian-born wife of a penniless Italian diplomat and playboy in 1936's Greece, amuses herself pursuing a shallow loveless affair with a nobleman. Her life is changed when she rescues a political activist she finds hiding beneath her window and falls in love with him...

DIRECTOR: PIERRE GRANIER- DEFERRE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

RAISE THE TITANIC (1980)

The American military is developing an experimental defence system that requires an extremely rare mineral in order to work. It is known that around the turn of the century a miner exported some of the mineral. Hopes are dashed they learn that he transported the mineral on the Titanic. But perhaps the Titanic can be salvaged...

DIRECTOR: JERRY JAMESON FILMING LOCATION: HYDRA, ATHENS

RUBY CAIRO (1992)

A young widow discovers that her late husband had stashed a fortune in secret bank accounts across Europe, and sets off to follow a trail of clues encoded in a set of baseball cards.

DIRECTOR: GRAEME CLIFFORD FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

SIGNS & WONDERS (2000)

Alec (Stellan Skarsgard), an American living in Athens, leaves his wife (Charlotte Rampling) for another woman, Katherine (Deborah Kara Unger), but then tries to return to her over his guilt, but she's more interested in a Greek political activist (Dimitris Katalifos). He is under the influence of signs and premonitions with blue being his color, and yellow being the color of Katherine.

DIRECTOR: JONATHAN NOSSITER FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

TEMPEST (1982)

A middle- aged architect is going through a difficult mi-life crisis. He abandons his wife, leaves New York, and moves to Greece with his teenage daughter. He meets a singer, they become lovers and they move to a Greek island. One day, a twist of fate brings his wife and her new lover to the island due to a shipwreck.

DIRECTOR: PAUL MAZURSKY FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, PIRAEUS

THE 300 SPARTANS (1962)

In 480 BC Spartan king Leonidas led an extremely small army of Greek Soldiers (300 of them his personal body guards from Sparta) to hold off an invading Persian army more that 20 times as large. The actial heroism of those who stood (and ultimately died) with Leonidas helped shape the course of Western Civilization.

DIRECTOR: RUDOLPH MATE FILMING LOCATION: KORINTHOS, ATHENS

THE ANGRY HILLS (1959)

In 1941, an American journalist (Robert Mitchum) reporting from Greece is given a secret list og German collaborators to transport to British Intelligence headquarters. He is helped by Greek resistance fighters as he is pursued across the country by the Nazis...

DIRECTOR: ROBERT ALDRICH FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

THE BURGLARS (1971)

A band of crooks, led by a professional jewel thief, break into a mansion on the outskirts of Athens to steal a priceless collection of emeralds. The robbery is a success, but the gang miss their escape transport out of the country. Meanwhile, their leader is pursued by a crooked police chief, who will stop at nothing to lay his hands on the stolen jewels...

DIRECTOR: HENRI VERNEUIL FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, PIRAEUS, CORFU

THE GREEK TYCOON (1978)

She was the most famous woman in the world. He was a peasant, a pirate, a shark. The Greek Tycoon is the story of their fiery romance. Liz Cassidy, the unhappy widow of an assassinated American president, is pursued by womanising millionaire businessman Theo Tomasis, who proves to be very persistent. Starring Jacqueline Bisset, Anthony Quinn, Edward Albert and James Franciscus.

DIRECTOR: J. LEE THOMPSON FILMING LOCATION: CORFU, ATHENS, MYKONOS

THE ISLAND OF LOVE (1963)

When their gangster- financed B- movie flops, two conmen flee to Greece to escape the mobster who's after them. Once there, they work up another scam to open a resort and one of them falls for the gangster's niece.

DIRECTOR: MORTON DA COSTA FILMING LOCATION: HYDRA, SPETSES, ATHENS

THE LITTLE GIRL DRUMMER (2018)

Brilliant young actress Charlie strikes up an acquaintance with an intriguing stranger while on holiday in Greece, but it rapidly becomes apparent that his intentions are far from romantic.

DIRECTOR: PARK CHAN- WOOK FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, NAXOS

THE OTHER SIDE OF MIDNIGHT (1977)

A beautiful French woman falls in love with a dashing American pilot. She expects him to marry her, but instaed he abandons her. She later becomes a successful actress and manoeuvres to ahve him hired as the private pilot of her wealthy Greek lover, only to rekindle their passion.

DIRECTOR: CHARLES JARROTT

THE ROAD TO CORINTH (1967)

During the Cold War in Greece, NATO radar and missile systems experience mysterious Robert Ford and his wife, Shanny (Jean Seberg), takes over the investigation despite the opposition of the head of the secret service, Mr. Sharps (Michel Bouquet). The latter orders the intelligence agent Dex (Maurice Ronet), a friend of Robert and Shanny, to monitor Shanny's whereabouts. The film is also known as "Who's Got The Black Box?"

DIRECTOR: CLAUDE CHABROL FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS

THE STEPS (1966)

An artist returns to Santorini, where she spent her childhood, to face the ghosts of her past and her present. Starring Irini Papa, Umberto Orsini and Takis Emmanuel.

DIRECTOR: LEONARD HIRSCHIELD FILMING LOCATION: SANTORINI, ATHENS

THE TRIP TO GREECE (2020)

When Odysseus left Troy it took him ten years to get back to his home in Ithaca. Steve and Rob have only six days on their own personal odyssey in THE TRIP TO GREECE. On the way they argue about tragedy and comedy, astronomy and biology, myth, history, democracy and the meaning of life!

DIRECTOR: MICHAEL WINTERBOTTOM FILMING LOCATION: LESVOS, HALKIDIKI, ATHENS, HYDRA, ITHACA

CHALTE CHALTE (2003)

This romantic Bollywood movie starring Shah Rukh Khan was extensively shot in the beautiful destination of Greece. Its famous romantic number, 'tauba tumhare yeh ishare,' was shot around Athens University, Lycabetos Hill, the Olympic Stadium and concludes on the picturesque island of Mykonos.

DIRECTOR: AZIZ MIRZA FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, MYKONOS

TINTIN ET LE MYSTERE DE LA TOISON D'OR (1961)

The famous Belgian reporter Tintin, along with his dog Snowy (Milou) and Captain Haddock, sail to Greece in an old rust bucket called the Golden Fleece. Soon enough though, the ship's hidden secret gets them all in big trouble.

DIRECTOR: JEAN JACQUES VIERNE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, KALABAKA

THE SISTERHOOD OF THE TRAVELLING PANTS 2 (2005)

For the first time since their friendship began, four young girls are separated for a summer. One of them, Lena, visits her grandparents in Greece and meet Kostas, with whom she falls in love...

DIRECTOR: KEN KWAPIS FILMING LOCATION: SANTORINI

27 MISSING KISSES (2000)

A young woman's passion has a remarkable effect on a Russian village in this comedy-drama with fantasy elements. Sybill (Nino Kuchanidze) is a teenager who is sent to a small town in the country to spend the summer with her aunt. Despite her tender age, Sybill is ripe and sexually aware, and while the initial object of her attention is Alexander (Eugenji Sidichin), a widower in his early 40s, she instead pairs up with Mickey (Shalva Iashvili), Alexander's teenage son.

DIRECTOR: NANA DZHORDZHAZDE FILMING LOCATION: ATHENS, KALAVRYTA

40 CARATS (1973)

A forty-year-old conservative divorcee Manhattan realtor finds herself attracted (while on holidays in Greece) to a twenty-two year old New Yorker and they spend the night together. She then turns to New York and she is stunned to learn that he is her daughter's boyfriend. He then pursue her, and is uncertain of what to do...

DIRECTOR: MILTON KATSELAS

FANTASIES (1981)

Set on Mykonos Island, the story is about a sister (Bo Derek) and brother (Peter Hooten), who return home after years abroad. Falling under the island's erotic spell, the girl and boy discover that their love goes beyond filial. The incestuous nature of the story evaporates when it is discovered that the two aren't actually related after all.

DIRECTOR: JOHN DEREK

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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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11 things I wish I knew before visiting Greece

As the travel industry reopens following COVID-19 shutdowns, TPG suggests that you talk to your doctor, follow health officials' guidance and research local travel restrictions before booking that next trip. We will be here to help you prepare, whether it is next month or next year.

When it comes to deciding where to go next, Greece is a usually a slam dunk. Whether it's a beachy island getaway you're after or an Athens (or perhaps Thessaloniki) city break that blends sightseeing by day with ouzo gulping by night, the mythic Mediterranean country ticks all the right boxes for classic holidays but wait -- there's more. Lots more.

Landing in Athens is the easy bit, but once you're on terra firma you'll find yourself immersed in both an epic history and some rather iconic landscapes, too. How you navigate this richness is largely up to you, but the more you know before you go, the more capably you can decode all those big fat Greek travel mysteries. Keep the following things in mind to help you steer clear of the cliches and make the most out of your experiences in Greece.

1. Don't just make the Acropolis in Athens your priority

Making the Acropolis the focus of a jaunt to Athens is like making a trip to Paris about visiting the Eiffel Tower -- so don't do it. Instead, do like the Athenians do and drink in views of the sacred rock from any number of rooftop bars and restaurants in the vicinity, or better yet wake up to a view of it from your hotel room . And the best views of Athens as a whole are actually from the top of Mount Lycavittos anyway (take the funicular in the Kolonaki neighborhood to the top).

