cities to visit greece

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15 Best Cities to Visit in Greece

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Bathed in glorious sunshine, visiting Greece is always a treat and every year thousands upon thousands of visitors flock to its shores to revel in all that it has to offer.

Besides the iconic Athens with its plethora of incredible historical sites, Greece has a delightful array of cities with some nestled among rocky hills with others overlooking the beautiful waters that surround the country. With so many islands to explore, many of the best cities in Greece are located in stunning settings that are awe-inspiring to behold.

15. Piraeus

Lying just ten kilometers from the center of Athens, Piraeus is the ancient port of the capital although it is now considered a separate entity. An ugly place for the most part, it is only the smaller harbors of Zea Marina Mikrolimano which are actually worth visiting.

The main reason though that people visit Piraeus is because it is the largest port in the Mediterranean and is the gateway to Greece’s innumerable islands. In no time at all you’ll find yourself on a beautiful Greek island , far removed from the sprawl of Piraeus.

14. Larissa

Located on the banks of the Pinios River, Larissa is one of the oldest sites in Greece and has been occupied for around eight thousand years! Consequently, it has a number of delightful archaeological sites with Byzantine and Ottoman ruins scattered about the place.

The ancient theater is impressive to behold and the remains of a Neolithic acropolis are also worth a visit. Now a university town, it is a pleasant enough place to spend some time without setting the world alight.

13. Ioannina

With its beautiful location on the shore of Lake Pamvotis, Ioannina’s setting coupled with its delightful old town make it a great place to stop by. While much of it is indistinguishable from any other city around the world, the old part with its minarets, fortress and ancient walls is atmospheric to wander around.

It is lively to visit due to its large student body and there are a number of great day-trips to be had in Ioannina’s surroundings. Take a trip for instance to the monasteries on Nissi Island or the amazing caves of Perama.

12. Kalambaka

While this small city is primarily visited for its incredible setting beneath the astounding Meteora pinnacles, Kalambaka itself is a pleasant if quiet place to stop by. There is a nice tenth century church to visit as well as some good restaurants and cafes.

The Meteora, however, is the main attraction and it houses twenty-four monasteries perched atop of its rocky peaks. The scenery of the area is mesmerising and small waterfalls and old bridges as well as caves and hiking trails dot this incredible landscape.

11. Kalamata

Located on the shores of the beautiful Messinian Bay with the domineering Mount Taygetos behind it, Kalamata’s idyllic setting makes it a lovely place to wile away some time. The capital city of Messenia has a large cathedral and a picturesque old town for visitors to enjoy as well as a fort and some nice museums. Most people who visit simply use it as a base from which to visit other sites in Messenia.

10. Corfu Town

One of the most elegant cities to visit in the whole of Greece, Corfu Town’s historic center is absolutely gorgeous. The lovely Venetian architecture and plethora of ancient churches makes its narrow streets delightful to explore and its two hillforts only add to the picturesque scene. As the main port of entry to the island, the town can get very busy although this does mean that there are lots of restaurants and bars for visitors to enjoy.

Located in the north of Greece, Kavala has a lovely historic center, some fantastic beaches and a wealth of archaeological sites for visitors to revel in. Its picturesque setting next to pristine turquoise waters coupled with the ancient citadel and attractive Ottoman aqueduct that runs above the roofs of the houses makes Kavala a pleasant place to be. Most visitors use it as a gateway to the nearby Aegean Islands.

8. Rethymno

With the beautiful blue waters that line the waterfront and its fine beaches, Rethymno is one of the best places to visit in Crete . Its combination of Venetian, Roman and Ottoman architecture is intoxicating and is what makes wandering around the old town so magical.

With a healthy student population, it’s a surprisingly lively town with a lot of decent restaurants. The highlight of Rethymno is the Venetian fortress that looks out over the town from the west.

One of the busiest ports in Greece, first appearances dictate that Patras is best viewed from a ferry departing its harbor due to the grimy feel about the place. Dig a little deeper, however, and you’ll find some attractive and lively parts to it with the impressive castle particularly worth checking out.

There’s a nice old church and cathedral to boot and one of the most amazing sights is the modern suspension bridge that stretches out across the water. From here you can take a ferry to any of the Ionian Islands.

6. Rhodes Town

The capital city of the island, Rhodes Town dates back to the fifth century BC and as such has a plethora of historical sites to visit, all hidden away amidst the labyrinth of alleys that make up the Old Town. Ringed in by the ancient walls, this part of Rhodes Town is simply heavenly to explore and at night it is beautifully illuminated.

A world away from here is the new part of town which has shops, bars and restaurants as well as the best beach in the vicinity. Once the site of the Colossus – one of the ancient wonders of the world – Rhodes can get very busy but it is definitely worth visiting.

5. Heraklion

The capital city of Crete is a bustling slightly chaotic place, full of life that will slowly grow on you if you give it the chance. The main body of attractions lie in the walled-part of the city and the old town is lovely to explore. With a great fortress jutting out into the harbor and a lively waterfront, Heraklion is the perfect place from which to visit the rest of Crete.

The Palace of Knossos is also worth stopping by and there are lots of interesting museums that will catch your attention. While the modern part of the city is quite unattractive and hectic, there is some nice shopping and restaurants to be found.

Formerly the capital of modern Greece, Nafplio’s lovely setting and delightful architecture makes it one of the most beautiful cities in Greece. It is a popular place to visit among tourists and Athenians alike so its historic streets and picturesque harbor front can get crowded at times.

Located in a strategic spot, there are three fortresses dotted around its margins and history lovers will enjoy visiting them as well as the panoramic views that they offer out over the sea and hills. Its decaying grandeur and stunning Venetian and Ottoman architecture make Nafplio an atmospheric city to visit.

Located on the coastline of Crete, Chania is a picturesque and charming place to visit and you’ll immediately fall in love with the feel of it. Its quaint old town is dripping with charisma as Turkish and Venetian architecture lines its twisting narrow streets and tiny cafes pop up here and there.

A short walk away you will find the old port with its distinctive lighthouse that only adds to the beauty of Chania. It’s an authentic place that highlights the real Cretan way of life. From here you can explore nearby parts of the island with Samaria Gorge being a particularly great day-trip.

2. Thessaloniki

The cultural capital of Greece, Thessaloniki is the second largest city and has a vibrant cultural scene with lots of festivals and events taking place over the year. Lying on the Gulf of Thessaloniki, it is a cosmopolitan place with over three thousand years of history and consequently there are some lovely Roman ruins to see as well as some old Ottoman buildings and fantastic Byzantine churches.

Walking along the picturesque waterfront is delightful with the highlight being the 15th century White Tower which looks out over the sea. With its bustling nightlife, animated music scene and delicious local cuisine; there is something for everyone in Thessaloniki. The city hums with life thanks to its large student body and that is why there is such a multicultural and energetic vibe about the place.

Dripping in history, Athens has a wealth of historic sites for visitors to enjoy and the crown jewel is obviously the stunning Acropolis which towers so impressively above the city. While you will inevitably come across ancient monuments, buildings and ruins dating back over two millennia, the city is not particularly attractive as rampant modernization means that they are all too often sandwiched between new developments.

Some areas though have retained their charm with the neighborhoods of Plaka and Monastiraki being particularly pretty. Home to nearly half of Greece’s population, the capital is a lively place to visit with lots of fantastic restaurants and atmospheric cafes and bars.

On top of its nightlife, there are some great museums on offer and once you’ve had your fill of the stunning historical sites that litter the city you can head to nearby Piraeus and take a boat to any of Greece’s fantastic islands.

Map of cities in Greece

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Destinations.ai

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15 Best Cities in Greece to Visit

Author: Destinations.ai · Updated on: February 9, 2024

Greece’s allure is timeless, cloaked in eternal sunshine that enchants every visitor. Year after year, holidaymakers are drawn to its inviting coastline, eager to immerse themselves in the nation’s offerings.

As you wander beyond the ancient magnificence of Athens, an array of urban gems awaits, each cradled in landscapes as dramatic as the Greek myths themselves. From cities perched on rugged heights to those gracing the azure waterfronts, Greece’s urban tapestry is a marvel of natural backdrops, stirring the souls of travelers seeking awe.

Each city is a chapter in a larger story, marked by a rich history and an inviting culture. Venture through the Grecian cities and find yourself amidst settings that have inspired awe for millennia.

As you navigate this country’s diverse urban landscapes, the intertwining of past and present becomes apparent, forming scenes that invite deep exploration. Whether it’s the hush of sacred sites or the lively hum of marketplaces, Greece’s cities promise a tapestry of experiences, a testament to the country’s enduring spirit and its capacity to captivate hearts.

A mere stone’s throw from the heart of Athens lies Piraeus, your portal to the Aegean idyll. Though modernity has left an indiscriminate architectural imprint, you’ll discover charming enclaves such as Zea Marina and Mikrolimano that hold to their mariner heritage.

• Zea Marina: A haven for yachts and lined with inviting cafes.
• Mikrolimano: Cozy, with an ambiance reminiscent of a quaint fishing village.

As you stand on the bustling docks of the Mediterranean’s premier port, embrace Piraeus as your embarkation point to the Greek archipelago. In one swift ferry voyage, the chaotic urbanity dissipates, and the serene beauty of the Greek islands unfolds before you.

Nestled along the currents of the Pinios River, Larissa bears the quiet confidence of a place deeply rooted in the chronicles of time. You’ll find yourself walking on streets that echo the footsteps of civilizations past, with each stone and ruin whispering tales of the Byzantine and Ottoman eras .

• Ancient Theater : Marvel at the grandeur of this well-preserved structure.
• Neolithic Acropolis : Discover the remnants of a profoundly ancient settlement.
• University Town Vibe : Enjoy the town’s youthful and energetic atmosphere.

Although it may not set the pulse racing like other destinations, Larissa offers a serene respite to the culturally curious. The old and new converge here, inviting you to partake in its understated charm.

3. Ioannina

Within the embrace of Lake Pamvotis lies Ioannina, a city where its arresting old town whispers tales of yore through its minarets and formidable fortress. The ancient walls stand guard, a testament to a history that still breathes in the narrow streets.

• The Castle Area : Here, the past beckons as you stroll through history-imbued pathways.
• Student Life : A vibrant student presence ensures a lively atmosphere throughout the city.
• Day Trips : Venture to Nissi Island’s monasteries or explore the spectacular Perama caves.

Embrace the city’s thrumming heart, savoring moments where history and modernity converge seamlessly in Ioannina.

4. Kalambaka

Tucked in the shadow of Meteora’s breathtaking pillars, Kalambaka is a serene retreat. Home to a treasure of the 10th century, a church that stands as a testament to time, it’s a must-visit for its tranquility amid historic splendor. Indulge in the local cuisine at charming eateries or unwind in a quaint cafe.

Meteora : A marvel above, with twenty-four monasteries rooted atop its soaring heights. The vista is spellbinding: trickling waterfalls, ancient bridges, and mystical caves set the stage for exploration—each trail a journey through nature and time.

5. Kalamata

Nestled between the azure waves of Messinian Bay and the commanding presence of Mount Taygetos, Kalamata stands as the capital of Messenia, a beacon of history and culture. As you meander through the stone-paved alleys of its old town, a grand cathedral anchors the city’s heart.

• Sights to Behold : Wander around the ancient fort, and delve into the local museums.
• Culinary Journey : Sample traditional delicacies in local tavernas.
• Beyond Kalamata : Use the city as your starting point for exploring the rich offerings of Messenia.

See Related:   Best Places to Visit in the World

6. Corfu Town

Immerse yourself in the charm of Corfu Town, a splendid fusion of Venetian flair and Greek heritage. Traverse the enchanting streets lined with a variety of ancient churches that reflect the island’s rich historical tapestry.

Two imposing fortresses stand guard, accentuating the city’s scenic allure. As the primary gateway to this Ionian gem, expect a vibrant buzz along the promenades, filled with a selection of eateries and taverns where local flavors await.

Step into Kavala, a northern gem of Greece, where history and charm blend seamlessly with the serene azure of the Aegean. Stroll through the historic heart of this city, offering glimpses of ancient splendors and sandy retreats.

• Historic Center : A tapestry of timeworn Greek and Ottoman marvels
• Beaches : Unwind by the crystalline embrace of the sea
• Archaeological Sites : Relive antiquity at every corner
• Citadel & Ottoman Aqueduct : Stately remnants towering over cobblestone paths
• Aegean Gateway : Your embarkation point to island adventures

Every lane whispers legend here, and the salty air carries stories from isles afar.

8. Rethymno

Steeped in layers of architectural heritage, Rethymno reveals an enchanting street mosaic where Venetian, Roman, and Ottoman influences merge. As you stroll through the old town, every corner whispers tales from centuries past.

Local Highlights:

• Venetian Fortress: Dominates the western skyline, offering panoramic town views
• Lively Streets: Buzz with students and cafes serving Greek delicacies
• Coastal Charms: Stunning beaches hugged by crystalline azure waters

While discovering flavors at bustling tavernas, don’t miss the chance to witness the old town’s magic as the day’s light fades behind the fortress walls.

As you traverse the energetic streets of Patras, your gaze might initially be captivated by the vast port that weaves the city into the maritime bustle. Yet, venture beyond the surface, and you’ll uncover a city pulsing with life; the Castle of Patras stands out, inviting you to explore its storied walls.

Among the cobblestones, a historic church offers serene refuge, while the cathedral nearby impresses with its grandeur. Perhaps most striking is the Rio–Antirrio Bridge, a feat of modern engineering suspended over azure waters, creating a gateway to the Ionian Islands. Here in Patras, history and modernity are linked as seamlessly as the lands bridged by this architectural marvel.

10. Rhodes Town

Stroll through the Old Town of Rhodes, and you’ll wander along twisting alleys that echo tales from the fifth century BC. Beneath the charm of the ancient walls, which come alive with lights at dusk, you’ll discover many historic sites beckoning exploration.

In contrast, the modern district offers a different rhythm, teeming with boutiques, eateries, and venues that pulse with life. The best local beach awaits your footprints here, not far from where the legendary Colossus once stood. Though crowds of visitors are drawn to this city, the experience of its dual charm—ancient allure amidst contemporary vibrance—is not to be missed.

See Related:   Best AI Travel Planners for Effortless Adventure Planning

11. Heraklion

Wander through the Old Town of Heraklion where narrow streets open to Venetian architectural gems, an experience not unlike time travel. Koules Fortress, a sentinel in stone, stands guard over the harbor, offering you a glimpse into the island’s storied past.

• Palace of Knossos : A short excursion to immerse yourself in the myths of Minos.
• Museums : Collections that hold the essence of Crete’s extensive history.
• Shopping & Dining : Traverse the modern quarters for culinary delights and local crafts.

Despite its contemporary chaos, Heraklion’s soul thrives in its historical enclaves and shoreside pleasantries, revealing a city ripe for discovery as your gateway to Crete.

12. Nafplio

Nafplio, a jewel in the Peloponnesian crown, once held the honor of being the heart of modern Greece. As you meander through the winding streets, imbued with a sense of history, the fusion of Venetian and Ottoman design in the buildings whispers tales of a bygone era. Embrace the city’s atmosphere, often bustling with tourists and locals alike, as the harbor’s reflections dance with light.

• Palamidi: A sentinel in stone, offering sweeping sea vistas.
• Bourtzi: Stands on a tiny isle, its walls holding fast against the tide of time.
• Acronafplia: Where the old meets the azure sea.

In these storied ramparts, the panorama unfolds—a painter’s palette of land, sea, and sky. While the allure of Nafplio’s past grandeur resonates through its alleys, the town remains spirited, a testament to its enduring charm.

Chania, a gem along Crete’s coast, weaves a tapestry of rich culture and scenic charm. The old town, a labyrinth of streets where Turkish and Venetian constructs cradle cozy cafes, invites exploration. Bold yet harmonious, the architecture tells tales of conquest and coalescence.

A stroll leads to the unmistakable old port, its lighthouse standing sentinel over time and tide. This is where authentic local life pulses, a hub buzzing with tradition. And if your feet yearn for adventure, the Samaria Gorge awaits, a natural marvel just a journey away from Chania’s historical embrace.

14. Thessaloniki

In the heart of Greece, Thessaloniki emerges as a beacon of culture, boasting a tapestry of festivals and a pulse of events year-round. Its storied shores kiss the Gulf of Thessaloniki, where millennia of heritage coalesce into a mesmerizing skyline. Here, you encounter charming remnants of Roman grandeur alongside splendid Byzantine places of worship, interlaced with vestiges of Ottoman history.

Stroll the scenic waterfront to find the White Tower, a 15th-century sentinel overseeing the Aegean, encapsulating centuries of narratives within its walls. The city’s vivid nightlife buzzes with melodies, and each bite of delectable local fare celebrates flavor. The youthful energy of Thessaloniki’s academic populace infuses the streets with a dynamic multicultural essence. As you navigate this urban mosaic, the city’s zest for life becomes your own.

In the heart of Athens, the Acropolis is a testament to the city’s ancient glory, an unmissable beacon that has been gazed upon for millennia. As you wander through the city, every corner offers a glimpse into the past, studded with celebrated ruins. Modernity wraps around these historical treasures, sometimes clashing with the old but reminding you of the city’s continuous thread through time.

Plaka and Monastiraki, two districts that brim with appeal, whisper tales of yesteryears amidst their narrow cobblestone paths.

• The timeless Acropolis
• The ruins in the cradle of history

Population-wise, Athens is not just a capital but a hub of Greek culture, thrumming with life in its vibrant eateries and ambient tavernas.

• Restaurants serving gastronomic nostalgia
• Cafes and bars echoing with laughter and conversation

Conclude your historical immersion by steering toward Piraeus, where you can trace the footsteps of adventurers past and set sail to the Greek isles, each promising its slice of paradise.

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21 OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN GREECE

Choosing 21 of the most beautiful places in Greece is not an easy task.

The reality is we could have included hundreds of places in this article – it truly is one of the most diverse and picturesque countries in the world. It’s one of the world’s most popular honeymoon destinations and has so much to offer couples , families , groups and solo travellers alike.

After much deliberation, these are our picks, based on not just their immense beauty but also their uniqueness and the ability to stand out from all the others.

We hope this provides some great inspiration for your visit and that you can manage to put quite a few on your itinerary .

PLANNING A TRIP TO GREECE?

Whether you’ve been before or it’s your first time it can be hard to process all the information out there. Be sure to check out our complete Planning Guide as well as our FREE 13-page downloadable itinerary.

And come join our private Facebook Group where you can ask questions and get advice from real travelers!

When to visit Greece 

Whilst Greece is home to some of the best beaches and most romantic sunsets on the planet there are many things to see and do year round.

Summer in Greece is over June, July and August and is the ideal time to spend at the beaches and waterfalls while Spring and Autumn are excellent for hiking and exploring Ancient Ruins, Caves and Archaeological sites. August is also the busiest and most expensive month of the year whilst many islands close their tourist ‘season’ down between late October until Easter each year.

Most people would say that May – June and September are the best times to visit Greece, when the weather is great as are the prices and the crowds.

Further reading: When to visit Greece – a month by month guide

Note: This article may contain affiliate links. 

Oia, Santorini

It’s no surprise that Santorini tops our list of the most beautiful places to visit in Greece.

Magical sunsets, breathtaking views, enchanting restaurants with divine food and ambience, luxurious Villas hidden in caves – it really has it all. Plus there are enough activities and things to do to keep things fun and interesting.

Oia is widely regarded as the most beautiful village on the island with its iconic blue church domes, high end hotels and restaurants, windy alleys and amazing sunsets. It’s located at the very northern tip of the island which means that tour buses and traffic are unable to access it, adding to its cache.

Some of Oia’s key highlights are;

• the famous sunsets 
• incredible views over the volcano’s Caldera
• cruises on the Caldera
• infinity pools
• Cave Hotels
• world class bars and restaurants
• stunning photo locations
• excellent shopping, especially for Art & Jewellery
• small Galleries and Museums 

Further reading: 

3 days on Santorini – a complete itinerary

Santorini vs Mykonos

The Perfect Santorini Honeymoon

Where to stay in Oia

Most people are happy to pay a premium for a view of the Caldera but there are plenty of options for all budgets.

Some places are particularly perfect for people honeymooning on Santorini too.

For a truly unforgettable stay,  Canaves Suites are one of the most Instagrammed hotels in the world or check out Art Maison Oia Castle and Andronis Suites , all of which have some of the best views in Santorini, or anywhere for that matter!

Further reading:

The Best Apartments and Airbnb’s on Santorini – windmills, mansions and more

Insider tip

” Hands down one of the most romantic things to do on Santorini is a sunset cruise. Sailing on the Caldera at the end of the day, champagne in hand and witnessing one of the world’s most incredible sunsets unfold really is unforgettable.

You can join one of many small cruises with a group or hire out your own private charter for even more indulgent memories”

Assos,Kefalonia

Very different to Santorini, Kefalonia is located in the Ionian islands, which are close to Italy and therefore have strong Venetian influences in the Architecture rather than the white sugar cube style synonymous with the Cyclades. 

Assos is a small, seaside village on the north-west coast of the island and is one of the prettiest in Europe. Accessed by a narrow, windy road and home to only a handful of hotels and apartments there are several excellent tavernas and cafes and a beautiful calm bay. 

This is the sort of place where you can really get away from it all, and its very affordable too.

Some of Assos’s key highlights are;

• colourful Venetian buildings
• 30 minutes south to world famous beaches such as Myrtos Beach ( below)
• excellent tavernas and cafes including and  Hellenic Taverna on the hill above 
• a venetian castle on the point
• peace and tranquility
• the colourful fishing village of Fiscardo is only 30 minutes north
• a secluded bay and nearby beaches
• maintain ranges and hiking trails

Where to stay in assos  

If you are travelling with friends or need an extra few beds then look no further than Villa Vivere in Assos. Jaw-dropping views, an infinity pool, and absolute self-contained luxury only metres from the beach.

Otherwise, incredible Braunis Horio has spectacular views and is stunning  (Adults Only) or charming   Linardos Apartments are a very budget friendly option and are one of the brightly coloured building just above the bay.

Further reading:  The best beaches in Kefalonia

Naoussa, Paros

We’ve taken our extended family to Paros several times and travelled there with friends a lot but year in, year out, we keep going back especially when it is just the two of us.

Whilst it is one of the best Greek Islands to visit due to its wide array of sights and activities and particularly the town of Naoussa with its stunning fishing harbour ringed by excellent tavernas and bars, lively nightlife and windy alleys full of boutiques, galleries, cafes and shops. Many say it is the perfect Greek Island village!

Some of the key highlights of Naoussa are;

• the lively and fairly upmarket fishing harbour
• good beaches and seaviews
• a very good winery
• lively nightlife – a smaller, cheaper version of Mykonos 
• fantastic dining choices including Statheros right on the beach, SoSo tucked away in a back alley and Yemeni Taverna
• excellent shopping including high end boutiques and artisan stores
• small local ferries to other excellent beaches in the Bay
• easy day trips to Antiparos, Naxos and even Mykonos and Delos
• sailing trips   

Where to stay in Naoussa

There is a good number and variety of Naoussa hotels, from cheap backpackers to luxury villas.

We love to stay at Paliomylos Hotel and Spa where Greek/Aussie Chrys and the team deliver the most efficient yet friendly service in town. Other places that are great for couples in Naoussa are Senia and Lilly Residence which has an adults-only policy.

