Greece is a sun-kissed country filled with ancient history, vibrant culture, and scenic landscapes.
This guide will take you through Greece’s must-see destinations, from bustling cities to tranquil islands.
Millions of visitors flock here each year, drawn by its legendary ruins, beautiful beaches, and warm hospitality.
Let’s explore the highlights of this enchanting Mediterranean destination!
Athens: Ancient History Meets Modern Life
Athens is the dynamic capital of Greece and the cradle of Western civilization.
Here, ancient monuments stand side by side with modern cafes and shops.
Begin your journey at the Acropolis, a hilltop citadel crowned by the Parthenon temple, which offers a stunning view of the city.
Wander the historic Plaka neighborhood’s narrow streets, lined with neoclassical buildings, souvenir shops, and tavernas serving delicious Greek meals.
In Athens, every corner has a story to tell, blending history with contemporary city life in a way that’s easy for all ages to appreciate.
- The Acropolis & Parthenon – Explore this iconic 5th-century BCE complex featuring the Parthenon temple dedicated to Athena. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Greece’s most famous landmark. Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and summer heat, and enjoy panoramic views of Athens from the top.
- Acropolis Museum – A modern museum at the foot of the Acropolis that showcases marble sculptures and artifacts excavated from the site. Glass floors reveal ruins beneath, and exhibits help visitors of all ages imagine ancient Athenian life.
- Ancient Agora & Temple of Hephaestus – Stroll through the ruins of the old marketplace (Agora) where Socrates once walked. The Temple of Hephaestus here is one of the best-preserved Greek temples. It’s set in a peaceful garden where kids can freely roam around remnants of Greek history.
- Plaka and Monastiraki – These lively neighborhoods are great for a leisurely walk. Plaka’s charming streets are full of handicraft shops and ice cream stands, while adjacent Monastiraki has a bustling flea market. Don’t miss Monastiraki Square and the nearby Hadrian’s Library ruins. It’s a perfect area to experience local culture, pick up souvenirs, and taste street foods like souvlaki.
- Syntagma Square & Changing of the Guard – In Athens’ central square, you can watch the ceremonial changing of the guard (Evzones) in front of the Greek Parliament. This colorful ritual happens every hour and is a hit with visitors. Syntagma is also a transport hub – from here you can easily catch the metro or a bus to other parts of the city.
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes in Athens. Many attractions have uneven stone paths or marble steps (which can be slippery). Also, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas or on public transit, as pickpocketing can occur. Otherwise, Athens is a welcoming city ready to share its rich heritage and contemporary energy with you.
Santorini: The Iconic Island Paradise
Santorini is perhaps Greece’s most famous island, known for its whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking caldera views.
Formed by a volcanic eruption in ancient times, Santorini’s main island wraps around a sea-filled crater, creating dramatic cliffside panoramas.
The atmosphere here feels almost magical at first sight.
It’s an ideal spot for romantic getaways but also fun for families and friends drawn by the unique scenery.
- Oia Village – Perched on the northern tip of Santorini, Oia is world-renowned for its sunsets. Every evening, people gather by Oia’s castle ruins or along the walkways to watch the sun dip into the Aegean Sea, painting the sky orange and pink. The village itself is a postcard come to life, with its blue church domes and cave houses.
- Fira (Thira) – The island’s capital, Fira, sits on the caldera cliff and offers stunning views of the submerged volcano. Its pedestrian streets have plenty of shops, cafes, and museums. You can walk the scenic clifftop path from Fira to Oia (about 10 km) for unbeatable views along the caldera’s edge. Fira also has a cable car down to the old port and access to donkey rides (though walking or the cable car is recommended for animal welfare).
- Caldera Boat Tour – A popular activity is taking a boat trip inside Santorini’s caldera. You can sail to the volcanic islets at the center, walk on the crater of Nea Kameni volcano, and bathe in natural hot springs at Palea Kameni (the water is warm and tinged with orange minerals). Some tours include a stop at the nearby island of Thirassia for a relaxing meal. It’s an exciting way to learn about Santorini’s volcanic nature while enjoying sea breezes.
- Beaches with a Twist – Santorini’s beaches are unlike the typical white-sand shores. Red Beach near Akrotiri has reddish volcanic cliffs, Perissa and Kamari beaches feature black sand and pebbles from volcanic rock, and White Beach has pale cliffs (accessible mainly by boat). The sand and pebbles can get hot in the summer sun, so water shoes can be handy. These unique beaches offer great swimming and snorkeling in clear waters, with beachside tavernas for snacks and cold drinks.
