Greece is a superb nation filled with historic wonders, fabulous nature, glorious meals, and a few of Europe’s finest seashores. The Greek Isles are world-famous; some for the legendary seaside events and others for his or her luxurious resorts with astounding views. Fortunately, we’ve got been in a position to go to Greece 6 instances and discover its numerous landscapes on the mainland, its laid-back ambiance on the islands, and dove deep into its historical past.
Whether or not you’re extra within the tradition and historical past of Greece or its finest seashores, you’re in the appropriate place. This information to all the very best issues to do in Greece provides loads of choices for everybody and explores all the very best locations to go to within the Mediterranean.
From the lunar landscapes of Milos to the unimaginable archeology of Athens – listed here are all the very best issues to do in Greece!
We’ll make it easier to plan your perfect Greece trip by exploring the nation’s standard locations, points of interest, and hidden gems. Someday, you may traverse the sandy seashores of the west coast after which discover the archeological websites on the Dodecanese Islands. We’ve lined the whole lot most vacationers like to do once they go to Greece so there are many enjoyable actions for everybody.
Greece Fast Information
Should-see: Acropolis of Athens, Ruins of Delphi, Milos, Santorini, Heraklion Museum, Panathenaic Stadium, Olympia.
The place To Keep: Astor Resort, Lava Caves, Amira Luxurious Resort & Spa
Enjoyable To Do: Pellion Steam Prepare, Yacht Getaway, Mount Olympus, Cave of the Lakes, Wintery tour,
Day Journeys: Mykonos, Zakynthos, Corfu, Patras
Should-Strive Meals: Gyros, Olives, Tzatziki, Dolmades, Loukoumades
Finest Issues to Do in Greece
A beauty of Greece is that anybody can have an excellent time there. It doesn’t matter in case you’re into climbing, biking, strolling round cities, or simply lounging on the seaside – the nation provides loads of decisions for enjoyable and thrilling adventures that entice each Greek vacationers and international guests. And typically, you don’t even must go to totally different locations to strive different issues.
1. Hike to the High of Mount Olympus
Mount Olympus is the best mountain in Greece and the house of the Greek gods in Greek Mythology. Mytikas is the tallest summit, rising to a peak of two,917 meters. When you’re feeling adventurous, you may attempt to hike to the highest of this legendary summit for uninterrupted views of Greek landscapes.
Keep in mind that climbing to the highest of such a tall mountain is an exercise reserved for probably the most skilled mountaineers. Excursions to decrease areas of the mountain can be found for different individuals. It’s nonetheless a rewarding expertise and also you get to study a lot in regards to the mountain’s background because the seat of the gods.
Sensible Info
Guide a guided tour to Mount Olympus in case you’re not acquainted with the terrain.
2. Greek Historical past At The Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum tells the story of the Greek’s historical past, and it’s probably the most vital museums in the complete nation. I really like the distinction between the traditional monuments contained in the museum and the ultra-modern constructing that homes the gathering; all of the reveals stand out much more when juxtaposed with the glossy, modern inside of the museum.The museum homes all of the vital artifacts that have been uncovered on the web site of the Acropolis.
Sensible Info
The Acropolis Museum is open from 9 AM to five PM. Museum tickets are 10-15€.
3. Sail to Magical Milos
Milos Island is form of a hidden gem with rising reputation, and I like to recommend you get there ASAP earlier than it turns into trendier than Mykonos and Santorini. Set within the Aegean Sea, it’s identified for placing lunar-like landscapes on its seashores.
Sarakiniko Seashore is by far the preferred on the island. The white rocks and caves really feel such as you’re standing on the moon, and it’s nearly surreal that you just’re truly on an island in Greece. The close by Papafragas Caves are value exploring, and venturing to different areas of the island is finest if you wish to keep away from the crowds.What’s most particular about this island is that it’s the place the place Venus de Milo was found. Sure, Antioch’s iconic sculpture was discovered by a farmer on this magnificent Cyclades island.
Sensible Info
Milos Island is accessible by ferries from Athens and different islands within the Aegean Sea. The ferry crossing from Athens takes roughly three and a half hours.