For families and groups check out Zoumis Studios who have excellent 2-bedrooms apartments or Harmony Apartments which can sleep up to 6 people. 

You could also rent 4 and 5 bedroom villas at Acron Villas. A 7-minute drive from town, looking back over it and next to wonderful Kolombithres beach and local ferry. 

Where to stay in Paros

A Complete Guide to Naoussa

Day Trips from Paros

Paros or Naxos?

The Meteora Monasteries are located close to the city of Kalambaka in Greece, near the Pineois river and the Pindus Mountains, about 360km north of Athens.

The word “Meteora,” means “hovering in the air” which, whilst a literal description of the famous monasteries, also shows just how otherworldly they are.

The complex is made up of twenty-four Eastern Orthodox monasteries that were built on giant sandstone rock pillars between the 14th and 16th centuries. 

This UNESCO world heritage site is truly one of the most remarkable and visually beautiful places you will visit anywhere in the world. Even if you only have 1 night to spare on your trip to Greece you will not regret the effort to   visit Meteora   for a moment!

Where to stay in Meteora

The nearest town to the Monasteries is Kalambaka which wraps around the foothills of the complex on the western side. Adjacent to Kalambaka is the charming village of Kastraki.

We love to stay at  Doupiani Hotel, Kastraki which is great for all types of travellers and one of the closet hotels to the Monasteries as well as having incredible views of them. In fact it is feasible to walk to two of the monasteries from the hotel with not too much effort.

If this is booked out then we recommend   Hotel Kastraki   which is just around the corner or   Tsikeli Hotel   for an adults-only experience.

If you are travelling in a group and would like to stay in the area a while ( which I strongly recommend!) then check out   Zosimas House   which has 2 bedrooms, can sleep 6 people and has amazing views. For something even bigger then   Vista delle Rocce   has 3 bedrooms and can sleep up to 8.

Hotels in Kalambaka that we recommend are  Hotel Kaikis and Epavlis Hotel.

A Complete Guide to Meteora

Our one-night Highlights of Meteora Tour

Paleokastritsa, Corfu

Long before The Durrell’s hit our TV screens Corfu has been charming people for centuries with its beautiful mix of Venetian and neo-classical architecture, stunning beaches and proximity to both the Dalmatian Coast and Italy.

Whilst some pockets are largely populated by large all-inclusive resorts there are magical gems such as the 5 bays that make up the village of Paleokastritsa, which translates to ‘old castle’. This is a place that remains one of the best holidays of our lives and transforms from a busy tourist destination during the day to a quiet magical paradise in the evenings.

Some of Paleokastritsa’s key highlights are;

• Paleokastritsa Monastery
• numerous gorgeous beaches
• numerous secluded coves, caves and bays
• a huge variety of water sports and boating
• self guided hikes on the Corfu Trail
• have a night out at Archontiko and also at Nausika Taverna where the meat roasts on a spit out front and young men dance with fire 

Where to stay in Corfu

In Paleokastritsa, we stayed at the wonderful Zefiros Hotel , a small cheap and cheerful pension across the road from the beach. You can just see its distinctive red walls through the pine trees in the photo below.

The rooms were basic but comfortable and breakfast was amazing. I can still picture those fat lazy bees buzzing around the honey. For something more upmarket look at Akrotiri Beach Hotel which is right next to Akron restaurant. 

Fishermans Villages, Milos

Milos is often described as the new Santorini as it also has extraordinary landscapes and topography due to the shared volcanic geology. This has resulted in a strong and very interesting mining industry as well as a multitude of colours and extraordinary rock formations.

One of the other things that makes Milos stand out from the other islands is the colourful ‘Syrma’ or Fishermans Huts. Many of these are still being used today while some have been converted to self-contained accommodation.

There are 3 main fishing villages, Klima, Mandrakia and Firopotamos although you will also see the huts around other parts of the island and on neighbouring Kimolos Island too.

Milos is also home to some of the best food in all of Greece and without regular cruise ships, tour buses and even many local tours, the crowds are low and the overall vibe is laid back and largely authentic.

Some of the key highlights of Milos are;

• world famous lunar Sarakiniko Beach
• day trips to incredible Kleftiko ( pictured above)
• the charming Plaka
• A Kayaking Tour to Tsigrado and Gerakas Beaches
• The Milos Mining Museum ( dragonstone!)
• amazing O’Hamos paddock-to-plate Taverna
• Best of Milos tour
• Beautiful Kimolos island , right next door

Fishermans huts for rent in Milos

Blue Sea House   is one of our favourite Syrma and is at the end of the row in Klima. It can sleep 6 people in 4 beds and two sofa beds and is wonderfully appointed with great attention to detail.

Vasealis and Seaf  Syrma   is also very cute and can sleep 4 with a King bed in the bedroom and a sofa bed in the living room. Its been recently refurbished and has lovely views from the terrace out over the sea.

In Mandrakia,   SeaScape   is a lovely little white house that sits above the Fishing Huts below and is right next door to the only taverna ( which is excellent), Medusa.   Seashell   is just a few meters away and can sleep 4. Book both and take over the village!

In Firopotamos   Vilos Suites   are right on the lovely, calm beach and are the most stylish in that bay. Only around 10 or 12 people stay in Firopotomas of a night, even in summer!

How to get to Milos

Best Beaches on Milos

This island is a perennial favourite with people looking for an authentic Greek Island vacation at a slower pace. With no cars or scooters, Hydra is also known as being the birthplace of the original bohemians including Leonard Cohen and friends and is especially good for solo travellers and people who aren’t just chasing the sun and the beach.

Hydra is easy to get to being in the Saronic Islands, the closest group to Athens, although it is only accessible by sea. The weather in the Saronic Gulf tends to be quite mild and less affected by wind and weather events than other island groups.

Highlights of Hydra include:

• Hiking on Mount Eros
• Swimming from the cliff-top bars and tavernas
• Browsing the great galleries and boutiques
•  Visiting the fascinating Museums including the Museum of Hydra, Lazaros Koutouriostis Museum and the School of Fine Art
• finding Leonard Cohens House 

Read our Complete Guide to Hydra for more

Hotels in Hydra town

Most visitors to Hydra stay in Hydra Town (also known as Idra). It’s basically impossible to land on the island without taking in the beauty of Hydra Town. The town is wrapped around the island’s port, which is also one of the most beautiful sights on the island.

Here, you’ll find most of the island’s amenities and attractions.

The bars of Hydra Town have long attracted an eclectic mix of visitors – from 1970s rockstars to local Greek youths indulging in a good time. Equally, there’s lots of diversity in the dining options too – from small traditional tavernas to upmarket restaurants.

So, if you want to be amongst the action on Hydra, then Hydra Town is probably your best bet.

Amaryllis Hotel is a great budget friendly hotel that is centrally located.

We love Hotel Sophia  a small, family run hotel right in the heart of the Old Town and steps away from the Harbour, or for a bit of extra luxury hotel check out Hydrea Exclusive Hospitality.

If you want to be right near the water and surrounded by complete peace and tranquility then head around the point to Mandrakia and stay at either   Villa Mandraki or   Mandraki Beach Resort.

No time to stay on Hydra?

Do a fully day tour of the Saronic Islands from Athens

Located on the western coast of the Mainland overlooking the Ionian Islands Parga is a beautiful town built in the shape of a theatre around a small port.

Not only is the town vibrant and colourful but there are numerous coves and bays to explore with crystal clear water and great swimming spots. Considered one of the prettiest Mainland towns in Europe Parga is a great choice for a holiday as it is a convenient gateway to many islands, while feeling a lot like an island itself.

Some of the things to see and do in Parga are:

• Venetian Castle of Parga – built in the 11th century and later fortified by the Venetians and Turks. 
• Ali Pasha Castle
• Acheron River (see more below) – The Ancient Greeks believed that this river led to the gates of Hades. The river is surrounded by waterfalls and lush green forests and is a popular place for swimming and rafting.
• Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna 
• Aphrodite’s Cave – Take a boat and explore the caves. A stunning spot to swim in the azure water.
• Ecclesiastical Museum – Located next to the church of Agioi Apostoli in the city center of Parga. 
• Numerous beaches – including Valtos, Town and Lichnos Beaches.
• day trips over to the island of Paxos and its magnificent Blue Caves 

Parga hotels, houses and apartments

Couples looking for luxury and absolutely stunning views of the sea will find it hard to beat Irida Boutique Hotel on the point. Many of their spacious rooms have large terraces and there are some with private Jacuzzis too.

 Families and groups love Parga Beach Resort with its huge range of activities, private beach and great pool. Most of their rooms sleep 4 comfortably and many are adjoining others. Villa Rossa is also right on the beach and is a more boutique experience in an old converted tobacco factory.

If you are looking for a villa that is completely self-contained and very private check out Villa Valtos who have a villa with a private pool and sweeping sea views, or Villa Ektoras , high on the hill behind the town which can sleep up to 7.

Acheron River

Located less than 30 minutes inland from Parga is the beautiful Acheron River.

In Greek Mythology this was believed to be where the gates to Hades (Hell) were located and the river represented a physical barrier between mortals and the Underworld. It was often referred to as ‘The River of Woe”.

The river runs for 52 kilometres in the regional unit of Epirus, in North West Greece.

Today is it a tranquil spot for people to visit and swim with picnic areas along its banks. It’s also a popular spot for rafting.

If you are a nature lover or a mythology buff be sure to put this on your list!

Where to stay on the Acheron River

Most people who visit the Acheron stay in Parga and do days-trips ( see above).

It is possible to stay in the small town of Gliki as well. Piges Hotel is right on the springs and has a restaurant by the river.

Another great option is Hotel Eirini, which has wonderful views of the valley and bright, spacious rooms.

Limeni, Peloponnese

Located on the western side of the Mani Peninsula Limeni is one of the most beautiful villages in all of Greece, if not Europe.

Much photographed on Instagram it is actually a very small and rather new seaside village on a narrow coastal road.

Limeni is a beautifully restored and maintained village located in a small protected cove with crystal clear, azure water, right below the charming and very authentic town of Aeropoli which is another good choice for accommodation. There are a number of outdoor activities and boat rides on offer in Limeni as well as a dive center.

Whilst there are only a handful of tavernas and cafes the quality is exceptional. One of the best meals we have ever had anywhere was at   Telonio   and the views at sunset make it even more special!

Things to do in and around Limeni:

• Swim with the sea turtles in the stunning aquarmarine water at Dexameni Beach
• Go diving with the Dive centre on local reefs and wrecks
• Visit Diros Caves – one of the most important historical sites in Greece. Here you can join small boats rides that go in through the underground lakes where remains of humans and jungle animals have been found from antiquity.
• Spend the afternoon on nearby Itilo Beach
• See Pikoulakis Tower – 1821 Revolutionary Museum in Aeropoli
• Enjoy the stunning sunsets over the Mediterranean and hear jackals howling
• Explore all the delights and beauty of the rugged Mani Peninsula

Limeni Hotels

There are a couple of very charming boutique hotels in Limeni and they are all just meters from the water.   Mavromichalai   is a gorgeous, small, luxury hotel on the waterfront in a restored 18th-century tower house and is hard to beat although   Vasilios Apartment Hotel   has commanding views on the hill above and is somewhat less expensive. They are both truly fantastic places to spend some time.

A short drive up the road at   Aria Suites and Spa , is a modern, luxury hotel that feels much like a village itself with beautifully designed rooms and apartments with spectacular views over the sea.  Bassa Maina  hotel is right next door and quite stunning as well, albeit at a higher price point.

A complete Guide to the Peloponnese

Monemvasia, Peloponnese

The Castle Fortress of Monemvasia dates back to the time of the Byzantine emperor Maurice, who founded the city in the year 582 AD. It is completely unique and a must-do if you are visiting the Peloponnese.

Once an island joined to the mainland by a small rock wall it was deliberately designed to blend into the mountain it clings to and therefore not be seen by enemies at sea. It was a thriving seaport during the time of the emperor Andronicus XII and after the occupation by the Ottomans, which lasted up until the early 19th century.

Today it is home to a number of small hotels, cafes, tavernas, galleries and shops as well a few remaining landmarks that speak of the tumultuous and rich history of Monemvasia, including the   Church of Agia Sofia   and the   Church of Jesus Christ in Chains , both worth a visit.  

Monemvasia Hotels  

There are several boutique hotels and rooms to rent so you can experience Monemvasia at night, which many say is when it is at its most charming and revealing. 

If you would prefer to stay on Monemvasia itself the quaint and affordable  Goulas Guesthouse  has great views and few stairs, whilst  Likinia Hotel  is brand new and has all the modern conveniences with many historic elements.

You can also stay on the Mainland and look back over the fortress. Quaint and affordable  Goulas Guesthouse  has great views and few stairs, whilst  Likinia Hotel  is brand new and has all the modern conveniences with many historic elements.

Stunning  Kinsterna Hotel is located high on the hill and is considered one of the best hotels in Europe. Situated on a sprawling estate the Byzantine Era mansion houses a luxury spa, two swimming pools and an award-winning restaurant. The gardens are quite magnificent and include a vineyard, herb and vegetable garden and animal farm. The hotel produces its own wine, cheese, olive oil, bread, soap and more.  

Amvrakikos Wetlands National Park

Greece is famous for its islands and stunning coastline but there are in fact some incredible inland waterparks and lakes as well. 

Right near the West Coast is the Ambracian Gulf, which comes in off the Ionian Sea and, due to its ecological importance, is home to one of the most beautiful National Parks, Amvrakikos .

Covering almost 400km2 this is one of the largest wetlands in Greece and is where the rivers Louros and Arachthos empty.

The area is home to numerous animals and plant species including one of the last bottlenose dolphin colonies. There are also numerous turtles, amphibians, reptiles, mammals and insects as well as almost 300 species of birds, many endangered. It is a critical location for Europe’s migratory birds and a major breeding and resting ground for many.

As you can imagine the Park is a paradise for nature lovers and many stay several weeks each year to volunteer and help out or to join wildlife expeditions.

There are also some interesting historical sites nearby such as the hilltop fortress of Rhodia and the legendary Old Bridge of Arta.

Amvrakikos Wetlands Accommodation

Most visitors to the Park stay in either Preveza, which is a large coastal town with an airport, or the villages of Vonitsa, Sparto or Mendi that surround the lake.

Dionisos Hotel is a popular choice as it is on the oceanfront but a short drive to the park and downtown Preveza.

Delfini Hotel in Menidi is also worth looking at with its clean, waterfront rooms and excellent taverna. They have generous family rooms and families love it here due to the calm, shallow water.

One of our personal places to stay is Koronisia Apartments in Koronisia, a tiny town right in the middle of the lake, accessible by a long, narrow causeway. The town has only a handful of houses, a church and a couple of tavernas and is completely surrounded by water. A very unique place to stay!

Pyrgi, Chios

Chios is a large island located in the Northern Aegean group and is just off the coast of Turkey. It is a fascinating island and has a number of unique points of interest including several Medieval Villages.

Located around 25 kilometres from Chios Town Pyrgi ( pronounced ” Per-yee”) is the largest medieval village in Chios and most will say the prettiest.

Often called ‘The Painted Village’ every house is decorated in intricate paintings and etchings, painstakingly done by hand. The houses date back to the 13th and 14th century and the decorative work dates back to 1665 and was initiated by a Cretan painter called Antonios Domestichos.

A lot of the designs are done in black and white with a little blue, grey and brown thrown in. They are known as ‘xysts’ and are similar to what you may see in a Genovese village in Italy. This is likely due to the fact that Chios was under Frankish occupation at the time Pyrgi was settled.

Today more than 1200 people live in Pyrgi and there is a lovely big shady square where you will find old men happily drinking coffee and playing backgammon each day. Most of the residents are employed in the making of Mastica or other agriculture.

There is an impressive Byzantine church hidden in the backstreets as well as 3 lovely Greek Orthodox churches worth seeing too.

Pyrgi, Chios Hotels

Accommodation in Pyrgi is quite limited, which is a good thing. This is not the sort of place we were want to see brand name hotels or resorts.

There are a few unadvertised rooms for rent in the village but you will have to book upon arrival ( and find a sign). Most people stay down at a beach village and visit on a day trip.

Xista Manor House is one of the only places to stay and it is a very good, 2 bedroom traditional house.

Sideratos Apartments are stylish self-catering apartments on the seafront in Karfas with great sea views and just a short stroll into the village centre. These are great for families and groups.

For something, that’s super value for money also check out Emporios Bay Hotel which is located in the quiet, southern fishing village of Emporios Bay with excellent tavernas and close to remote beaches.

A Complete Guide to Chios

Chania, Crete

Chania is one of the most popular places to stay in Crete, and also one of the most charming.

It offers a stunning beautiful Old Town, where you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time as you wander the laneways.

Over the years, Crete has been influenced by many different groups – the Minoans, the Ancient Greeks, the Venetians and the Ottomans. Each one has left their own visible marks on the island and particularly on the Old Town in Chania.

That’s what makes walking around Chania Old Town so spectacular. The narrow laneways are a mix of architectural styles and traditions, giving them a charming hodge podge appearance. They’re the perfect place to stop and sip a coffee, or perhaps to sample some of the delicious Cretan cheese produced on the island.

For ancient history buffs, one highlight is the excavated ruins in the Kastelli hill neighbourhood, which are believed to date back more than 5,000 years to when the city was known as “Kydania”.

Highlights of Chania and surrounds include:

• visit nearby Falasarna, Balos and Elafonissi Beaches – some of the best in Europe!
• Explore the old venetian quarters in Chania and Rethymnon
• Hike Samaria Gorge – the longest gorge in Europe
• Be amazed by Pychro Cave – believed to be the birthplace of Zeus
• Spend a few days visiting the many excellent wineries
• do a food tour and/or cooking class and learn about Crete’s unique cuisine
• take boat tour to  Spinalonga Island, a former leper colony and fascinating site
• Visit Knossos Palace – the home of the Minotaur 

Further reading: Things to do in Crete  

Chania hotels and apartments

Cretan Renaissance has amazing views over the sea and is perfect for couples and solo travellers.

If you are looking for something with character and great views right on the Venetian Harbour then check out Porto Antico , where we have stayed with our own kids in a family room, at a very budget-friendly price too.

Monastery Estate is a high-end luxury hotel with all the mod cons and amenities you would expect as well as self-contained villas while The Romantic Beach House is great for groups and families with 3 bedrooms and 6 beds.

Road trips in Crete

Anafiotika, Athens

The most popular neighbourhood for visitors to stay in Athens is Plaka, a very pretty area right at the foot of the Acropolis with lots of car-free space, great tavernas and bars and many galleries, museums and ancient sites within a short walk.

Within Plaka is an even smaller place called Anafiotika, one of the oldest suburbs in Europe.

Located on the highest part of the north-eastern side of Acropolis Hill this area is made up of several narrow, winding streets, both colourful and white-washed houses, great little tavernas and cafes and lots of stairs.

It is one of the prettiest, most authentic parts of Athens and has great views back over the city, especially at night. Many people say its like being out on one of the islands instead of in the middle of one of the world’s great cities.

Where to stay in Athens – a complete guide to the best Neighbourhoods

Things to do in Athens

Day Trips from Athens

Private Drivers in Athens

Anafiotika Hotels

There are many places in and around Plaka to stay ( and we especially love Athens Was and Home & Poetry ), but being so small your options in Anafiotika are much more limited. Still, how nice to be able to walk right outside and be in the middle of this beautiful spot.

  Acron Athens is smack bang in the centre and is a new, small hotel with lovely rooms that can sleep up to 4 people. Well priced too!

Other hotels just a 5 minute walk away are Acro & Polis and Plaka 360 Apartments , both excellent and both with amazing Acropolis views too.

Families and groups looking for something big and full self-contained should check out Aldis Mansion by K&K and Lilly’s House , both with 2 bedrooms. There is also a great 4 bedroom villa called Athenian Niche , which can sleep up to 10 people. 

Vouliagmeni, Athens

Lake Located on what is often referred to as the ‘Athenian Riviera’ Vouliagmeni is a lovely seaside suburb with great beaches and very unique hot springs.

Located only 40 minutes from the ancient centre and 30 minutes from the airport this is a great alternative for people who have already visited Athens before and/or are looking for a few last days at the beach before returning home.

It is also close to Cape Sounion where the incredible  Temple of Poseidon  stands overlooking the sea. It was built to fortify Athens against invading forces and to honour the God of the Sea.

There are a number of excellent accommodation choices, including the only Four Seasons in Greece, as well as good beaches clubs, tavernas and many cafes.

The thermal lake is believed to be very therapeutic. It is located just a short walk back from the beach and is open to the public for swimming and snorkelling. There is also a nice café on-site and a range of spa treatments and activities.

Highlights of the Athenian Riviera include:

• Do a sunset cruise around Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon
• Spend the afternoon at Lake Vouliagmeni
• Enjoy the vibrant beach and lightlife with the locals
• Hike up Faskomilia Hill for the perfect photo location and views for days
• get into some water-sports at Vouliagmeni Nautical Club
• shop in trendy Glyfada – a short taxi ride north
• do a bike tour of the area including the lake 

Vouliagmeni Hotels and Apartments

As mentioned the stunning Four Seasons Astir is located on the end of the peninsula on Astir Beach and is one of the most luxurious hotels in Greece.

The Marg i is another luxury hotel that is popular with couples while Azur Hotel is a good all-rounder.

Right near the thermal springs is Vouliagmeni Suites , a small boutique hotel with family rooms. Families and groups also like Beachside Bungalows .

Where to stay in Athens

Book a day trip to the athenian riviera

Short on time but would love to visit the Riviera?

Have Terry and the team show you the area on a full day tour in private air-conditioned comfort

Lindos, Rhodes

Nestled near the southern end of the island, Lindos is a charming town that is in close proximity to a number of great beaches and attractions. It has become an upmarket destination for visitors to the island as it’s Old Town and archeological sites have, thankfully, kept big hotels and resorts at bay.

In particular, Lindos is extremely convenient for the  Acropolis of Lindos  (as you’d expect), meaning it’s a great choice for history lovers.

The popularity of  Lindos  as a base on Rhodes means that the town enjoys many great amenities.

There’s an excellent selection of tavernas, shops and bars to enjoy, so it’s an excellent base for exploring the island. In addition, Lindos is well connected to Rhodes Town and elsewhere on the island by public transport, so it is a good choice even if you do not have your own vehicle.

Highlights of Lindos, Rhodes:

• The Acropolis of Lindos
• Enjoy the excellent beaches including Lindos Beach and nearby St Pauls Bay
• Explore the Tomb of Cleobulus of Lindos
• See the ruins of the amazing Ancient Theatre of Lindos and the Temple of Athena
• dine under the stars at any of the amazing tavernas and soak up the lively bar scene at night

HOTELS IN LINDOS

 For couples and small families its hard to beat Lindian Polis with their chic 2 bedroom apartments, great views of St.Pauls Bay and outdoor jacuzzis. In fact couples are spoilt for choice in Lindos with a number of excellent places to choose from including Lindian Pearl and Melenos Art Hotel . There are also several adults-only places such as Caesars Gardens and Casita Casita , that are excellent.

If you are looking for something right on the beach the St.Pauls Bay Views suites are the way to go.

Families and groups should also check out Lindos Anatoli Luxury Villa – a wonderful, big 3 bedroom house that has panoramic views of the whole area or Traditional Lindian Suites who have modern, luxury apartments.