Dodge the tourist crowds marching up to the Parthenon and instead inspect the arguably more evocative ruins at the foot of the Acropolis in the ancient agora area. I'd also suggest skipping the Acropolis Museum and diverting your cultural hours to the National Archaeological Museum across town. It's a bit fusty but still the best museum in Greece. Essential smaller museums include the Benaki Museum and Museum of Cycladic Art, both of which blend ancient artifacts with excellent contemporary exhibitions. If you fancy a Picasso or Van Gogh fix, the brand-new Goulandris museum is a must.

2. Don't just feast on gyro

I've seen this over and over (and over) again: tourists who enjoy a hearty international-style buffet breakfast at their hotel and then opt for a gyro or souvlaki platter for lunch and then again for dinner. Don't get me wrong, authentic Greek gyros are pretty scrumptious and at about three euros each are fiscally attractive dining options too. But Greek gastronomy is more diverse than that and experiencing at least some of it can be a highlight of your trip.

To savor a Greek breakfast staple you'll almost never find at a hotel buffet, try strapatsada, a delectable dish made with eggs (usually scrambled), feta cheese, fresh tomato sauce and a dash of olive oil. One of the best is served at the restaurant of the Acropolis Museum (you don't have to pay for museum admission to eat at the restaurant). For the best seafood, shun the touristy tavernas around the Plaka and head instead to Piraeus, where the seafood is generally cheaper, fresher and comes with sea views, too. Vegan restaurants are also taking off, particularly in Athens.

3. Find your nearest laiki

The spirit of ancient Greece lives on in the weekly laiki, or outdoor fruit and vegetable market that takes place rain or shine throughout the year on Fridays. A visit to a laiki is a great way to get an eyeful and taste of nature's bounty for which Greece is justly famous for. Every neighborhood in Athens has its own laiki and some are bigger and better than others. One of the best is in Pagrati, on Archimidous Street right behind the Panathenaic Stadium (the world's only stadium built entirely of marble). Besides organic produce you'll find plenty of traditional comestibles like extra-virgin olive oil, halva and honey for sale.

4. Greece isn't just for the summer months

One of the greatest Greek myths is that the many islands are strictly for summertime escapes, but that's far from the case. True, many islands rock their Greek summer vibes best in the peak months of July and August (the months that also pull the most crowds), but swimming season heats up as early as May and in many places doesn't wind down until November. Little islands near Athens like Hydra and Spetses are worth visiting even in winter and big islands like Crete have plenty of cultural attractions and historic sites to keep you busy throughout the year.

5. Don't take a three-island day cruise

When you are in the Piraeus port you'll see many advertisements for three-island cruises that promise you a mini-odyssey to a trio of islands close to Athens. Generally these are Aegina, Hydra and Poros. Focus on one island instead. Packing three islands into a single day trip is something that Greeks themselves would never do, it diminishes both the quantity and quality of your time. If you are really into ancient ruins, spend time on Aegina. For dramatic scenery, Hydra's the spot. Among all the islands within an easy ferry journey from Athens/Piraeus, Poros easily qualifies as the quiet charmer where you could linger for hours over Greek coffees and delightful harbor views.

6. Greek islands aren't just for hitting the beach

Greece has some 6,000 islands, of which about 227 are inhabited. That represents a lot of geographical diversity. Some islands have gorgeous beaches -- think Mykonos, Kefalonia and Corfu -- while others have a mix of decent beaches and landscapes that offer up the possibility of more varied activities. Kalymnos is the place for rock climbing and bouldering, Paros is ideal for windsurfing and kite surfing, Sifnos and Tinos (and to a certain extent Santorini) are much favored by foodies and so forth. The shoulder season, April to June and also October, is often ideal for these beyond-the-beach pursuits.

7.  Skipping Santorini is not a sin

Two essential Santorini travel facts: the first is that yes, it's a geologically unique island and the second is that yes, you should probably also skip it. How dare I? Well, due to far too many cruise ships disgorging way too many people onto such a small place, the wisp of an island has degenerated into a sort of hyper-sanitized Selfie Island and really, how much fun is that? The views over the volcanic caldera are cool as are the Minoan ruins at Akrotiri but the beaches aren't great and the good hotels and restaurants tend to be overpriced.

So check it out if you must but make sure you avoid the months of June, July, August and now all of September too. Other Aegean islands beckon with their own brand of gorgeousness, whether that be breezy Andros, volcanic Milos and myriad others.

Read more: Which European countries don't use the euro currency and why?

8. You should visit Greece during Easter

Greeks celebrate Easter with a fervor most Europeans reserve for Christmas -- and the enthusiasm has a distinctly noncommercial flavor at that. The Greek Orthodox Church still holds sway over many aspects of contemporary Greek life and Easter week is when some of the more celebratory aspects really kick in, with all manner of feasts and public processions that begin on Palm Sunday and vary from location to location but that are particularly colorful on islands like Corfu.

9. Think of Crete as a separate country

Because in many respects it is. Starting with size: Crete is 160 miles from one end to the other and is the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. That means it's difficult to see it all in a single take, nor should you try. The landscapes are stunningly varied and unlike the more stereotypical Greek island getaways the Cretan economy is not wholly dependent on tourism: historic cities like Heraklion and Chania also have a youthful vibrancy that's hard to resist.

There are numerous nonstop flights from Crete's two major airports in Heraklion and Chania in the peak summer season and year-round connections from Athens. From Athens/Piraeus there are also daily ferry departures, they typically leave around 9 p.m. and arrive in Crete at 6 a.m. While these ferries resemble small cruise ships with plenty of seating options (including cabins), a flight on Aegean will you get from Athens to Crete in just about an hour.

10. Remember the mainland

Greece is more than Athens and the islands. The region of which Athens is a part, Attica, is home to some of the most important sites in antiquity from Marathon to Cape Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon. South and east of the Greek capital, the Peloponnese offers a dramatically chiseled coastline and plenty of historical gems too, like the city of Nafplion -- the first capital of Greece -- and the remarkable fortress isle of Monemvasia. The northern city of Thessaloniki, named after Alexander the Great's half-sister, is worth a detour for its history, museums and excellent restaurants.

11. You needn't spend a fortune to have a blast in Mykonos

Stick around Greece for any length of time and you're bound to hear Greeks bemoan how Mykonos has become an enclave affordable only for the likes of Arab princes and their consorts (who may or may not include Lindsay Lohan). While there is some truth to that, don't let it put you off a visit because the cosmopolitan Mykonos vibe is something you won't find anywhere else. The small Cycladic island has some of the best beaches, restaurants, hotels and nightclubs in the Mediterranean. July and August are the months to avoid, but if you can manage to hit Mykonos in June or September, you'll probably have a great time and without necessarily breaking the bank.

Bottom line

Greece is a country with attractions that are so iconic everybody thinks they already know the place and to varying degrees maybe they do, but not unlike Madonna, there is a lot more to her than meets the eye. It's when you avoid insisting on the cliches -- you probably don't need a whole day to snap selfies at the Acropolis or an overpriced seafood lunch in the touristy center of Mykonos town -- that the colors of Greece really begin to reveal themselves. And if you can avoid those peak crowded months of July (especially the second half) and August you'll very likely have a better holiday experience in Greece overall.

Real Greek Experiences

Greek Culture, Travel Information, Itineraries, Life in Greece

Things To Know About Greece Before You Go

Planning a trip to Greece? Here are some things to know about Greece before you go. Greeks take them for granted, but visitors may be puzzled, surprised, or even shocked! 

  What you should know before visiting Greece

Foreign visitors are often surprised when they travel to Greece. Ask anyone who’s visited Greece, and they’ll tell you that their experience was interesting, to say the least!

Greece is one of the EU countries and is classified as Western Europe. Yet, due to its long history and unique geography, it’s very different to most European countries that you may have visited.

So, here are some basic facts and fun things to know about Greece before you visit! Knowing these in advance will help you avoid any surprises, and will help you make the most out of your trip.

1. Greece is a small country located in Southeast Europe

Greece is a small country located in Southeast Europe. It occupies a land area of 131,960 sq km (50,950 sq mi), which means it’s only slightly bigger than New York State. Its population is approximately 10.5 million people.

Greece shares its northern borders with Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Turkey. Towards the east, south and west, it is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea.

2. The capital city of Greece is Athens

Athens, the Greek capital, is Greece’s largest city, and one of the oldest continuously inhabited big cities in Europe. It is a bustling metropolis of almost 4 million people, with plenty of neighbourhoods, pedestrianized areas, markets and shopping areas to explore.

What makes Athens so interesting is its millennia of history. Athens is mainly famous for the ancient ruins , but you will also see lots of Byzantine churches, a few neoclassical buildings, and quaint neighborhoods like Anafiotika .

However, the vast majority of buildings in Athens are modern blocks of flats, many of which will seem rather unappealing at first. Street art and graffitti is also common.

This rather unique combination of many architectural styles, makes Athens what it is today! 

The Athens international airport, Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH), receives thousands of flights from all around the world. Athens also has a large port, Piraeus. Hundreds of Greek ferries connect Piraeus with most of the Greek islands, and there’s also a busy cruise port.

Here’s some insight about overtourism in Athens .

3. Greece has thousands of islands and a huge coastline

Greece has, literally, thousands of islands! They are organized in different Greek island groups , such as the Cyclades, the Dodecanese and the Sporades.

Greece’s largest island is Crete, with over 600,000 residents. Most of the small islands are uninhabited, but there are well over 100 inhabited islands in Greece .