4. Keep in Athens for a Whereas
Historical past is unquestionably the spotlight of a go to to Athens, so that you wish to be sure to hit all a very powerful sights. Whether or not you select to e book a tour or wish to discover town by yourself, make sure you see the Historical Agora of Athens, the Acropolis of Athens, the Athens Nationwide Backyard, and Areopagus Hill. I haven’t even begun to scratch the floor of all of the great points of interest in Athens, so don’t be stunned in case you see that some have earned their very own spot on this checklist. Try: 16 Finest Day Journeys from Athens
Sensible Info
Athens is serviced by a world airport, and it’s best to achieve town by aircraft. A neighborhood prepare can take you from the airport into town in 45 minutes.
5. Yacht Getaway within the Ionian Islands
Crusing the Ionian Sea on a yacht is the easiest way to discover the Ionian Islands. Uncover Corfu, Paxos, Ithaca, Lefkada, and extra when you journey to fishing villages and quaint cities on the shore. Yacht rental in all fairness priced in Greece, particularly once you evaluate the prices to the nation’s luxurious resorts.
Additionally, you may select between all kinds of itineraries. Every yacht features a skipper and a number, which can take you to all the very best spots you wish to see. The precise worth of getaways relies on the route and the size of the cruise, which could be personalized to your needs.
Sensible Info
6. Tour the Ruins of Delphi
The Oracle of Delphi, in central Greece, is likely one of the most well-known tales in Greek Mythology, and if you’re even barely considering historic historical past, you could go to this tiny city. The ruins of the Temple of Apollo are right here in Delphi and are probably the most well-known landmarks on this historic nation.
Right here, you can too see the Historical Theater of Delphi, the Castalia Spring, the Delphi Archaeological Museum, and the fashionable city of Delphi, which is west of the archeological websites. The museum is nice as a result of it has all of the statues, artwork, and different gadgets that got to the Oracle of Delphi through the years.
Sensible Info
The Delphi Archeological Website is open from 8 AM to 7 PM. Tickets are 6-12€. Guide this extremely rated day journey to Delphi from Athens.
7. Uncover the Viewpoints of Rhodes
Rhodes is the dominant one of many Dodecanese Islands, identified for archeological websites, sandy seashores, and glorious resorts. It’s a prime Greek island to go to, whether or not you wish to spend your time stress-free at a resort or exploring all of the totally different historic websites.
This island can also be an excellent vacation spot for enjoyable outside adventures. Rhodes’ quite a few climbing trails will take you to all the very best viewpoints on the island and permit you to uncover its canyons, waterfalls, tall peaks, and a lot extra. The character of Rhodes is beautiful, and truthfully, even higher than its pretty sandy seashores.Gadoura Dam, Jacob’s Canyon, and the Butterflies Valley are a number of of the very best pure landmarks on the island. There are additionally a great deal of museums, monasteries, church buildings, and different historic websites which might be value trying out, along with all of the seashores and fancy resorts.
Sensible Info
Rhodes is serviced by a world airport and ferried from different Dodecanese islands, in addition to ports in mainland Turkey.
8. Prehistoric Tour of Santorini
Santorini is likely one of the most well-known Greek islands, finest identified for the white and blue homes on the cliffs. It’s an idyllic vacation spot for summer season holidays in Greece, however the island has rather more to supply along with its spectacular seashores.Prehistoric excursions of Santorini will not be as well-known because the island’s wineries however are very a lot a factor. Go to Akotiri to see proof of prehistoric settlement, which is believed to this point from the Neolithic Interval. Then, hike to Historical Thera for mountaintop ruins and dramatic sea views.
The historic stroll from Fira to Oia is one other standard factor to do on the island, particularly for adventurous vacationers. The hike takes 3-5 hours, and it’s principally downhill if finished on this path. It additionally provides gorgeous views alongside the way in which.
Insider Tip: The stroll from Fira to Oia takes place over uncovered terrain, so convey a lot of sunscreen.
Sensible Info
Santorini is accessible by ferries and planes.