Solo travellers have good options too. F Charm lives up to its name as a charming small hotel with beautiful, chic decor and home made produce, or CasaLindos Cottage , both tucked under the Acropolis and in amongst the windy alleys which are perfect to explore.

  Further reading:

Things to do on Rhodes

Panagia Kakaviotissa, Limnos

Located on top of Kakavos mountain on   Limnos   island, the church of Panagia Kakaviotissa is one of the most incredible Greek Orthodox places in the world.

Built inside a partially-open cave this is the only church in the world without a roof and has naturally become a popular tourist attraction as well as a place of worship. It takes about 20 minutes to drive to the nearby carpark from Myrina Port or 90 minutes to hike.

Panagia Kakaviotissa has been part of the Megisti Lavra Monastery since 1305 AD, when monks from the island of Agios Efstratios settled there when fleeing from the Ottomans.

The ascetic monks, who lived a strict lifestyle of prayer and fasting lived in the surrounding caves in the mountain and built the church for their liturgies and prayer. Eventually, the Monks left to live on Mt Athos ( see below).

The church still holds a service every year two days after Easter, when the holy icon of Panagia Kakaviotisa is returned to it. It is a unique ceremony attended by many Limnos locals as well as visitors.

Accomodation on Limnos

Limnos is a fascinating island for many years yet is often overlooked by tourists.

The island is home, not just to this incredible Church but also to Salt Mines, Flamingo colonies and one of only two deserts in Europe. There are also significant historical and archeological sites to explore.

Most visitors choose to stay in the port town of Myrina where Limnis Gi and Afrodite Hotel Apartments are very popular.

Amigdalies is also excellent with traditional  2 bedrooms apartments that have views over the castle and the sea. 

Mount Athos

Mount Athos is one of the most fascinating places in all of Europe.

It is both a mountain and a large peninsula in North Greece covering over 330 km2, that is used only by Greek Orthodox Monks.

It is often called the ‘Holy Mountain’ and is home to over a dozen monasteries, several of which are some of the biggest and most impressive in the world.

The island is governed as an autonomous polity within the Hellenic Republic (Greece) and is officially called the Monastic State of the Holy Mountain and the Athonite . Some of the structures are over 100 years old with foundations dating back to the 4th century.

Not only is it visually stunning and spiritually fascinating but one of its most unique facts is that all females are banned, even female animals. In fact, the monks refer to it as the ‘Garden of Virgin Mary’. All people who live on Mount Athos are men over the age of 18 who are either Monks or workers.

It is even difficult for males to visit with permits issued, in advance, to only 110 people a day – 100 lay Orthodox and 10 non-Orthodox. The permits are valid for 3 days and visitors can stay in several of the monasteries for a modest fee.

While it is not possible for most foreigners to set foot on Mount Athos you can do boat trips around the peninsula from several places in the Halkidiki area including Thessaloniki .

Kastellorizo

Kastellorizo is a small island that is not just one of the prettiest in Greece but also one of the most isolated. 

In fact, this island is just 1 mile off the coast of Turkey yet 78miles ( 125kms) from the nearest Greek island, Rhodes. It is the Easternmost location in Greece.

This isolation and its significant Ottoman influence has made it very popular in recent years with people looking for a very unique and off-beat Greek island experience.

There is only one town on the island, Meyisti, and a big mountain range. The island is mainly made of Limestone so is quite bare but there are stunning sea caves and coves to explore, as well several neighbouring islets.

The island has been under foreign occupation numerous times and has been a point of much contention between Greece and Turkey. The main harbour is lined with colourful Venetian mansions and there is still evidence of both the British and French occupation too.,

Kastellorizo Hotels

With just one small town on one small island accommodation is limited.

Megisti Hotel and Poseidon are considered the best on the island and have been consistently good for years. Both have great views of the harbour and very comfortable rooms. 

There are a couple of small houses for rent on Airbnb as well and it is still possible to find unadvertised rooms for rent around the harbour, just ask around. 

Metsovo is a traditional Greek town in the Pindus Mountains in Epirus in Central Greece.

Once an important town on the inland trading route where it was highly regarded due to its wool and textiles industry today it is full of wineries, tavernas, art galleries,  traditional-style hotels, fantastic tavernas and lots of small shops selling the local handicrafts, produce and wine.

The people in this part of Greece are called ‘ Vlach ‘ or Aromanians, meaning their ancestors are from a ‘ romance-speaking ‘ ethnic group native to the Southern Balkans. This means many of them still speak the Aromanian Language which shares a lot of common words with Greek

It is also a very popular spa town in winter when it is often covered in snow and frequented by people seeking the nearby snowfields.

The town is surrounded by forests and has views right over the nearby valleys so it is also a wonderful place to fish, hike and cycle.

Located right by the new, modern Egnatia Highway which goes right from Igoumenitsa on the West Coast (gateway to the Ionians) up to Thessaloniki it is also near the turnoff down to amazing Meteora if driving from the west.

This is one of the prettiest Mainland towns in Greece and is highly recommended as a place to stay a few days, especially in winter, spring or fall.

Highlights of Metsovo:

• The Averoff Gallery – showcasing some of Greece’s best artists
• Katogi Averoff Winery – one of Greece’s most successful high-altitude wineries. The also have a hotel !
• Tsanaka Folk Museum
• Boulouvar Cascades Waterfalls
• Anilio ski centre
• Metsovo Square – the heart of the town

Metsovo Hotels

There are a number of great places to stay in and around Metsovo. Two in particular stand out as being somewhat exceptional even by Greek standards.

Archontiko Metsovou Luxury Boutique Hotel is a restored mansion with sweeping views of the mountains and a spa centre with a sauna and hammam. Many rooms have fireplaces and spa baths.

 Nearby you will find modern Aroma Dryos Eco & Design Hotel with spacious luxury rooms, amazing views and complete tranquility. Many rooms here also have fireplaces and there are family rooms as well. 

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Best places to visit in Greece - the destinations loved by experts, locals and tourists

Posted: November 7, 2023 | Last updated: November 7, 2023

Choosing the best places to visit in Greece is an almost impossible task. Home to hundreds of islands, buzzing metropolitan cities steeped in history and culture, and a coastline that spans almost 16,000km, the country truly has something for everyone.

If you’re looking for one of the best European city breaks, you could start with Athens, the birthplace of Western civilization. Nowadays it’s a city of contrasts where you’ll find archaeological sites nestled next to lively coffee shops, market stalls and cocktail bars. Or you could head to the best Greek islands, all possessing their own unique charm, cuisine, and exquisite scenery. Then there’s everything in-between: the mountainous landscapes, towering cliffs, and endless beaches that you’ll find across the country.

As someone who's traveled around Greece for the last decade, with a short stint of living in it, I like to think I have my finger on the pulse of the best places to visit. But just to be sure, I've also enlisted the help of my Greek friends and family members to cover a mixture of destinations - from some of the best islands in Europe, to accessible areas of the mainland. Whether you’re looking for sun, sea, sand, culture, or a buzzing culinary experience, as one of the best places to visit in Europe, Greece can satiate all these desires.

Click through to read the full story… BY ANNA PAUL

No trip to Greece would be complete without a trip to its capital, Athens. A sprawling, modern metropolis overlooked by the Acropolis, a citadel that's sat on top of a rocky outcrop since 5th century BC. Even if you're not interested in history, it's hard not to marvel at the ancient Greek monumental complex, which can be seen from virtually every corner of the city. In the summer months, you can also attend concerts, opera and theatre performances at Odeon Herodes Atticus, the ancient theatre perched on the Acropolis. It's a true bucket list experience. Once you've scaled the heights of the Acropolis, head down to check out the museum which details the history of the site and the city as a whole. 

Next, head down to the heart of Athens, starting with Monisteraki and its buzzing street stalls and tavernas. If you're after street food, head to Kosta's Souvlaki where you can grab a pitta filled with pork, beef or chicken with onion, tomato and Kostas 'secret' tomato sauce. If you want to sit down with the locals for a meal (or just impress your friends with your insider knowledge), head to Avli, a rustic taverna that you can access via an unmarked door at Agiou Dimitriou 12. Once you find the door - which admittedly can be hard - you'll find a lively yard packed with small tables, delicious meals, jugs of local wine and live music. 

For fine dining, head to Hytra, a Michelin star restaurant in Koukaki - a creative neighborhood, located in the shadow of the Acropolis. Enjoy the 11-course tasting menu which takes reimagines traditional Greek recipes, re-creating them with freshly sourced raw materials. If the food wasn't enough to convince you, the panoramic view of the Acropolis will be. Head there at sunset for some truly breathtaking views. 

Then there are the bars and coffee shops, of which Athens has many. Go to Minu in Psyrri, a minimalistic haven where you can buy mood-boosting plants and handcrafted homeware, or simply sip your coffee and take in the urban oasis. Stay in Psyrri which is packed with cocktail bars (we recommend Juan Rodriguez but you have plenty to choose from).  

Top tip: Download 'Beat' - Greece's answer to Uber. Most of the city's yellow taxis operate with the app but prices are far lower (and language barriers kept to a minimum).

Eschew some of the more popular islands and head to Milos for a truly romantic holiday. Accessible via a short flight from Athens or a ferry ride from the popular islands of Santorini, Paros or and Mykonos, this unique island is worth adding to any travel-hopping itinerary. 

The volcanic island in the Aegean sea has been growing in popularity over recent years but it still remains unblemished by swelling tourism. Brimming with beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters, it offers everything you’d expect from a Greek Island. But the truly unique thing about Milos is its spell-binding lunar landscapes. Its chalk-white cliffs overlooking the azure-blue ocean feel (quite literally) other-worldly. Sarakiniko Beach boasts white rock formations which have smoothed and shaped over time, giving you the sensation you’re walking on the moon. For a truly unique experience, head to the beach before 8am and immerse yourself in the vast, chalky landscape. Drink in the view of the white-bone moonscapes, then jump into the azure sea below. The beach doesn’t offer much natural shade so if you want to avoid the hottest time of the day, plan to go to the beach for the sunset. We recommend traveling in May or early June. August is hot - and windy, which makes swimming difficult. 

There is no public transport operating to the beach, so think about renting a car, scooter, or ATV. The beach is around 10 minutes from Adamas and Plaka so taxis are also reasonable.

Top tip: There are no restaurants or bars at Sarakiniko beach, so come ready with water and food. It’s not far from nearby towns but you will have to hop in the car to get there. Be braced: there are also no public toilets. 

3. Zakynthos

Zakynthos island is known for its wild nightlife, but don't be deterred by its party reputation, as the island offers so much more. Its airport is small but extremely well-served, meaning you can often take advantage of holiday deals on offer. 

Once again, renting a car is advisable to really scale the island and experience its breathtaking views in their full glory. But if you can't, consider staying in Zante Town - the island's capital, where the central bus station is located. Full of picturesque Venetian-style houses and buildings, the town is the cultural hub of the island. But to really immerse yourself in the island culture, head to Vasilikos, the village and community which is located around 15 kilometers south of the town. This part of the island is decidedly sleepy, making it one of the best European vacations for families but solo travelers or couples would enjoy it just as much. While away the day on Gerakas Beach, a long, golden beach on the southern tip of the peninsula, home to the famous Loggerhead Turtles who nest in protected areas of the beaches. Banana beach, the biggest beach on the island is also located nearby. A long, wide beach with sparkling and shallow waters, you can also take part in an array of watersports here. 

If you have a car, take a 15-minute ride to Porto Mela, a taverna perched on Dafni beach that serves up all the favorites plus a selection of fresh seafood. If you're feeling adventurous, try rabbit in red sauce (kouneli stifado) - one of the island's signature dishes. Like most Greek cuisine, it's delicious, messy, and entirely unpretentious. Most restaurants will have different stifado options with other meats on offer too. Wash it down with a carafe of local wine - the island is home to many large vineyards and it's common for families to produce their own.

Top tip: While the south is rich with nature, beaches, and cuisine, don't leave Zante before visiting the north end of the island where the famous Navagia beach is located. Otherwise known as shipwreck beach, the remains of the MV Panagiotis ship have been planted on the white sand since the ship sunk in 1982. It's accessible only by boat, but avoid booking a boat to specifically go there - instead find an itinerary that includes Navagia beach as part of an island tour. In most cases, you'll pay the same price but see multiple destinations. 

4. Kalamata

You might know the name thanks to Kalamata's famous olives, but the capital of Messinia offers plenty more than just that. A pit stop for some of the best cruises and served by many major airlines, Kalamata is a seriously underrated holiday destination. Located 2.5 hours away from the capital, it's a popular hotspot for Athenians and other Greek tourists but it's still completely unspoiled by the swarms of international tourists. Make no mistake though - this is a city built for tourism, with luxury resorts, fine cuisine, and endless beaches. By summer, the beachfront is the place to be, lined with restaurants and beach bars that stay open until the early hours. In winter, the picturesque old town livens up. You can visit the castle or the archaeological museum but the best thing to do in Kalamata is just to do nothing at all and spend days wandering between beach bars, tavernas and dipping in the crystal blue water. There are endless sandy and pebbled beaches along the coastline which progressively get quieter and quieter as you edge away from the main marina.

You're spoilt for choices when it comes to cuisine, but pay a visit to the taverna of Kosta Vassiliadis (Stou Kosta). Regularly featured in top restaurant guides, everything is local and everything is fresh - from the meat, to fish to the verdant salads. The taverna is relatively hard to find unless you have a GPS but that doesn't deter the crowds: it's always packed - and for a reason. Expect to see Kostas floating from table to table chatting to everyone and introducing the food. As all the best tavernas do, they offer their own twist on the classics. The moussaka here is made with finely sliced veal instead of minced meat, layered on top of sliced aubergines and finished with a bechamel sauce. To sample the best local wares though, let your server choose your dishes for you. It goes without saying, too, that you need to sample the local olives when you're there.  

The pace of life is slow in Kalamata but it has a lively nightlife. In the center, enjoy a perfectly mixed cocktail in Luna Loungeor local favorite, Bistroteca. The city can be enjoyed by all ages, making it one of best vacations for over 60s and families alike.

Top tip: Take a day trip to the village of Kardamylli, under one hour away from Kalamata. The sleepy village sits below the Taygetos Mountains so is ripe for hiking, but you'll get equal pleasure just taking in the charm of the settings. The drive through the narrow, sloping mountains is picturesque and relatively short but is admittedly quite terrifying if you're not used to Greek roads. During the summer season, buses run approximately three times a day.

5. Santorini

No list of the best places to visit in Greece would be complete without mentioning Santorini. Probably the most famous Greek island, Santorini is one of the top summer destinations worldwide and home to some of the best luxury hotels in the world. The island gets extremely busy during the peak summer months, making it one of the best places to visit in September or between March and April when it's marginally quieter. 

The windswept volcanic island is known for its whitewashed cubiform houses and mesmerizing sunsets. For the best viewpoint, close your day in the picturesque village of Oia. As one of the most photographed islands, you might feel as though you've already seen the Santorini blue domed churches, and volcanic coves - but experiencing it firsthand is an entirely different experience. As with everywhere in Greece, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to food. Try domatokeftedhes - tomato fritters made with sun-blushed Santorini tomatoes. Wash them down with a glass of Assyrtiko wine from one of the island's 20+ wineries. The microclimate of the island provides a fertile environment for the rare, high-acidity grape. 

Top tip: Consider finding a private tour guide - not only can they give you insider tips but they can help you navigate the island's winding vistas. More crucially, they'll know the best routes to avoid crowds. 

One of the best off-the-beaten-track islands in the Eastern Aegean, Ikaria is an unpretentious and relaxed island, nestled between Mykonos and Samos. It got its name from Icarus, the son of Daedalus, who against his father's command, flew too close to the sun and fell into the sea near the island. With its beautiful beaches, endlessly friendly locals, brilliant local fare and healing thermal waters, it's not the worst place to land.

Despite its laid-back vibes, it's an energetic and vibrant island with a lively nightlife and feasts and all-ages parties that wage on until the early hours. As well as these parties, often thrown to mark religious celebrations (of which there are many), the island is also home to an international music festival, Ikaria festival as well as an annual international chess festival. Then of course there are its beaches; Seychelles Beach easily rivals the beauty of the beaches in its namesake, while Therma beach boasts mineral-rich hot springs. It's no wonder the locals are reportedly famous for their long and healthy lifespans. Speaking of which, don't leave the island without trying pefkomelo, the local pine honey. 

Top tip: Look out for a Panigiri while you're there, or try to plan around one. These are traditional feast days and celebrations that start in the afternoon and last until the morning, marking Saint's name days or other religious holidays. People travel from around the country to attend these and the celebrations can be large-scale with hundreds (or even thousands) of people. Expect lots of food, dancing and general joviality. 

Mykonos is known for its dry and windy climate, windmills, white streets, beautiful beaches - and of course, its nightlife. Despite its party reputation, however, the island caters to all interests and ages. Packed with luxury villas, hotels and premium restaurants, it's undoubtedly the best island for celebrity spotting and real VIP treatment. Start your day people-watching in the old town of Chora with a coffee. Your order, regardless of where you are in Greece should be a fredde espresso: a potent iced black coffee that comes with or without sugar. We recommend getting breakfast in Gioras Bakery, the oldest working bakery on the island which has belonged to the same family for over two centuries. Pick up a spanakopita, a filo pastry with layers of spinach, feta and crunchy, golden pastry. For a luxury dining experience, check out NOA which offers a modern taverna menu, with a big focus on farm-to-table dining. 

You're spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches, but our favorite is Agios Sostis beach. Unspoiled, compact, and remote, there are no beach bars (or shelter) at this tranquil beach, so do bring your own towels - and lots of sun lotion. The island is windy, but don't let that fool you into thinking the sun isn't blazing hot. Next to the beach is Kiki's taverna, a haunt favored by locals, and for good reason. Open daily until the sun goes down, the restaurant offers stunning fresh food at reasonable prices. 

Consider taking a ferry to Syros, a neighboring island just 30 minutes away from Mykonos which has its own distinct personality. Cosmopolitan and Cycladic, the main town is built amphitheatrically on two hills, making for a unique landscape. It's definitely quieter than Mykonos but it's by no means sleepy and is packed with buzzing coffee shops, restaurants and live music venues. 

Top tip: Expensive doesn't equate to good quality, so plan your meals before you head out. It's easy to be coaxed into sitting somewhere with a nice sea view, particularly in the center of Chora and the beaches of Platis Gialos, but prices can be exorbitant and the quality of the food can be comparatively low. The island is brimming with unforgettable eateries, many of which are very reasonable, so plan before you head out. Similarly, research beach bars and restaurants before you visit them - some venues at Platis Gialos charge $50 for sub-par cocktails, while neighboring ones will offer drastically lower prices for the same setting and quality. 

Hydra, or Ydra as it's known in Greece is a quaint, bohemian island which is accessible via a two-hour ferry ride from Athens. It's completely car-free, meaning the only mode of transport is on a donkey, water taxi or on foot - which is how we explored it. It was a famous hotspot in the 1960s and 1970s for artists and musicians, perhaps most famously, Leonard Cohen, who lived on the island on and off for years (his house used to be marked by a plaque and street sign but in recent years, renovation works have made it harder to find). To this day, it has an artistic feel and is still a hotspot for international artists and writers. Spend your days getting lost in the backstreets and climbing the island's bastions before cooling off for a dip in its waters. While the island has some pleasant beaches, they're generally not super accessible by foot - so if that's how you're exploring the island, we'd recommend instead finding a good bathing spot, like Hydronetta - a bar carved into the coastline which serves soft drinks, snacks and cocktails from dusk 'til dawn. Here, you can access the sparkling (but often choppy) seas via a small ladder. There are pleasant beaches in the island but if you're looking for some of the best beaches in Greece, there are plenty of other islands you can go to. For us, Hydra's charm lies in the blissful lack of cars, its narrow streets and craggy coastline and its bohemian vibes. By night, there are scores of lively tavernas and fun bars that stay open until the last customer decides to leave.

Top tip: We'd recommend visiting off-season, in May or October time. At this time of year, accommodation is substantially cheaper, as are the prices in local tavernas and bars. 

9. Thessaloniki

Greece's vibrant second city, Thessaloniki offers culture, history, food and adventure, yet for some reason, it often gets overlooked as a city break destination. As far as Greek cities go, Athens can sometimes be overwhelming, but Thessaloniki is decidedly less dizzying - not to mention, much milder, meaning that summers are less sticky and humid. Although it's still throbbing with personality and has a buzzing arts, foodie and music scene, the pace is distinctly slower than the capital.

Start the day with the city's famous bougatsa, a breakfast pastry with custard encased in delicious flakey filo pastry. Walk along the seafront the city is best explored by foot. Marvel at the Walls of Thessaloniki, the churches, monasteries and Byzantine baths, all included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites (the city has 15 on the list in total). Visit the White Tower, a monument and museum at the waterfront of the city, built in the 15th century after the fall of Thessaloniki to the Ottomans. Next go to Aristotelous Square, the central square and beating heart of the city. By this point, you'll be hungry, so it's time to talk about food once again. Although there's a gentle rivalry between Athens and Thessaloniki, the country's second city is where you'll find the best cuisine. 

For meat-eaters, Opsopoion Maganeiai, which translates as 'magical cooking' delivers on its promise, serving up plates of exquisitely seasoned steak cuts with a small but well-curated menu of starters. It's fairly small, so book ahead. For vegetarian choices, head to rOOTS Vegetarian & Vegan Place, a metropolitan eatery with an expansive and creative menu. Although it's easy to find vegetarian appetizers everywhere in Greece, finding a dedicated vegetarian restaurant is tricky as a lot of the cuisine is centered around meat. Beyond those places, look out for little 'ouzeries' - small venues that serve glasses of strong local liquors of tsipouro or ouzo accompanied by meze dishes. Meanwhile, the gyros in Thessaloniki are unrivaled:  pitas packed with meat, tomato, onion, fries and tzatziki (once again, vegetarian options are easy to come by too, which is unusual in Greece).

Top tip: As per the rest of the country, the hottest months are in summer so the best times to catch the good weather are between July to September. However, in early November the city hosts the International Thessaloniki Film Festival making it one of the best places to visit in November if you're looking for a cultural fix. As it's an international festival, most films will have both English and Greek subtitles. 

10. Aeropoli / Limeni

Perhaps one of the best hidden gems in Europe, Aeropoli is a popular destination for Greek holiday-makers but less popular with international tourists. The largest town in Mani, Aeropoli is packed with tavernas, buzzing coffee shops and vibrant bars. It's also 3km away from the picturesque village of Limeni.

Aeropoli is perhaps the best vantage point for exploring the region thanks to its countless hotels and rustic guest houses. It's really only accessible by car, but if you do have your own transport, Gytheio and Sparta are easily accessible for daytrips. Kalamata is less than two hours away, so we recommend combining a trip to both if you're planning a trip to the region. It's also close to the Caves of Diros, a large underground network of fantastical rock formations, located just 11km south of the town. 

If you visit Aeropoli, don't leave without spending a day in Limeni though, a beautiful port town with sparkling emerald water and rocky cliffs. What makes the landscape particularly impressive, however, is the imposing stone towers which look more like forts or watchtowers, build high against the rugged rocks and roads, with few windows. A local told us that they were intentionally built to look menacing; with each family trying to build above the one next to them to show their seniority and power. The result is a rugged, impressive landscape that contrasts with the sparkling seas below. 

Top tip: Don't visit off-season. Unlike more touristy destinations on the list, many businesses close their shutters during the winter months, and driving conditions can become difficult too. 

