Greece Athens ToursPlanning to come to Hellas? Discover the best places to visit in Greece before your trip. Below is a complete guide that will help your vacation in Greece.
The Ultimate Greece Vacation Guide: Top 10 Things to See and Do
Explore the Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens
The Acropolis and Parthenon are two of the most iconic historic sites in Athens and Greece. Perched at the top of a hill overlooking the city, the Acropolis was the ancient citadel and site of some of the most famous ancient buildings. The Parthenon is the most recognizable structure, dedicated to the goddess Athena.
Built-in the 5th century BCE, the Parthenon is regarded as the pinnacle of classical Greek architecture. The imposing columns and intricate frieze sculptures showcase the ionic order and artistic mastery of the time. Some of the remarkable details include the subtle curvature of the foundations to compensate for perspective and the angled columns that give the illusion of perfect vertical alignment.
While parts of the Parthenon have been damaged over time(read about restoration), including during its use as a church and mosque over the centuries, extensive restoration work has preserved and reconstructed much of the site. It remains an iconic and impressive display of ancient Greek cultural achievements.
In addition to the Parthenon, the Acropolis is also home to other ancient monuments like the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion. The site served as both a religious sanctuary as well a defensive fortification overlooking Athens.
The Acropolis and Parthenon are extremely popular sites, so advanced booking (see how to book online) of tickets is highly recommended during the high season between April and October. The best times to visit (see our Athens tour) are early morning or late afternoon to avoid large crowds. Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring water, and be prepared to walk up steep inclines within the archaeological complex. Allow several hours to explore the site fully and soak in views of the historic ruins with the city of Athens down below.
Island Hop the Cyclades
The Cyclades is a picturesque group of over 200 islands in the Aegean Sea near Athens. Some of Greece’s most famous islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Naxos are part of this archipelago. Island hopping through the Cyclades is a must for any visit to Greece.
Santorini is arguably the most iconic of the Greek islands, with its famous whitewashed villages perched on cliffsides overlooking the sea. The volcanic island landscape creates unforgettable sunsets and stunning views. Visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri, go wine tasting, or relax on the black sand beaches. Visiting Santorini is definitely one of the best things to do in Greece!
Mykonos is a cosmopolitan party island, with a lively nightlife scene, chic boutique hotels, and endless entertainment. Wander through the maze-like streets of the main town, enjoy glamorous beaches, and indulge in the island’s sophistication.
Naxos is the greenest and most fertile of the Cyclades islands. Explore picturesque mountain villages, lounge on long sandy beaches, sample local produce, and take in the Venetian architecture. Don’t miss a visit to the Portara, an ancient Greek gate overlooking the sea.
Paros charms visitors with its traditional villages, lively port town, and variety of beaches. Visit the iconic Panagia Ekatontapiliani church, explore seaside caves, or wander through the “butterfly valley” filled with native wildlife. The island is also known for its marble quarries and art scene.
The best way to island hop is by ferry, as most islands have regular connections. Blue Star Ferries and Hellenic Seaways offer routes between the most popular islands. You can also travel by catamaran or private yacht for quicker transfers. Look out for combo ferry tickets that allow flexible travel between multiple islands over a fixed period.
Best Places To Visit in Greece
Soak Up the Sun at the Beaches
With over 1400 islands and 6,000 miles of coastline, Greece is a beach lover’s paradise. You’ll find many beaches, from secluded coves on small islands to party beaches packed with tourists.
Some of the most famous beaches in Greece include:
Navagio Beach on Zakynthos Island is known for its stunning cove surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. You can only access it by boat.
Balos Beach on Crete is famous for its shallow, turquoise waters and pink granite rock formations. The beach is at the end of a scenic hike.
Elafonisi Beach on Crete is known for its pale pink sands and clear waters. It’s located on a small island that’s separated from the mainland by a shallow lagoon.
Myrtos Beach on Kefalonia island is renowned for being one of Greece’s most photographed beaches thanks to its vivid blue waters and sweeping arc shape.
Voidokilia Beach in the Peloponnese is a semi-circular beach with turquoise waters overlooking the ancient site of Olympia.