9. All You Can Eat Greek Meals
When in Greece you could strive Greek meals. Tzaziki, Gyros, feta cheese, and copious quantities of olive oil are the staples of Greek delicacies, and I’m getting critical nostalgia simply desirous about all of the scrumptious meals I ate in Greece. We like to style native wine in tavernas, and wine tastings are a part of the entire Greek eating expertise.
Greek meals is Mediterranean and recent substances are key to the Greek flavours. What I really like most about this delicacies is that it’s so different. Whereas fish and seafood is hottest within the south particularly on the islands, the north is thought for heartier dishes. Lamb is as standard as fish however greens are extra standard than meat. Greek meals is vegetarian pleasant however you may wrestle to seek out native vegan choices because the Greeks love so as to add feta cheese to the whole lot. And drizzle olive oil, I’m not complaining. Tasting native wine is a part of the journey expertise in Greece, it enhances the meals and the views.
Sensible Info
Meals excursions can be found in most cities all through Greece. Athens and Thessaloniki are the preferred.
10. Occasion on Mykonos
The Island of Mykonos is famous for its nightlife and daytime seaside events. Anybody seeking to have the time of their life in Greece ought to head straight to Mykonos. With numerous stunning seashores tucked away in secluded bays, luxurious villas, and among the finest seaside bars in Greece, Mykonos is a prime vacation spot for summer season enjoyable.
It’s an enormous island, and there are positively different issues to do there if you wish to do extra than simply social gathering. Waterfalls, ruins, and historic landmarks with gorgeous sights are all out there in Mykonos as effectively. The Archaeological Website of Delos is a fast boat trip from Tourlos, and that’s probably the most vital sacred islands of Historical Greece.However in my expertise, the historical past is extra of an afterthought on Mykonos, so do think about different locations (like Santorini or Naxos) in case you’re extra considering exploring than dancing.
Sensible Info
Mykonos is serviced by ferries and planes.
11. Go On a Vineyard Tour
Vineyard excursions can be found nearly all over the place in Greece. They’re inexpensive, enjoyable, and a should for all wine lovers touring within the Mediterranean. Greece is within the prime 20 wine-producing nations on the planet and it has among the oldest vineyards, so Greek wine is unquestionably particular and value making an attempt.Excursions with wine tastings provide perception into the wine manufacturing and historical past. Santorini is a very good vacation spot for vineyard excursions, in addition to Achaia Clauss. It’s one of many nation’s oldest wineries, located within the Peloponnese.
Sensible Info
The wineries of Santorini are among the nation’s finest.
12. See The Shipwreck Seashore on Zakynthos
Sensible Info
Zakynthos is an Ionian Island, accessible by ferries from different islands and Kyllini on the mainland. It’s additionally serviced by an airport and reachable by flights.
13. Unesco World Heritage Website: Acropolis of Athens
The Acropolis of Athens is a UNESCO World Heritage Website and doubtless probably the most well-known historic landmark in Greece. It’s an attraction you could go to when touring to Athens, because it actually is probably the most iconic landmark in the complete metropolis.Standing among the many historic ruins is an unimaginable feeling. It’s surreal to take a look at all these temple ruins and suppose that people lived there greater than a thousand years in the past. Additionally, the Acropolis provides an exquisite view of downtown Athens. The historic web site is on a better elevation than the remainder of town, and the vista of Athens’ rooftops stretches from the ruins.
Insider Tip: Put on sturdy sneakers as a result of the terrain on the Acropolis may be very slippery, even in dry climate.
Sensible Info
Tickets for the Acropolis are 10€ within the winter season and 15€ in the summertime season. The opening hours depend upon the season, however the Acropolis is at all times open till no less than 5 PM.
14. Admire Greek Artwork on the Nationwide Archaeological Museum
The Nationwide Archaeological Museum is likely one of the most vital in Athens. It’s a delight to tour in case you’re considering historic Greek artwork and archaeological findings. Historical past fans are likely to take pleasure in their time at this museum, and the artwork assortment is gorgeous sufficient which you can admire it even with out being a historical past buff.
Don’t miss out on the museum backyard, both. The landscaping is beautiful, and there are a great deal of fairly timber and vegetation to see. Stroll across the inexperienced area first, after which head up the steps to see the exhibit in the very best museum in Athens.