Packed with quaint villages, towering mountains and exotic beaches, Pelion is a mountainous peninsula in Thessaly, the central part of the country. It's close to the major city of Volos, but there are strong transport links from Athens and Thessaloniki too. As with many parts of Greece, it's best explored by car so you can visit as many of its villages as you can, each with their own unique charm. Despite its central mainland location, Pelion feels decidedly off-grid, with its deserted beaches, sleepy villages and rich vegetation. 

In winter, head to the ski resort of Agriolefkes in Mount Pelion for an unforgettable winter snow holiday, and in summer, retreat from the world in the village of Makrinitsa, a quaint village with cobblestone streets and grand houses, or Portaria - a lush, green mountainous village. And let's not forget the beaches, Mylopotamos beach is probably the most famous and picturesque, divided into two parts by a dramatic rock formation. Whether you're looking for a beach holiday, hike, or just to wander around the villages, the unique landscape of Pelion accommodates all types of holidaymakers. 

Top tip: Think about what type of holiday you want and book accordingly. If you're hoping to ski, it's one of the best places to visit in January but if you want a hiking holiday, consider traveling in springtime when the temperatures are dry but cool. The busiest time for tourists is June, so, much like traveling to the rest of Greece, if you want to get the best flight deals, travel in May or September. 

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5 best cities to visit in Greece

Here’s your go-to guide to the spots you don’t want to miss..

Cities rarely top the list on a Greek itinerary—many travelers just carve out a quick visit to Athens to see the Parthenon, then catch a ferry to the islands. And there’s nothing wrong with that.

But as someone who traded my hometown of Manhattan for Thessaloniki and Athens two decades ago, I am here to tell you: You’re missing out. Visiting the best cities in Greece can add so much to a vacation. Hear me out: Besides the sights and museums, you can live like a local, lounging in cool cafes, checking out the contemporary restaurant scene, and shopping at artisan-run boutiques. Plus, some of these cities are cheaper than high-profile island destinations—and all have easy access to beaches, either right in town or within close reach.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you need to skip the islands. There are many cities that make a great addition to an itinerary—or a good jumping-off spot for island-hopping. Here are my favorite five cities to check out.

Athens: For classical antiquities and avant-garde art

Even without the Parthenon , the Acropolis Museum , the Ancient Agora , and the National Archaeological Museum —all magnificent places to see— Athens would make a worthy destination. The city’s urban energy is sharpened by its contrasts, like the untamed nature surrounding Mt. Lycabettus , where you can hike to the top (or take a funicular) to enjoy a view that extends from the Parthenon all the way to the port of Piraeus and the Saronic Gulf . And then there are all the neighborhoods to explore, from the counter-cultural haven of Exarchia (for great street art and vintage clothing shops) to the elite Kolonaki district (home to the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture and the Museum of Cycladic Art ).

Highlights in the center of Athens include watching the Evzones (the changing of the guard) at Syntagma Square and checking out the catch of the day at the Varvakeios central market . On balmy summer nights, enjoy opera at the ancient Odeon of Herodes-Atticus near the Acropolis, a concert in the lively Gazi district, or a film under the stars at one of the city’s open-air cinemas, like Dexameni and Thisseon .

Where to eat : For a low-key dinner, Tanini Agapi Mou (which translates as “tannins, my love”) is a fun destination with natural and biodynamic Greek wines and snacks (cheeses, salads, bruschetta). Kolonaki’s Filippou serves classic homestyle dishes like beef stewed in tomato and wine or artichokes in an egg-lemon sauce, and the white tablecloths are a nice touch.

Hotel picks : Few hotels in Athens are as close to the Parthenon as the Herodion , in the serene Koukaki area. There’s a splendid view of the monument from its rooftop restaurant, as well as from some of the rooms. Elegant, minimalist Mona , converted from a 1950s textile factory in the sociable Psyrri district, is perfect for a design-forward stay.

Tip : As impressive as all the classical antiquities are, you don’t want to miss modern culture in Athens. A visit to the National Gallery gives a thorough introduction to the Greek art of the post-Byzantine era to the present (don’t miss the works of 20th-century masters like Tsarouchis and Moralis). The EMST, also known as the National Museum of Contemporary Art , is a great pick for avant-garde exhibitions, both Greek and international.

Thessaloniki: For a university town with ancient vibes

Greece’s northern port city—five hours by car or train, or a very short flight from Athens—offers a completely different experience. While a distant second to Athens in population, in lifestyle and culture, it’s second to none. This youthful yet sophisticated university town has been millennia in the making, with monuments from three empires casually integrated into the urban fabric.

Highlights include the Roman Agora and the Rotunda , the many UNESCO-recognized Paleochristian and Byzantine monuments like Agia Sophia and Agios Dimitrios , and the Ottoman-era Alaca Imaret and Bey Hamam . A wealth of museums—from the superb Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Byzantine Culture to the MOMus Museum of Contemporary Art span pre-history through the avant-garde.

Around sunset, everyone heads to the glamorous Belle-Epoque seafront for a volta—Greece’s answer to Italy’s passeggiata. Later in the evening, join locals at the bars and tavernas in the Ladadika neighborhood to see why Thessaloniki is known for nightlife.

Where to eat : Bougatsa (a flaky sweet or savory pie) is a favorite morning treat, especially from Bantis . For lunch, it’s hard to find a more satisfying meal than crisp fried salt cod with skordalia (a zesty garlic spread) served on a sheet of paper at either of the two Bakaliarakia locations by the harbor. For a sweet taste of Asia Minor, visit Chatzis Dairy in the central Modiano Market . Try the kazan dibi—a thick, caramelized buffalo milk pudding.

Hotel picks : The elegant Electra Palace , overlooking central Aristotelous Square and the sea, is worth the splurge. Zeus is Loose , also central, has huge windows looking over a park. It’s a sociable choice, with a rooftop bar and dorm rooms with bunk beds and shared baths (though you can also book a double with a private baths).

Tip : Thessaloniki is the ideal urban basecamp for a variety of experiences. Halkidiki , just an hour’s drive down the coastline, has famously dreamy beaches, like Kavourotrypes . Meanwhile, the world of Alexander the Great still dazzles at Ancient Pella and the Museum of the Royal Tombs at Aigai , each also an hour away by car. Want to go island hopping? Ferries connect Thessaloniki with some of the best islands in the North Aegean: Chios, Samos, Lesvos, and Limnos.

Chania: For Cretan character in a Venetian setting

My family has a summer home in Chania . Yet no matter how many times I visit, I can’t get enough of the photogenic Venetian Harbor , with its tangle of romantic, jasmine-scented alleys.

Despite its popularity with visitors, Chania still retains a strong sense of place, particularly in districts like Splanzia (just east of the port) or in lush, aristocratic Chalepa (a short taxi ride or pleasant walk to the east). Here, amid birdsong and neoclassical mansions, you’ll find the new Archaeological Museum , the Russian-style Church of Mary Magdalene in its large garden, and the Museum-Residence of Eleftherios Venizelos , a key figure in the history of modern Greece.

Nearly every afternoon in summer, you’ll find me at the elegant old cafe in the Municipal Garden , where locals love to gather to read the paper, sip thick Greek coffee served in a copper briki, and socialize under the trees. The beautiful outdoor Municipal Cinema , also in the garden, shows film in their original language with Greek subtitles.

Where to eat : Locals take a break from their errands for a Cretan-style bougatsa—here, it’s filled with tangy cheese and topped with sugar. I love Bougatsa Chania , which is right across from the post office, in case you have postcards to mail. For a traditional Cretan lunch or dinner, Mezedoscholeio is a good value. Reviewers rave about the lamb and the baked feta. Try to snag one of the tables on the patio.

Hotel picks : In a Venetian building, Splanzia Boutique Hotel hits high marks for atmosphere and a homemade breakfast served in the courtyard. Want to save money? I recommend the friendly Kumba Hostel , a short stroll from Koum Kapi Beach —you can book a double room with a private bath, or for deep savings, there are shared, dorm-style spaces.

Tip : The Samaria Gorge is unforgettable. Hikers set out for Xyloskalo (elevation 4,035 feet) close to dawn. From there, they begin the 10-mile descent to Agia Roumeli on the south coast, a village so isolated by rugged terrain that it can’t be reached by car. After a dip in the Libyan sea, a boat takes you to Sfakia for transfer back to Chania.

Rhodes Town: For medieval splendor and island-hopping

The medieval Old Town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once home to the Knights of Rhodes (later known as the Knights of Malta). Highlights include the Palace of the Grand Master —magical on a warm evening—and the Street of the Knights .

Just outside the old city walls, Rhodes is packed with a variety of sights from different eras.Charming Mandraki Harbour was once the site of the Colossus of Rhodes , one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Very close to it, you’ll find the National Theater of Rhodes —a stellar example of Italian modernism. Across the street from the theater, by the Muslim cemetery and the Mosque of Mourat Reis , is a (hidden) highlight: the Villa Cleobulus , Lawrence Durrell’s home after WWII. The setting is just as he described it in Reflections on a Marine Venus (the perfect read before a visit to Rhodes), while the Marine Venus herself is now located at Rhodes’ Archaeological Museum .

Where to eat : A piece of sweet or savory phyllo pie fresh from the wood oven at Fournariko makes a perfect breakfast on the go. For dinner, 4 Rodies is a favorite with locals and visitors alike thanks to its homestyle dishes (don’t miss the dolmadiakia—stuffed vine leaves) and plenty of vegetarian options.

Where to stay : On a recent visit, I stayed at the spacious A33 Rhodes Old Town House with a large group of friends. It’s full of character—think, a pebble mosaic floor in the hall, exposed stone walls, and a velvet-cushioned reading nook. Solo travelers and couples might prefer the atmospheric 10GR Boutique Hotel and Wine Bar , in a historic stone building with a modern design.

Tip : All over Greece, KTEL buses run between towns and cities. At the KTEL station near Liberty Gate , you’ll find buses that will take you to fabulous beaches like Anthony Quinn Bay , about half an hour from Rhodes Town. I liked it so much that I threw away a plane ticket to spend two extra days here, snorkeling with colorful minnows and reading under the pines.

Corfu Town: For aristocratic glamour with an Italian (sometimes French, sometimes British) accent

Corfu Town, with its pretty Venetian Fortress , neoclassical houses, and warm palette of ochres and dusky pinks, offers a Greek-island experience with an extra hit of glamour. The Old Town , punctuated by the tall belfry of the 16th-century Church of Saint Spyridon , is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Landmarks from French and British rule give Corfu Town a cosmopolitan mood, especially around Spiananda Square . At the north end is the Regency-style Palace of St. Michael and St. George, now the Corfu Museum of Asian Art , with one of the finest collections in Europe. Meanwhile, along the western edge of the square, the early 19th-century Liston (Corfu’s famous Rue-du-Rivoli-like colonnade built during French rule) makes a great setting for a morning espresso or afternoon spritz. Even in sports, Corfu has an international flavor—you might see a friendly cricket match in the square.

Where to eat : With its fairy lights and beautifully set tables, the courtyard of the Venetian Well makes a dreamy setting for enjoying a five- or seven-course tasting menu of dishes like rockfish risotto and braised lamb with apricot and cured lemon. To try Corfu’s Italian-influenced dishes, like bordetto (fish with a zesty tomato sauce) or sofrito (beef in sauce of garlic, vinegar, and wine), visit Rouvas .

Hotel picks : Its central location and modern rooms, some with stellar views of Spianada Square , make the Arcadion Hotel a very good choice. The Angsana Corfu , about six miles south of Corfu Town, has a massive infinity pool overlooking the Ionian sea.

Tip : I love to come here during Easter week to see Corfu’s elaborate celebrations including a staged earthquake at the Church of Virgin Mary of the Foreigners (held on the morning of Holy Saturday), followed later by the “botides”—when Corfiots throw large clay vessels off balconies (watch your head!). But this is a wildly popular time to visit, so book early.

Dreaming of the Aegean? Here are the 8 best cities to visit in Greece

Greece is full of enriching experiences. When you visit this sunny country on our Greece tours , you’ll find the echoes of ancient civilizations, stroll along picturesque beaches, and explore bustling cities teeming with art and energy. “From sea level to the high mountains and back, Greece is such a beautiful and diverse country,” said traveler Doug, who joined us on our A Week in Ancient Greece: Athens, Delphi & Olympia tour .

Discovering everything Greece has to offer is a dream, and you can visit many of our favorite archaeological sites, villages, and cities in Greece all on one tour. Ready to marvel at whitewashed buildings, warm culture, and glorious cuisine? Here are eight of the best cities to visit in Greece when you join us on our Grand Tour of Greece: Athens, Corfu & Santorini .

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7 Best cities to visit in Greece

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Greece is a combo of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and culture, with each city presents its own unique charm. I share with you a list of the 7 best cities you shouldn’t miss:

If you’re looking for underrated destinations for your vacation, welcome to read my post .

Begin your Greek adventure in the capital city, Athens, where ancient history meets modern flair. Explore iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis, Parthenon, and Ancient Agora. Wander through Plaka, the old neighborhood, with its cobblestone streets and traditional tavernas. Athens is a dynamic city where you’ll find a perfect blend of history, culture, and contemporary life. Learn more about Things to do in Athens in my post.

Discover Athens with  combo ticket  that includes Acropolis and 6 other archeological sites.

Thessaloniki

Greece’s second-largest city, Thessaloniki, is a melting pot of cultures with a rich history spanning over 2,300 years. Marvel at the White Tower, visit the UNESCO-listed Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments, and stroll along the bustling waterfront promenade. With its vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and eclectic atmosphere, Thessaloniki offers a unique Greek experience.

Explore Thessaloniki quick and easy with hop-on hop-off bus tour .

Crete (Heraklion, Chania, Rethymno)

Crete, Greece’s largest island, is a destination of unparalleled beauty and diversity. Explore Heraklion, home to the ancient Minoan civilization and the stunning Palace of Knossos. Discover the Venetian charm of Chania with its picturesque harbor and narrow alleys. And surround yourself in the romantic atmosphere of Rethymno, where Ottoman and Venetian influences blend seamlessly.

Discover Northeast part of Crete, the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, and the village of Elounda. Plan your visit in advance.

Famous for its postcard-perfect sunsets and picturesque villages perched atop rugged cliffs, Santorini is a must-visit destination in Greece. Explore the whitewashed buildings of Oia, relax on the black sand beaches of Perissa, and indulge in the island’s delectable cuisine and world-class wines. Whether you’re seeking romance or relaxation, Santorini promises an unforgettable experience. More similar destinations for summer you can find in my post .

Highly recommend to take  Santorini is Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit . You will swim in hot springs, explore villages and observe great views.

Known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and vibrant nightlife, Mykonos is a playground for the rich and famous. Explore the charming streets of Mykonos Town, known for its iconic windmills and colorful buildings. Relax on the idyllic beaches, dance the night away at chic beach clubs, and soak up the island’s glamorous ambiance.

If you want to see the highlights of amazing Mykonos, recommend you take a guided tour .

Steeped in history and surrounded by azure waters, Rhodes is a treasure of ancient ruins and medieval architecture. Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Rhodes, with its labyrinthine alleys and imposing medieval walls. Visit the Palace of the Grand Master and the ancient Acropolis of Lindos, and unwind on the island’s pristine beaches.

Travel to Symi with a speedboat with a free time to explore it.

Nestled on the shores of the Argolic Gulf, Nafplio is a picturesque town brimming with charm and character. Explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, adorned with neoclassical mansions and bougainvillea-covered balconies. Climb the 999 steps to Palamidi Fortress for panoramic views of the town and sea, and relax in the scenic surroundings of Karathona Beach.

Join the Nafplio’s walking tour . You will visit the medieval Old Town, the narrow cobblestone alleys and the neoclassical well-preserved mansions.

Each of these cities offers a unique glimpse into Greece’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty, making them must-visit destinations for any traveler seeking an unforgettable Greek experience. So choose the one or more for your next destination and have a great journey!

• April 18, 2024

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15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece

From charming beach towns to idyllic islands, these places to visit in Greece are all the vacation inspiration you need.

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Let’s make one thing clear: No matter where you go in Greece , you’ll have a good time. The Mediterranean nation is filled with spectacular places to explore, from its historically rich cities to its charming inland towns, and, of course, across its famed islands . But if you need a little help narrowing down where to go next, here are 15 best places to visit in Greece. 

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As both Greece’s capital and the nation’s largest city, Athens deserves at least a day or two of exploration. Visitors can head to popular attractions like the  Acropolis and Parthenon, but more modern neighborhoods like Exarchia, known for its bohemian flair, are worth checking out, too.

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There are hundreds of Greek islands to choose from, but one gaining more attention by the minute is the positively quaint Milos . Accessible via direct flights from Athens, this island is the place to go for total rest and relaxation. Come to explore desolate beaches tucked in between craggy cliffs, dine on octopus in cafes that are sprinkled across the island, and enjoy quiet evenings sipping local wine while watching the sun dip into the azure waters.

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Looking for a more lively atmosphere? Head to Mykonos, an island known for always being a good time. Also accessible via direct flights from Athens, Mykonos is the place to be during the summer for beachside parties that stretch long into the night (and often into the next day, too). Of course, there’s more to the island than just parties. It's home to its fair share of gorgeous beaches and historical sites, including Kato Mili, a row of four massive windmills built by the Venetians in the 16th century.

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History buffs will love the town of Delphi, located about a 2.5-hour drive northwest of Athens. The community was home to the Oracle of Delphi , which people from all over the Mediterranean traveled to see. Here, visitors can still explore the Temple of Apollo's remains, along with several ancient theaters and stadiums preserved through the millennia.

Admire waters a shade of blue you never knew existed in the Halkidiki region, located in northern Greece. This area is best known for its gorgeous beaches, which come with equally alluring soft sand, so you can lounge about all day.

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Find even more historical delights, visit Epidaurus, at the northeastern end of the Peloponnese. It’s beloved by archeology buffs for its Ancient Theatre , built in the fourth century B.C. to honor the god of medicine, Asclepius. And its still a place where visitors can watch live performances in the summer.

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The seaside community of Gythio is admittedly quiet, but it's by far one of the best places to visit when you need to get away from it all. Filled with colorful homes and golden-sand beaches, Gythio is also favored for its sea turtles that come and lay their eggs.

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For unbelievable views, pay a visit to Meteora, located in Thessaly. The area is made up of massive rock formations reaching toward the sky. Inside the gorgeous formations sit several monasteries , which made their way onto the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.

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Sifnos, a small island reachable by ferry from Athens, is another spot known for its relaxing atmosphere. Plus, it's filled with so many beaches, you can find a large patch of sandy shoreline all for yourself, even in the height of summer.

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Mix in island time with a quick geology lesson on Kefalonia. The island, located west of the mainland, is home to the Drogarati Cave , which comes with awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites hanging off the ceiling and jutting out from the sea floor, respectively.

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Want to get a taste of Italy and Greece all in one go? Make your way to the stunning, romantic island of Corfu. Thanks to its proximity to its neighboring European nation, the island comes with plenty of Italian influence, reflected in its architecture, food, and way of life.

Thessaloniki

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Find an urban escape in northern Greece with a visit to Thessaloniki. This port city is filled with historic sites like the White Tower of Thessaloniki and Arch of Galerius, along with world-class restaurants and contemporary art museums that will leave you inspired.

Messolonghi

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Get a different sea view in Messolonghi, located on the western coast of Greece. This town sits on a serene sea lake, with many who live here still making a living off fishing in the area. And though the town has great historical significance (especially around the Greek Revolution), it’s still an under-the-radar gem for international tourists.

Make one more historic stop at Olympia , this time for a lesson in sports history. Located on the western side of the Peloponnese, Olympia was the site of the very first Olympic Games. Visitors can visit the ancient stadium and the temples of Zeus and Hera all in one trip.

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Head to the eastern Peloponnese to the beautiful city of Nafplio. As Visit Greece explains, the myth behind the town is that it was founded by Nafplios, the son of Poseidon. Today, it's filled with ancient sites, including monuments and castles galore, all worthy of exploring on your next Greek vacation. Get packing !

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Top 15 Places to Visit in Greece

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The historic country of Greece sure needs no introduction. From the great scholars like Plato, Aristotle, and Pythagoras to the brave soldiers of Sparta, all legends seem to rise from this great country of history and mythology.

Greece is a state of pure art and beauty. With a significant number of monasteries spread all across this country, it sure exhibits a high culture with fear of the Gods. The temple of Parthenon stands high up in one of the famous cities in Greece , Athens, which also serves as the capital of the country.

The monasteries of Meteora, literally a thousand feet high in the sky, accurately show how much meditative the Greek monks are. The tradition and culture of Greece are as beautiful as the villages of Messinia and Argolis.

Consume the delicious dishes with a Greek cuisine to know their taste in food, and be amazed. Here lie some of the most excellent best places to visit in Greece and examples of ancient culture and tradition with the Bronze Age architectures.

Zeus, the God of the ancient Greek religion, is overly famous around the world for His great stories. The exceptional and lovely coasts along the Aegean Sea in Thessaloniki and Cape Sounion will widen your dreams, inspire your passion and mostly make you feel with your heart that it is a beautiful world we live in.

Sail in between the sea as you travel to the delightful islands of Santorini , Crete, and Rhodes. Greek tourism is something that most people never forget, something filled with so much motivation and encouragement that they come out a changed man.

→ CLICK HERE FOR MORE GREECE TRAVEL GUIDES ←

Here’s the list of the best places to visit in Greece

Famously known world-wide for being the homeland of democracy, the capital city of Greece, Athens, has many historically rich monuments and museums. This city offers an excellent tour for the tourists who are seeking a mix of city life with the presence of some ancient crafts.

By the flow of time, Athens has become impressively modernized with an alluring nightlife and some beautiful structures; including, the Panathenaic Olympic Stadium, the Greek Parliament, the Zappeion Hall, and the lovely Plaka.

The local houses were built following a traditional architecture. Among the famous museums, the National Archaeological Museum and The Acropolis Museum stand apart due to their decorative beauty and diverse collection of relics.

The main reason for the capital city of Greece being widely popular is the ruins of the Acropolis, with the temple of Parthenon placed at the top of a hill in the middle of Athens.

This architecture solitarily represents the strong past and the reputed history of Greece. The medieval Daphni Monastery is also included in the UNESCO’s world heritage sites list besides the Acropolis.

You should also visit Agora, the primordial market ruins, the Byzantine Church and the Museum of Cycladic Art while on the go.

→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Athens, Greece

Read full blog posts:   Top Tourist Attractions and Things to do in Athens

Corfu – One of the best Greek islands!

This sophisticated island is situated on the Ionian sea of Greece. So, Tourists who like a long sunny day at some of the best beaches in Greece are more than welcome here. The town is beautifully designed with many Italian fashioned houses all over her.

Two prominent fortresses from the early ancient 16th century also reside on this very island. The Archaeological Museum of Corfu and the Corfu Golf Courses are the complementary tourist-attracting destinations along with the lovely beaches of Pelekas and Kassiopi.

The Achilleion is an artistic villa that has recently also become a point of interest for the visitors of Corfu. You can even avail of the fabulous experience of sailing ; from this charming place.

→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Corfu, Greece

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Thessaloniki

One of the best places to see in Greece is definitely Thessaloniki! It is the second-largest city in the country after Athens with near about a million people living there. The downhill roads of the town straightly lead you to the Aegean Sea, residing beside the city.

