Greece is an excellent nation stuffed 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 seashore events and others for his or her luxurious inns with astounding views. Luckily, we’ve got been capable of go to Greece 6 instances and discover its various landscapes on the mainland, its laid-back environment on the islands, and dove deep into its historical past.
Whether 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 one of the best issues to do in Greece affords loads of choices for everybody and explores all one of the best locations to go to within the Mediterranean.
From the lunar landscapes of Milos to the unbelievable archeology of Athens – listed here are all one of the best issues to do in Greece!
We will aid you plan your excellent Greece trip by exploring the nation’s common locations, points of interest, and hidden gems. One day, you’ll be able to traverse the sandy seashores of the west coast after which discover the archeological websites on the Dodecanese Islands. We’ve lined every part most vacationers like to do after they go to Greece so there are many enjoyable actions for everybody.
Greece Quick Guide
Must-see: Acropolis of Athens, Ruins of Delphi, Milos, Santorini, Heraklion Museum, Panathenaic Stadium, Olympia.
Where To Stay: Astor Hotel, Lava Caves, Amira Luxury Resort & Spa
Fun To Do: Pellion Steam Train, Yacht Getaway, Mount Olympus, Cave of the Lakes, Wintery tour,
Day Trips: Mykonos, Zakynthos, Corfu, Patras
Must-Try Foods: Gyros, Olives, Tzatziki, Dolmades, Loukoumades
Best Things to Do in Greece
A beauty of Greece is that anybody can have a great time there. It doesn’t matter in the event you’re into mountaineering, biking, strolling round cities, or simply lounging on the seashore – the nation affords loads of decisions for enjoyable and thrilling adventures that entice each Greek vacationers and overseas guests. And normally, you don’t even must go to totally different locations to strive different issues.
1. Hike to the Top 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. If you’re feeling adventurous, you’ll be able to attempt to hike to the highest of this legendary summit for uninterrupted views of Greek landscapes.
Bear in thoughts that mountaineering 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 folks. It’s nonetheless a rewarding expertise and also you get to study a lot concerning the mountain’s background because the seat of the gods.
Practical Information
Book a guided tour to Mount Olympus in the event you’re not accustomed to the terrain.
2. Greek History At The Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum tells the story of the Greek’s historical past, and it’s one of the vital vital museums in your complete nation. I like the distinction between the traditional monuments contained in the museum and the ultra-modern constructing that homes the gathering; all of the displays stand out much more when juxtaposed with the smooth, up to date inside of the museum.The museum homes all of the vital artifacts that had been uncovered on the website of the Acropolis.
Practical Information
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 growing 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 recognized for putting lunar-like landscapes on its seashores.
Sarakiniko Beach 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 simply’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. Yes, Antioch’s iconic sculpture was discovered by a farmer on this magnificent Cyclades island.
Practical Information
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. Stay in Athens for a While
History is certainly the spotlight of a go to to Athens, so that you wish to ensure you hit all a very powerful sights. Whether you select to ebook a tour or wish to discover town by yourself, remember to see the Ancient Agora of Athens, the Acropolis of Athens, the Athens National Garden, and Areopagus Hill. I haven’t even begun to scratch the floor of all of the fantastic points of interest in Athens, so don’t be stunned in the event you see that some have earned their very own spot on this listing. Check out: 16 Best Day Trips from Athens
Practical Information
Athens is serviced by a world airport, and it’s best to succeed in town by airplane. An area prepare can take you from the airport into town in 45 minutes.
5. Yacht Getaway within the Ionian Islands
Sailing the Ionian Sea on a yacht is the easiest way to discover the Ionian Islands. Discover Corfu, Paxos, Ithaca, Lefkada, and extra whilst you journey to fishing villages and quaint cities on the shore. Yacht rental is fairly priced in Greece, particularly once you examine the prices to the nation’s luxurious resorts.
Also, you’ll be able to select between all kinds of itineraries. Each yacht features a skipper and a number, which is able to take you to all one of the best spots you wish to see. The actual value of getaways relies on the route and the size of the cruise, which could be personalized to your needs.