The islands offer plenty of opportunities for watersports like sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, and more thanks to the steady winds. On the mainland, beaches along the Athenian Riviera like Vouliagmeni allow for calm swimming and sunbathing.
No matter what type of beach experience you’re seeking, Greece has the ideal spot to lay out your towel and soak up the glorious Mediterranean sun.
Eat, Pray, Love: Experiencing the Wonders of Greece
Sample Authentic Greek Cuisine
Greek cuisine is famous for its fresh, simple ingredients and flavorful dishes. When visiting Greece, be sure to try some of these signature foods and drinks:
Signature Greek Dishes
Moussaka – This hearty dish made of layered eggplant, potatoes, and spiced meat topped with a creamy bechamel sauce is a Greek staple.
Souvlaki – These small skewers of marinated meat are delicious on their own or wrapped up in warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce. Chicken and pork are the most common souvlaki meats.
Greek Salad – A fresh mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese, and dressed with olive oil, this salad is the perfect light Greek meal.
Gyros – These sandwiches are made with slices of rotisserie meat, tomato, onion, and tzatziki sauce wrapped up in a fluffy pita. Try chicken, pork, or lamb gyros.
Spanakopita – Flaky, buttery phyllo dough layered with spinach and feta is a heavenly combination in these Greek spinach pies.
Dolmades – Grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat is a popular Greek appetizer called dolmades.
Greek Restaurants
In Athens, visit the historic Plaka neighborhood for a wealth of excellent tavernas and restaurants. Top picks include Scholarchio for moussaka in a setting with Acropolis views, O Platanos for homestyle Greek cuisine, and Mama Roux for modern Greek fusion dishes. As well you can also enjoy some fine wines in a bar in Athens (see our list).
On the islands, look for seaside tavernas serving the local catch of the day simply grilled along with classic Greek dishes. Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, and Rhodes all have stellar dining options. Ask your hotel or villa host for their restaurant recommendations.
Greek Wines and Spirits
Sip on traditional Greek wines like Assyrtiko, a crisp white, or Agiorgitiko, a soft fruity red. Sample regional wines on the islands where they are produced.
Ouzo is Greece’s signature spirit – an anise-flavored aperitif that can be sipped neat or diluted with water. You can also try Greek brandy, masticha, a sweet liqueur with mastic resin flavor, or fiery raki with a meal.
Experiencing the flavors of authentic Greek cuisine is a highlight of any trip. Let your tastebuds guide you to the best local restaurants and specialty food shops.
Explore the Historical Sites
Beyond the Acropolis in Athens, Greece is filled with fascinating historical sites that provide a window into its ancient past. Here are some of the top historical sites and ruins to visit.
Delphi
Delphi was considered the center of the ancient world and home to the oracle of Delphi, the most important oracle in the classical Greek world. Visitors can explore the ruins of the Temple of Apollo where the oracle resided as well as the Sacred Way, ancient marketplace, theater, and stadium. Getting to Delphi requires either a tour or renting a car from Athens, but the approximately two-hour drive through olive groves and mountain scenery is well worth it.
Meteora
The Meteora monasteries are immense monasteries built atop towering rock pinnacles in central Greece. Dating back to the 14th century, these monasteries were built by monks seeking spiritual isolation and freedom from religious persecution. Today only six out of the original twenty-four monasteries remain open to the public. By car is a scenic 3-4 hour drive to Meteora, you can book and admire these monasteries perched high up on natural sandstone pillars.
Rhodes
The Greek island of Rhodes contains the beautifully preserved medieval city of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander the cobblestone streets and admire the Gothic architecture left behind by the Knights of St John during the Crusades. You can also visit the hilltop Acropolis of Lindos which contains the ancient Temple of Athena and the fortified Rhodes old town where the famous Colossus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, once stood. Ferries to Rhodes are available from Athens, Crete, and other Greek islands.