- Akrotiri Archaeological Site – For a dose of history, visit Akrotiri, an ancient Minoan city on Santorini that was buried in volcanic ash around 1600 BCE. Often called the “Pompeii of the Aegean,” this well-preserved site has ruins of multi-story houses and frescoes (some displayed in museums). Walking through the covered excavation site is fascinating and gives insight into life on Santorini long before the island became a tourist haven.
Santorini can get very crowded in the summer, and prices for hotels and restaurants are higher here than many other Greek islands.
If you visit in peak season, consider staying in a quieter village (like Imerovigli or Megalochori) and exploring early in the day.
In the off-season (late fall to early spring), it’s much quieter – some hotels and eateries close, but the island’s beauty remains, and you’ll share the sunsets with fewer people.
Crete: Beaches, Mountains, and Minoan Legends
Crete is Greece’s largest island and a destination rich in variety.
It has everything from sunny beaches and rugged mountains to historic sites and vibrant cities.
Because of its size and diversity, Crete feels like its own little country within Greece.
Visitors here can experience warm Cretan hospitality and traditional culture that has thrived for millennia.
Heraklion and Knossos Palace
Heraklion is Crete’s capital city, home to the excellent Heraklion Archaeological Museum and a lively harbor.
Just outside the city lie the ruins of Knossos Palace, center of the ancient Minoan civilization.
Wandering the archaeological site of Knossos, you’ll see the remnants of a Bronze Age palace complex (with some sections reconstructed to imagine its original grandeur).
Kids and adults alike will enjoy the legends of King Minos and the Minotaur associated with this site.
Chania Old Town
On the western side of Crete, Chania is a charming coastal city with a strong Venetian influence.
Its Old Town is a maze of narrow alleys lined with bougainvillea, opening up to a picturesque Venetian Harbor.
You can walk along the waterfront to the 16th-century lighthouse or enjoy fresh seafood at a harbor-side restaurant.
The colorful buildings and the sound of gently lapping waves make it a perfect evening stroll spot.
Samaria Gorge
Nature enthusiasts shouldn’t miss Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest canyons at 16 km.
This national park offers a spectacular hike (usually open May to October) descending from the Omalos Plateau down to the Libyan Sea coast.
Along the way, you’ll pass sheer rock walls, pine forests, and maybe spot wild goats (Kri-kri).
The full hike is strenuous (plan on 4-6 hours of walking), but you can also explore a portion and turn back if you prefer a shorter walk.
Remember to carry water and wear sturdy shoes.
Beautiful Beaches
Crete boasts some of Greece’s most beautiful beaches.
Elafonissi Beach, in the southwest, is famous for its pink-hued sand and shallow turquoise lagoons – great for children to splash in.
Balos Lagoon, near Kissamos, is a stunning remote beach with vivid blue water, reachable by boat tour or a rough road and hike.
Vai Beach in the east is unique for its natural palm tree grove.
Rethymno and Inland Villages
The town of Rethymno has an atmospheric old quarter and a Venetian fortress, reflecting Crete’s mix of historical influences.
Beyond the cities, drive into the Cretan countryside to discover traditional villages like Archanes or Vamos, where life is slower.
You can visit olive oil farms, see shepherds tending goats in the hills, and taste local cheeses and honey.
Crete is large enough that it’s worth dedicating several days to a week here if you can.
Consider renting a car or using the island’s KTEL bus network to get around.
Each region of Crete (west, central, east) has its own character, but all share the island’s famed hospitality.
Don’t be surprised if a local invites you for a raki (strong grape spirit) or offers home-grown oranges – Cretans are proud of their land and eager to welcome visitors.
More Must-See Places in Greece
Greece’s wonders aren’t limited to Athens, Santorini, and Crete.
Over 6,000 islands dot the Greek seas (around 227 are inhabited), and the mainland is full of historic and natural treasures.
Here are a few more destinations worth considering:
Mykonos
A Cycladic island known for its cosmopolitan nightlife and iconic windmills.
Mykonos Town’s white maze-like streets are fun to explore (especially in the early morning before the cruise crowds).
By day, relax on beaches like Paradise or Elia; by night, the island comes alive with DJ beats and beach parties.
Despite its party reputation, Mykonos also offers cultural stops like the Aegean Maritime Museum and quiet villages if you venture inland.
Delphi
Nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus on the mainland, Delphi was the site of the ancient world’s most famous oracle.
Today you can walk among the hillside ruins of the Temple of Apollo, a theater, and a stadium, all with a spectacular valley view below.
The Delphi Museum displays extraordinary artifacts (like the bronze Charioteer statue).