Practical Information
6. Tour the Ruins of Delphi
The Oracle of Delphi, in central Greece, is among the most well-known tales in Greek Mythology, and in case you are even barely fascinated about historic historical past, you could go to this tiny city. The ruins of the Temple of Apollo are right here in Delphi and are one of the vital well-known landmarks on this historic nation.
Here, you may also see the Ancient Theater of Delphi, the Castalia Spring, the Delphi Archaeological Museum, and the trendy 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 objects that got to the Oracle of Delphi over time.
Practical Information
The Delphi Archeological Site is open from 8 AM to 7 PM. Tickets are 6-12€. Book this extremely rated day journey to Delphi from Athens.
7. Discover the Viewpoints of Rhodes
Rhodes is the dominant one of many Dodecanese Islands, recognized for archeological websites, sandy seashores, and glorious resorts. It’s a high 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 be an amazing vacation spot for enjoyable outside adventures. Rhodes’ quite a few mountaineering trails will take you to all one of the best viewpoints on the island and mean you can uncover its canyons, waterfalls, tall peaks, and a lot extra. The nature of Rhodes is beautiful, and actually, even higher than its beautiful sandy seashores.Gadoura Dam, Jacob’s Canyon, and the Butterflies Valley are just a few of one of the best pure landmarks on the island. There are additionally a great deal of museums, monasteries, church buildings, and different historic websites which can be value trying out, along with all of the seashores and fancy resorts.
Practical Information
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 among the most well-known Greek islands, finest recognized 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 far more to supply along with its spectacular seashores.Prehistoric excursions of Santorini should not as well-known because the island’s wineries however are very a lot a factor. Visit Akotiri to see proof of prehistoric settlement, which is believed thus far from the Neolithic Period. Then, hike to Ancient Thera for mountaintop ruins and dramatic sea views.
The historic stroll from Fira to Oia is one other common factor to do on the island, particularly for adventurous vacationers. The hike takes 3-5 hours, and it’s largely downhill if executed on this route. It additionally affords gorgeous views alongside the way in which.
Insider Tip: The stroll from Fira to Oia takes place over uncovered terrain, so deliver a lot of sunscreen.
Practical Information
Santorini is accessible by ferries and planes.
9. All You Can Eat Greek Food
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 occupied with 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 contemporary elements are key to the Greek flavours. What I like most about this delicacies is that it’s so assorted. While fish and seafood is hottest within the south particularly on the islands, the north is thought for heartier dishes. Lamb is as common as fish however greens are extra common than meat. Greek meals is vegetarian pleasant however you would possibly battle to seek out native vegan choices because the Greeks love so as to add feta cheese to every part. 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.
Practical Information
Food excursions can be found in most cities all through Greece. Athens and Thessaloniki are the preferred.
10. Party on Mykonos
The Island of Mykonos is famous for its nightlife and daytime seashore events. Anyone trying to have the time of their life in Greece ought to head straight to Mykonos. With numerous lovely seashores tucked away in secluded bays, luxurious villas, and a number of the finest seashore bars in Greece, Mykonos is a high vacation spot for summer season enjoyable.
It’s a giant island, and there are positively different issues to do there if you wish to do extra than simply celebration. Waterfalls, ruins, and historic landmarks with gorgeous sights are all accessible in Mykonos as effectively. The Archaeological Site of Delos is a fast boat journey from Tourlos, and that’s one of the vital vital sacred islands of Ancient Greece.But in my expertise, the historical past is extra of an afterthought on Mykonos, so do take into account different locations (like Santorini or Naxos) in the event you’re extra fascinated about exploring than dancing.
Practical Information
Mykonos is serviced by ferries and planes.
11. Go On a Winery Tour
Winery excursions can be found nearly all over the place in Greece. They’re reasonably priced, enjoyable, and a should for all wine lovers touring within the Mediterranean. Greece is within the high 20 wine-producing nations on this planet and it has a number of the oldest vineyards, so Greek wine is certainly particular and price making an attempt.Tours with wine tastings supply 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.