Sensible Info
Tickets for the Nationwide Archaeological Museum are 6€ within the low season and 12€ from April to November. The opening hours additionally depend upon the season.
15. Go to The Meteora Monasteries
The Meteora monastery complicated is likely one of the finest locations to go to in central Greece, famend for its cultural heritage and pure magnificence. When you’re planning a street journey within the nation or only a journey within the low season, that is by far the most effective landmarks away from the islands.
Come right here to see dramatic rock formations with monasteries atop. Six of the unique 24 monasteries stay, and the unimaginable structure of the place has rightfully earned it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Website checklist. The monasteries have been constructed within the thirteenth and 14th centuries, all atop the present pillars. The place is totally sensible, and for me, it’s the most effective locations you may go to in the complete nation.
Sensible Info
Entrance to particular person monasteries is charged 3€, however the entrance to the complicated is freed from cost. Meteora is roughly 4 hours north of Athens, and guided excursions of the complicated can be found from the capital.
16. Discover Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is the second-largest metropolis in Greece and an excellent place to go to in case you’ve already been to the capital. This has the vibe of Athens within the sense that you just’re staying in a buzzing metropolis filled with historic landmarks and historic ruins. However the crowds are a lot smaller, so it’s usually a bit simpler to take pleasure in your keep.Thessaloniki has its justifiable share of historic landmarks and cultural points of interest that provide perception into the lives of the locals. And it’s a lot simpler to find these points of interest once you don’t must bump elbows with different vacationers simply to get to a ticket workplace.
However much more than historical past and tradition, Thessaloniki is thought for Greek meals. Seafood, olives, and the scrumptious Bougatsa are all inviting you to get a style of Thessaloniki and overlook all about Athens for a day or two.
Sensible Info
Thessaloniki is in northern Greece, accessible by planes, ferries, and trains from different European cities.
17. Climbing in Tzoumerka Nationwide Park
Greece has unimaginable nature, however it’s typically neglected in favor of its coast. It’s not that stunning, contemplating the nation has world-famous seashores on its numerous islands. However if you wish to discover extra of mainland Greece’s forests, mountains, lakes, and different landscapes, a visit to Tzoumerka Nationwide Park is ideal for you.
Go to Tzoumerka to see speeding rivers, picturesque villages, and historic homes constructed into the cliffs. Traverse the climbing trails, trip on the mountain biking paths, and climb to the highest of each hill and mountain you need. It’s an excellent alternative to find some mesmerizing Greek landscapes that don’t have anything to do with sand or sea.
Sensible Info
Tzoumerka Nationwide Park is accessible by street in the summertime. No charges or permits are required for park entrance.
18. Go to the Birthplace of the Olympic Video games
The Archaeological Website of Olympia on the Peloponnese peninsula is the place the traditional Olympic Video games occurred. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Website and the most effective remnants of historic Greece.Tour the archeological web site to see the ruins from a number of totally different intervals in Olympia’s historical past. Stroll across the former heart for wrestling, see the ruins of historic temples, statues of Greek gods, and rather more. When you’re even a tiny bit considering historical past, Olympia will probably be an enchanting place to tour.
Sensible Info
The Archaeological Website of Olympia is open from 8 AM to three/7 PM. Tickets are 6-12€.
19. Really feel the (Pink) Sand Between Your Toes at Elafonissi Seashore
Elafonissi Seashore is on the southwestern fringe of Crete. It’s well-known for pink sand, turquoise water, and enchanting environment. The seaside is a part of a nature protect, and it’s accessible solely in good climate.Come right here if you wish to see one of many nation’s prettiest seashores and chill out on a lounger for a number of hours. Though Elafonissi Seashore is mesmerizing, there’s not a lot else to do right here aside from sunbathing. The ocean may be very shallow, and you must stroll for ages to achieve knee-deep water, so it’s not an excellent seaside for swimming.
Sensible Info
Elafonissi Seashore is most simply accessible on excursions from Chania.