It’s an easy trip from Athens (about 2.5 hours by car or bus) and gives a deep sense of Greece’s mythological past in a beautiful mountain setting.
Meteora
Meteora is a unique natural and cultural site in central Greece.
Enormous rock pillars rise from the valley, and atop these seemingly un-climbable towers sit centuries-old monasteries.
Six of the monasteries are still active and open to visitors.
You can tour these marvels to see frescoed chapels and observe the serene life of the monks and nuns.
The views at Meteora, especially during sunrise or sunset, are awe-inspiring.
It’s a great adventure for families – kids are amazed by the idea of “monks in the sky.”
Just remember to dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) when visiting religious sites.
Rhodes
One of the largest Dodecanese islands, Rhodes combines beach time with rich history.
Its medieval Old Town in Rhodes City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, encircled by thick stone walls built by the Knights of St. John.
Walking through the Old Town feels like stepping back in time – don’t miss the Palace of the Grand Masters and the Street of the Knights.
Elsewhere on Rhodes, you can relax on pebble and sand beaches, or visit Lindos, a postcard-perfect village beneath an ancient clifftop acropolis.
Corfu
Located in the Ionian Sea on Greece’s west side, Corfu is a lush, green island with Venetian-style architecture in its main town.
It’s known for its emerald mountains and sheltered coves.
Families appreciate Corfu’s sandy west-coast beaches and calm waters, while adventurers can hike the Corfu Trail or explore the island’s fortresses and palaces (like Achilleion Palace).
The Old Town of Corfu has charming squares and alleys reflecting a mix of Greek, Italian, French, and British influences from its history.
Greek Cuisine: A Feast for the Senses
One of the greatest joys of traveling in Greece is the food.
Greek cuisine is famous for its fresh ingredients and bold yet simple flavors, rooted in the Mediterranean diet.
You’ll find dishes that are healthy and delicious, often featuring olive oil, vegetables, grains, and grilled meats or fish.
Eating in Greece is a casual, family-friendly experience – don’t be surprised if restaurant owners dote on your kids or bring extra treats to your table!
Here are some must-try foods and drinks during your visit:
Classic Dishes
Try moussaka, a savory baked casserole of eggplant, spiced meat, and béchamel sauce – it’s Greek comfort food at its finest.
Souvlaki (grilled meat skewers) or gyros (slow-roasted meat sliced into pita with tomato, onion, and tzatziki sauce) make a tasty quick meal for lunch or dinner.
Vegetarians will love gemista, which are tomatoes and peppers stuffed with herbed rice, or spanakopita, a spinach and feta pie wrapped in flaky phyllo pastry.
Meze (Small Plates)
Greeks enjoy long, leisurely meals with many small dishes to share.
In a traditional taverna, order a spread of meze: tzatziki (cool yogurt-cucumber-garlic dip) with bread, dolmades (vine leaves stuffed with rice), grilled octopus drizzled in olive oil and lemon, saganaki (pan-fried cheese), and fava (creamy yellow split-pea puree) are just a few favorites.
Salads and Cheese
A Greek salad (called horiatiki) is a must in summer – juicy tomatoes, cucumber, green pepper, red onion, olives, and a big slab of feta cheese on top, simply dressed with olive oil and oregano.
You’ll notice feta and olive oil are staples in many dishes.
Greece has other excellent cheeses too, like graviera (a mild hard cheese) and mizithra (a fresh cheese often sprinkled on pasta).
Seafood
Surrounded by sea, Greece serves up wonderful seafood.
In coastal areas or islands, enjoy freshly grilled fish (like sea bream or red mullet), calamari (fried squid) by the beach, or a hearty fish soup known as kakavia.
In Santorini, don’t miss trying grilled octopus or dishes with local tangy capers and sun-dried tomatoes.
Desserts and Sweets
Greek desserts often feature nuts, honey, and flaky dough.
Baklava is a famous sweet pastry with layers of phyllo, ground nuts, cinnamon, and honey syrup.
You might also find loukoumades, little honey-soaked doughnuts sometimes sprinkled with cinnamon or sesame.
A simple delight is creamy Greek yogurt topped with local honey and walnuts – a healthy treat that kids and adults love.
Drinks
To accompany your meals, try a glass of Greek wine – perhaps a crisp Santorini Assyrtiko (white wine) or a robust red from Nemea.
Ouzo is the national anise-flavored liquor; sip it slowly (usually mixed with water and ice) alongside meze.
If you’re a coffee drinker, experience Greek coffee served in small cups or order a frappé (iced instant coffee foam drink) on a hot afternoon.
