Wherever you go in Greece, you’ll have fun. This Mediterranean country has many amazing places worth exploring, from historic cities like Athens and Thessaloniki to its famous islands. With so many amazing places to visit in Greece, narrowing down where to go can seem impossible, but this list has more than a dozen ideas for you.
Best Destinations: Mykonos, Underrated Hidden Gems: Gythio, Best for Families: Sifnos, Best for Couples: Corfu, Best for Solo Travelers: Athens
Whether you’re interested in ancient historical sites or want to swim in blue waters, here are 15 of the best places to visit in Greece.
Mykonos
Jomerci/Getty Images
Mykonos is a super popular island known for always having a good time. In the summer, it’s the perfect place to enjoy beachside parties that last until late into the night (and often continue into the next day). Of course, there’s more to the island than just parties; it’s also home to beautiful beaches and historical sites, such as Kato Mili, home to four giant windmills built by the 16th century Venetians. Mykonos can be reached by direct flight in 45 minutes.
Gythio
Sebastian Condrea/Getty Images
The seaside town of Gythio is certainly quiet, but it’s one of the best places to visit when you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its colorful houses and golden sandy beaches, Gythio is also famous for being the place where sea turtles come to lay their eggs in early July.
Sifnos
Global P/Getty Images
Less than a three-hour ferry ride from Athens, the tiny island of Sifnos is also known for its laid-back atmosphere, and with plenty of beaches, you’ll have a swath of sand all to yourself, even in the height of summer. If the party scene isn’t your thing and quiet is your priority, Sifnos is one of the nicest Greek islands to visit.
Corfu
Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure
Want a taste of Italy and Greece all at once? Head to the beautiful and romantic island of Corfu. Due to its closeness to its European neighbor, the island has a lot of Italian influence, which is reflected in its architecture, food and lifestyle.
Athens
Gautier Hubat/Travel + Leisure
As the capital and largest city of Greece, Athens is definitely worth spending at least a day or two exploring, especially if it’s your first time in Greece. You can visit the top attractions like the Acropolis and the Parthenon, but it’s also worth visiting the more modern neighbourhoods, such as Exarchia, known for its bohemian vibe.
Milos
Happy Trip/Getty Images
Greece is home to hundreds of islands, but one that’s increasingly gaining attention is the quaint Milos. A 40-minute direct flight from Athens, the island is the perfect destination for anyone looking for total rest and relaxation. Wander the tranquil beaches nestled between rocky cliffs, sample octopus dishes at one of the restaurants dotted around the island, or spend a tranquil evening sipping local wine as you watch the sun sink into the blue waters.
Delphi
Stefan Christian Ciotat/Getty Images
History buffs will love the town of Delphi, about a 2.5-hour drive northwest of Athens. The town was home to the Oracle of Delphi, which drew visitors from all over the Mediterranean. Here you can still explore the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, as well as an ancient theater and stadium that have been preserved for millennia.
Epidaurus
Kirsty Nadine/Getty Images
To discover more historical charm, visit Epidaurus, on the northeastern tip of the Peloponnese peninsula. Archaeology enthusiasts will love its ancient theater, built in the 4th century BC to honor the god of medicine, Asclepius. Plan your trip to coincide with the Athens Epidaurus Festival, held annually from June to September, to enjoy musical performances, theater, and children’s events at this historic amphitheater.
Nafplio
Posnoff/Getty Images
In the eastern Peloponnese, a 35-minute drive from Epidaurus, lies the beautiful city of Nafplio. According to Visit Greece, the legend of the city says that it was founded by Nafplio, son of Poseidon. Today, the city is filled with ancient ruins, including numerous monuments and a castle.
Chalkidiki
Master 2/Getty Images
The northern Greek region of Halkidiki is just 55 minutes away from Athens by direct flight, offering a spectacular expanse of blue waters you’ve never seen before. The region is famous for its beautiful beaches, with soft sands perfect for lazing around all day.
Meteora
Lara Uhlin/Getty Images
For some incredible views, visit Meteora in Thessaly, a three-hour drive from Thessaloniki. This region is made up of huge rock formations that reach into the sky. These incredible formations are home to several monasteries, and the whole area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kefalonia
Igor Tikhonov/Getty Images
In Kefalonia, get a quick geology lesson along with your island getaway at Drogarati Cave, home to awe-inspiring beauty, including stalactites hanging from the ceiling and stalagmites protruding from the seafloor.
Thessaloniki
Vladislav Zolotov/Getty Images
Escape the hustle and bustle of northern Greece’s cities with a visit to Thessaloniki. This port city is packed with historic attractions, such as the White Tower of Thessaloniki and the Arch of Galerius, as well as inspiring world-class restaurants and contemporary museums, including the fantastic Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art.
Mesolonghi
Stamatios Manousis/Getty Images
Located on the west coast of Greece, a 2 hour 45 minute drive from Athens, Mesolonghi offers a seascape with a difference. The town sits on the shores of a tranquil lake and many of its inhabitants still make their living from fishing in the area. Although the town has a significant historical significance (especially around the time of the Greek Revolution), it remains a little-known gem for international visitors.
Olympia
Ancient ruins and columns at the archaeological site of Olympia, Greece.
Stefan Christian Ciotat/Getty Images
Make another historic stop at Olympia, this time learning about sports history. Located on the western side of the Peloponnese peninsula, Olympia is where the first Olympic Games were held in 776 BC, more than 2,700 years ago. Visitors can see the ancient stadium and the temples of Zeus and Hera, all in one trip.