Some of the most popular Greek islands include Santorini , Mykonos, Paros, Rhodes , Kos , Kefalonia, Zakynthos and Skiathos. They are all unique, and each of them has its own devoted fans!

Connections between the different island groups are not always straightforward. If you want to go island hopping in Greece, it’s best to travel between islands belonging to the same group. Here are a few more tips on how to plan your Greek island hopping trip on your own!

You can check routes and book your tickets for all Greek ferries here: Ferryscanner .

Last, but not least: owing to its large number of islands, Greece has a huge coastline of 13,676 km (8,498 mi)! Much of this is occupied by beautiful beaches, but you will also come across sea coves, water caves and imposing cliffs.

4. Mainland Greece is very mountainous

Many first-time visitors are unaware that most of Greece is actually on the mainland. In fact, the Greek mainland is full of picturesque villages and archaeological sites, and it’s surprisingly mountainous!

As an example, the famous Ancient Delphi , Ancient Mycenae , Ancient Epidaurus and Meteora Monasteries are all on mainland Greece.

The highest mountain in Greece is Mt Olympus. At a height of 2,917 metres, Mitikas peak was the ideal base for the Ancient Greek Gods !

5. Anywhere you go in Greece, you will find lots of stairs

Here’s another thing that many first-time visitors don’t realize. Almost anywhere you go in Greece, you will find lots (and lots) of stairs.

This extends to many popular places in Greece, including the islands. The famous Santorini , for example, is full of stairs. Hotels and rooms with a view to the caldera are usually at the end of a long staircase.

Symi , a small island close to Rhodes , is even worse. But the views from the top of the stairs are always worth it!

If you have mobility issues, or if you are travelling with young children, make sure you read your hotel’s description carefully. And whatever you do, don’t forget to bring some comfortable shoes. I love Teva sandals , as they are ideal for Greece.

6. Greece has a rich history which goes back thousands of years

Greece is an ancient land, and the Greek civilisation dates back thousands of years. Some of the ancient monuments, like the Acropolis, are still standing as a testament to its long history.

With that said, modern Greece as we know it today has only been around for a few decades! The Hellenic Republic, the official name that Greece goes by, was established after the Greek War of Independence in 1821. Since then, the country expanded, and took its present form in 1948.

Some of the most influential philosophers who shaped Western culture, such as Socrates, Plato and Aristotle, were Greek. This is why Greece is often referred to as “the cradle of civilization”.

Also, have a look at this article about the Delphic Maxims . They are short, inspiring quotes which were written in the 5th century BC, many of which are still relevant today!

7. Greece has four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter

Contrary to what some people think, Greece is not a tropical country where it’s warm year-round. We have four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter.

While Greece’s climate is generally mild, temperatures vary a lot throughout the year. Summers are hot, and temperatures can sometimes exceed 40 C (104 F). On the other hand, winter temperatures often drop below 0 C (32 F), and snow is not uncommon.

Northern Greece is usually colder than the south and the islands. On the other hand, many islands are windy, even in summer!

For more weather information, have a look at these articles:

• Best time to visit Greece
• What to pack for Greece for every season
• Meltemi winds in Greece
• Hottest islands to visit in October
• Athens in November

8. The only accepted currency in Greece is the Euro

Greece joined the European Union back in 1981. At the time, the Greek currency was the drachma. In 2002, the European currency, the Euro, was introduced.

These days, we only use Euros for our transactions in Greece. If you are coming from a country outside the Eurozone, please check with your bank the best way to make purchases in Greece.

Hotels, restaurants and shops in Greece accept credit cards and debit cards. Unlike Visa and Mastercard, which are widely accepted, American Express is not common in Greece.

You will find that many smaller businesses, like family hotels or local tavernas, prefer cash. You will also be likely to need cash for certain transactions, such as groceries, street vendors, some bus / museum tickets or when tipping in Greece . 

The bottomline? Make sure you have some euros with you. Try to have some coins and small notes, if at all possible, especially for inexpensive purchases.

Finally, when it comes to haggling, it’s not as common as it used to be in the past. However, independent vendors might still offer a better price if you are buying more than one items. So if you are looking for souvenirs, consider getting them from the same place, and you might get a small discount.

9. The local language of Greece is Greek

Greek is the official language in Greece. The Greek language has been around for several millennia, but has evolved and changed a lot throughout the centuries.

Visitors will find that most Greeks speak English to one degree or another. In fact, Greeks who work in the tourism industry often speak French, Spanish, Italian, German, Russian and maybe other languages.

Still, if you are visiting Greece, it’s a good idea to learn a few Greek words and phrases. Even though it will all be Greek to you, it will earn you a few smiles, and perhaps some treats!

You can start with trying to learn the Greek alphabet . It’s not as hard as it looks, plus you may have seen some of our squiggly letters before – especially if you have studied Math or Physics.

Also, have a look at these useful Greek words and phrases . And, if you want to take it a step further, here’s how to swear like a Greek 🙂

10. The prevailing religion in Greece is Christianity (Greek Orthodox)

The official religion in Greece is Greek Orthodoxy. This is a branch of Christianity which has several differences to both Roman Catholicism and Protestantism, which are more common in the west.

Religion is a really important aspect of Greek culture. There is an incredible number of Greek Orthodox churches and chapels all around the country. And even though many Greeks are not overly religious, the majority respects the Greek Orthodox customs and traditions.

Here is some more information about religion in Greece:

• Religion in Greece
• Greek Easter traditions
• Christmas in Greece
• Namedays in Greece
• Independence day in Greece

Also, have a look at this guide about celebrations and public holidays in Greece .

11. Greek people are very friendly

It might sound like a stereotype, but it’s true: Greek people are known for their warmth and hospitality. If you want to get the most out of your trip to Greece, try to meet locals and learn about their regional customs and unique traditions.

Note: You may have been advised to bargain hard when buying Greek souvenirs . You may have read that taxi drivers might try to charge you a high “tourist price”, or that waiters will try to add a euro or two to your account.

While I cannot promise that none of this will happen to you, I firmly believe that most Greeks are honest. So use your common sense, but don’t think that everyone who comes across as friendly is out there to get you. They are probably trying to help!

12. Some Greeks still smoke indoors

Until late 2019, smoking indoors was very common in Greece. Although the anti-smoking law came into effect in 2010, it had not been widely applied in bars, cafes and restaurants. This old sign below says that smoking is allowed!

In late 2019, the anti-smoking law was finally enforced. However, people still smoke a lot in Greece, and not everywhere you go will be entirely smoke-free.

Smoking is allowed in designated open-air areas in cafes and Greek tavernas . It’s also allowed in outdoors spaces such as parks, beaches and outdoors cinemas, with very few exceptions. And don’t be surprised if you see one or two people smoking indoors in a restaurant or bar.

In any case, if you are visiting Greece in summer , smoking shouldn’t be much of an issue. Just sit outside, avoid sitting next to smokers, and enjoy the lovely weather!

13. Sometimes things won’t go to plan

A delayed ferry , a public transport strike , a waiter who forgot your order, an ATM that won’t work with your credit cards. You might encounter one or more of these situations while visiting Greece – or anywhere for that matter.

My best advice – if something unexpected occurs, don’t let it discourage you from enjoying your Greek vacation. It will all work out in the end!

In fact, Greek culture goes hand in hand with what we call siga-siga (slowly slowly). Believe it or not, “Greek time” is something that many repeat visitors are actually after!

14. Cars in Greece don’t stop at zebra crossings

One of the things you should know about Greece, is that pedestrians rank low on the food chain. If you assume that cars will stop for you to cross a zebra crossing, please think again!

Apart from the zebra crossings at the Athens airport, very few drivers in Greece respect the zebra crossing rule. I’ve seen it happen a few times, but I always find it surprising.

So, whenever you need to cross the street, please look carefully, and cross quickly. In fact, the same applies even if there is a “green man” indicating you can cross.

In a nutshell, always assume that the car has the right of way. And remember that Greeks drive on the right side of the road!

By the way, if you are planning to rent a car in Greece, have a look at Discover Cars . It’s an online platform where you can compare car rental companies and hire a car at very competitive prices.

15. It’s very common for cars and motorbikes to be parked illegally

While in Greece, you will most likely spot illegally parked cars and motorbikes. You may see cars parked on the pavement, under a clear “No-parking” sign, or even on the street, blocking other parked cars.

This is common everywhere – Athens, the mainland, and also many Greek islands. However, if you are a tourist, always make sure you park legally, as parking fines can be pretty high.

For more road rules and driving tips, have a look at this article about driving in Greece . There’s also information about the legal speed limit, and photos of Greek roads and national highways.

16. You shouldn’t flush toilet paper down the toilet!

You may have grown up in a country where toilet paper goes down the toilet. This is not always the case in Greece – in fact, it’s rather rare.

Yes, that’s right: The sewage system in the majority of Greek buildings is old! You will need to put the toilet paper in the little bin next to the toilet. I’m not joking!

You can probably guess what will happen if you don’t, and trust me, you won’t like it. A clogged toilet is no fun.

Whereas this is not the case for all buildings and hotels, it’s always best to ask. When in doubt, just use the bin!

Here is my complete guide on why you shouldn’t flush toilet paper in Greece .

17. Greece has plenty of naturist-friendly beaches

Naturism started becoming popular in Greece, especially in Mykonos , in the late 1960s. After Greece joined the EU, thousands of visitors were happy to spend their summer holidays fully enjoying the Mediterranean sun.