During summer, you’ll also see everyone enjoying Freddo Espresso or Freddo Cappuccino – chilled espresso with foam, uniquely Greek twists on iced coffee.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip
Best Time to Visit
Greece is a year-round destination, but the experience varies by season.
Summer (June to August) guarantees hot weather and lively island nightlife, but it’s also the busiest period with higher prices and crowds.
Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) are ideal for comfortable weather, sightseeing, and swimming without the summer rush.
In these shoulder seasons, wildflowers bloom in spring and the sea is still warm in early fall.
Winter (November–March) is the quietest time – most islands slow down (many hotels and restaurants close in smaller islands), but cities like Athens remain active and you can enjoy archaeological sites without crowds.
Pack according to the season and regions you’ll visit.
For example, Athens can be hot in summer but quite chilly in winter (it even snows occasionally), and mountain areas are colder year-round.
Money and Costs
Greece uses the Euro (€).
In cities and tourist areas, credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s wise to carry some cash for small tavernas, village shops, and local buses or taxis.
ATMs are common even on islands.
Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory – rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% for good service is a kind gesture.
Greece is generally affordable compared to other Western European countries, especially if you eat at local tavernas and use public transport.
Popular islands (Santorini, Mykonos) and high-end restaurants will cost more.
Language
The official language is Greek, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and shops.
Greeks are typically very helpful even if there’s a language barrier, using gestures and smiles to communicate.
Learning a few basic phrases like “Yassas” (hello), “Efharistó” (thank you), and “Parakaló” (please/you’re welcome) will delight locals and show respect.
All public signs (road signs, museum info) are usually in both Greek and English, making navigation easy for foreign visitors.
Cultural Etiquette
Greeks are known for their hospitality and laid-back attitude.
Family is central to Greek life, and children are welcomed just about everywhere.
When visiting churches or monasteries (such as those in Meteora or small village chapels), dress modestly – generally, keep shoulders covered and avoid short shorts.
Taking photos is usually fine, but in some monasteries or museum exhibits it may be restricted, so look for signs.
A common custom at Greek restaurants is that they might bring bread and water to your table automatically – note that these may be added to your bill (it’s usually just a small charge, but not truly “free” unless stated).
If you’re invited into a local’s home, it’s polite to accept a coffee or small refreshment; Greeks take pride in treating guests well.
Health and Safety
Greece is a very safe country with low violent crime.
You can walk around even at night in most areas without worry.
Still, use common sense: watch out for pickpockets in busy spots like Athens’ metro or crowded markets, and keep your valuables secure.
Pharmacies are widely available and marked with a green cross, and many pharmacists speak English and can assist with minor ailments.
Sunscreen and a hat are a must in summer – the Greek sun is strong and you can get sunburned even on cloudy days.
In summer, also stay hydrated by carrying water (tap water is safe to drink in Athens and most mainland destinations; on small islands, locals often use bottled water due to mineral taste or limited supply).
No special vaccinations are needed to visit Greece, and health care is of a good standard in case you need a doctor.
Local Events
Keep an eye out for festivals and events.
If you’re in Greece around Orthodox Easter, you’ll witness the country’s most important religious celebrations, with candlelit processions and feasts.
Summer months often bring music and theater festivals – for example, Athens hosts performances in the ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus theater, and many islands have cultural festival days (panigiria) honoring local saints with music, dancing, and food.
Joining these events (even as an observer) is a wonderful way to experience Greek culture firsthand.
Responsible Tourism
Greece’s popularity means some spots (like Santorini or certain beaches) face overtourism in peak months.
You can be a mindful traveler by respecting signs and rules at sites (don’t climb on ruins or touch artifacts), disposing of trash properly, and considering less-traveled destinations or off-season travel.
Greeks are very proud of their heritage and natural landscapes, so helping to preserve them is appreciated.
Simple actions like using refillable water bottles or sticking to marked trails in nature can make a difference.
Getting Around: Transportation in Greece
Traveling within Greece is generally convenient, with a range of transportation options to connect the mainland and islands:
By Air
The fastest way to cover long distances is by plane.
Athens International Airport is the main hub with frequent domestic flights to major islands and cities (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes, Thessaloniki, etc.).
Flights are relatively short (usually under an hour to islands) and can be affordable if booked in advance.
Some larger islands have direct international flights from Europe in summer.
If you’re short on time or traveling between far-apart places (like Athens to Crete), a flight can save you an overnight ferry or long drive.
By Ferry
Ferries are the heart of Greek island travel.
From Athens’ ports (Piraeus, Rafina, Lavrion), you can catch ferry boats or high-speed catamarans to almost any island.