Mycenae
Mycenae was one of the major centers of Greek civilization in the 2nd millennium BC and home to the legendary King Agamemnon. Visit the well-preserved archaeological site to explore the iconic Lion’s Gate, the Cyclopean stone walls, the Royal Tombs, and other remnants of this powerful ancient kingdom. Mycenae is an easy day trip from Athens by rental car, bus tour, or taxi. You can easily book your tour here.
These are just a few of the top historical sites and areas beyond Athens that provide insight into Ancient Greece. With its countless archaeological treasures, Greece offers no shortage of opportunities to immerse yourself in thousands of years of fascinating history.
Hike the Diverse Landscapes
Greece offers incredible diversity when it comes to hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of its terrain. On the mainland, trails wind through dramatic gorges, past ancient ruins, and into forested mountains. There are loads of national parks to explore like the Pindus National Park home to the rugged Pindus Mountain Range and Vikos Gorge said to be the deepest in the world.
The Greek islands also provide awesome hiking opportunities along scenic coastal paths with stunning blue sea views. Crete has lots of trails including the famous Samaria Gorge in southwest Crete slicing through the White Mountains. Trails on Santorini head along the caldera rim past whitewashed villages with epic views of the sunken volcano. Naxos has lush green valleys and hills to trek through dotted with quaint villages and medieval castles.
Hikers on Corfu can explore the island’s tallest mountain Pantokrator covered in forests. And there are peaceful nature walks through olive groves on island gems like Kefalonia, Lesbos, and Samos. With rugged mountains, deep gorges, pristine coastal paths, and a wealth of national parks, Greece offers diverse landscapes and scenic trails sure to delight any nature lover.
Experience the Nightlife
Greece is well known for its vibrant nightlife, especially on the islands. From beach bars to open-air clubs, you’ll find plenty of ways to experience the party scene.
Some of the most famous party spots in Greece include:
Mykonos – This glamorous island is arguably the nightlife capital of Greece, with hotspots like Paradise, NAMOS, Super Paradise Beach, and Jackie O’ Beach Club drawing revelers from around the world. The clubs stay open well into the morning hours.
Santorini – While known for its sunsets and caldera views during the day, Santorini transforms at night with lively clubs carved into the island’s cliffsides. Check out places like Tango Champagne and Enigma Bar for unforgettable views.
Crete– Is the biggest island in Greece and a famous destination for Europeans. In the Hersonisos and Malia areas, dozens of bars and clubs attract thousands of people from around the World. The best clubs are the New York Beach Club, Star Beach, Biobio Club, and Candy Club.
Corfu – The island’s famous “strip” is lined with nightclubs and music bars perfect for bar hopping into the night. Some top spots include Cavalieri Club and Savaneta.
Zante – Zakynthos island is listed for its hot nights in the summertime. The area of Laganas is full of bars and clubs. Check out IKON BAR, Zero’s, G-Spot, Sin City, Sugar, Medusa, and, Fishbowl.
Beyond the clubs, you can experience local Greek music and entertainment. Listen to traditional bouzouki music while sipping ouzo, or watch a live performance of Sirtaki dances.
The Greek islands also have unique nightlife experiences, like full moon parties, beach bonfires, and salsa dancing on the sand. No matter which island you visit, you’re sure to find festive vibes once the sun goes down. Embrace the Mediterranean night by joining in the revelry.
Attend Local Festivals and Events
Greece is well known for its lively festivals and cultural events that take place year-round. Attending one is a fantastic way to experience true Greek culture, music, food, and community.
Some of the major annual festivals and events in Greece include:
The Patras Carnival – One of the largest carnival festivals in Europe, held in Patras each February. Features parades, costumes, music, dancing, and wild street parties.
Easter – A major religious holiday in Greece with solemn church services, candlelight processions, fireworks, and feasts. Orthodox Easter is often different than Western Easter.
The Athens & Epidaurus Festival – From June to August, showcases theatre, music, and dance performances in venues around Athens and Epidaurus.
The Thessaloniki International Film Festival – Each November, screens independent films from around the world in Greece’s second-largest city.
Rockwave Festival – A multi-day rock music festival held near Athens each July, featuring top Greek and international acts.