Practical Information
The wineries of Santorini are a number of the nation’s finest.
12. See The Shipwreck Beach on Zakynthos
Practical Information
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 Site: Acropolis of Athens
The Acropolis of Athens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site 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 your complete metropolis.Standing among the many historic ruins is an unbelievable feeling. It’s surreal to take a look at all these temple ruins and assume that people lived there greater than a thousand years in the past. Also, the Acropolis affords an exquisite view of downtown Athens. The historic website is on the next elevation than the remainder of town, and the vista of Athens’ rooftops stretches from the ruins.
Insider Tip: Wear sturdy sneakers as a result of the terrain on the Acropolis could be very slippery, even in dry climate.
Practical Information
Tickets for the Acropolis are 10€ within the winter season and 15€ in the summertime season. The opening hours rely upon the season, however the Acropolis is at all times open till at the very least 5 PM.
14. Admire Greek Art on the National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum is among the most vital in Athens. It’s a delight to tour in the event you’re fascinated about historic Greek artwork and archaeological findings. History fanatics are inclined to get pleasure from their time at this museum, and the artwork assortment is gorgeous sufficient you could 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. Walk across the inexperienced area first, after which head up the steps to see the exhibit in one of the best museum in Athens.
Practical Information
Tickets for the National Archaeological Museum are 6€ within the low season and 12€ from April to November. The opening hours additionally rely upon the season.
15. Visit The Meteora Monasteries
The Meteora monastery advanced is among the finest locations to go to in central Greece, famend for its cultural heritage and pure magnificence. If you’re planning a highway journey within the nation or only a journey within the low season, that is by far among the best 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 unbelievable structure of the place has rightfully earned it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site listing. The monasteries had been constructed within the thirteenth and 14th centuries, all atop the prevailing pillars. The place is completely sensible, and for me, it’s among the best locations you’ll be able to go to in your complete nation.
Practical Information
Entrance to particular person monasteries is charged 3€, however the entrance to the advanced is freed from cost. Meteora is roughly 4 hours north of Athens, and guided excursions of the advanced can be found from the capital.
16. Explore Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is the second-largest metropolis in Greece and an amazing place to go to in the event you’ve already been to the capital. This has the vibe of Athens within the sense that you simply’re staying in a buzzing metropolis stuffed with historic landmarks and historic ruins. But the crowds are a lot smaller, so it’s usually a bit simpler to get pleasure from your keep.Thessaloniki has its fair proportion 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.
But 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.
Practical Information
Thessaloniki is in northern Greece, accessible by planes, ferries, and trains from different European cities.
17. Hiking in Tzoumerka National Park
Greece has unbelievable nature, nevertheless it’s usually neglected in favor of its coast. It’s not that shocking, contemplating the nation has world-famous seashores on its numerous islands. But if you wish to discover extra of mainland Greece’s forests, mountains, lakes, and different landscapes, a visit to Tzoumerka National Park is ideal for you.
Visit Tzoumerka to see dashing rivers, picturesque villages, and historic homes constructed into the cliffs. Traverse the mountaineering trails, journey on the mountain biking paths, and climb to the highest of each hill and mountain you need. It’s an amazing alternative to find some mesmerizing Greek landscapes that don’t have anything to do with sand or sea.
Practical Information
Tzoumerka National Park is accessible by highway in the summertime. No charges or permits are required for park entrance.
18. Visit the Birthplace of the Olympic Games
The Archaeological Site of Olympia on the Peloponnese peninsula is the place the traditional Olympic Games occurred. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and among the best remnants of historic Greece.Tour the archeological website to see the ruins from a number of totally different durations in Olympia’s historical past. Walk across the former heart for wrestling, see the ruins of historic temples, statues of Greek gods, and far more. If you’re even a tiny bit fascinated about historical past, Olympia might be an enchanting place to tour.