Ferries range from large ships (with decks to walk around and even cabins) to smaller fast vessels.
A standard ferry from Athens to Santorini, for example, might take 5–8 hours depending on route, while a high-speed can do it in around 4–5 hours.
Ferry travel is scenic – you can sit on the deck and watch the Aegean Sea sparkle.
It’s wise to book ferry tickets in advance during summer.
When island-hopping, keep an eye on the schedules (ferries may be less frequent in the off-season or can occasionally be canceled due to strong winds).
By Bus (Mainland)
The Greek mainland and even large islands like Crete have reliable long-distance buses (KTEL buses).
These coaches are comfortable and air-conditioned, connecting Athens with towns all over Greece.
For example, you can take a KTEL bus from Athens to Delphi or to Nafplio, or across Crete from Heraklion to Chania.
It’s an affordable way to travel, and you’ll often get to see beautiful countryside along the journey.
Bus tickets can be bought at stations or sometimes online, and it’s usually best to arrive a bit early to find your platform.
By Train
Greece’s train network is limited but does exist on some key routes.
A scenic line runs from Athens to Thessaloniki (Greece’s second-largest city in the north), and another route heads to Kalambaka (near Meteora).
Trains can be a comfortable alternative for these routes, with modern intercity trains available.
However, many historical sites (like Olympia, Delphi) are not directly accessible by train, so buses or driving are more common for those.
If you love train travel, look into the “Odontotos” rack railway in the Peloponnese which goes through Vouraikos Gorge – it’s a narrow-gauge train ride through stunning mountain scenery.
City Transportation
In Athens and Thessaloniki, you’ll find public transport to get around town.
Athens has a clean, efficient metro system (with signs in English) that connects major areas, including the airport and Piraeus port. Buses and trams also run throughout Athens.
Taxis are plentiful in cities and relatively cheap compared to other European capitals – just ensure the driver uses the meter.
In smaller towns and islands, you might get around on foot or by local bus.
For example, Santorini and Mykonos have local buses linking popular beaches and villages (they can be crowded in summer but are very budget-friendly).
Some islands have limited public transport, so renting a car, scooter, or ATV is popular – always wear helmets on scooters/ATVs and drive carefully on winding island roads.
Car Rental
Renting a car can be a great way to explore at your own pace, especially on larger islands (Crete, Corfu, Naxos) or the mainland.
Rental agencies are available in cities and airports – an international driving permit may be required if you’re not from the EU.
Greeks drive on the right side of the road. Be prepared for narrow streets in old towns and some mountain roads without guardrails.
Also, parking in city centers can be challenging.
If you plan to drive in Athens, note that traffic can be heavy.
Otherwise, having a car lets you reach remote beaches, villages, or archaeological sites that aren’t on bus routes.
Gasoline is sold by the liter and can be a bit pricey, but distances aren’t huge.
Taxis & Ride-Sharing
Taxis are useful for short trips or airport transfers.
They are usually yellow in Athens and silver or other colors elsewhere.
It’s normal to round up the fare as a tip.
In Athens, apps like Beat (a local taxi app) or Uber (which in Greece hails licensed taxis) can be convenient to call a taxi and avoid language confusion about destinations.
On islands, taxis might line up at ports or airports when ferries/flights arrive.
Agree on a price or ensure the meter is running. Keep in mind that on some small islands, taxis can be few; sometimes your hotel can arrange transfers or there might be water-taxis for beach hopping.
Boats & Others
In addition to large ferries, you’ll find smaller boat services on many islands that act like taxis or tour boats.
For instance, on Crete, you can take a boat from Chora Sfakion to Loutro (since there’s no road), or on Zakynthos, there are boat tours to the Blue Caves and Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach.
These local boat trips are often highlights of island travel, allowing you to access hidden beaches, sea caves, or neighboring islets.
Always check the return times so you don’t miss the last boat back!
For the more adventurous, some islands even offer bicycle or e-bike rentals to get around, and there are organized tours on horseback or on foot (hiking) to explore off the beaten path.
Final Thoughts
Greece is a destination that truly has it all – from archaeological wonders and museum treasures to sunny beaches and hearty village cooking.
You can tailor your trip to whatever you love: relax on an island, hike a mountain, delve into ancient myths, or simply sip coffee at a sidewalk cafe and watch daily life go by.
The country’s mix of history, nature, and warm culture creates an experience that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
No matter if it’s your first trip or a return visit, Greece greets you like an old friend, ready to share its beauty and stories.
Pack your curiosity and a sense of adventure, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through this timeless travel paradise.
Have a good trip!