20. Tombs and Palace Ruins on the Archaeological Website of Mycenae
The Archaeological web site of Mycenae is likely one of the most vital in mainland Greece. It options palace ruins, grave circles, an historic palace, and the Archeological Museum of Mycenae, which reveals all of the vital objects uncovered at this web site.Mycenae was so essential for the event of the nation that a whole interval of Greek historical past is called after it. From 1600 BC to 1100 BC, Mycenae was probably the most vital facilities of Greek civilization.
Sensible Info
The Archeological Museum of Mycenae is open from 8 AM to three:30/7 PM. Tickets are 6-12€.
21. Discover Chania’s Venetian Structure
Chania is a port metropolis on the island of Crete. It’s finest identified for the Venetian structure that adorns a lot of town, the very best instance of which is the Venetian Port of Chania. Previous metropolis partitions, ruins of a Byzantine citadel, and the Lighthouse of Chania are a number of different notable landmarks within the city.
Come to this excellent metropolis for the proper stability of historic historical past and delightful sandy seashores. Crete is house to among the finest seashores in Greece, and lots of are simply accessible from Chania.
Sensible Info
Chania is serviced by planes and ferries, and flying to the island is the best choice.
22. See the Legendary Panathenaic Stadium
The primary trendy Olympic Video games occurred at Panathenaic Stadium again in 1896, cementing the venue’s place in current historical past. Additionally, it’s the one stadium on the planet made totally of marble, making it one of many prime three landmarks in Athens.I like to recommend getting the audio information for the stadium tour as a result of it offers a lot context in regards to the place. With out it, you’re simply watching rows of marble seats and statues.
Sensible Info
Panathenaic Stadium is open from 8 AM to 7 PM. Common admission is 10€.
23. Admire Minoan Artwork in Heraklion
Heraklion is the capital of Crete and the most effective cities on the island. Similar to Chania, it’s well-known for its stunning Venetian structure. Byzantine church buildings, monasteries, and numerous different landmarks are scattered all through this historic metropolis.
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is an absolute should if you end up in Heraklion on Crete. The museum boasts a set of many desirable gadgets, by far the very best of which is its assortment of Minoan Artwork. It’s the most important assortment of its sort on the planet, with statues, jewellery, furnishings, and rather more.
Sensible Info
Heraklion is serviced by a port and airport. Ferries depart from Athens and journey for about 9 hours.
24. Discover the Historical Agora of Athens
Stroll again in time and comply with within the footsteps of the traditional Greeks on the Historical Agora of Athens. That is the guts of historic Athens, the place residents would collect to speak about politics, commerce, and social points. As you stroll via the ruins, you will notice a number of wonderful historic monuments, the Temple of Hephaestus and the reconstructed Stoa of Attalos, which now homes the Museum of the Historical Agora.
The Historical Agora is a UNESCO World Heritage Website and offers you a glimpse into day by day life in historic Greece. The museum has extra info on the positioning, and the reveals present you the artifacts that inform the story of this civic centre. Whether or not you’re a historical past buff or simply curious in regards to the previous, the Historical Agora is a should see when in Athens.
25. Samaria Gorge in Crete
Hike the gorgeous Samaria Gorge, which is one among Crete’s most well-known pure wonders. This 16 km lengthy gorge within the White Mountains is a difficult however rewarding hike via among the island’s most stunning landscapes. The path takes about 6-8 hours to finish and winds its manner via slim passages, previous towering cliffs, and alongside a crystal clear river.
The Samaria Gorge is house to many species of natural world, together with the endangered Cretan goat, the kri-kri. The gorge’s pure magnificence and tranquility make it a must-see for nature lovers and journey seekers.
26. See a Play at Historical Epidaurus
Expertise historic Greek theatre on the Historical Epidaurus, a historic theatre well-known for its acoustics and surroundings. Positioned within the Peloponnese area, this historic web site comes alive throughout the summer season months with Greek tragedies, comedies, and trendy performs.
Seeing a play on the Historical Epidaurus is an expertise like no different. The theatre is designed in order that the faintest sound could be heard from each seat; it’s an intimate and immersive expertise. Surrounded by greenery and hills, the setting is as stunning because the performances.
27. Discover Your Seashore
Greece has a protracted shoreline and a seaside for each kind of traveler. Whether or not you favor sandy seashores, pebbled seashores, or secluded coves, you can find your excellent spot to chill out. A number of the hottest seashores are talked about above, however I additionally wished to offer a shout-out to Koukounaries Seashore in Skiathos for the golden sand and pine forest behind.