Naturism and free camping on isolated beaches throughout the country became quite common. Although both are technically illegal, they are well tolerated in many areas.

They are even the done thing in designated beaches around the country. Going topless for women is also fairly common on non-naturist beaches.

For obvious reasons, most of the naturist beaches in Greece are not easily accessible. Unless you go off the beaten track, you are unlikely to see something you didn’t intend to. But if you are in constant search of isolated bays, you will probably come across some people without their swimsuits.

If you decide to give it a go, make sure you don’t forget your sunscreen. Apply liberally, especially on the body parts that haven’t seen the sun in a while.

18. Greeks are passionate about Greek food

If you want to upset a Greek person, you just need to imply that Greek cuisine is not the best in the world. Greeks are very proud of their culinary tradition, and the Mediterranean diet is considered to be one of the healthiest in the world.

Greeks take their food seriously, from the ingredients to the preparation and cooking process. It’s all about quality, taste, and freshness. Often, the emphasis is on vegetables that has come straight from the garden that morning, or fish which was caught an hour ago.

Greek cooks take pride in the traditional recipes they have kept alive throughout the years. It’s not unusual to find secret family recipes which have been passed down from generation to generation.

Apart from souvlaki , moussaka , feta cheese, tzatziki , baklava and Greek salad, you will find dozens of Greek dishes that are worth tasting. Greek cuisine varies from region to region, so try different foods when you travel around the country.

Two of the best places to go for Greek food are Thessaloniki and the island of Crete. Wherever you go, consider taking a food tour , where you will be introduced to our dishes and food culture.

Have a look at these other food articles:

• 50 popular Greek dishes
• How to order food in Greece – includes information if you are allergic to gluten, nuts etc!

19. The Greek coffee culture is a lot more than coffee

I cannot stress enough the importance of the Greek coffee culture for Greek people! It’s not really about the coffee per se. It’s about meeting a friend or two and going for a chat for a couple of hours. It’s an aspect of our siga-siga culture, which I invite you to embrace when you travel here.

During the crisis era back in 2008, I met dozens of visitors who were surprised at the number of Greeks sitting in coffee shops. The truth is, staying at home wasn’t going to help get rid of the crisis. For most people, there was nothing wrong with meeting friends for a coffee.

For a Greek, there’s nothing better than enjoying an iced coffee in the sun! You’ll see hundreds of locals sitting out for a coffee in Athens on a Sunday – or on any other day, for that matter.

Take your pick from a cold frappe (instant coffee with ice cubes), a freddo espresso, a freddo cappuccino, or another fancier alternative. And even if the idea of a cold coffee doesn’t excite you, give it a go anyway – you might be surprised.

If you aren’t a coffee drinker, check out this long list of Greek drinks !

20. Tap water is not always OK to drink

Many tourists ask if they can drink tap water when in Greece. The answer is, “it depends”.

Tap water is generally fine to drink in the large cities like Athens or Thessaloniki, as well as the mainland. However, if you are going to the islands, it’s probably best to stick to bottled water.

I’ve been to over 60 Greek islands now, and I always ask the locals if I can drink tap water. Most times, locals discourage visitors from drinking tap water, and they drink bottled water themselves.

Bottled water is inexpensive in Greece, especially when compared to other European countries. By law, a small (500 ml) bottle of water shouldn’t cost you more than 50 cents – though some places might charge up to a euro. A large bottle is rarely over 50 cents when you buy it at a supermarket.

In addition, there are often water fountains on the islands where you can re-fill your bottle for free or for a small fee. Ask around, as it will help you cut down on the number of plastic bottles you buy!

Here’s my full guide: Can you drink tap water in Greece?  

Last tip: If you are visiting in the high season, remember to drink lots of water. The last thing you want to get is dehydration due to the warm weather!

FAQs about Greece

People planning a trip to Greece often ask questions similar to these:

What are 5 interesting facts about Greece?

Here are a few interesting facts about Greece: (a) Greece has over 6,000 beautiful islands (b) Greece has one of the longest coastlines in Europe (c) Greece has a history of several thousands of years (d) Millions of Americans and European tourists visit Greece every year (e) Eating and drinking is a huge part of the Greek culture.

What is Greece best known for?

Greece is best known as the birthplace of democracy and Western civilization, but also as a country with fantastic beaches and delicious food. In addition, Greek people are known to be super friendly and hospitable.

What do I need to know before traveling to Greece?

If you are planning to visit Greece, make sure you do some research on weather. While the best time to go is considered to be the summer, July and August are very hot. You can consider traveling to Greece in the beginning or end of the tourist season – May, June or September.

What should I know when visiting Greece?

If you are planning to explore many different places in Greece, you should know that getting from one to another isn’t always straightforward. One of the best tips is to stick to just a few regions, depending on the amount of time you have.

What’s unique about Greece and the Greek islands?

Although it is a small country, Greece has one of the longest coastlines in Europe! Popular destinations include the region called Peloponnese, in mainland Greece, and the islands of Santorini, Mykonos and Crete.

Is Santorini safe?

Yes! Santorini is a very safe place. Have a look at this guide: is Santorini safe and things to avoid .

More travel guides about Greece

Is that everything you need to know about Greece? Not at all, but hopefully it’s a good starting point. You’ll have to visit and experience Greece yourself! Here are a few more posts about Greece and Greek culture:

• How to experience Greece from A to Z
• Movies about Greece: A Big Fat List of Greek Films
• Interesting facts about the Greek flag
• All you need to know about ancient Greek theatres
• Beautiful places in Greece
• Helpful websites for expats in Greece
• The best SIM card for Greece
• How to avoid mosquitoes in Greece

8 thoughts on “Things To Know About Greece Before You Go”

This and truly all the articles on this website are great! I love your honesty, it helps me get a real sense of Greece and Greek people! Thank you so much! ευχαριστώ

Glad it helps! Let us know if there’s anything else you’d like to read about!

The website and your articles are so incredibly helpful. I hardly have time to read all the great information you provide – I will definitely recommend it to anyone traveling to Greece!

Thank you so much Kim!!

I am so glad I found your website! It is so helpful. I plan on spending a month in Greece next April. I am sure you have a link I missed, but are there particular shopping items I should look for? Types of souvenirs or things that are special to Greece?

Heheeeeh here is the article you are looking for! Souvenirs in Greece . Also, have a look at this guide about shopping in Athens . Hope this helps!! Enjoy your time, April is a fantastic month to be here!

“One of the things you should know about Greece, is that pedestrians rank low on the food chain” 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

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Travel and tourism in Greece - statistics & facts

What are the leading inbound tourism markets in greece, outbound and domestic tourism in greece, key insights.

Detailed statistics

Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in Greece 2019-2022

Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Greece 2019-2022, by type

Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in Greece 2019-2022

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Travel and tourism: share of GDP in the EU-27 and the UK 2019-2022, by country

Leisure Travel

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

Further recommended statistics

• Basic Statistic Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in Greece 2019-2022
• Basic Statistic Travel and tourism: share of GDP in the EU-27 and the UK 2019-2022, by country
• Basic Statistic Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Greece 2019-2022, by type
• Basic Statistic Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Greece 2019-2022, by tourist type
• Basic Statistic Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in Greece 2019-2022

Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in Greece 2019-2022

Total contribution of travel and tourism to GDP in Greece in 2019 and 2022 (in billion euros)

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 2022

Distribution of travel and tourism spending in Greece in 2019 and 2022, by type

Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in Greece 2019-2022, by tourist type

Distribution of travel and tourism spending in Greece in 2019 and 2022, by type of tourist

Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in Greece 2019-2022

Total contribution of travel and tourism to employment in Greece in 2019 and 2022 (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 duration of stay by inbound tourists in Greece 2022, by country
• Premium Statistic Number of inbound tourist visits to Greece 2019-2022, 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 inbound tourists in Greece 2005-2023

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

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

Average duration of stay by inbound tourists in Greece 2022, by country

Average length of stay of international visitors in Greece in 2022, by country (in number of overnight stays)

Number of inbound tourist visits to Greece 2019-2022, by region

Number of international visits to Greece from 2019 to 2022, 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 2019-2022, 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 2019-2022, by number of visits

Number of inbound tourist visits to the Greek Island of Crete from 2019 to 2022, 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 2015-2021
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic trips in Greece 2015-2021, by type
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight trips in Greece 2015-2021, by purpose
• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight trips in Greece 2015-2021, by transport
• Basic Statistic Domestic tourism spending in Greece 2019-2022

Total number of domestic trips in Greece 2015-2021

Total number of domestic trips in Greece from 2015 to 2021 (in 1,000s)

Number of domestic trips in Greece 2015-2021, by type

Number of domestic trips in Greece from 2015 to 2021, by type (in 1,000s)

Number of domestic overnight trips in Greece 2015-2021, by purpose

Number of domestic overnight trips in Greece from 2015 to 2021, by purpose (in 1,000s)

Number of domestic overnight trips in Greece 2015-2021, by transport

Number of overnight domestic trips in Greece from 2015 to 2021, by mode of transport (in 1,000s)

Domestic tourism spending in Greece 2019-2022

Domestic tourism expenditure in Greece in 2019 and 2022 (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 by Greek residents 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 by Greek residents 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 2013-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of nights in tourist accommodation in Greece 2013-2022
• Basic Statistic Number of tourist accommodation establishments in Greece 2022, by type
• Premium Statistic Number of hotels and similar accommodation in Greece 2013-2022
• Premium Statistic Travel and tourism revenue in Greece 2017-2027, by segment

Number of tourist accommodation establishments in Greece 2013-2022

Number of travel accommodation establishments in Greece from 2013 to 2022

Number of nights in tourist accommodation in Greece 2013-2022

Number of overnight stays spent at travel accommodation establishments in Greece from 2013 to 2022 (in millions)

Number of tourist accommodation establishments in Greece 2022, by type

Number of travel accommodation establishments in Greece in 2022, by type

Number of hotels and similar accommodation in Greece 2013-2022

Number of hotels and similar accommodation establishments in Greece from 2013 to 2022

Travel and tourism revenue in Greece 2017-2027, by segment

Revenue of the travel and tourism market in Greece from 2017 to 2022, with a forecast until 2027, by segment (in million U.S. dollars)

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‘Without rules we cannot live’: Greece seeks ways to tackle ‘overtourism’

Residents of some Greek islands struggle with cost of living and environmental issues due to excessive tourist numbers.