Inside the city, one of the most significant of the Byzantine walls, the ‘White Tower’ is situated with a beautiful sea-front. The Agios Demetrios and the Agia Sophia Churches are a must-see in Thessaloniki travel while visiting Greece.

The Archaeological Museum and the Byzantine Church are also reputed among the points of interest. Thessaloniki is famously known for celebrating different festivals and fairs around the whole year. The town also has a very festive nightlife and is rich with delicious cuisines like the ‘Bougasta treat of Thessaloniki’ and some exotic seafood.

→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Thessaloniki, Greece

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What to visit in Greece? Go to the famous Meteora!

Also known as “In the heavens above” is a place consisted of some great pillars. It is a unique establishment that has seemingly been an attraction for visitors all around the world over the years.

This place has some breathtaking cliffs, even higher than a thousand feet. The center of attraction of Meteora is the natural magnificence of the area.

Some 24 monasteries were found on her peaks a couple of centuries ago. Now, there are only 6 of them remaining in those cliffs, including The Monastery of the Holy Trinity and The Monastery of Great Meteoron.

Though these monasteries are high up in the cliffs, they can still be visited by the curious tourists as stone-steps in the form of stairs are made for ascending into those cliffs for the Buddhist Monks and the mass people who want to visit the monasteries. Most of these were built around the 14th to the 16th century.

→ Best Tours for this attraction: Explore the amazing Meteora in four hours Highlight Tour

Read also:   Top 15 of the Most Visited Tourist Attractions in Europe

What to do in Greece for couples? Go on a romantic visit to Santorini!

The island of Santorini is a settlement, established over the volcanic ruins that took place in the 17th century BC. The Cycladic region of Akrotiri inside Santorini, with reflections of that ancient volcanic eruption, is somewhat a beautiful Minoan land with dry ash underneath her earth.

The towns of Fira & Oia are also very famous for being archeologically rich. Fira has two museums with such artifacts and monuments. The best time to visit this place is during spring , as the natural beauty at that time sparks in the towns of Santorini.

You can climb up on the mountain of Thira to enjoy the beautiful offbeat island in Greece with a spectacular view and also visit the monasteries set up there. Walking around the town should be at the top of things to do list while in Santorini travel to realize the charming beauty of this island.

You should also not miss out on the opportunity of tasting the exceptional local wine from a choice of about eight wineries in the whole town.

Thirasia, the neighboring island, also offers you to sail over there from Santorini and enjoy some great sea-shore experience like scuba-diving.

→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Santorini, Greece

→ Best Tours for this attraction: Taste the island’s viniculture by joining the Sip of Santorini Wine Tour.

Read full blog posts:   Things to do in Santorini and Day trips from Santorini

Peloponnese

It is a highland that is located in the Southern region of Greece. Locally being known as Morea, the peninsula of Peloponnese is world-wide famous for some superb establishments. It is undoubtedly one of Greece places to visit which must be included in your itinerary

Some of the fascinating places in Peloponnese are the town of Argolis, the luxury city of Messinia, the beautiful Kythira Island, and also the tribular birthplace of Sparta, meaning the city of Laconia; these are the best attractions of Peloponnese.

The Mani, the Achaia, and of course, the historical city of Olympia, that had conducted the first Olympic Games of the world; all are found here on this peninsula of Peloponnese. So, definitely, do not miss this if you go for the ultimate Greece sightseeing tour!

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Visit Greece and do not miss out on Nafplio!

The beautiful town of Nafplio is a port city designed sweetly with many middle-aged houses. Acronauplia is the backdated portion of Nafplio, as most areas of this city were converted into fortifications.

The place offers a great adventure for the tourists who are more into visiting this lovely town and peacefully roam-around, rather than who are looking for enjoying an active nightlife.

Frangokklisia Church is the most ancient church amongst entire Greece. The first parliament of the Greek civilization, Vouleftikon, is another attraction of Napflio tourism.

The Archaeological Museum of Nafplio, preserving more than seventeen hundred stone arches, should also be in your list of things to see while visiting Greece.

Some newly opened bakeries with tasty cupcakes and ice-creams are also very popular in this town besides her extremely delicious seafood, found in the local restaurants of Nafplio.

→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Nafplio, Greece

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One of the famous Greece tourist attractions is included in the list of UNESCO’s world heritage sites , Delphi is a monument built with stone chips that looks more like a theater or stadium. The place is believed to be the temple of Apollo, who used to answer the questions of people who asked him in this archaeologically artistic Delphi; a long time ago.

The Archaeological Museum of Delphi holds sculptures , paintings, and artifacts that are historically rich. The ancient civilization of Greece thought of this place to be the center of the earth.

Also, visit the sanctuary of Apollo and the sanctuary of Athena, not far from the actual site. Delphi is a small town. So, your Delphi tourism should not exceed more than a day.

→ Best Tours for this attraction: Delphi Guided Walking Tour and Admission Ticket

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The refined Crete is the most massive island in Greece’s territory. Crete should be on the list of everyone’s places to visit in Greece , at their travel guides. The island is built upon a mountain rise in the Mediterranean Sea.

It is an abode to many caves and beautiful gorges. The pleasing harbor of the capital, Heraklion, is one of the most beautiful places among the whole Greece tourism itself with a lot of boats docked there including, some magnificent yachts.

The oldest city of Europe , Knossos, resides just south of the Heraklion harbor offering a bronze ancient archaeological site. Ideon Cave in the rises of Mount Ida in Crete is believed to be the birthplace of the Greek God Zeus and one of the most tourist-attracting destinations of Crete.

Beaches are also available at any end of the island. So, you will never run out of activities to do here. There are some exclusive restaurants with a great Greek appetite inside the city of Crete, in Greece. Chania is most possibly the loveliest town of Crete with some great views.

→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Crete, Greece

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Chania was the former capital of Crete with some Ottoman monuments and relics inside her downtown, and, also, a reputed Marine museum is definitely one of the best places to visit in Greece . The remarkable Samaria George, with more than 15 kilometers in length, is a top Greece destination for nature-loving tourists.

There is a uniquely built lighthouse at the shore of Chania in Crete. The Archaeological Museum and the Botanic Gardens in Chania are indeed, very charming and alluring for sightseeing.

The accommodations are made following an elegant Turkish architecture inside the town, including an ancient Turkish mosque. Travel to Chania of Greece for knowing the Greek people even better.

→ Best Tours for this attraction: Walking Tour and Food Tasting with a Local

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Rhodes is a vast island , accommodating a lovely and adorable town and is one of the best places to see in Greece . It is very famous among the tourists, for the decorative beauty of the place and its famous castle . You can travel to Rhodes from Athens using boats or ferries or also via planes directly.

Walk around the markets and regions of the town to explore it better and find something to take home with you. Among the prominent establishments, the Grand Master’s Palace and the Suleyman Mosque are the best places to visit in Rhodes.

Many tourists visit Rhodes every year for her enchanting arrangement of buildings. Also, visit the Modern Greek Art Museum and the Archaeological Museum in this island. The Colossus of Rhodes was included in the ancient wonders of the world, which is now sunk in the sea, and thought of reconstructing.

→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Rhodes, Greece

Read full blog posts:   Top Tourist Attractions and Things to do in Rhodes

Mount Olympus

What to see in Greece? Certainly, this mythical (but totally real) mountain is the highest spot in the country and is situated at an altitude very near to 3 kilometers. It is very famous worldwide for the Greek God Zeus and His Tales.

But the tourists should not fear it, by listening to rumors about the mountain. Instead, they should contact the local associates for experts to climb the height. It is an excellent place for adventure seekers.

Being placed only about 18 kilometers from the town of Litochoro, this enormous mountain is located in the middle of Thessaly and Macedonia of Greece. And, it stands there bravely with the pride of being the highest peak in the country.

Therefore, surely this vast mountain is one of the best places of attraction in a complete Greece tourism.

Read also:   Top 6 Mountains to Go Hiking in Europe (For Outdoors Enthusiasts)

Cape Sounion

Regarded as the temple of the Greek God Poseidon, who is believed to be the ruler of the seas, this ancient monument is situated in the southern part of Attica, inside Greece.

With a tremendous sunny atmosphere, the place is popular among the tourists who don’t want to leave their Greece travel incomplete. But besides them, this place is only famous among the locals and the inhabitants of Athens.

Residing just beside the Aegean Sea, this place is mostly known for the ruins of an ancient temple and the incredible beach view. Cape Sounion is very close to the Laviron port of Attica. The Mineral Museum and the theatre of Thikros are also in the near areas.

Cape Sounion is one of the best cities in Greece you must not miss!

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Where to visit in Greece? Go to Hydra!

Also known as Hydrea, meaning water, this island is very close to the Peloponnese peninsula. The only town is known as Hydra port and is the primary center of civilization on this island.

The town is beautifully decorated with an old-fashioned composition of the buildings. If you are looking for a glorious city with a high number of activities, you shouldn’t probably come here and waste your time.

Also, there are no vehicles, so the visitors will need to rent a horse from any of the definite places for sightseeing, which is great fun, too!

The town still has the cannons which were used in defending the place from foreign invaders. The port of Hydra offers you to enjoy sea excursions with a collection of some speedboats and ferries. The tall clock tower is among the best places in Greece.

So, this place is most probably the best for tourists who are looking for a quiet day with not much to do after a grand tour in the more magnificent part of Greece.

→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Hydra, Greece

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Philopappos Monument

One of the famous Greece attractions is dedicated to the prince of the Kingdom of Commagene by his sister, this tomb is an archaeologically elegant establishment by the ancient civilization of most probably from the 1st century.

This place is located on the highest point of the Muse Hill, near the south of the ruins of Acropolis. The tomb is made using marble stones and with a very acutely elegant architectural design . It is one of the most popular landmarks in Greece and a fascinating place to visit if you like creative monuments.

We all know that there are tons of activities in Greece you must not miss out so make sure to check out some of the famous museums in the country to learn more about the country’s culture, traditions, and history.

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→ Check out these activities in Greece

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe on her holidays or exploring different home decor ideas for her future house in the lush Finnish forest.

This blog curates the best of travel, interior design, minimalist fashion, DIY wedding hacks, and a bit of beauty. Its a safe space for everyone who have various interests!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

4 thoughts on “Top 15 Places to Visit in Greece”

Amazing blog with great information. Thanks, dear for sharing this amazing blog with us and keep it up and I will definitely visit these places with my friends.

I love your list and I agree, all these are great places in Greece! But let me tell you, this photo you put for Corfu, is not Corfu. The island in the picture is Zante (Zakynthos) and the famous Navagio (Shipwreck) beach. Hope this helps. Love 🙂

Oh, shoot! Thanks a lot for pointing this out. Drafting can sometimes be a drag we miss details like this! Thanks again!

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The 13 best places to visit in Greece

From sprawling cosmopolitan cities to breathtaking beaches, here's where to add to your Greece bucket list

There are many beautiful countries in Europe, but there is nowhere like Greece . The white and blue houses. The mountain views. The glistening blue waters and the secret hidden coves. It’s sometimes barely believable that Greece exists, but it does! And the best part? It’s absolutely massive, and there’s so much to explore. 

Different Greek islands do different things, so if you’re making the trip, you should first figure out what kind of holiday you’re after. Are you looking for something beachy, nature-y or a bit more cosmopolitan? Lemon trees, sunset cocktails or pure, unadulterated clubbing? Whatever you're looking for, our local writer has picked the best islands, cities and towns to visit. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏝️  The most  beautiful Greek islands 🏨 The best  hotels in Greece 🏛 The best things to do in Athens 🧿 The best things to do in Mykonos

Demetrios Ioannou  is a writer and photographer from Athens.  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .  This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

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Where to visit in Greece

1.  Athens

Obviously, if you’ve heard anything about Greece, you know about its beautiful capital Athens. Athens is that perfect mix of traditional but trendy, ancient but modern, full of nature but cosmopolitan at the very same time. Here you’ll find huge, open roads covered in restaurants and bars, but coming off them are tiny little cobbled side streets to explore. Old buildings give way to fascinating galleries. You can grab an ouzo and pitch up at a beautiful outdoor cinema, looking up at the stars. Plus you’ve simply got to see the Parthenon at least once in your life. Athens is a sprawling, incomparable beauty that is like no other. Add it to your bucket list. 

Why go?  Europe’s oldest capital and the birthplace of democracy, Athens is crammed with several thousands of years of history and is as unmissable as any great Euro city. 

Discover Athens: 🧿  How to spend a weekend in Athens 📍  The best  things to do in Athens 🥙  Really good  restaurants in Athens 😎  Explore  Kypseli, Athens’s coolest neighbourhood

2.  Aegina

A little over an hour away from the port of Piraeus, the island of Aegina is the closest to the Greek capital and a popular destination for tourists and locals. In 1827, after the Greek Independence War had ended, it served as the first capital of the newly founded Greek state for a while. Today, the island is mostly famous for pistachios, chock-a-block full of pistachio trees, and thought to be the best in the world for the stuff. It’s worth visiting the famous Aphea Temple, dedicated to goddess Athena, the Saint Nektarios Monastery and the nearby uninhabited Islet of Moni, where wild peacocks and deer stroll uninterrupted. 

3.  Crete

You’ll need a car to explore Greece’s biggest island, but if you’re after golden beaches, crumbly old towns, world-class museums and UNESCO Heritage sites,  Crete  ticks every box. Chania in the west is the liveliest part of the island, while Sitia in the east is famed for its pristine coves and sandy beaches – a perfect rural and picturesque escape. Nature seekers could hike Samaria, Europe’s longest gorge, culture hunters should track down the Minoan palaces, and kids are guaranteed a good time at the island’s countless waterparks.

Why go?  Much more than just an all-inclusive beach holiday hotspot, Crete is a mish-mash of fabulous stuff to see, do, eat and drink. 

Discover Crete:

📍  The best things to do in Crete

4.  Santorini

The scenery in  Santorini , one of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea, seems crafted by the Greek gods: whitewashed villages crown the island with views over its majestic coastlines, rural vineyards span huge stretches inland and the beaches are black, red, and out of this world. There’s a ridiculous amount for explorers, foodies and culture vultures to discover, from archaeological sites to swimming spots and brilliant wine and food. And trust us: this place is  even  more beautiful IRL than it looks on the ’gram.

Discover Santorini:

📍  The best things to do in Santorini 🏨  Amazing hotels in Santorini 🏖️  Where to stay in Santorini  

5.  Zakynthos

Better known as Zante, Zakynthos draws a party-ready crowd to its notorious Laganas nightlife strip, but this sunstruck Ionian isle – known by the Venetians as ‘the flower of the East’ – is also blessed with some of the Med’s most beautiful scenery. This includes the spectacular Shipwreck Beach, whose bright-blue waters hemmed in by sheer white cliffs can only be reached by boat, and Zakynthos Marine Park, home to slippery seals and savvy turtles. It’s truly wild – in multiple senses of the word.

6.  Tinos

Famous for its carved marble-fronted buildings – and, increasingly, its burgeoning food scene – Tinos is yet another jewel in the Cyclades archipelago. To get there, you’ll need to fly to Mykonos and catch a ferry. It’s worth the journey: some of the best Greek wines are produced here, and chefs from all over Europe have opened restaurants among its sage-scented hills. Most are situated in the main town of Chora – we recommend the traditional Greek menu at Thalassaki.

7.  Naxos

The largest of the Cyclades islands, Naxos is also one of the least explored – which means you can expect secluded sandy beaches and a low-key, laidback atmosphere that’ll make the pressures of everyday life feel worlds away. Packing an incredible amount of variety into an incredibly small space, this is a place where you can venture up into tiny high-flung mountain villages or laze on an endless chain of silky sand beaches away from the madding tourist crowds.

8.  Corfu

Italianate villages, ornate palaces and romantic beaches are on the cards if you visit the lush island where the Durrell family once lived. With its sundry influences left by past invaders,  Corfu  is a place where you can drink ginger ale with your Greek salad, stroll streets packed with Byzantine and Venetian architecture and meet modern-day monks in Paleokastritsa’s spectacular medieval monastery. And after a hard day’s sightseeing and stuffing your face, you’ll obviously want to jump straight into the Ionian Sea – never not a stunning shade of turquoise blue.

Discover Corfu:

📍  The best things to do on Corfu

9.  Rhodes

Way back when – and we’re talking way, way back –  Rhodes  was home to the Colossus, one of the world’s Seven Wonders. An earthquake may have destroyed that ol’ thing in 226BBC, but the island’s Unesco world heritage-classed old town is still steeped in charm and history – thanks to a series of dazzling topsy-turvy medieval inns and fourteenth-century knight’s houses that stand to this day. Head outside the city, and the mountain villages and cliff-top towns you’ll come across are just as magical as any fairytale location. And with plenty of chic shops, decent restaurants and lively bars, you’re guaranteed some modern magic, too.

Discover Rhodes:

📍  The best things to do in Rhodes 🏨  Amazing hotels in Rhodes

10.  Kastellorizo

At the edge of Greece, right opposite the Turkish coastal town of Kaş, you'll find Kastellorizo (aka Megisti), the island furthest from the Greek capital. It's a flight or a boat ride away from the island of Rhodes in Dodecanese, and though it's a bit of a journey to the island, it's absolutely worth it. This is a remote paradise with colourful buildings, seafood for days and seriously chilled out vibes. Plus, it has a fascinating history – make sure to visit the castle of the Knights Hospitaller overlooking the Aegean Sea, and the glorious 4 th century BC Lycian tomb below it. The fort-monastery of Agios Georgios of the Mountain also boasts one of the best views on the island (you just need to get up 315 steps first).

11.  Thessaloniki

Once the second city of the Byzantine Empire – and later a thriving Ottoman port city connecting east and west – Thessaloniki has only been part of Greece since 1912. And that really shows. This place doesn’t feel like Greece you see in tourist brochures: its central market, Kapani, has all the colour and chaos of an Istanbul bazaar, and much Ottoman architecture remains throughout the city centre – you can even visit the house where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the father of modern Turkey, was born. The harbourside Ladadika area hums with some of the wildest, most fun nightlife in the Balkan peninsula, with most bars and clubs open until 6am and beyond. The old town is perfect for the aimless morning-after mooch – and the ouzo and  bougatsa  breakfast pastries in these parts are unrivalled.

12.  Kalamata

The city of Kalamata in the Peloponnese is home to the ancient ruins of Messenia, the picturesque Navarino Lagoon beach, and also those very famous olives you may recognise the name from. Few tourists venture to these parts, which is great news for you. To explore the wider region, base yourself at the Ant Farm – a beautiful farmhouse just outside the city, where you can stay in one of ten treehouses nestled within the olive trees.

13.  Mykonos

Dubbed the ‘Greek Ibiza’,  Mykonos  is where you’ll find world-famous DJs headlining superclubs while a jet-set crowd mingle on yachts and private jets. But this Cyclades island is not just for the uber-privileged: there are plenty of cute hotels, affordable gourmet restaurants and quiet corners still relatively untouched by the tourism industry. So when you’re done hanging out at the beach clubs and traditional tavernas, just follow the tangled web of dirt-smattered backroads – chances are, there’ll be a heavenly beach waiting at the end.

Discover Mykonos: 📍  The best things to do in Mykonos 🏨 Amazing hotels in Mykonos

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Home > 15 Cheapest Islands In Greece To Visit On A Budget

15 Cheapest Islands In Greece To Visit On A Budget

Written by our local expert Nick

Nick is is digital nomad originally from Athens, Greece. You will now find him exploring the Greek islands, Bulgaria and beyond.

Welcome to your essential guide to Greece’s cheapest islands, where our team’s collective wanderlust and experience come together to offer you the best.

We’ve combed through these islands, from the most popular to hidden gems, to bring adventurers, sun seekers, and foodies like you the ultimate budget-friendly Greek escapades. Discover islands with the best beaches, savor local street food, and immerse yourself in rich local culture.

With our handpicked travel tips, you’ll explore white-sand beaches and vibrant communities without stretching your wallet. 

Are you looking for a cheap holiday in the Greek islands ? With thousands of islands, Greece is full of options for all budgets. Low-budget destinations in Greece are what they sound like, trust me!

If you’re looking for an inexpensive but beautiful escape. This guide isn’t just about finding the cheapest places; it’s about experiencing the true spirit of Greece on a budget.

Let’s dive into finding the best Greek islands for your wallet-friendly adventure!

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

The second largest island in Greece, Evia is an excellent destination for a budget trip. Although Evia is an island, it is separated from the Greek mainland by the narrow Euripus Strait, which is only 40 meters wide at its narrowest point. As such, two bridges connect Evia to the mainland, making it a perfect destination for a day trip .  

Given its proximity to mainland Greece, Evia remains relatively unknown to international tourists and is mainly frequented by Greeks. There are so many places to stay on the island and so many different types of lodging, meaning the accommodation prices are varied if you choose to stay for a few days.

As Evia is 80 km away from Athens , it is easily accessible by public transportation (buses, trains, and ferries). Going by land takes between 1 and 2 hours from the Greek capital to Chalcis, the town that connects the island to the mainland with the two iconic bridges. 

Traveling by ferry takes about 40 minutes from Rafina Port in Athens to Marmari in Evia.

• Guide To Evia Island

Crete, the largest Greek island, might surprise you with how budget-friendly it can be despite its popularity. It’s all about knowing where to look. Crete is a masterclass in affordable travel, offering a variety of hostel and budget hotel options, especially in towns like Chania and Rethymno.

When it comes to eating, the island is a haven for foodies on a tight budget. Street food vendors and local tavernas serve up mouth-watering Cretan specialties at prices that are easy on your wallet. And let’s not forget the wealth of free or low-cost attractions, including stunning beaches, scenic hikes, and historic sites like the Palace of Knossos.

With its rich history, vibrant street life, and stunning landscapes, Crete proves that you don’t have to spend big to enjoy the best of Greece.

• Where To Stay In Crete
• Things To Do In Crete
• How To Get From Chania To Heraklion

The Saronic Islands

3. aegina .

Located only 30km from Piraeus port in Athens, Aegina is a perfect city escape . The short distance from the Greek capital keeps travel costs low, and the island can even be included as part of a more extended Athens trip , making it a genuinely cheap Greek island holiday.

With beautiful coves and plenty of historical sites , Aegina is a great budget destination.

The main attraction on the island is the Temple of Aphaia , one of the three temples that make up the famous Sacred Triangle of Greece. The other two temples are the Parthenon in Athens and the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. So, if you love history, this is a place to tick off your list.

Ferries depart Piraeus port almost every hour, year-round, and tickets are very reasonable, especially if you buy a return ticket.

• Things To Do In Aegina

The nearby island of Agistri is an easy and cheap ferry ride from Piraeus Port in the capital. Given its proximity to Aegina, this is also a perfect spot for an affordable Greek island-hopping adventure .  

As Agistri is such a small island , it is perfect to navigate on foot or by cycling. This means that transportation costs during your trip to Agistri are very low. Apart from saving money , hiking is the best way to see the most beautiful side of an island that offers paths through stunning natural landscapes with breathtaking views.

Largely appealing for the adventurous traveler , Agistri is an excellent destination for mountain bikers, climbers, and bold sailors. Agistri is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, with pristine beaches to boot.

• Agistri Island Guide
• How To Choose Between Agistri & Aegina

The Cyclades Islands

Did you know that you can camp throughout Greece? Amorgos is the perfect camping destination – as is the reason it makes out the list of cheap Greek islands. With many sites to choose from, this is an excellent place for the adventurous budget traveler. 