Practical Information
The Archaeological Site of Olympia is open from 8 AM to three/7 PM. Tickets are 6-12€.
19. Feel the (Pink) Sand Between Your Toes at Elafonissi Beach
Elafonissi Beach is on the southwestern fringe of Crete. It’s well-known for pink sand, turquoise water, and enchanting environment. The seashore 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 loosen up on a lounger for just a few hours. Although Elafonissi Beach is mesmerizing, there’s not a lot else to do right here apart from sunbathing. The sea could be very shallow, and it’s a must to stroll for ages to succeed in knee-deep water, so it’s not a great seashore for swimming.
Practical Information
Elafonissi Beach is most simply accessible on excursions from Chania.
20. Tombs and Palace Ruins on the Archaeological Site of Mycenae
The Archaeological website of Mycenae is among the most vital in mainland Greece. It options palace ruins, grave circles, an historic palace, and the Archeological Museum of Mycenae, which displays all of the vital objects uncovered at this website.Mycenae was so essential for the event of the nation that a whole interval of Greek historical past is known as after it. From 1600 BC to 1100 BC, Mycenae was one of the vital vital facilities of Greek civilization.
Practical Information
The Archeological Museum of Mycenae is open from 8 AM to three:30/7 PM. Tickets are 6-12€.
21. Explore Chania’s Venetian Architecture
Chania is a port metropolis on the island of Crete. It’s finest recognized for the Venetian structure that adorns a lot of town, one of the best instance of which is the Venetian Port of Chania. Old metropolis partitions, ruins of a Byzantine fortress, and the Lighthouse of Chania are just a few different notable landmarks within the city.
Come to this glorious metropolis for the right steadiness of historic historical past and exquisite sandy seashores. Crete is house to a number of the finest seashores in Greece, and plenty of are simply accessible from Chania.
Practical Information
Chania is serviced by planes and ferries, and flying to the island is the best choice.
22. See the Legendary Panathenaic Stadium
The first trendy Olympic Games occurred at Panathenaic Stadium again in 1896, cementing the venue’s place in current historical past. Also, it’s the one stadium on this planet made totally of marble, making it one of many high three landmarks in Athens.I like to recommend getting the audio information for the stadium tour as a result of it gives a lot context concerning the place. Without it, you’re simply looking at rows of marble seats and statues.
Practical Information
Panathenaic Stadium is open from 8 AM to 7 PM. General admission is 10€.
23. Admire Minoan Art in Heraklion
Heraklion is the capital of Crete and among the best cities on the island. Just like Chania, it’s well-known for its lovely 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 group of many desirable objects, by far one of the best of which is its assortment of Minoan Art. It’s the most important assortment of its variety on this planet, with statues, jewellery, furnishings, and far more.
Practical Information
Heraklion is serviced by a port and airport. Ferries depart from Athens and journey for roughly 9 hours.
24. Explore the Ancient Agora of Athens
Walk again in time and observe within the footsteps of the traditional Greeks on the Ancient Agora of Athens. This 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 Ancient Agora.
The Ancient Agora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers you a glimpse into every day life in historic Greece. The museum has extra info on the positioning, and the displays present you the artifacts that inform the story of this civic centre. Whether you’re a historical past buff or simply curious concerning the previous, the Ancient Agora is a should see when in Athens.
25. Samaria Gorge in Crete
Hike the gorgeous Samaria Gorge, which is one in all Crete’s most well-known pure wonders. This 16 km lengthy gorge within the White Mountains is a difficult however rewarding hike via a number of the island’s most lovely landscapes. The path takes about 6-8 hours to finish and winds its approach via slim passages, previous towering cliffs, and alongside a crystal clear river.
The Samaria Gorge is house to many species of wildlife, 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 Ancient Epidaurus
Experience historic Greek theatre on the Ancient Epidaurus, a historic theatre well-known for its acoustics and surroundings. Located within the Peloponnese area, this historic website comes alive through the summer season months with Greek tragedies, comedies, and trendy performs.