Oia, Greece – As the mythical Greek summer season winds up, visitors pack the small, white-washed streets of one of the country’s most iconic destinations: the island of Santorini.

Tourism is a lifeblood of the Greek economy, accounting for about 25 percent of it, and 90 percent of Santorini’s economy is dependent on selfie-stick-wielding visitors.

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It has become a double-edged sword for Santorini as the island’s 15,000 residents can see up to two million yearly visitors. Placards placed around Santorini’s villages remind tourists to respect the homes and holy sites.

George Sarelakos, founder and president of Aegean Rebreath, an organisation working to protect the marine environment, told Al Jazeera that high visitor numbers also presented an increasing environmental risk to Santorini, particularly given the island’s lack of drinkable tap water.

“You can imagine all these thousands of tourists being on the islands, buying one or two bottles of water per day. We’re talking about a crazy amount of plastic that ends up at the bottom of the sea,” he said.

‘Not viable’

Aegean Rebreath has undertaken activities such as encouraging many of the luxury yachts which dock on the island for onboard recycling and has organised harbour-cleaning activities.

“I won’t forget the facial expression of the tourists when they saw a tonne of marine litter coming out from the harbour,” Sarelakos said.

He said it was essential drinkable tap water solutions were found to make the island more sustainable.

“We really believe as Aegean Rebreath that the path Santorini and other islands in Greece are on is not viable,” Sarelakos said.

With many Greeks earning only about 800 euros ($857) a month, rising costs have also meant some are priced out of popular tourist destinations with the average price for a hotel in Santorini being about 150 euros ($160).

Beach piracy

Paros, a Cycladic neighbour of Santorini which has a total of 12,000 permanent residents, saw 560,479 ferry arrivals in 2021 and has also had renewed focus on tourist footfall.

This summer locals protested against the swarms of privately owned sunbeds and parasols taking up large stretches of sand and charging about 100 euros ($107) for a set, leaving no space for others to use the beach.

Some businesses received permits to use the beach, but residents pointed out they often started putting loungers well beyond the agreed limits, meaning others could not lay their towels on the sand.

Christos Georgousis, a retired teacher and permanent resident of Paros, said residents were tired of the continuous occupation of swaths of sand by expensive sunloungers.

“Without rules, we cannot live. And these rules seemed to be flouted by the beach pirates,” he said, adding that the protests had so far largely been successful.

He said arrests had been made and action taken by the power of the residents’ protest with a Facebook group dedicated to “Saving Paros Beaches” made up of more than 12,000 members.

Struggling key workers

Paris Tsartas, professor of tourism development at Harokopio University of Athens, told Al Jazeera that the issue of “overtourism” was particular to a number of oversaturated destinations such as Santorini and Mykonos, presenting problems notably for key workers such as doctors who often struggled to find accommodation.

“The rents are sky high. And this is, of course, related to overtourism. So they prefer to rent their houses to the tourists, and not to the people who are involved in all these very vital sectors,” he said.

Tsartas said he expected overtourism to become a bigger headache in the next five to 10 years.

Meanwhile, Greece expects another bumper year for tourism.

Data from MarineTraffic, a ship tracking platform, revealed Mykonos hosted 209 cruise ships from June to August this year, a 35 percent increase from last year during the same period. June peaked with 72 arrivals.

Meanwhile, Santorini saw 203 vessels, with July leading at 74 arrivals.

Georgios Hatzimanolis, head of global communications at Kpler, which owns MarineTraffic, told Al Jazeera that this summer Mykonos averaged two cruise ships a day with peaks of six.

“This means, potentially 14,000 passengers could flood the tiny island in just one day,” he said, warning the island’s “already strained infrastructure” could buckle under the pressure.

“The surge in cruise tourism is not only an environmental concern but also threatens to tarnish Mykonos’ luxury reputation.”

Protecting the Acropolis

Efforts are already being made to tackle some of the potential harm of mass tourism.

At the country’s most iconic landmark, the Acropolis, there are plans to limit visitors to 20,000 a day with a timed ticketing system to tackle overcrowding and protect the historic site.

“Obviously, tourism is desirable for the country, for all of us. But we must work out how excessive tourism won’t harm the monument,” said Lina Mendoni, Greece’s culture minister.

Authorities have previously said tackling overtourism is a “top priority”.

Tsartas said authorities had increased efforts to tackle the issue, including campaigns encouraging people to visit other parts of Greece and throughout the year rather than just the busiest summer months.

Some steps already taken, such as individual destinations setting up their own organisations to deal with tourism, were helping the situation, he said.

“But the fact is that we should have had them 20 years ago,” Tsartas added.

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The Definitive Guide to Authentic Mykonos

While Mykonos will always offer its signature jet set lifestyle, its greatest luxury lies in harmonizing that glitzy scene with an older, wiser island life.

Mykonos needs little introduction—its reputation as the Mediterranean's premier jet-set playground precedes it. Tales of boating magnates and A-list celebs frolicking in the impeccable waters have cemented an image of whitewashed Cycladic villages, thumping beach clubs and bronzed revelers sipping sunset cocktails.

Yet even this glamorous Greek island hotspot hasn't been immune to overtourism. After the post-pandemic travel frenzy saw visitors flocking in and prices skyrocketing, Mykonos is now undergoing a much-needed correction. According to Greek news outlet Kathimerini, the forecast is an expected 9 percent drop in airline seats for 2024 compared to 2023, with a 26 percent plunge in active bookings since early 2024—signs that demand is realigning after the island's "defamation by visitors" was turned off by inflated costs.

However, this recalibration presents the perfect opportunity for discerning travelers. As the party crowd disperses, Mykonos' true essence emerges: The winding streets of historic Mykonos Town reveal simple pleasures like traditional tavernas serving cuisine from generations-old recipes and artisan workshops preserving storied handicrafts. The island's rugged interior beckons with hiking trails, centuries-old monasteries and farm-to-table restaurants celebrating the terroir.

While Mykonos will always offer its signature jet set lifestyle, its greatest luxury lies in harmonizing that glitzy scene with an older, wiser island life. By combining boho beach clubs and glamorous hotspots with soulful experiences centered on cuisine, culture and nature, visitors can unveil the island's true multidimensional enchantment beyond the velvet ropes.

The Ultimate Mykonos Travel Guide

Cali mykonos, deos mykonos, katikies mykonos, santa marina, a luxury collection resort, beefbar mykonos, fokos taverna, la cantine mykonos, limnios tavern, jackieo’ beach, bao's cocktail bar, aperanto galazio, 180° sunset bar, nammos village, jardin of mykonos, ergon mykonos, where to stay.

• Kalafati, Mykonos 846 00, Greece

This Mykonian marvel by first-time hotelier Eric Mourkakos seems plucked from another celestial realm: Its powder-soft beach, craggy promontories and dramatic cliffside perch are utterly otherworldly. The 40 Mediterranean-inspired villas exude warmth with handcrafted furnishings and sun-kissed interiors. The culinary program is a locavore's dream, showcasing just-plucked seafood with Greek accents, supplemented by indulgent sushi, juice and pool bar cravings. Burn it off at the Pilates studio before melting into bliss at the hammam and ice chambers. With privileged Les Clefs d'Or concierges, Cali Mykonos provides the warmest island hospitality this side of Elysium.

• Mykonos Town, 84600 Greece

The hospitality visionaries behind Myconian Collection have manifested their crowning Grecian achievement for 2024: Deos Mykonos. Perched imperiously on a hilltop, this contemporary cycladic sanctuary by GM Architects offers breathtaking vistas from its elegant suites with private pools. Rustic stone walls and indigenous flora melt into the landscape at the luxury hotel as poolside revelers drift between Aegean views and vibrant Chora, just steps away. With its holistic wellness focus and gastronomic mastery, Deos distills the very essence of Mykonos into an unparalleled, heritage-soaked experience.     

• Aleomandra, Agios Ioannis Diakoftis, Mykonos, Greece

Villa Tama epitomizes the exceptional vision and masterful execution of traditional cycladic architecture with modern accents and avant-garde tech. The 7-bedroom palatial estate sleeps 14 across 4.6 hillside acres with refined interiors by bespoke furnishings. Sumptuous linens adorn the cocoons while marble bathrooms evoke the landscape's serenity. Outdoor terraces sculpt the contours, framing breathtaking Delos and Rhenia sunsets. A heated infinity pool, hammam spa, massage sanctuary and a state-of-the-art gym with sea views provide sublime pampering. 