Amorgos boasts natural beauty , with incredible hiking opportunities across the island’s many ancient footpaths. Its craggy caves, beautiful diving spots made famous in the movie “The Big Blue,” and stunning turquoise bays mean there is so much to explore in the great outdoors. With only 2000 residents, the tiny island is an ideal destination to escape the crowds and get back to nature. 

As there is no airport on the island, the only way to get there is by ferry to one of the island’s two ports: the port of Aegiali or the port of Katapola. Luckily, the island is situated close to the islands of Naxos and Santorini , both of which have airports with many flights in peak season .

Once in Naxos or Santorini, you can easily catch a short ferry to the island. Of course, you can also travel to Amorgos by ferry from Piraeus Port in Athens, which runs three times a week during the summer months .

• Amorgos Island Guide
• Best Beaches On Amorgos

Kimolos, a hidden gem in the Cyclades, is your go-to island for a budget-friendly Greek getaway. It’s like stepping into a quieter, more laid-back era, away from the hustle and bustle of its more famous neighbors. What makes Kimolos a real catch for budget travelers is its authenticity. You won’t find extravagant resorts here, but rather charming, affordable guesthouses and B&Bs that offer a warm, personal touch.

Dining out? No problem! The local tavernas serve up delicious Greek dishes at prices that won’t make your wallet weep. And the beaches? They’re free, of course, and you’ll find plenty of secluded spots to soak up the sun without a crowd in sight. Kimolos is all about enjoying the simple pleasures of Greek island life without the hefty price tag.

• Kimolos Island Guide

7. Folegandros

Folegandros, a lesser-known island in the Cyclades, is perfect for those who want to experience the quintessential Greek island vibe without the crowds or high costs. Think of it as a more budget-friendly version of Santorini with its own brand of charm.

The island’s small size means you can easily explore it without renting a car – just a pair of comfortable shoes will do! Accommodation here leans towards the affordable, with a range of options from basic rooms to cozy family-run hotels.

And let’s talk about the food – Folegandros offers a delectable range of Greek cuisine that’s both authentic and reasonably priced. Whether you’re wandering through its quaint villages or lounging by the Aegean Sea, Folegandros promises a serene Greek island experience at a fraction of the cost.

• Escape To These 20 Secluded Greek Islands

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The dodecanese islands, 8. astypalea.

One of the most beautiful islands in the Dodecanese, Astypalea, has managed to escape mass tourism and remains a budget haven – and it will be one of those cheap Greek island holidays your friends will be envious of. 

The perfect island escape, Astypalea boasts beautiful whitewashed villages, stunning turquoise waters, and brilliant history with all the charm and none of the crowds .

The main town of Chora combines the Cyclades and Dodecanese architectural styles with winding paths and many beautiful churches. Above the town sits the Venetian Castle, a great place for exploring and learning some of the island’s history.

Nearby the castle, you’ll find the island’s iconic windmills, which are the perfect place to take in the view and even enjoy a sunset drink or coffee.  

Astypalea’s Airport is open throughout the high season and is accessible by domestic flight from Athens. Otherwise, the island is accessible by a nine-hour ferry from Piraeus Port or closer islands, such as Paros, Naxos, or Rhodes . 

The second most popular island in the Dodecanese, Kos, can become busy and more expensive during the high season. However, throughout the shoulder seasons (May to June and September to October), Kos remains a perfect island retreat , and the prices drop significantly. 

The Dodecanese islands are generally famous for their rich history and popular for their medieval architecture, with many castles and fortresses to explore.

Kos is no exception. One of the best things to do in Kos is sightseeing, as you could spend many days exploring the many medieval churches, Neratzia medieval castle, and Antimachia Castle. Interestingly, as the birthplace of Hippocrates (the father of medicine), the island is also known as a healing center. 

Of course, if you prefer the great outdoors, Kos is also known as Cycling Island. With long cycling paths, you can easily hop between the stunning beaches on two wheels.

Due to its popularity, it is easy to find cheap flights to Kos, with multiple international and domestic flights arriving daily. However, Kos is also accessible from Piraeus Port in the capital, with ferries departing daily during high season and taking 12 – 14 hours.

• Guide To Kos Island

10. Nisyros

One of the lesser-known islands in the Dodecanese, Nisyros offers visitors an unspoiled, rustic escape and plenty of budget accommodation options across the island. 

With a similar volcanic landscape to that of Santorini , Nisyros is the perfect budget alternative. Although it is a small island, there is plenty to see and do.

The capital of the island, Mandraki, is full of classic whitewashed buildings and alleys filled with tavernas, boutiques, and cafes to explore. There are also many small traditional fishing villages, like Nikia or Pali, which is home to an ancient thermal spa . Undoubtedly, one of the best things to do on the island is to visit the island’s active volcano and stand on the hot sulfur grounds. 

With no airport, the only way to reach the island is by ferry from Piraeus or neighboring islands. However, given its proximity to Kos, an effortless way of getting to Nisyros is a flight to Kos Airport and a ferry to the island’s Mandraki port. 

• Guide To Nisyros Island
• Best Beaches On Nisyros

The largest island in the Dodecanese, Rhodes, is a popular tourist hub. Rhodes offers many accommodation options for all budgets, given its size and popularity. With large resorts and smaller homestays, you will find the perfect budget place to rest. 

Known as “the Knights Island,” Rhodes has plenty to see and do for the history buff among us. With great medieval architecture, cosmopolitan towns, and beautiful beaches, you will never be short of activities.

One of the best spots on the island is the Old Town. A UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Old Town offers visitors the chance to visit the Venetian Castle, the Street of the Knights, and the Palace of the Grand Master. These sites will transport you back to the rich and dramatic past of the island.

If you prefer beaches to history, then Rhodes offers 42 huge, beautiful beaches to explore . The beaches of Tsambika, Anthony Quinn Bay, Faliraki, Ladiko, Kallithea, and Saint Paul’s Bay are some of the best on the island.

As a popular tourist destination, Rhodes is easy to get to on a budget. Both international and domestic flights arrive at Rhodes Airport daily. The island is also reachable by ferry from Piraeus port.  

• Guide To Rhodes Island
• Best Beaches On Rhodes

The North Aegean Islands

Close to the Turkish coast, Chios is a laidback island perfect for a budget holiday. Although Chios is the fifth largest Greek island , there are no big resorts on the island, so it has remained relatively clear from mass tourism. 

Chios is famous for its exports of mastic gum and is sometimes called ‘the Mastic Island”. Mastic is an unusual flavor, used in many sweets and most famously in Mastiha, a digestive drink from Chios.

Hiking around the south side of Chios, you will see the iconic mastic trees from which the mastic gum is said to ‘weep.’ If you would rather spend your time sipping Mastiha than hiking, the island is also famous for its beautiful villages, such as Pyrgi and Olympi, which are the perfect places to stop for a drink. 

You can fly directly to Chios from Athens or take a ferry from Piraeus Port , with routes running three times a week all year round. However, you can also get to Chios from Turkey . As the island lies so close to the Turkish port of Cesme , you can fly to Izmir and catch a very short 30-minute ferry across to the island. 

• Greek Island Getaway To Chios

13. Lesvos (Lesbos)

Close to the Turkish coast , the island of Lesvos is famous for its Petrified Forest, incredible cheap food, and amazing olive oil. 

Greece’s third-largest island does not rely solely on tourism but instead thrives on its olive oil industry and is the cheapest Greek island to visit for that liquid gold. 

 With so much “liquid gold,” the island is known for its delicious local food . One of the best things to do in Lesvos is to journey to all the traditional villages, sampling the tavernas and the local liqueur, Ouzo . 

Lesvos is full of beautiful natural landscapes, including hot springs and stunning beaches. Given its rich history, there are plenty of ancient Byzantine monuments to discover, including the castles of Molyvos, Sigri, and Mytilene, the Acropolis of Ancient Pyrra, and the monasteries of Taxiarchis and Agios Raphael . 

It’s easy to get to Lesvos , with daily international and domestic flights arriving at Mytilene (Lesvos) Airport. However, there is also a long 12-hour ferry from Piraeus Port in Athens and many ferries from closer islands: Syros , Mykonos , Ikaria , and Chios.

• Guide To The Island Of Lesbos

As one of the most beautiful islands in the Aegean , Samos is surprisingly less visited than many of its neighbors, which makes it the perfect budget escape. 

There is much to do on this stunning island, from natural sites to archeological wonders and picturesque villages. As the birthplace of Pythagoras, the town of Pythagorion boasts many historical sites.

These include the ruins of the Heraion Sanctuary, the place where Zeus and Hera were said to have had their honeymoon; the Tunnel of Eupalinos, the first of its kind in Europe; the Cave of Pythagoras, the mathematician’s famous hiding spot; and Thermae, the beautifully preserved Roman baths dating back to 1st century BC. 

Accessible by domestic flight from Athens or Thessaloniki , it’s straightforward to reach Samos, and as one of the cheapest Greek islands to visit, you can splurge on a flight rather than a longer ferry. Of course, if you want to, there are also long ferries from Piraeus port – the duration of which is 12+ hours.

• Guide To The Aegean Sea Islands

The Ionian Sea Islands

15. kythira.

The birthplace of Aphrodite, Kythira remains one of Greece’s best-kept secrets for a tranquil vacation and is one of the cheap islands to visit in Greece!

Located in the south Peloponnese , Kythira is relatively isolated from Greece’s tourist hotspots.

There are no signs of mass tourism on this island, and for those who enjoy nature and seclusion, it is the perfect Greek escape. The most popular thing to do in Kythira is hiking across the island and visiting the various abandoned villages, beautiful chapels, and small secluded beaches. 

Of course, being off the beaten track means that Kythira is not that easy to get to. The easiest way to get to Kythira is by ferry from the port of Neapolis. The port can be reached by car or bus from the capital—during peak season, one ferry service weekly leaves Athens’ Piraeus port. Although less of a budget option, Kythira can also be reached by domestic flight from Athens throughout the year. 

• Guide To Kythira Island

What are the affordable Greek islands to visit?

Andros, Aegina, Naxos, Crete, Thassos, Lemnos, Lefkada, Rhodes, Ios, and Zante are just a few.

What tips are provided for budget travel to the Greek islands?

Visit during the shoulder season, using slower ferries, opting for public transport, and exploring food options beyond restaurants are just a few ways to save money while traveling to the Greek islands.

What makes Greek islands an appealing destination for budget travelers?

Greece is popular for its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful natural sites. It’s relatively cheaper compared to other European countries, offering budget-friendly options even during the high season.

Which Greek island offers affordable tranquility and great hiking opportunities?

Andros, the northernmost of the Cyclades Islands, is known for its peace, affordable prices, great mountain hiking, white sand beaches, and picturesque villages.

Can you suggest a quick and budget-friendly Greek island trip from Athens?

Aegina, in the Saronic Gulf , is less than an hour from Piraeus port and offers a great day trip from Athens. It’s known for the Doric Temple of Athena Aphaia and beautiful beaches like Marathon.

How is Crete a budget-friendly destination despite its popularity?

Crete offers affordable hostels, cheap street food , and inexpensive public transport. Attractions like Balos Beach, Samaria Gorge, and the Palace of Knossos have low entry fees.

What does Thassos Island offer to budget travelers?

Thassos, a hidden gem in the Aegean Sea, is notable for its lush greenery, sun-soaked beaches, and historical sites like the ancient Agora in Limenas.

Which Greek island offers secluded beaches and historical sites on a budget?

Lemnos, in the northeastern Aegean Sea, is less crowded and offers low prices. It features a Byzantine Castle in Myrina and the ancient site of Hephaestus.

How can I get to Lefkada on a budget?

Lefkada in the Ionian Sea is accessible by driving or bus from Athens. It’s a popular budget destination with beautiful beaches and Ionian cuisine.

Can Ios Island provide a budget-friendly stay?

Yes, Ios offers tranquility away from nightclubs and affordable accommodation options like camping. It’s perfect for hiking and exploring the island’s backcountry.

What does Zante offer for budget travelers?

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Final Word On The Most Affordable Islands In Greece

Now that you’ve browsed through our list of the cheapest Greek island holidays, it’s time to make the exciting choice: which of these budget-friendly gems are you going to visit this year? Each island we’ve covered offers its own unique appeal, from the stunning beaches that are among the best in Greece to the intriguing historic and archaeological sites that tell stories of ancient civilizations.

Are you looking for the best deals? You’re in the right place. These islands are not only easy on your wallet but also rich in experiences. Whether you’re into beach lounging, cultural exploration, or both, there’s an island waiting for you. And if you’re up for a bit more adventure, why not try island hopping ? It’s a fantastic way to see more without spending a fortune.

When it comes to choosing the best time to visit , you’ve got options. These islands are welcoming throughout the year, each season bringing its own charm. But, of course, the warmer months are perfect for those beach days and clear-blue-water swims.

So, whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, these most affordable Greek islands offer incredible value. They’re the best places for anyone looking to have a great experience without splurging too much.

Remember, a trip to these cheaper islands isn’t just a holiday; it’s an experience filled with beauty, culture, and relaxation. So, grab your map, pick your island, and get ready for an unforgettable Greek island adventure!

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LGBTQ+ friendly Greece

Destinations, events and activities.

•  If you’re riding the summer vibes, there are plenty of sun, sea and sand options with a distinctively LGBTQ+ flavour, including dedicated gay beaches on most popular islands and gay cruises and yacht holidays in both the Aegean and Ionian Seas, as well as in the Saronic Gulf near Athens.
•  If you’re feeling cerebral, why not explore the country’s queer history, from the homoerotic themes in ancient myths and legends to the LGBTQ-interest exhibits in the country’s excellent archaeological museums and the world’s possibly oldest gay graffiti, a 5th-century BCE rock carving on the Aegean Island of Astypalaia.
•  If you’re planning a city trip, Athens and Thessaloniki are both home to large and active LGBTQ+ communities and boast many queer venues and events as well as gay bars and clubs. Here, you’ll enjoy the opportunity to get a taste of real Greek LGBTQ+ nightlife and delve into the country’s contemporary queer culture; look out for exhibitions and events featuring LGBTQ+ artists and authors, from established household names to underground creative collectives.

Get Inspired

LGBTQ+ Travellers in Thessaloniki

Different people and cultures define Thessaloniki’s history, so embracing the diversity of the queer community is a no-brainer. While Greece as a whole works hard to spread awareness and inclusivity, Thessaloniki stands out as a very open-minded city. It’s sure to delight you with its warm and lively character. Here are some tips to ensure you have the best time possible.

LGBTQ+ Journeying to Athens

Over the years Athens has become a LGBTQ+ hub. Travellers can enjoy a warm and open-minded atmosphere while discovering fun events and venues. Here are some benefits to visiting Athens as a member of the queer community.

What’s better than a weekend? A greekend. In just a few hours from home, why not make your next weekend, a greekend*!

The best hidden gems to visit in summer tourist hot spots, from someone who's been to every European country

• Lee Abbamonte is a banker turned travel blogger who has visited every country in Europe.  
• He calls Spain, Italy, France, and Greece Europe's "Big Four" because of how popular they are.
• If you're visiting one of the "Big Four," here are Abbamonte's off-the-beaten-path tips. 

Traveling to Europe this summer? If so, we'll take a wild guess that you're visiting either Spain, Italy, France, or Greece.

These countries, nearly all of which are in the southern or Mediterranean regions, are what travel blogger Lee Abbamonte dubs Europe's "Big Four" because of their popularity among American tourists .

Abbamonte, 45, knows a thing or two about travel. He's not only visited every state in the US but every country in the world, as well as the North and South Poles.

Across the pond, Abbamonte prefers exploring underrated European countries , but he gets why people gravitate to the "Big Four."

"If you don't like it, you're the problem," he said. "They're all good."

Still, he's a fan of venturing off the beaten path.

Here, Abbamonte shares a few alternatives to popular tourist hot spots that anyone visiting Spain, Italy, France, and Greece should check out.

In Spain, forget Barcelona or Madrid and explore the cliffside city of Ronda

"Everyone knows Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Ibiza, Majorca," Abbamonte said. But not many Americans are familiar with the historic city of Ronda, perched atop a deep rocky gorge covered in lush greenery in the Andalucia region.

"If you're in Marbella, or if you're in Sevilla or Gibraltar, you can go out there and check out this awesome little town," Abbamonte said.

He also can't speak highly enough of northern Spain. One highlight is the seaside town of A Coruña, which is close to the Camino de Santiago, a network of pilgrimage routes leading to a holy site in the city of Santiago de Compostela.

Related stories

"I've done a lot of road trips around the north of Spain," Abbamonte said. "It's just an awesome little slice of Europe that nobody ever goes to."

If you're planning to island-hop in Greece, Abbamonte has recommendations that aren't Mykonos or Santorini

Mykonos and Santorini are two of the most well-known islands in Greece. Naturally, they're also two of the most overcrowded.

People familiar with Greece, like Abbamonte, often advise against visiting Mykonos and Santorini in favor of smaller islands that are quieter but just as beautiful, such as Aegina, Poros, and Hydra.

Abbamonte said Hydra, in particular, is worth seeing.

"There are no cars, and it's just goats and donkeys and walking. It's a very cool place to go."

On the mainland, he'd also advise stopping by Meteora in Thessaly, known for its "otherworldly" monasteries built atop towering rock formations.

In Italy, there are places just as beautiful as Lake Como and Florence that are far less crowded

According to Abbamonte, "With Italy, you can just throw a dart at a map, and you're in the coolest place you've ever been to."

Even so, some of Abbamonte's favorite spots in Italy don't get the love he believes they deserve. In the region of Tuscany for example, he says people tend to prioritize Florence, Pisa, or Siena.

All three are definitely worth seeing at least once, Abbamonte said, but he'd also recommend exploring smaller villages nestled between Tuscany's rolling hills, such as San Gimignano, Montalcino, and Montepulciano — all known for their endless vineyards and wines.

"Those are actually really awesome little villages and well worth checking out," he said.

Up in the north, Abbamonte said he'd skip Lake Como for any of the other Italian lakes close to the Dolomite mountains.

"It's my favorite place to road trip, probably, in all of Europe," he said.

Vacation like a local in France and visit Biarritz instead of Paris or Nice

Abbamonte cited Paris and Nice as examples of some of France's best-known vacation spots.

However, he said they are mostly hot spots for tourists rather than French locals, who tend to vacation in places "completely overlooked" by outsiders.

One of his favorites is Biarritz, a seaside hub known for its surfing culture in the Basque region of France. It's north of San Sebastian, a coastal Spanish city popular with tourists that is about a half-hour drive from the French border.

"Everyone knows San Sebastian now. Not a lot of people know Biarritz except for French people," he said. "But that's why I like it because it has a real, local kind of old money, Grace Kelly feel."

Other spots in France that he recommends checking out are the medieval town of Saint Paul De Vence on the French Riviera , beloved by generations of artists and poets, and the riverside city of Avignon in the southeast, one of his "favorite towns in all of Europe."

Correction: June 4, 2024 — An earlier version of this story misstated the location of A Coruña. It's in northwestern Spain, not in Spain's Basque region. The story also misstated the location of Monte Carlo, which is in Monaco, not France.

Watch: Was Italy's $1 home scheme worth it?

• Main content

22 Best Cities in Greece That WE Loved

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

Updated On: March 11, 2024

Are you searching for the best cities in Greece? Look no further. After visiting the country multiple times we have compiled this list of cities in Greece that we think should be on your radar. When most people think of Greece the turquoise waters and sandy beaches of the Greek Islands come to mind but Greece has mountains, monasteries, and many cities that are just waiting to be explored.

Table of Contents

The Very Best Greek Cities

Greece is a gorgeous country that spans an area of nearly 51,000 square miles (131,957 square km). International tourists flock to Greece to explore its history and incredible scenery making it one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations. The Greek Islands beckon travelers to enjoy clear blue waters and sandy beaches while Greek cities boast fine food, nightlife, and archaeological wonders.

Greece has a little something for everyone, but that just makes it harder to plan your vacation in Greece. Where are the best places to go or eat? What cities in Greece should you visit? We answer these questions.

It can be very overwhelming to try and narrow down  where to go in Greece , especially on your first trip there. Read on to learn the seventeen best cities in Greece to visit and why they should be on your travel itinerary. 

1. Athens (Capital City)

No trip to Greece would ever be complete without spending at least a little time in Athens. This city isn’t just the capital of Greece; it’s also the oldest capital city in all of Europe and the largest city in Greece. Its recorded history goes back over 3,400 years! With famous archaeological sites such as the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, you’ll feel as if you have stepped back in time to the fifth century BC when ancient Greece was at its most powerful.

Athens has a modern element with fantastic nightlife, rooftop bars, and great shopping. There is plenty of sightseeing to be done in the Capital City, especially for those interested in Ancient Greek history. There are so many things to do in Athens; we have an entire post about it. We suggest 3 days in Athens to truly experience its interesting museums and tourist attractions.

2. Kalambaka 

You might see this town’s name spelled many different ways. You also may not see it on many other lists of important destinations to visit in Greece. This town is located in Meteora , giving it a stunning landscape as a backdrop to this picturesque city.

Those interested in religion and religious history in Greece should come here. It’s known for its historical sites set within a dramatic landscape. The monasteries of Meteora sit high on massive spires. It’s one of the best places to stay to visit the Meteora monasteries .

You should also take the time to visit the Mushroom Museum here for a museum experience you won’t get anywhere else.

3. Kalamata

The port city of Kalamata is also the capital city of Messinia in Peloponnese. This is a great place for fans of theatre and the arts to visit. That’s because the main draw here is the Castle of Isabeau. The International Dance Festival is held here annually. 

This site is a massive amphitheater that offers a view of the entire city. You will also get to see the various influences both the Venetians and the Turks had on the architecture of the structure. And of course, there are plenty of museums to visit while you’re here as well. Therefore, you should be sure to take your time exploring this city.

4. Rhodes Town

Those who are interested more in Medieval history will love Rhodes Old Town. This city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The main attraction here is the Palace of the Grand Master. It’s a massive architectural preservation project that boasts large rooms, galleries, and beautiful walks along the walls and old town. Many people come to enjoy this historic castle night and day.

And when you’re done with the castle, there’s still plenty to do. Enjoy the cafes, restaurants, and shops in the city for a while. The best part is that you can see the whole city in one day, so it makes a good day trip from the rest of your journey.

5. Corfu Town

First on the list is a beautiful little island known as Corfu. This entire tiny island is rich in history and wildlife. It also boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Europe.

UNESCO dedicated the old town of Corfu as a World Heritage Site. Here you can find Venitian forts and the Palace of St. Michael and St. George. There is also the Achilleion Palace not far from these ancient monuments.

Furthermore, those who like period shows might recognize the island as the setting of The Durrells in Corfu . Based on an autobiography by conservationist Gerald Durrell, fans of the series can explore both the real and fictional places the Durrells would have been during their stay on the island.

Those who want a more outdoor experience might enjoy the  mountains of Pelion . There are many small villages in this region to find accommodations.

This adventurous area boasts many hiking trails. There is also horseback riding and even a cave to explore while you’re here. Naturally, you should also check out the beach and relax.

This is also where the hit musical Mama Mia, starring Meryl Streep, was set and filmed. Fans of the film can explore many of the same sights that the cast and crew would have seen while filming.

7. Thessaloniki – The Cultural Capital

Thessaloniki, known as the cultural capital of Greece, is also the second-largest city in Greece. It’s also not nearly as popular with tourists as other major cities such as Athens. However, it has just as much to offer, especially for those interested in Byzantine history.