Seeing a play on the Ancient 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 lovely because the performances.
27. Find Your Beach
Greece has an extended shoreline and a seashore for each sort of traveler. Whether you like sandy seashores, pebbled seashores, or secluded coves, one can find your good spot to loosen up. Some of the preferred seashores are talked about above, however I additionally needed to offer a shout-out to Koukounaries Beach in Skiathos for the golden sand and pine forest behind.
Each seashore is totally different, from swimming and sunbathing to water sports activities and seashore bars. The landscapes and waters are so lovely that Greece’s seashores are a number of the finest on this planet and the right place to spend your vacation.
28. Cruise the Cyclades
Sail the blue waters of the Aegean Sea and uncover the beautiful Cyclades. Famous for its seashores, villages, and nightlife, the Cyclades are the final word Greek island expertise. A ship journey via this lovely archipelago is the easiest way to see all of it and get immersed within the native tradition.
Choose from day journeys to multi day cruises. Popular stops are Santorini with its well-known sunsets and white homes, Mykonos with its seashore events and Paros with its conventional villages and turquoise waters. Swim, snorkel and sunbathe on a number of the most lovely seashores of the Aegean Sea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 7 Days Enough For Greece?
7 days is sufficient for Athens and a few day journeys in Greece. Plan a trip of at the very least two weeks for a extra thorough exploration of Greece and its fantastic islands.
What is the Nicest Part of Greece to Visit?
The nicest a part of Greece to go to is its islands, at the very least by way of landscapes and climate. Santorini, Mykonos, Zakynthos, Milos, Rhodes, and plenty of others all supply delicate climate, sunny days, and plenty of miles of sandy seashores.
Where Should 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 the numerous islands is healthier in the event you’re on the lookout for a extra relaxed trip vacation spot.
What Is The Number One Attraction In Greece?
The Acropolis of Athens is the primary attraction in Greece. This historic website is a UNESCO Heritage Site and by far the nation’s most well-known vacationer attraction.
Where To Stay in Greece
Stay in Athens in the event you’re going to Greece for historical past and tradition. The capital has by far one of the best landmarks and points of interest, and it’s good for first-time guests.For a extra relaxed trip, keep at Milos Island and wander round its mesmerizing seashores. And for one of the best steadiness of island enjoyable and historic Greek landmarks, select Crete. Here are a number of the finest inns in Greece for all budgets:
Tips and Information For Visiting Greece
Best Time To Visit
The finest time to go to Greece is from April to October. Greece is a extremely popular vacation spot in the summertime because of the nice and cozy climate and numerous miles of sandy seashores, so that you would possibly wish to keep away from touring in July and August. If you don’t like crowds, early spring and late fall are glorious instances to be in Greece.May, June, and September are nonetheless good instances to go to for smaller crowds and to swim within the sea. The climate is heat sufficient you could comfortably go for a swim and lounge on the seashore, 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 suggest touring to Greece from November to March.
Getting There
Athens International Airport is the most important one in Greece, so there’s a great likelihood you’ll land at this airport. A prepare service is accessible to take you to downtown Athens, and it’s often the quickest approach 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 could get someplace from Athens, look into trains, buses, ferries, and flights. Greece has loads of smaller airports, however they’re largely serviced by native (cheap) airways.
How Much Time Do You Need
The period of time you could go to Greece actually relies on the way you wish to expertise the nation. If you’re simply staying in Athens, you want at the very least three days to discover town, ideally 5. But if you wish to go island hopping on both coast, you’ll want at the very least seven days to have the ability to see just a few totally different cities.Road journeys on the mainland are additionally an choice, and also you want 7-10 days for these as effectively. Keep in thoughts that each one the timeframes I’ve listed are the naked minimal; in the event you can spare two or three weeks for Greece and also you’re not afraid of going out and exploring, your days might be full of wonderful adventures and lovely views.
Plan your journey to Greece with These Valuable Resources