• Agios Ioannis, Mykonos, 84600, Cyclades Islands, Greece

Having refined its hospitality artistry in Santorini, Katikies unveils this Agios Ioannis hillside nirvana with mesmerizing Aegean views. The stark-white cubist buildings at the boutique hotel cascade down with uplifting blues, floral latticework and water features. Most of the 35 rooms and suites at the Leading Hotel of the World property swathe you in contemporary cycladic luxury with private pools or sea-view terraces. The dining is a global journey at Botrini's, while sprawling pool decks, a champagne bar and Greek-inspired rituals at the spa provide ultra-refined island indulgence.      

• Ornos Bay, Mykonos, 84600, Greece

This super-chic oceanfront enclave invites you to soak up Mykonos' glamorous joie de vivre from its own sliver of private sandy beach, home to the world's first Buddha-Bar Beach. The 114 rooms and 13 villas provide shielded Cycladic sanctuary from the island's pulsating party scene. Diverse dining experiences from modern Greek cuisine to sushi and classic Mediterranean satisfy every craving. Gingko Spa's customized massages and treatments rejuvenate body and soul. With a private marina for chartered yachts and signature wellness retreats, Santa Marina is a consummate luxury resort escape.

Where to Eat

• Ano Mera, Mykonos, 84600, Greece

This secluded farm-to-table paradise celebrates Mykonos' agricultural heritage. Surrounded by fields, farmhouses and coops, Rizes resembles a rural village under a breezy pergola. Owners Panagiota and Nikos serve up biological veggies, local cheese, sourdough bread and reimagined traditional recipes like braised lamb with wood-fired oven flair. It's a rustic riot of flavors, sometimes accompanied by live folk music.

• Located in Mykonos Town (Chora), 84600, Greece

An oasis in bustling Chora, Noema's lush courtyard exudes bohemian-chic vibes with mineral tones and electro-ethnic beats. Award-winning chef Athinagoras Kostakos pays homage to simple Greek taverna fare using locally-sourced ingredients. From taramasalata to pistachios, these elevated classics let you indulge in authentic Greek island wanderlust.

For two decades, this tiny Chora taverna has captured the Cycladic essence, and remains one of the best restaurants in Mykonos. Proud owners Isidoros and Dimitris serve up hearty meatballs, local sausages and cured meats in an atmosphere of barefoot conviviality. No secrets can be kept at almost-always-packed Maereio.

• Inside Bill & Coo Hotel, Agios Ioannis, Mykonos, 84600, Cyclades Islands, Greece

The revamped Beefbar at beachfront LHW Bill & Coo exudes Riviera fine dining luxury on Agios Ioannis, with ochre tones under a striped pergola. While evenings spotlight premium cuts, the real draw is chef Yiannis Babalis ' light Aegean seafood, like shrimp ceviche paired with Santorini Assyrtiko.

• Fokos Beach, Mykonos, 84600, Cyclades Islands, Greece

On a remote north coast beach, this off-the-beaten-path hidden gem serves up simple pleasures like fried red mullets and grilled fish. After indulging in owner Marissa Taboulchanas ’ rustic fare, take a dip in the pristine sea far from crowds.

• Ornos, 84600, Greece

Parisian vibes meet Japanese and Mediterranean flavors at this chic Ornos beachfront venue. Michelin-rated Japanese-Greek fusion complements the lounge soundtrack under swaying olive tree lanterns. Don't skip signature desserts like roasted honey.

• Agios Stefanos, Mykonos, Greece

For genuine Mykonian hospitality, savor authentic local cuisine like grilled lamb chops and zucchini fries at this charming seaside tavern. Stunning Aegean Sea views provide the perfect backdrop for signature loukoumades honey dumplings.

Best Beach Clubs

• Ftelia, 84600, Greece

This bohemian beach bar on pristine Ftelia offers a refreshing twist by cohabiting harmoniously with its setting. Athens firm K-Studio blends traditional cycladic crafts like a pergola roof and gourd lighting with minimalist flair. A true family-friendly hangout, Alemagou sees boho parents watching kids build sandcastles as tattoo-sporting Americans and friend groups sip mojitos. It's an easy-going escape from Mykonos' party island pulse.

• Paraga, 84600, Greece

On the secluded Paraga peninsula, Soho House's holistic hangout perfects laidback Cycladic luxe, from Annabell Kutucu 's refined interiors to Alexis Zopas ' seasonal Greek fare. The Bazaar boutique peddles treasures like Yucatan dresses, while the spiritual program includes mindfulness sessions and DJ "shaman" sets seamlessly blending global sounds. If you want to hang out on the private beach, book a sun bed.

• Super Paradise Beach 84600 Mykonos, Kikladhes, Greece

Far from the island's would-be chic scenes, JackieO' invokes a raucous sense of fun with its stylish 1990s black-and-white digs, soundtrack and sunset drag performances. But it's the authentic service from the warm staff that makes this pricey beachfront so special, along with the camaraderie between diners feasting on chef Christoforos Peskias ' masterful seafood creations and famous puddings. The signature Jackie O' champagne cocktail is a must.

Where to Drink

• Little Venice, Mykonos, Greece

With an unobstructed sea view in Little Venice, Bao's makes the most of its prime sundowner spot next to the famous windmills. The inventive cocktail menu covers classics alongside signatures like The Mandarin with fresh juice, gin and lime. The chic, whitewashed interior contrasts bright blue beams and rattan lamps, but the coveted outdoor tables provide front-row seats to Mykonos' evening energy as Euro beats get people dancing.

• Ornos Beach, Mykonos 846 00, Greece

This chilled-out Ornos beach hangout channels island aesthetics through its airy bamboo-roofed setting, with simple white-painted furniture and glass jar lamps framing seaside vistas. The cocktail menu gets creative with concoctions like the Smoked Daiquiri with mezcal and the Greek Passion blending mastiha, basil, jasmine and cucumber. 

• Little Venice, Chora, 84600 Mykonos, Greece

Just off Bao's, this tucked-away spot doubles your view-scoring chances with a prime upstairs terrace overlooking Little Venice's iconic scenery. The blue-and-white interiors, with painted wood chairs, keep things understated as guests sip classics, including champagne cocktails and fresh fruit mixes like the irresistible Peach Daiquiri amid chilled tunes.

• Below the church of Paraportiani, Mykonos Town, 84600, Greec e

A stylish cave-like nightlife space carved with curvy whitewashed stone and Onassis-themed black-and-white photos, this lively Little Venice LGBTQ+ hotspot heats up nightly with raucous drag shows as DJs spin dance beats. The local beer and classic cocktail menu provides fuel for an unpredictable evening among Mykonos' eccentric characters.

• Matoyianni Street, Mykonos Town, 84600, Greece

Astra seamlessly transforms from a jewel-toned early evening lounge bar into an eclectic hip club as the night unfolds. The 2,500-light interior evoking stars and constellations provides an otherworldly backdrop that has drawn luminaries like Keith Richards . With over 30 iconic years, it remains one of Mykonos' most distinguished party haunts.

• Epar.Od. Mikonou, Mykonos 846 00, Greece

Soak up stellar Aegean views from this aptly-named sunset-chasing perch offering signature cocktails, Mediterranean bites and global wine and champagne lists. The nightly light show as day fades to night provides a romantic backdrop as resident DJs spin chill beats. It's the ideal spot to unwind from Mykonos's high-octane revelry.

Where to Shop

• Psarou Beach, Mykonos 84600, Greece

This luxury shopping village in Psarou hosts an array of high-fashion boutiques from iconic French houses like Chanel, Dior and Louis Vuitton. For Greek luxury brands, stop by Luisa. Each space pays homage to Mykonos' cycladic architecture while showcasing the brands' signature aesthetics, from Louboutin's bold red decor to Gucci's seaside blue paradise. 

• Mitropoleos 23, Chora, Mykonos, Greece

This lovingly converted 1680 mansion celebrates Greek artisans with an earthy, bohemian vibe set by woven chandeliers and macramé accents. The chicly curated range includes breezy kaftans, woven accessories by Ops, crochet sandals and layers of whisper-soft scarves and straw hats in natural tones.

• Kouzi Georgouli 58, Mykonos 84600, Greece

For over a century, this family-run emporium has specialized in handmade clothing, linen creations and authentic Mykonian handicrafts passed down through generations. It's a trove of traditional island heritage.

• F. Zouganeli 23, Ano Mera 84600, Mykonos, Greece

Marietta Karpathiou 's artful brand celebrates Greece's rich cultural legacy through her line of modern, minimal-yet-luxurious pieces crafted from exclusive handmade textiles. Each collection pays tribute to mythological tales and ancient techniques reinterpreted with a contemporary eye.

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16 of the best things to do in Greece

Mar 22, 2024 • 7 min read

Experience the very best of Greece with these top things to do © Johnce / Getty Images

Greece inspires our dreams – we dream about its azure seas, its charming island villages and its myriad beaches , both broad and minute. We dream about the Acropolis, shining on a hill over fascinating Athens. This grand country, from mountaintop to city street, lives up to those dreams. Greece  satisfies travelers looking for adventure , the great outdoors, relaxing seaside vacations and immersive cultural experiences .

Greeks know how to live well. Get involved with our roundup of the top things to do when you arrive.

1. Explore ancient Athens

There’s a reason the  Acropolis remains the quintessential landmark of Western civilization – it is spectacular. In addition to this towering icon, the streets of central Athens are home to many other remnants of civilizations who have marauded through over time. Indeed, any construction project (like the metro!) unearths more finds.