For starters, there’s the large Byzantine castle that overlooks the city. The White Tower of Thessaloniki was built in the 15th century and stands proudly overlooking the sea. You should also check out the many interesting museums, ancient monuments, and Ottoman buildings around the city for a taste of some Roman history.

And for those who are just looking for a relaxing place to unwind, this is a good spot for you too. There are beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife in Thessaloniki as well. You can also enjoy both the modern fun attractions and fascinating history at the same time if you want.

Nafplio is a coastal town that is often referred to as the original capital of modern Greece. It’s only a few hours from Athens, so it makes an excellent day trip from there.

While you’re here, you should make sure to check out the two historic fortresses near the old town. The first is Bourtzi, which is located on a tiny island just off the coast. There’s a boat service from the city to take you there.

The other is Palamidi. This is a Venitian fortress on top of a hill overlooking the city. It’s a great place to enjoy the architecture and landscape of the town.

Chora is a bustling little town on the island of Mykonos in the Cyclades. While those interested in architecture could find the iconic whitewash of the region anywhere in the Cyclades, there is still nowhere better to do it than in the old town of Chora. It’s a gorgeous town to explore and even get lost in the labyrinth of the historic streets.

However, Chora is most known as one of the best cities for its nightlife. Those who want to spend their evenings being social will find plenty of clubs to enjoy. In the morning, you can take it easy on one of the beautiful beaches in town.

You can even take a day trip out to the Ancient Delos while you’re on Mykonos for something fun to do during the day.

Patras is Greece’s third-largest city and the capital city of Western Greece. There is a massive student population here  as well as a carnival  people from all over the world come to visit. 

The carnival is just one good reason to spend some time in Patras. There’s also an archeological museum that’s always a treat to explore. 

Aside from the carnival, it’s also not super popular with tourists. This means if you want to see more of the local culture of Greece, then this is a great place to start. It’s also quieter and more relaxing for those who want to get away from the lively tourist traps for a while.

Chania is a small coastal town on the island of Crete. It’s a great place to spend your time if you only have one day for Crete. For this reason, it’s also very popular with tourists.

It is one of the most picturesque cities in the Greek Islands as there are beautiful narrow streets and architecture to enjoy just by walking around. Anyone who has been here will also tell you that you need to try the food here. Otherwise, you can simply spend your day walking or lounging on the many gorgeous beaches in town.

There’s also vibrant nightlife in Chania. If you’re the kind of person who wants to go out and enjoy some music, drinks, and dancing, then this is the place for you.

12. Ermoupolis

If you’re going to be in the Cyclades islands, then you should take a trip out to Ermoupolis. This port city is the capital of the Cyclades and boasts a lot of attractions for tourists to enjoy.

Those who like architecture will enjoy the many neoclassical buildings that are open to the public. There are also plenty of museums to explore, art galleries, and the Apollo Theatre right in the city.

Furthermore, there’s also an amazing beach to enjoy while you’re here, so make sure to bring a swimsuit and sunscreen.

The northwest coast of mainland Greece is home to the little town of Parga. This town is popular with tourists simply because of the gorgeous views. It has a backdrop filled with beautiful green trees, a blue sea, and the charming traditional houses of old Greece.

Here you should be sure to explore the ruins of an old Venitian castle. Once you’re done there, you can make yourself comfortable on one of the many beaches that are mostly unchanged by man. It’s the perfect place to relax for as long as you like while you’re in town for a while. Discover the Magic of Yacht Getaways – Greece Ionian Explorer

14. Nafpaktos

Nafpaktos is a stunning little port town across the Rio-Antirrio Bridge from Patras. This is a great place for anyone looking for a weekend trip away from Athens while they’re visiting Greece.

Here, the main attraction is the harbor. This provides stunning views and plenty of places to stop and eat.

Those who want to enjoy the great outdoors of Greece will also enjoy exploring the nearby mountains. There are plenty of biking and hiking trails to explore here. Some are more challenging than others, so be sure to be prepared before you take off on your journey of exploration.

15. Ioannina

Finally, those visiting western or northern Greece should consider visiting Ioannina for a quiet day trip or two. This little town is located along the coast of Lake Pamvotida and mostly goes unnoticed by tourists.

Ioannina is mostly known for its large student population. However, there are also many museums to visit here for anyone thirsting for knowledge. Furthermore, you should also explore the Ioannina Castle and Fethiye Mosque while you’re here.

You can also visit the nearby Ioannina island by using the boat service provided in town to see its monasteries. Anyone is sure to enjoy exploring this tiny island inside the lake. Read more: Things to do in Ioannina – A Little Known Greece Escape

16. Kastoria

Lying gracefully on the shores of Lake Orestiada and framed by the Pindus Mountains, Kastoria offers scenic beauty and rich history. Known for its Byzantine churches, Ottoman-era architecture, and well-preserved mansions, this city reflects diverse cultural influences.

Walk along the cobblestone streets, explore the Cave of the Dragon, and enjoy the serene beauty of the lake, particularly during sunset. With its perfect blend of nature and heritage, Kastoria is a tranquil oasis that showcases the diverse tapestry of Greece.

Perched on the slopes of Mount Symvolo and overlooking the Aegean Sea, Kavala is a blend of ancient history and modern charm. The city’s aqueduct, known as Kamares, and the Byzantine fortress offer glimpses into its storied past.

Wander through the old district of Panagia, with its meandering alleys and traditional houses, and indulge in fresh seafood at the city’s bustling port. Kavala’s rich history, coupled with its beaches and vibrant nightlife, makes it a perfect destination for those seeking a holistic Greek experience.

18. Rethymno

Nestled on the northern coast of Crete, Rethymno gracefully marries Venetian and Ottoman influences, showcasing a historical tapestry that’s truly captivating. The city’s old town, one of the best-preserved in Greece, brims with intricate wooden balconies, stone pathways, and hidden courtyards.

The imposing Fortezza, Rethymno’s Venetian fortress, stands as a sentinel over the city, offering panoramic views of the azure Aegean Sea. Alongside its rich history, Rethymno boasts pristine beaches and vibrant festivals, ensuring a blend of relaxation and cultural immersion. Ideal for travelers seeking both historical depth and coastal charm, Rethymno is an unmissable gem in the heart of Crete.

Ancient Cities in Greece

Evoking images of fierce warriors and ancient legends, Sparta has left an indelible mark on Greek history. Set against the backdrop of the Taygetos Mountains, today’s Sparta is a blend of modernity and ancient ruins.

While the archaeological sites narrate tales of its legendary past, the modern city offers lush olive groves and vibrant street life. Visit the ancient theater, the Acropolis, and the Archaeological Museum to get a glimpse of Sparta’s glorious days. This city, once the pinnacle of military might, now stands as a testament to the resilience and legacy of Greek civilization.

The Agora is historically meant to be the bustling part of any city. In modern terms, the word usually refers to a marketplace. However, most people will think of the  Agora of Athens  when they hear this term.

This is a historic area of Athens that’s mostly historic ruins now. It was a very populous area for approximately 5,000 years in Ancient Greece. At one time, it served as the central hub of Athens, where people would go to socialize and shop. The ruins stand northwest of the Acropolis, and many people still come here to visit and learn the history of the city.

21. Heraklion

Heraklion is the capital of Crete , which is the largest island in Greece. This is a fantastic place for those who are interested in Ancient Greek history and mythology.

This capital city also boasts gorgeous architecture, bustling markets, and some of the best food in Greece. In other words, there’s something for everyone here.

The main attractions here, however, are the archaeological museum and the Palace of Knossos. You might know the latter place as the Labyrinth: the home of the mighty Minotaur. If you’re feeling brave enough, you can even explore this fantastical piece of architecture yourself.

22. Mycenae

An archaeological goldmine, Mycenae was once at the heart of the Mycenaean civilization, influencing much of ancient Greece. Its legendary history is intertwined with myths, most notably that of King Agamemnon.

The iconic Lion’s Gate, Europe’s oldest known monumental sculpture, welcomes visitors to this Bronze Age city. Wander through the ancient ruins, explore the royal tombs, and soak in the aura of a civilization that laid much of the groundwork for classical Greece. Mycenae isn’t just a destination; it’s a journey through time.

The Most Beautiful Cities in Greece

It’s always best to have an idea of where you want to go and see before visiting Greece. That way, you can be sure you’re able to get to everything you’re most interested in before you leave. However, you should definitely have at least a few of these cities in Greece on your list before you go.

These Greek cities are all alive with the history, nature, and culture that attracts so many to the country. That’s what everyone’s looking for when they vacation in Greece!

Plan Your Next Greece Vacation With These Resources

• Best Places to Visit in Greece
• Where to Stay in Santorini
• 16 Delightful Things to Do in Skiathos, Greece
• Best Things to Do in Halkidiki, Greece
• The Ultimate Guide to Costa Navarino, Greece
• Things to do in Zakynthos, Greece
• Best Greek Islands

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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2 thoughts on “22 Best Cities in Greece That WE Loved”

Thanks for the information on the place Parga. I was looking for this type of article which would be realistic. Thank you once again, I found what I was looking for.

Thanks for sharing such an amazing post with us

Europe Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

From beautiful Paris to smoke-filled coffeeshops in Amsterdam, Oktoberfest to La Tomatina, Europe is a massive, diverse continent with an unlimited assortment of things to see and do. You won’t have any problem filling your time, whether you’re backpacking Europe for a few months on a budget or just spending a few weeks there on a well-earned vacation.

The continent boasts wonderful beaches, historical architecture, amazing wine, and tons of world-class festivals. Every country is incredibly different from the next too, providing limitless variety in what you do during your trip.

I first backpacked Europe in 2006 and was hooked immediately. I’ve been visiting every year since, have run tours around the continent, and even wrote a book on traveling in Europe . It’s a destination I love and never get tired of exploring.

This guide will give you an overview of Europe and the tips and tricks you need to start planning your trip. I’ve also written extensive travel guides to each country on the continent (linked below in this post) so you can get more in-depth information for your specific itinerary too!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Europe

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in europe.

1. Tour the Greek Islands

These islands are the mecca of summer beach fun and each is unique in its own great way. There’s Ios (beach party central with archeological ruins and awesome boat tours); Kos (ancient ruins and nature); Crete (Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, hiking, beaches, and wine), Santorini (iconic blue water, white buildings, and local wineries); Mykonos , (the upscale party island with beautiful beaches, villages, and sunsets), Naxos (best island in the Cyclades). Plus, Milos, Corfu, Lemnos, Zakynthos, and so many more! With hundreds of islands in the country, you can always find what you are looking for!

2. Ride the rails

Europe is famous for its international rail system. Rail passes like the Eurail Pass have been around forever and still make it very easy to get from country to country on a relatively small budget (and with lots of flexibility). Europe has some of the fastest trains in the world that travel up to an incredible 217 mph (350 kph). The whole continent is connected by trains and there’s a growing push for even more connections and long-distance, high-speed trains in order to reduce flying and help combat climate change. There’s nothing more quintessential than riding the trains in Europe and I encourage you to take as many trains as possible. It’s one of the best ways to see the continent.

3. Get lost in Paris

The “City of Lights” is everything people say it is. I fell in love with it the first time I stepped foot in Paris . The city is just magical. You have a ton of museums, cafes, jazz clubs, famous art, and beautiful architecture. I love just strolling around the streets of the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) or Montmartre neighborhood as it makes for a breathtaking day. Another one of my favorite things to do here is just sit in the Jardin des Champs-Élysées park and picnic like the Parisians. For something a bit different, check out the famous Catacombs and Paris Sewer Museum. With so much to offer in the way of culture, history, and gastronomy, it would take years to see everything here but you can still get a good feel of the city in a few days.

4. Go city hopping

There are so many amazing cities in Europe that we’d need a top 100 to list them all. Here are some of my personal favorites and must-see cities: London is rich in history, culture, and the famous Big Ben clock; Edinburgh is a vibrant medieval city with cozy pubs and a famous castle with a huge New Year’s Eve Party; Amsterdam has cozy coffee shops and canopied tree-covered canals; Berlin has a wild party scene, street art, and the Berlin Wall; Barcelona has tapas, beach, and unique Gaudi architecture; coastal Lisbon has colorful tiles, old tramcars, cobblestone streets and plenty of fresh seafood; Prague has a beautiful intact Old Town, incredible architecture and eclectic bars; Tallinn Estonia has beautiful medieval buildings with colorful roofs. Florence  is a mecca for Italian Renaissance architecture, art history, and gelato; Stockholm mixes medieval architecture and modern art and design. Crisscross the continent, take in the culture, and enjoy all the historic cities!

5. Hit the Alps

Whether you go skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the Alps hold some of the most breathtaking views in all the world. You don’t even need to be an expert hiker because there are mountain trails for all levels and crystal-clear Alpine lakes. Check out the spectacular Eibsee trail loop in Bavaria at the foot of Die Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest mountain, for the clearest, multi-colored, sparkling lake you’ve ever seen. Or the Männlichen Kleine Scheidegg Panorama trail in Switzerland’s stunning green and snow-capped Alps. Or visit Italy’s Dolomites in South Tyrol for the scenic Seceda trail. The Alps have trails for every fitness level and in every season.

Other Things to See and Do in Europe

1. tour amsterdam.

I love Amsterdam so much that I lived here for a short period of time in 2006. Here cobblestone and brick streets weave around lovely canals as people ride their bikes to and fro. My favorite things to enjoy here are Amsterdam’s vibrant art and music scene and there are also a ton of interesting museums here like the Anne Frank House, FOAM, the history museum, and the hemp museum. Be sure you get out of the center into Jordaan and Oost with their wonderful outdoor cafes and fewer tourists. Also, a visit to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without a canal cruise to visit the many islands and there are many to choose from that include snacks and drinks, sunset cruises, live guided tours, and more.

2. Hang out in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city that goes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It truly could give NYC a run for the “city that never sleeps” title. Be prepared for late-night dinners and parties until dawn. Besides a great food and nightlife scene, there is a wonderful beach, tons of Gaudi architecture (including the fairytale-like Parc Güell, as well as the iconic Sagrada Familia , which has been under construction for over 100 years!), incredible food tours, one of the best history museums in the country, and lots of outdoor spaces. What I love about Barcelona is that when you’re ready to chill, you can wander around Parc de la Ciutadella and marvel at the majestic fountains, plant life, and buildings created from an ornate military fortress.

3. Visit Berlin

Hip and trendy Berlin is an energetic destination. It is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities, with a vibrant music and art scene and a growing foodie movement. Be sure to spend some time learning about the city’s darker history via the many excellent museums, memorials, and landmarks. The East Side Gallery, a section of the Berlin Wall that’s now painted with murals, and the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe are two especially powerful reminders of Germany’s past. For all periods of German history, don’t miss the Deutsches Historisches Museum (German Historical Museum) – it’s one of the best history museums in the world. Once you’ve had your fill of history, relax in Berlin’s many green spaces, from Tempelhof Field, the site of a former airfield and popular local hangout spot, to Tiergarten, a tree-covered former hunting ground for 17th-century aristocrats.

4. Drink beer at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a must for anyone going to Germany at the end of September. While not a budget option since beers now cost 15 € a maß, I love the energy and friendly camaraderie this event inspires. For two weeks, millions of people from all over the world gather for lots of beer, excitement, music, and wild fun. Watching thousands of people sing together, raising quart-sized beer mugs for endless toasts, and enjoying the general party atmosphere makes you feel good about the world. (Or maybe that’s just the beer?) Just be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and be prepared to pay top prices for them. If you don’t have an outfit, don’t worry, there are plenty of shops even at the main train station where you can buy a Bavarian dirndl dress and men’s lederhosen.

5. Experience London

Get a taste of English culture in diverse London . The museums here are some of the best in the world (most are free) and include the Tate, the British Museum, the City Museum, the National Gallery, the Historical Museum. There’s no shortage of iconic sights here as well, with Big Ben, the House of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and of course, Buckingham Palace. I love London’s diversity because of the countless international eateries with great food and wonderful pub culture, perfect for after a long day seeing the sights. Head to Brick Lane on the weekends for some amazing food and craft markets. I prefer Paris to London, but there is something sophisticated and fun about London. Just watch those pints — London is not a cheap destination!

6. Get outdoors in Scandinavia

My favorite region in Europe is Scandinavia. The quality of life here is high, the people are beautiful and friendly, and the cities are clean and historic. Cycling the cities, taking canal tours, hiking the vast forested areas, archipelago hopping, enjoying fika (a Swedish coffee break), and warming up in saunas are just a few of the popular activities that await you here. True, this area of Europe is not cheap, but there are plenty of ways to reduce your expenses. Don’t let the high prices scare you away. Highlights for me include Copenhagen , Stockholm , Gotland, Norway’s fjords, and Lapland in Finland .

7. Get enchanted in Prague

Prague has an amazing history and is one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities I’ve ever seen. Highlights include the 9th-century Prague Castle, the magnificent Charles Bridge (built in the 14th century and one of the oldest standing bridges in the world), the 10th-century old square with its iconic astronomical clock, and the winding Jewish Quarter. Even if you only have a few days there don’t miss the free walking tour which is one of my favorites in Europe and the best way to learn about the Old Town and the tragic history of the city that went from thriving Bohemian capital of art, music, and literature to part of the Iron Curtain after WWII. Some of my favorite gems here include the fantastic black light theater shows in 4D and the one-of-a-kind medieval dinner show in an old tavern complete with musicians and jugglers not to mention hearty food and drinks. During the weekends it heaves with people enjoying the bars, cheap beer, and delicious food so try to visit during the week (and in the spring or fall) to beat the crowds.

8. Relax on the French Riviera

Here, you can pretend to live the high life for a little bit. Have fun in the sun, relax on the beach, swim in azure blue water, hobnob with the rich and famous, and sail on (or gaze at) gigantic yachts. As for cities, Nice is nice with its palm-tree-lined promenade, old town, and many art museums. If you want to go see how the rich and famous live, spend an afternoon checking out Cannes to soak up some glamorous vibes on La Croisette where they hold the famous Cannes Film Festival. The kingdom of Monaco with its tiny streets, beautiful buildings, and world-famous casino is just a skip away too.

9. Enjoy the great outdoors in Interlaken

Located in the beautiful mountains of Switzerland, Interlaken is a gorgeous place to unwind with fantastic hiking, delicious hot chocolate, and plenty of outdoor sports. The area is full of natural attractions to explore, including the St. Beatus Caves (complete with a legendary dragon), the cascading 500-meter-high (1,640 feet) Giessbach Waterfalls, the Jungfraujoch mountain railway (which leads to the highest train station on the continent), and a plethora of lakes (hence the town’s name). It’s a good alternative to all the cities and museums. Interlaken is also a popular party destination for backpackers and other young travelers. By far, my favorite scenic and visually stunning trail was the Oberberghorn panoramic hike, where you can wander the green mountain ridge ogling the amazing views and the turquoise-blue Brienzersee.

10. Experience history in Rome

In this thriving historical city, you can’t walk two feet without stumbling over a ruin, making Rome a history buff’s dream. Its tiny streets are perfect for wandering as you explore the Colosseum, see the Forum and Palatine Hill, visit the Pantheon, spend time in Vatican City, admire the Spanish Steps, and toss coins into the famous Trevi Fountain. The skip-the-line tickets can definitely be worth it so you don’t waste time waiting outside attractions. Rome also has amazing food (it’s Italy, after all) and nightlife. Visit the Trastevere area for a taste of “local” Rome and chill bars. It’s my favorite area in the city because you feel like you’re in a small village in the middle of a big city.

11. Hike around the Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is my favorite part of Italy. These five beautiful cliffside towns are perched near warm waters and beautiful olive and grape groves. There are wondrous and strenuous hikes in these hills; for a real challenge, take trail #8. Or just walk the coastline for something less difficult. Many activities here revolve around the coastline: kayaking, swimming, having a beach picnic or visiting the Technical Naval Museum. If you happen to be here in December or January, don’t miss the Nativity Manarola, the world’s biggest lighted nativity scene.

12. Tour Krakow

Krakow looks like it stepped out of a medieval postcard. It’s a hip, trendy, and youthful city that’s the center of education in Poland, meaning there are a lot of university students here. Most travelers come to party here (the vodka is cheap) but try to enjoy the city’s history and food besides just the bars. Walk the Royal Road through the Old Town to the 13th-century Wawel Castle, tour Schindler’s Factory (where Schindler saved over 1,200 Jews during World War II), and visit the sobering Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. You can also take a fascinating day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mine, a 13th-century mine with cavernous chambers, statues, chapels, chandeliers, and cathedrals all carved out of salt.

13. Visit the ruin bars in Budapest

The coolest nightlife in all of Europe is found in Budapest . Built in abandoned buildings, ruin bars feature funky art installations, repurposed furniture, and quirky decor. They are amazing, fun, and great places to meet locals, as people of all ages flock here. Open since 2001, Szimpla Kert is the original ruin bar and one of my favorites, along with Instant-Fogas Complex, which takes up an entire building and is actually many different bars in one. Don’t skip the ruin bars — they’re one of the most unique things about the city!

14. Explore Cornwall

The best part of England is outside London, yet unfortunately, not a lot of travelers leave London. Head west to the area of Cornwall for cheaper prices, welcoming locals, natural beauty, great hiking, rolling hills, plenty of medieval castles, and picturesque small towns. If you like biking, the Camel Trail from Bodmin to Padstow is worth the trip and you even pass by a local vineyard. It’s an easy way to spend a day (and it’s pretty flat so it’s not too hard to do.) Plus, I had the best fish and chips in Cornwall! Overall, it’s what you think of as “traditional England.”

15. Walk the Camino

El Camino de Santiago (The Way of Saint James) is an ancient pilgrimage route that stretches from France all the way across northern Spain. It is a 500 mile (800 km) trail that winds through incredible terrain, ending in Santiago de Compostela at the cathedral where St. James is supposedly buried. As a pilgrim, you get a “pilgrim’s passport” which allows you to stay in affordable pilgrim-only hostels, making this a surprisingly budget-friendly adventure. While it usually takes over a month to complete, you can just walk a section if you don’t have the time. To receive a “Compostela” (certificate of completion), you just need to walk the last 62 miles (100 km), which generally takes 4-5 days.

16. Throw tomatoes during La Tomatina

By far my favorite festival, the largest food fight in the world happens during the last Wednesday of August in Bunol, Spain. What started in 1945 as a local brawl has turned into a massive event drawing tens of thousands of people from all over the world. For about an hour, everyone throws tomatoes at each other, leaving streets ankle-deep in tomato juice. Afterward, everyone walks down to the river, cleans off, and then heads to the town square for sangria and music.

17. Find Dracula in Romania

Not a lot of people visit Romania but this underrated country in Eastern Europe has undiscovered yet picturesque medieval towns like Brasov (home to “Dracula’s castle”), Sighisoara, and Sibiu; gorgeous beaches on the Black Sea; and incredible hiking in the Fagaras Mountains — all at dirt-cheap prices. Other major sights include frescoed Byzantine monasteries, the steepled wooden churches of Transylvania, the hip university town Cluj-Napoca, the post-communist capital of Bucharest, and the Danube Delta, a huge nature reserve.