Wine Harvest Festivals – Celebrations of the grape harvest are held in wine regions like Nemea, Santorini, Rhodes, Crete, and more, usually in September.
The festivals reflect Greece’s rich culture, faith, and proud traditions. They offer the chance to mingle with locals, try local foods and wines, enjoy live music and dancing, and immerse yourself in authentic Greek celebrations. Attending a festival will create memories to last a lifetime.
Go Sailing around the Islands
Greece is a sailor’s paradise with over 1,400 islands and 6,000 miles of coastline. Cruising by sailboat is one of the best ways to experience the Greek islands and their sparkling azure water.
Top spots for sailing and yachting in Greece:
The Ionian Islands off Greece’s western coast offer ideal sailing conditions along stunning coastlines. Top islands include Corfu, Paxos, and Lefkada.
The Saronic Gulf Islands like Hydra, Spetses, and Poros are close to Athens and offer short island hopping adventures.
The Cyclades Islands in the central Aegean Sea, including Mykonos, Santorini, and Milos, have gorgeous beaches and charming towns to explore.
The Dodecanese Islands in the southeast Aegean, including Rhodes, Kos, and Patmos, mix ancient history with beachfront resort towns.
Crete, Greece’s largest island, has over 200 miles of varied coastline along the Libyan Sea and countless coves to discover.
Island Hopping Through Paradise – Exploring Greece’s Spectacular Islands
Sailing tours and charters available:
Greece has companies that offer skippered yacht charters, cabin bookings aboard sailing cruises, private crewed sailboat charters, sailing lessons, and more. Options range from affordable day trips to luxury sailing vacations. Popular destinations connect Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, the Cyclades, the Dodecanese Islands, the Ionian Islands, and the Peloponnese.
Tips for sailing as a mode of transportation:
Book well in advance during peak summer seasons. Last-minute deals can also be found.
An affordable way to sail is by booking a daily island-hopping cruise that hits different ports each day.
For more freedom, charter a sailboat yourself or with a group and create your own island-hopping route.
If prone to seasickness, stick to larger boats or travel on days with minimal wind and waves.
Be flexible with your itinerary as weather conditions may force changes.
Sailing through Greece’s idyllic islands offers an unforgettable travel experience combining ocean adventures with island and coastal explorations. With numerous companies offering sailing options, it’s easy to enjoy Greece from the unique vantage point of a sailboat.
Shop for Local Souvenirs
Shopping for traditional Greek handicrafts and souvenirs is a fun way to bring a little piece of Greece home with you. Some of the most popular items to look for include:
Ceramics: Greek pottery has a long history dating back thousands of years. You’ll find beautiful ceramic pieces like vases, plates, bowls, and decorative tiles handmade locally all over Greece. Each region has its own unique styles and designs.
Jewelry: Greek jewelry often features classic designs like the Greek Key pattern or mythological figures. Silver and gold pieces decorated with gemstones are common. You’ll also find modern designers putting a contemporary twist on traditional motifs.
Textiles: Fabrics and textiles like tablecloths, curtains, and clothing make nice lightweight souvenirs. Look for goods embroidered with colorful Greek patterns and designs(see also our article about Greek brands).
Olive products: Greek olive oil and olives are prized around the world for their quality. Bring home olive wood products, olive oil and vinegar, olive soaps, and edible treats like olives, tapenades, and spreads.
Leather goods: Sandals, handbags, luggage, and jackets made from Greek leather are popular purchases. Leather is generally high quality yet affordable.
The best places to shop for authentic handicrafts and souvenirs are local markets, specialty shops, and family-run businesses. Don’t be afraid to haggle, especially at outdoor markets. Even in small shops, polite bargaining is common and expected. With persistence and friendly negotiation, you can often get 10-30% off the initial asking price.
Some of the best markets for finding traditional products in Athens include Monastiraki, the Central Market, and the Flea Market. On the islands, each has its own unique specialties and shopping areas to discover. Hunting for hidden shops and stalls provides a more unique experience than buying mass-produced items aimed at tourists. With an eye for quality and Greek craftsmanship, you’ll return home with wonderful handmade goods that reflect the culture of Greece.