From the Ottoman houses of the  Plaka neighborhood edging the Acropolis, head further back in time to the  Roman Agora with its intricately carved  Tower of the Winds . Afterward, stop off at the  Ancient Agora , the commercial counterpoint to the Acropolis’ religious function.

Planning tip: With more time, other monuments and sites await you, as do world-class museums like the  Acropolis Museum , the  National Archaeological Museum , the  Byzantine and Christian Museum  and the  Museum of Cycladic Art – pick your favorite and just keep exploring.

2. Hop around the Greek islands

You've probably heard of the biggest Greek islands:  Santorini ,  Mykonos ,  Rhodes ,  Crete and  Corfu . But the beauty of the Greek island experience is that each of the 227 major islands (of approximately 6000) that make up the several island chains in Greece has its own distinct character.

Planning tip:  Work out which is the perfect Greek island for you . Pick a zone, say the  Ionian Islands  or the  Dodecanese , and get around by chugging between ports on ubiquitous ferries. If you love a sailboat, charter and sail on your own. You could also pick a theme and explore several islands. Want to party? Head to Mykonos and  Ios . Prefer wild terrain?  Kefallonia ,  Andros and Crete. 

3. Eat the very best Greek food

From mornings with a Greek coffee and a Cretan bougatsa (flaky pastry filled with sweet or savory cheese) to nights with ouzo and calamari, Greece offers an astounding range of delectables .

Many of Greece's unique flavors are known for their Mediterranean-diet healthiness: think fresh-pressed olive oil and sweet in-season tomatoes with copious seafood. But there’s also plenty of decadence – slow-cooked roasts, crumbly village cheese and honeyed layered baklava.

Planning tip:  Every region has its specialties, so for the best experience of local dishes, ask what's recommended. Kali orexi!

4. Visit the Sanctuary of Apollo at Delphi

The Sanctuary of Apollo  at the center of the ancient Greek world,  Delphi , perches on a hillside with sweeping views of the Gulf of Corinth. It's where pilgrims would travel to hear prophecies from the god Apollo, voiced through his oracle (a woman from the local area). 

Planning tip:  It’s worth visiting on the fringes of the day to catch the soft light of morning on the temples’ sides or the golden glow of sunset.

5. Climb the stone spires of Meteora

Unbelievable to the eye,  Meteora seems like something from a movie. In fact, it has been featured in flicks like the James Bond epic For Your Eyes Only and used as the backdrop for the Eyrie in Game of Thrones .

Why? Because who can recreate such mind-blowing rock pinnacles topped by 14th-century monasteries? Climb the stairs carved into the edges of the stone spires to explore, and don't forget to bring your camera.

6. Sit back and enjoy Greece's cafe culture

Slow down. One of the great treats of time in Greece is dropping whatever pace you brought with you and merging with the one here. Simply sit quay-side or street-side, sip a coffee by day or a cocktail or glass of local wine by night, and watch the world go by. Better yet, bring friends.

7. Take in a Cycladic sunset

Santorini, with its dramatic volcanic bowl topped by whitewashed villages, is inevitably the belle of the Cyclades , famed for its sunsets. But strike out further to catch equally beautiful views in islands like  Milos , a calmer volcanic isle, or  Naxos , with its untamed coasts and  Temple of Demeter . The holy island of  Tinos is draped in carved marble, and Andros offers a slew of wonderful walking trails.

8. Enjoy culture and history in Thessaloniki

One of the great expressions in  Thessaloniki is halara ,   roughly translated as “take it easy” or “it’s all good.” This laid-back city on the sea unfurls its pleasures with student culture, art and nightlife. The upper town is a Byzantine maze, and lovers of ancient eras can tour the truly magnificent riches of the  Tomb of Philip II of Macedon at nearby Vergina.

9. Celebrate Greek Orthodox Easter

It’s hard to imagine how rich and vibrant the  Greek Orthodox Easter week is until you experience it. Villages, towns and cities come to life in one long crescendo leading up to Easter Sunday, from moody candlelight processions to brilliant fireworks, lamb roasts and dancing in the streets.

Planning tip: This is the biggest religious festival of the year , celebrated with utter reverence and almost total participation. Book well in advance and aim to arrive early in the week – you don’t want to miss a thing.

10. Explore car-free Hydra on foot

Rare is the land without cars. Hydra , with its soft bowl of marble stairways and seafarers’ houses, is one such place. Sail in and stay awhile to people-watch on the chic harborfront, walk on the rough mountain trails and swim in the sea.

11. Solve the mysteries of Knossos and Minoan culture

History loves a mystery. The advanced society of the Minoans is still shrouded in a veil of secrecy, but you can explore what we do have: the  Palace of Knossos , a Bronze Age 4000-year-old capital. It’s best paired with the fascinating treasures showcased in the  Heraklion Archaeological Museum .

12. Relax on Crete's beaches

The grand island of  Crete stands alone, almost a country in itself. As you explore its plethora of villages with unique cuisines, don't miss a day (or several...) on the beach. From the soft cream sands of  Falasarna to the pink, coral-tinged arcs of  Elafonisi , you can’t go wrong with any Cretan beach you pick. Gorgeous  Preveli  is brushed by the Libyan Sea and topped by an elegant monastery.

13. Check out the cute villages of Zagorohoria

If elves lived in Greece, Zagorohoria is where you’d find them. This constellation of quaint stone villages in the mountains lies on the southern edge of the sweeping  Vikos Gorge in the  Northern Pindos National Park . Connected by a network of walking paths, the villages make for superb hiking in the warmer months or cozy snuggling by the fire in winter.

14. Admire the beauty of Corfu’s Old Town

On Corfu , a traveler favorite, a 14th-century  Venetian fortress guards the sea, and the town center is a warren of honey-hued townhomes, hidden plateia (plazas) and exalting  arcades . The Italian-influenced cuisine is another solid incentive to stay a while.

Planning tip:  Stay overnight in  Corfu Town or come early in the morning to avoid the midday throngs.

15. Dive into history in the Peloponnese

The giant  Peloponnesian landmass is somehow missing on most tourists’ radars . Easygoing and interesting, you can explore it for weeks.

Adventure from the lovely seaside Venetian city at  Nafplio to extraordinary and important ruins like medieval  Mystras (Byzantine),  Mycenae (ruled most famously by Agamemnon) and  Epidavros , or head for even lesser-known spots, like the wild  Mani peninsula and the islet-topping  Kastro at  Monemvasia . The Peloponnese are also prime territory for interesting local culture and delicious homemade food.

16. See where the first Olympic Games took place

While you’re in the Peloponnese, don’t miss the site of the first Olympics, held in  ancient Olympia from 776 BCE to 394 CE. Set in a fertile valley, the ruins of the stadium and accompanying buildings where the athletes lived and practiced are particularly lovely in the springtime with the trees in flower.

Planning tip: Swing into the excellent  Archaeological Museum to see monumental sculptures such as Hermes of Praxiteles.

This article was first published Sep 27, 2021 and updated Mar 22, 2024.

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Sail the Caldera

Price & Hours

• Facilities 2.0
• Atmosphere 5.0

Though most visitors head to Oia and Fira for the view, the best place to soak in the caldera is actually from the sea. Rising triumphantly out of the sparkling blue Aegean, you’ll see calcified layers of rust and cream stretching for miles peppered with tiny white and blue-domed buildings – truly a breathtaking sight. 

Circumnavigating Santorini by catamaran or sailboat is the best way to make the most of this stunning volcanic anomaly. There are several tour companies operating out of Santorini. Recent travelers praised the boat tours operated by Spiridakos Sailing Cruises , Sunset Oia Sailing and Caldera Yachting Santorini .

Take your pick between half- or full-day cruises – travelers especially enjoy sailing around sunset, when the sky turns a beautiful orange-pink. 

Choose from either private or semiprivate cruises (with prices corresponding). Outings can include drinks (including Champagne) or full meals (usually freshly cooked on the boat). Though some travelers express frustration at sudden changes in weather that can alter the trip or cause cancellations, sailing around Santorini is one of the preferred activities for visitors. Travelers recommend bringing plenty of sunscreen and a hat for the daytime hours, and a sweater as the weather can get nippy once the sun goes down. 

Expect to pay at least 100 euros (about $110) for a shared cruise and at least 1,000 euros (about $1,085) for a private tour. Most tours depart from Ammoudi or Athinios port and may include stops for swimming and snorkeling at Red Beach , White Beach and Hot Springs. 

Visit the individual websites of each company for exact prices and tour times.

Popular Tours

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More Best Things To Do in Santorini

#1 Fira to Oia Hike

U.S. News Insider Tip: Instead of timing your hike for sunset, consider waking up early to hike as the sun is rising. Not only will the weather be cooler and the crowds thinner, the caldera will be bathed in a gorgeous pale pink light. – Sarah Souli

The best way to take in Santorini’s beauty is to walk, and there is no better route than the one from Fira to Oia. This hike is 6.5 miles one way and passes through four towns, including Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia. There is no marked trail or pathway for this hike (aside from a couple signs, according to recent travelers), but a matter of following the roads that hug the caldera. Along the way, travelers will find numerous sights worth stopping for, in addition to spectacular ocean views and picturesque towns. For many travelers, the hike was the highlight of their visit to Greece. 

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Greece vs. Italy – Which is Better to Travel To?