Every seaside is totally different, from swimming and sunbathing to water sports activities and seaside bars. The landscapes and waters are so stunning that Greece’s seashores are among the finest on the planet and the proper place to spend your vacation.
28. Cruise the Cyclades
Sail the blue waters of the Aegean Sea and uncover the stunning Cyclades. Well-known for its seashores, villages, and nightlife, the Cyclades are the final word Greek island expertise. A ship journey via this stunning archipelago is the easiest way to see all of it and get immersed within the native tradition.
Select from day journeys to multi day cruises. Standard stops are Santorini with its well-known sunsets and white homes, Mykonos with its seaside events and Paros with its conventional villages and turquoise waters. Swim, snorkel and sunbathe on among the most stunning seashores of the Aegean Sea.
Regularly Requested Questions
Is 7 Days Sufficient For Greece?
7 days is sufficient for Athens and a few day journeys in Greece. Plan a trip of no less than two weeks for a extra thorough exploration of Greece and its great islands.
What’s the Nicest A part of Greece to Go to?
The nicest a part of Greece to go to is its islands, no less than when it comes to landscapes and climate. Santorini, Mykonos, Zakynthos, Milos, Rhodes, and lots of others all provide gentle climate, sunny days, and lots of miles of sandy seashores.
The place Ought to I Go For My First Time in Greece?
Athens is ideal for first-time guests, particularly if you wish to uncover historical past and tradition. One of many numerous islands is healthier in case you’re in search of a extra relaxed trip vacation spot.
What Is The Quantity One Attraction In Greece?
The Acropolis of Athens is the primary attraction in Greece. This historic web site is a UNESCO Heritage Website and by far the nation’s most well-known vacationer attraction.
The place To Keep in Greece
Keep in Athens in case you’re going to Greece for historical past and tradition. The capital has by far the very best landmarks and points of interest, and it’s excellent for first-time guests.For a extra relaxed trip, keep at Milos Island and wander round its mesmerizing seashores. And for the very best stability of island enjoyable and historic Greek landmarks, select Crete. Listed here are among the finest resorts in Greece for all budgets:
Suggestions and Info For Visiting Greece
Finest Time To Go to
The most effective time to go to Greece is from April to October. Greece is a very fashionable vacation spot in the summertime due to the nice and cozy climate and numerous miles of sandy seashores, so that you may wish to keep away from touring in July and August. When you don’t like crowds, early spring and late fall are glorious instances to be in Greece.Could, June, and September are nonetheless good instances to go to for smaller crowds and to swim within the sea. The climate is heat sufficient which you can comfortably go for a swim and lounge on the seaside, however the remainder of the world hasn’t totally caught on, in order that they haven’t all arrived.Winters in Greece are dreary and moist. It’s not enjoyable strolling on slippery cobblestones, and I don’t advocate touring to Greece from November to March.
Getting There
Athens Worldwide Airport is the most important one in Greece, so there’s an excellent likelihood you’ll land at this airport. A prepare service is out there to take you to downtown Athens, and it’s normally the quickest manner of touring.The roads main into town can get fairly congested, so taxis and personal transfers can generally take longer to get you to town heart. A one-way prepare ticket is simply 9€.
If you should get someplace from Athens, look into trains, buses, ferries, and flights. Greece has loads of smaller airports, however they’re principally serviced by native (cheap) airways.
How A lot Time Do You Want
The period of time you should go to Greece actually relies on the way you wish to expertise the nation. When you’re simply staying in Athens, you want no less than three days to discover town, ideally 5. However if you wish to go island hopping on both coast, you’ll want no less than seven days to have the ability to see a number of totally different cities.Highway journeys on the mainland are additionally an possibility, and also you want 7-10 days for these as effectively. Take into account that all of the timeframes I’ve listed are the naked minimal; in case you can spare two or three weeks for Greece and also you’re not afraid of going out and exploring, your days will probably be crammed with wonderful adventures and lovely views.
Plan your journey to Greece with These Priceless Sources