05/31/2024 by Kristin Addis Leave a Comment

Italy and Greece are two of Europe’s most captivating destinations, each offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Having spent a cumulative two months traveling through Italy and three weeks exploring Greece, I’ve had the pleasure of delving deep into what makes each country unique.

Here’s a detailed comparison based on my personal adventures, highlighting the best things to do, luxury hotels, safety, and tips for solo travelers and couples alike if you’re trying to choose between Italy and Greece:

Table of Contents

Greece vs. Italy First Impressions

Italy: Timeless Elegance

I’ve been to Italy six times, and there are few places in the world that are as friendly, or that love food quite as much as the Italians do. The sense of taking time to enjoy the finer things of life is infectious.

Italy has a timeless elegance from the bustling streets of Rome to the rustic beauty of the Dolomites and the rolling hills of Tuscany – every corner of Italy feels like a scene from a classic movie.

The country’s rich cultural heritage and passion for art, food, and fashion are evident everywhere, and there’s so much diversity in terms of coastal areas, historic cities, and the incredible Alpine region.

Greece: Ancient and Serene

Greece, on the other hand, is a country I’ve visited twice and is also a friendly place that loves a good meal. It welcomed me with its serene beauty and ancient wonders. The sight of white-washed buildings against the backdrop of the azure Aegean Sea was mesmerizing.

If you’re looking for a straight beach holiday, it’s hard to beat Greece.

Things to Do

Italy: a cultural feast.

Italy is a treasure trove of cultural and historical landmarks. Here are some of my favorite places:

• Praiano : You’ve probably heard of Amalfi and Sorrento, but tucked between the two is a quieter stretch of beach and town and it’s still one of my favorite Italian memories. Walk the Path of the Gods for sure!
• Bologna : This is a foodie’s paradise. I love Bologna so much I went back on my way to the Dolomites, and the food is always on point. The surrounding area of Modena, Vignola , and Parma have some of the best local food from small family producers.
• Dolomites : Driving through the Dolomites scenic countryside, with its rolling hills and mountain peaks, was like stepping into a painting. I’ve been three times and adore the lakes and hikes.
• Florence : I know Florence gets a bad rap for being so busy all the time, and trust me it’s been that way since I started going in 2007, but it’s still one of my favorites for all of the art history. You don’t have to wander too far away from the main drag to get away from the throngs of people, too.

Here’s a list of some of the best unique things in Italy , and guides to Venice and Milan .

Greece: Ancient Wonders and Island Bliss

Greece offers a mix of ancient history and stunning natural beauty, and it’s hard to beat its beaches and islands.

• Santorini : The island’s iconic sunsets and blue-domed churches were a highlight of my trip, offering picture-perfect moments at every turn. A close second for my favorite island is Crete with Elafonisi Beach .
• Meteora : This area is so unlike the rest of Greece with its dramatic mountains adorned with monasteries. It’s honestly a must-do!
• Delphi : Visiting the ancient sanctuary of Delphi, once considered the center of the world by the Greeks, was a fascinating journey into the past.
• Lefkada: This is one of the larger islands with baby blue water and some of the best food I had in Greece. It was just a little crazy to drive around!
• Sailing: One of my favorite things was renting a boat and a skipper and sailing with friends for a week. When split between 8 of us, it wasn’t too expensive! Check out some Greece sailing options here , how to rent a boat in Greece here , and some of my favorite things to do in Greece here.

Keep in mind, Europe in the summer can be really busy, and Greece and Italy are no exception. Italy has a strong year round tourism, though, while many Greek islands sort of turn off after September.

Where to Stay

Part of how much I love a place always has to do with where I lay my head. Here are some of the loveliest places to stay:

Italy: Opulence and Comfort

• Belmond Hotel Caruso, Amalfi Coast : Perched on a cliff overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, this hotel offers stunning views, elegant rooms, and exceptional service.
• Hotel Lungarno, Florence : Located along the banks of the Arno River, this hotel offers stunning views of the Ponte Vecchio. The interior is stylish and elegant, with a collection of art that adds to the sophisticated ambiance.
• Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como : This historic hotel offers luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views of Lake Como. It features a beautiful spa, several swimming pools, and exquisite dining options.
• Hotel Splendido, Portofino : Perched on a hillside overlooking Portofino harbor, this hotel offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean. The property combines historical charm with modern amenities and exceptional service.
• Hotel Danieli, Venice : Located near St. Mark’s Square, this legendary hotel offers opulent rooms and suites decorated with antique furnishings. The rooftop terrace provides stunning views of the Venetian Lagoon.

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Greece: Elegant Escapes

• Canaves Oia Suites, Santorini : Offering breathtaking views of the caldera, this hotel combines luxury with the island’s traditional architecture.
• Katikies Hotel, Santorini : This stunning boutique hotel in Oia features whitewashed architecture and breathtaking views of the caldera. The luxurious suites, infinity pools, and exceptional service make for an unforgettable stay.
• Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Crete : Located on the coast of Elounda, this resort offers luxurious bungalows and suites with private pools. The spa and multiple dining options provide a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence.
• Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection, Santorini : This boutique hotel in Imerovigli offers stunning sunset views and luxurious accommodations. The infinity pool and personalized service make it a top choice for a serene escape.
• The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, Costa Navarino : Situated in the Peloponnese region, this resort offers elegant rooms and suites with sea views. The property includes a golf course, spa, and a variety of dining options, making it a comprehensive luxury experience.

Any and all of these would make fabulous honeymoon stays .

Safety of Italy vs. Greece

Italy: Safe but Stay Aware

Italy felt generally safe, but like any popular tourist destination, it has its share of petty crime, particularly in crowded areas and public transport. In cities like Rome and Naples, it’s important to stay vigilant against pickpockets. As a solo female traveler , I found it essential to stay aware of my surroundings, especially at night.

Stick to licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps, especially late at night, and consider using a purse that has locking zippers like a PacSafe .

Greece: Generally Safe and Welcoming

Greece also felt very safe, with a welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals. The islands, in particular, had a laid-back vibe, making it easy to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Athens, being a larger city, required a bit more caution, especially in less touristy areas at night.

Culinary Adventures

Italy: A Gourmet Paradise

Italy is renowned for its culinary delights, so if you go there and have bad meals, you’re doing something wrong! Generally I stay away from the main tourist areas. Even one or two streets away can have great food. These are some lovely dishes to try:

• Pizza Margherita : You can’t visit Italy and skip pizza! Originating from Naples, this classic pizza features a simple yet delicious combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, salt, and olive oil. The pizza is baked in a wood-fired oven, giving it a unique and authentic flavor.
• Risotto alla Milanese : This creamy rice dish from Milan is made with Arborio rice, saffron, onions, white wine, butter, and Parmesan cheese. The saffron gives the risotto its distinctive yellow color and rich, aromatic flavor.
• Tiramisu : A beloved Italian dessert, tiramisu is made from layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, eggs, sugar, and cocoa powder. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a delightful end to any meal.

Greece: Fresh and Flavorful

Greek cuisine is all about fresh ingredients and bold flavors. While it might seem impossible to compete with “Eat”aly, don’t sleep on Greek cuisine! At the right restaurant it can be equally amazing. Be sure to try:

• Moussaka : This iconic Greek dish is a layered casserole made with eggplant, ground lamb or beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and béchamel sauce. The layers are baked until golden and bubbly, creating a rich and comforting dish.
• Saganaki: This is a fried block of feta cheese, AKA heaven. Usually served with lemon, we got this as a group every night during our sailing trip. We couldn’t stop!
• Baklava : A classic Greek dessert, baklava is made from layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup. The combination of crispy layers and sweet, nutty filling makes it an irresistible treat.

Cultural Differences

There’s a saying, “una faccia, una razza” meaning “one  face , one  race ” used in Greece and Italy when describing each other. The cultures have similarities when it comes to family, community, love of food, and love of their cultures, and both are welcoming.

Italy: Passionate and Expressive

Italians are known for their passion and expressiveness. The culture is deeply rooted in family, food, and art. Learning a few basic Italian phrases goes a long way, as Italians appreciate the effort, and they appreciate even more when you enjoy their food.

I’ve been invited for impromptu meals by locals in Vietnam , South Africa , and China , but the longest were two five hour meals (different hosts) in Italy. For one, I couldn’t communicate at all, but the hosts still invited me to come back and stay. Don’t expect a lot of English to be spoken, but so much can be communicated by context and gestures that I never struggle abroad with communication .

Greece: Warm and Hospitable

Greeks are famously warm and hospitable, often going out of their way to make visitors feel welcome. The culture is steeped in history and mythology, with a strong emphasis on family and community. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, making it easy to communicate and navigate.

Greece vs. Italy – My Pick

Both Italy and Greece are incredible destinations with their own unique charms and challenges, but there’s a reason why I can’t stay away from Italy.

The mountains, charming towns, wonderful food, amazing people, and the variance of all that you can do there have me hooked. There’s the romantic charm of Tuscany, the iconic Amalfi coast, and I am going back to the Dolomites for a fourth time this coming fall. Especially the parts I haven’t seen yet – Lake Como, Sardinia, and Sicily all have me intrigued.

That’s not to say that Greece is a bad choice. It’s an excellent choice if you’re short on time and want to island hop and enjoy a sunny holiday. You’ll honestly have a wonderful time. But if you want to have a lot of variety from mountains to quaint towns and stunning coastline, Italy is my pick!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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