18. Drink whisky in Islay

Whisky has a long history on Islay , an island off Scotland’s west coast. It’s been made there since the 16th-century — first in backyards and then, starting in the 19th-century, in large distilleries. Over the years, whisky from the island came to be considered a specialty and was used to flavor a lot of other blends on the mainland. There are currently nine working distilleries on the island, all located along the island’s shores, with Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Lagavulin being the most famous. Most distilleries here make single-malt Scotch, meaning that only one type of grain (barley) is used. My visit here was amazing and, even if you don’t like whisky, there are tons of good hikes and walks throughout this magnificent island.

19. Explore Iceland

Iceland is a magical country with majestic waterfalls, hidden hot springs around every corner, and sweeping vistas unlike anywhere else in the world. After my first visit, the country quickly became one of my favorite countries. With whale watching in the summer, the northern lights in the winter, and geothermal baths for soaking in year-round, there really is no bad time to visit! While Iceland’s main draw is the epic natural landscapes, it’s worth spending a couple of days in Reykjavik with its café culture, artsy feel, and brightly colored wooden row houses.

20. Sail the Croatian coast

With calm winds, short distances, a coastline littered with over 1,000 islands, and countless historical sites, Croatia is one of the world’s best sailing destinations. If you can, go during the shoulder season when you can find some great deals. Plan to stay at least a couple of days on one of the islands, with the most popular being Brac, Hvar, Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. However, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known islands such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo. If you want to splash out and spend a week partying on a yacht, check out The Yacht Week, which hosts week-long parties, complete with DJs, from May-September. You can book a full boat to share with friends or just a cabin if you’re traveling solo. Prices start at 5,250 HRK per person and go up to 9,300 HRK.

21. Explore the Balkans

While the Balkans have become more popular with backpackers in recent years, it’s still largely overlooked by most budget travelers, despite being an extremely budget-friendly region. The Balkan peninsula is home to great (and again, overlooked) wine, beautiful medieval towns like Kotor and Mostar, stunning mountainous landscapes, beautiful pebble beaches, coffee culture, fresh, hearty yet inexpensive food, and museums covering the area’s history, including the most recent turbulent events of the early 1990s. I especially loved my time in Albania . Don’t miss the beautiful beaches in Ksamil, nicknamed the “Maldives of Europe’ as well as the mountain village of Gjirokastër, which was occupied by Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The Balkans have so much to offer for every budget and every country has its unique cultural flavor.

22. Take a wine tour in the Loire Valley

Located in central France, the picturesque Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and stretches 280 kilometers (174 miles) along the Loire River. One of the major wine-producing regions of France, the area is home to some of the best wines in the world, with over 1,000 vineyards open to the public. Even those who don’t drink wine will enjoy the beautiful small towns, great food, and the region’s over 300 impressive chateaux. I loved the medieval Chenonceau Castle and Chateau Villandry and the small villages like Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. Spring and Autumn are my favorite times to visit because you can go biking and do outdoor activities when it’s not too hot and there are fewer people. It’s an area not to be missed.

23. See Fado in Portugal

Fado is an important musical tradition in Portugal , originating in Lisbon and stretching back some 200 years. The word “fado” likely stems from the Latin word for fate, and it’s very haunting, poetic, and emotional music. Most of the songs follow themes of loss and mourning, and the music was popular with the working class (especially sailors). Performances normally take place in restaurants during dinner. In Lisbon, head to Clube de Fado, Tasca do Chico, Parreirinha de Alfama, or Senhor Vinho.

24. Tour green Slovenia

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is mind-blowing to me because it’s an amazing place to visit. Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe but at a fraction of the cost and with a fraction of the crowds. Perfect for outdoor adventure lovers, Slovenia offers rugged mountains, untouched landscapes, fantastic ski resorts, plentiful wine, sprawling cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, such as the famous Lake Bled with its castle on an island. I loved Piran, Slovenia’s often overlooked coastal Venetian-style harbor town that was actually founded 3000 years ago. Stroll around its beautiful windy cobble-stoned streets, beautiful plazas, and take advantage of the many affordable restaurants right on the water. Make sure to also spend a few days in the country’s capital, Ljubljana, known as one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities. Take a river cruise to see the city and enjoy the friendliness of the locals.

  For more information on specific countries in Europe, check out the guides below:

• Albania Travel Guide
• Austria Travel Guide
• Belgium Travel Guide
• Belarus Travel Guide
• Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide
• Bulgaria Travel Guide
• Czechia Travel Guide
• Croatia Travel Guide
• Denmark Travel Guide
• England Travel Guide
• Estonia Travel Guide
• Finland Travel Guide
• France Travel Guide
• Germany Travel Guide
• Greece Travel Guide
• Hungary Travel Guide
• Iceland Travel Guide
• Ireland Travel Guide
• Italy Travel Guide
• Latvia Travel Guide
• Lithuania Travel Guide
• Malta Travel Guide
• Moldova Travel Guide
• Montenegro Travel Guide
• Netherlands Travel Guide
• Norway Travel Guide
• Portugal Travel Guide
• Poland Travel Guide
• Romania Travel Guide
• Scotland Travel Guide
• Slovakia Travel Guide
• Slovenia Travel Guide
• Spain Travel Guide
• Sweden Travel Guide
• Switzerland Travel Guide
• Ukraine Travel Guide

Europe Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation prices vary greatly by region. In Western Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 25-45 EUR per night, depending on the room’s size and the popularity of the hostel. I stayed in a 6-bed dorm in Berlin for 20 EUR, while the same one would have cost me around 45 EUR in Paris. A room in Paris costs on the higher end and a room in cheaper Athens costs on the lower end.

In Eastern Europe, hostel dorm rooms cost between 10-15 EUR per night depending on the size of the dorm room and the popularity of the hostel. The further east you go, the cheaper it gets. Expect to pay around 30-60 EUR per night for a private room that sleeps two.

In Scandinavia, hostel dorm beds cost around 25-45 EUR, while private rooms are 65-80 EUR. Budget hotels start around 85 EUR.

Most accommodations offer free linens, free Wi-Fi, and a lot offer free breakfast, but it’s important to check specific websites for exact amenities.

Campsites cost between 10-15 EUR per night for a basic plot for two without electricity.

Food – Food traditions in Europe run deep, stretching back centuries to become integral parts of each country’s culture. From baguettes in France to tapas in Spain, from hearty Eastern European stews and goulash to the fresh vegetables and olive oils of the Mediterranean, European cuisine varies as much as the countries themselves. Food prices differ greatly across the continent, so check individual country guides for specifics.

But no matter where you are, even in the more expensive countries, finding places to eat within your budget is easier than you might think. Throughout Western Europe, you can find small shops, street food stalls, or food trucks where you can get sandwiches, gyros, kebabs, slices of pizza, or sausages for between 3-7 EUR. These shops are most often found in train stations, bus stations, and main pedestrian areas, and offer cheap food alternatives that can have you eating on 12-17 EUR per day. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7-10 EUR for a combo meal.

Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Vietnamese eateries abound in Germany, while Indian food is incredible and everywhere in the United Kingdom. Meals at these restaurants usually cost between 8-12 EUR.

Restaurant meals in casual, traditional eateries generally cost around 13-25 EUR for a main dish and drink. Food is much cheaper in the east than in the west, and in the west, northern regions like Scandinavia and the UK are more expensive than southern countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

In Eastern Europe, even if you are eating out for all your meals, you can still get by on a food budget of as little as 15 EUR per day.

For drinks, a pint of beer is 2-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 2-7 EUR, a cappuccino is 2-5 EUR, and cocktails range from 6-14 EUR.

If you eat out, do so at lunch and get the prix-fixe menu (two-course or three-course set menu). Restaurants offer this set menu during lunch, and with prices between 10-20 EUR, it’s a way better deal than the regular dinner menu. You can also get affordable lunches at outdoor markets. So many European cities have huge fresh food markets throughout town.

You can cook your own food for around 45-65 EUR per week. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, bread, and some meat. You can save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, Aldi, and Penny Market.

If you want to save big money on meals, head to one of the markets, pick up some cheese, wine, bread, meats, or anything else, and go to the park for a picnic. (Or grab a sandwich for later!) You’ll find the locals doing the same thing, and it’s one of the cheaper ways to get a true taste of local food.

Backpacking Europe Suggested Budgets

Prices for travel in Europe vary greatly depending on how far north, east, south, or west you travel. If you stick to the budget accommodations, food, and tours listed here and use all my tips on saving money, you need about 65-110 EUR per day in Western Europe, 40-50 EUR in Eastern Europe, and about 85-130 EUR in Scandinavia.

Those numbers reflect a traveler who stays in hostels, cooks some meals and eats out cheaply, enjoys a few drinks, and sticks to free and cheap activities like hiking, walking tours, and enjoying nature. This is your typical backpacker budget. You aren’t going to have a fancy time, but you aren’t going to want for anything either.

However, by getting tourist cards and rail passes, avoiding flights, occasionally Couchsurfing or camping, cooking all your meals, and not drinking, you can travel a lot cheaper. On this budget, you could do Western Europe on 35-45 EUR per day, Eastern Europe on 20-25 EUR, and Scandinavia on 50-65 EUR. That would require you to take a train or a bus or hitchhike everywhere, skip most museums, and limit how often you go out.

Generally, the suggested daily budget for Europe is 80-120 EUR. You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Europe Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Individual country guides have more specific information on how to save money in them but here are some general tips on cutting your costs while you explore Europe:

• Picnic – This continent has a lot of little shops where you can buy pre-made sandwiches or ingredients to make your own. Many supermarkets have delis as well where you can get food to go. Buy some food, eat outside, and watch the city and its people go by. It’s a much more enjoyable and cheaper way to eat.
• Eat local and cheap – Not into picnicking? Eat at local sandwich shops, pizza parlors, Maoz, Wok to Walks, and outdoor street vendors. Avoiding restaurants and eating at a lot of the local “grab n’ go” places gives you a taste of the local cuisine at a much cheaper price. If you’re really on a budget, use your creative cooking skills to prepare meals at the hostel as well.
• Stay with a local – Hostels can add up really quickly. If you don’t have any friends with whom you can stay, consider using Couchsurfing , which connects you with locals who let you stay with them for free. Plus, they tend to also have meetups to meet other locals and travelers. It’s a great way to save on accommodation and meet a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Camp in a garden – A very good camping service specific to Europe is Campspace , which allows you to pitch a tent in someone’s backyard for free or for a small fee (around 10-20 EUR). All of the garden owners have profiles that tell you what services and facilities they offer. Also, many countries allow wild camping (like Sweden), which can save you a fortune if you have a tent.
• Take the bus – Budget bus companies like Flixbus can take you across the continent for cheap. I personally feel it’s best for day travel as sitting up for an overnight bus isn’t really ideal for sleeping. It isn’t glamorous, but with tickets starting at 5 EUR, you really can’t complain!
• Get a Rail Pass – Eurail Passes have saved me hundreds of dollars. If you are traveling far distances and through many countries, they are a great deal.
• Take the free city tours – One of the great things about Europe is that you can find free walking tours in all the major cities. They can be a great way to see the city attractions, take in some history, and learn your bearings without spending any money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Plan accordingly – Plan your trip around Europe so you avoid doubling back. Transportation is a big expense so proper planning can save you a lot of money (and time). Go in a straight line or a loop. Booking your accommodation ahead helps you save as well since cheap, good places unsurprisingly get reserved first. One thing I’ve learned is that waiting until the last minute means you get stuck with expensive places or cheap places no one wants.
• Fly cheap – If you know where you are going and a train won’t do, try to book flights early. You can often get round trip fares for as little as 5 EUR from many of the European discount airlines like Ryanair or Wizz. Many capital cities have smaller airports farther from the city with ‘inconvenient’ times but cheaper fares. Keep in mind you might need to factor in an early morning Uber or taxi if the busses aren’t running and you have an early flight!
• Drink less – Those 5 EUR beers add up. Hit happy hours or pick and choose when you party. Hostel bars are a good place to get cheap drinks or buy your alcohol at the supermarket. Plus, in Europe, it’s legal to drink outside in parks, plazas, by the lakes or rivers. You’ll find you can save a lot of money by not going to bars and clubs. Partying your way across the continent will destroy your bank balance in no time.
• Get a city tourist card – Many local tourism offices sell a tourism card for all their attractions, tours, and restaurants. This card gives you free entry and substantial discounts on all the attractions and tours in a city, free local public transportation (a huge plus), and discounts at a few restaurants and shopping malls. They save a ton of money. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, get one of these cards.
• Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities (or countries) by paying a small fee. It’s like Airbnb but for rides. I used this service in Switzerland and, not only did I save a lot of money, but I got to meet interesting people and learn about local culture and life. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe, though sometimes rides cancel at the last minute (which is why you need to be flexible). Check their ratings first and try to use rides where the person has done many trips.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in most of Europe, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Get a HostelPass – HostelPass is a discount membership for hostels in Europe. Members get 10-20% off select hostels around Europe, as well as perks like free breakfast or free drinks. There are discounts on tours and activities too. It’s a great way to save money if you’re bouncing around Europe as they have hostels in 18 countries around the continent.

Where to Stay in Europe

Europe has a ton of budget accommodation options. The individual country and city guides have tons of recommendations but here’s a short list of some of my favorite budget hostels and hotels around Europe:

• The Flying Pig (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)
• Hotel 54 (Barcelona, Spain)
• Generator Hostel (Copenhagen, Denmark)
• Harcourt Hotel (Dublin, Ireland)
• Castle Rock (Edinburgh, Scotland)
• Ios Palm Pansion (Ios, Greece)
• Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel (Krakow, Poland)
• Largo da Sé Guest House (Lisbon, Portugal)
• Sophie’s Hostel (Prague, Czech Republic)
• The Yellow (Rome, Italy)
• City Backpackers (Stockholm, Sweden)

How to Get Around Europe

Public transportation – Transportation around most European cities is by tram, subway, or bus. Prices are typically around 2 EUR for a one-way ticket in Western Europe and closer to 1 EUR in Eastern Europe. Most large cities also have day passes available that offer unlimited public transportation. These passes are usually 5-12 EUR per day.

In large cities with international airports, there is usually a bus or train available that ferries travelers from the downtown core to the airport. Expect to pay around 5-15 EUR to get to/from the airport.

Bus – Buses are not quite as comfortable as Europe’s trains, although certain lines do have great amenities (like roomy seats and Wi-Fi). While buses are not the most efficient way to travel around the continent, they’re certainly dependable, reliable, and cheap. You can find last-minute rides for as little as 5 EUR. A route from Berlin to Munich is about 25 EUR, while Paris to Bordeaux can be as low as 10 EUR. Longer routes, like Amsterdam to Copenhagen, start at around 47 EUR.

Each country has its own national bus service, but some lines also take you long distances internationally. Megabus and Flixbus (which now owns Eurolines) are the most popular companies.

Train – Train travel is a great way to see Europe. Intercity train prices vary wildly from country to country, depending on whether you take the slow train or a high-speed train and how far in advance you book. For example, a high-speed train from Berlin to Munich costs around 38-60 EUR, Bordeaux to Paris is about 50-85 EUR, and Madrid to Barcelona ranges from 45-85 EUR. Non-high-speed trains and other intercity lines are a lot cheaper, generally costing about 40-50% of the price of high-speed trains. Eastern Europe inter-country trains usually cost between 45-100 EUR when the ticket is booked last minute. Short train rides of 2-3 hours within countries cost about 27 EUR.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

You may also want to consider getting a Eurail Pass , which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period. These passes are continent-wide, country-specific, or regional. It can potentially save you hundreds of dollars.

Ridesharing/Car sharing – If your schedule is flexible, use a ridesharing service and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe. BlaBlaCar is the most popular.

If you’d rather rent a car yourself and find passengers to share a ride with, use Discover Cars to find the best car rental prices.

Flying – Budget airlines are so prolific that competition helps keep fares low. You can often find tickets where the fare is just 5 EUR round-trip! Companies like EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz, and Vueling offer mind-blowingly cheap flights throughout Europe. Book at least a month early to scoop up great deals.

Make sure that the airport they fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. It costs about 25-39 EUR for one checked bag. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Europe is very safe, but it’s not for everyone. Hitching is quite common around the continent and I’ve met a number of travelers who have done it (I, myself, traveled this way in Bulgaria and Iceland). Some countries are very supportive (Romania, Iceland, Germany) while others may be a bit more time-consuming (Italy, Spain). HitchWiki is the best website for hitchhiking info.

Here are my suggested articles for how to get around Europe:

• 7 Cheap Ways to Travel Across Europe
• Are Eurail Passes a Giant Scam or Do They Save You Money?
• The Ultimate Guide to Finding Cheap Flights

When to Go to Europe

There’s no wrong time to visit Europe. Peak season is summer, when Europe gets crowded and August is the time most European families are at the beach so everything becomes more crowded and expensive. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season (just book your accommodation in advance — especially in August). Keep in mind it’s much hotter in summer so if you like AC, be sure to check that your hostel or hotel has it before you book. You can expect the most crowds in Western Europe. For this reason, I feel summer is a great time to visit the Balkans and the Baltics because many people head to the beaches in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece.

Shoulder season is spring and fall (April-May and September-October). It’s still warm during this time but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. This is my favorite time to visit hotspot places like Spain, Croatia and Greece, where it’s still hot enough to swim in the sea but you have way more room on the beach. It’s also a good time to go hiking in the Alps in Germany, northern Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland because it’s cooler during the day so you’re much less sweaty on the mountain without shade. The weather is good, the crowds are smaller, and the prices lower.

Winter is from November to February but in much of Central Europe, it’s wet and cold until March or April. It gets cold, even as far south as it gets (like Greece). On the other hand, the Christmas season has Christmas markets and festivals galore! Even if it’s cold, this is a cultural tradition you can’t miss and why I love Europe in December. There is hot mulled wine, sweets, and plenty of hot snacks, which vary by country. One of my favorites is Prague because the Old Town Square is lit up with a gigantic tree with aromas of crispy cinnamon pastries and mulled wine. Berlin takes their Christmas markets very seriously, so there are around 80 different markets with special themes.

Winter is fantastic in Europe for skiing and snowboarding but it doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan carefully. While Switzerland and France are probably the most famous, they are also expensive, but there are plenty of budget winter options.

How to Stay Safe in Europe

Europe is very safe for backpacking and solo traveling, even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crimes against tourists are very rare. In fact, some of the safest countries in the world are in Europe. (I wrote a whole article about how Europe is safe to visit right now .)

That said, there are scams and petty crimes you should watch out for, especially around popular tourist landmarks. The most important thing to be aware of is pickpockets in crowds and on public transportation. Zip your bags and don’t put your mobile phone in a jacket pocket where someone could quickly take it. This should be obvious but don’t flash your money to let everyone know you have a huge wad of cash.

When choosing a hostel, look for ones with lockers. It’s always a good idea to carry around a padlock or combination lock. Most hostels are safe and travelers respect each other and I’ve rarely seen things happen to people’s valuables. Nevertheless, I always think that prevention is better.

As anywhere, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). When at the bar, always keep an eye on your drink. Avoid walking home alone at night if you’re intoxicated.

For female travelers in particular, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of extra money on you just in case you need to take an Uber or taxi back by yourself so you don’t take unnecessary risks to save money. If you’re using apps to date people while traveling, please use common sense and meet in public places. Since I’m not a female traveler, please check out the numerous female bloggers who have first hand knowledge of this.

If you’re worried about scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Be aware that the UK drives on the left and that most rental cars in Europe will have manual transmissions unless you request otherwise.

When hiking, always bring water, sunscreen, and bandaids or foot plasters. There is nothing worse than being halfway up the mountain with a blister and nothing you can do about it!

Likewise, when at the coast, don’t forget not only to wear sunscreen! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people get burnt to a crisp the first day. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Europe Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Europe Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Europe travel and continue planning your trip:

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Where Lonely Planet staffers are traveling this summer

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies is one of the places Lonely Planet staffers plan to visit this summer © Paul Zizka Photography / Banff Tourism Board

Summer is around the corner in the northern hemisphere, and the team at Lonely Planet is already making (or has made) their travel plans.

If you're wondering where to go and what to do this summer, why not follow one of our leads and discover a new destination or rediscover an old favorite? I, unlike my colleagues, have yet to make plans, so finding out where everyone else is going has lit a fire under me. Likewise, I hope these trip plans inspire you to make some of your own – and that you'll turn to Lonely Planet for help when plotting your next getaway.

Here are just some of the places the staff at Lonely Planet traveling this summer.

"I'm going to a backcountry lodge in Banff . It's only accessible by hiking in. I’ve wanted to do one of these for ages, so this is how I’m celebrating my 40th!" – Jessica Lockhart, Senior Editor, Oceania

Banff and Jasper National Parks have several rustic backcountry lodges surrounded by unparalleled scenery. Each lodge has its own unique setting, hosts and history, but all have simple amenities, minimal (or no) electricity and running water, and welcoming common spaces where travelers can gather to read, play cards or recount the day’s adventures. Advance bookings are key – prices may seem steep, but factor in the included home-cooked meals and freedom from setting up camp or worrying about weather and wildlife, and the cost suddenly becomes worth it. 

Keen to go hiking in Canada? Here's our guide to the best trekking routes

"I will be visiting Makarska Riviera , including Brela , Makarska, Tucepi and the island of Korčula . The trip is all about promoting Croatia ’s great outdoors , so the itinerary includes kayaking, rafting, buggying and lots of hiking !" – Aoife Breslin, Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

Croatia’s tourism peaks between June and August, when the Adriatic’s warm waters charm countless visitors. It’s great fun, though afternoons are roasting hot, the lines at attractions are at their longest, and accommodation costs rise. Inland, temperatures are higher, but crowds are less noticeable. June is the quietest month of high season, but with clear skies, music festivals and the promise of early summer, it's a strong contender for Croatia’s best month. 

Ready to plan your trip to Croatia? Choose the right time for your visit with our seasonal guide

"I'm going island hopping  in Greece for four weeks in June. I'll be spending most of my time on Serifos (to start) as it's where the local Greeks holiday  – doing a pottery class, vineyard tour, taking boats to secluded coves, going to cooking school and generally trying to be as fabulous as possible – with additional stays on Santorini and Paros . – Chris Zeiher, Senior Director of Trade Sales and Marketing

Greece is ancient sun-bleached ruins piercing blue skies, the balmy Aegean lapping an endless coastline and a culture alive with passionate music, wonderful cuisine and thrill-seeking activities. Summer is when most travelers choose to explore its countless islands, and June affords the longest days of sunshine, peaking in the second fortnight. It’s also an opportune time for your first, refreshing dip of the summer. 

Going to Greece for the first time? Here our our top tips on things to know before you go

"I'm heading to Tuscany and the island of Elba ." – Annie Greenberg, Creative Director  "We are doing a girls' trip to Tuscany." – Aly Yee, Senior Director

Tuscany escapes easy definition. The Apennines – Italy ’s mountainous spine – slope into vineyard-covered rolling hills, which in turn fade into the Mediterranean coast. Late spring to early autumn is when most people visit Tuscany. It’s easy to understand why – days get longer and warmer, the countryside comes to life, outdoor dining opportunities abound, and festivals happen all around.  The island of Elba comes to life during summer, and it’s worth booking accommodation well in advance if you plan to visit in the high season. Elba offers both great beaches and hiking opportunities along its Grande Traversata Elbana (GTE, Elba’s Great Crossing) trail.

Ready to plan a trip to Tuscany?  Check out our regional guide  

"I'm off to car-free Isla Holbox , Mexico for a relaxing beach getaway. I'm planning on horseback riding and wataflow therapy, which I've never done, but should be interesting."  – Serina Patel, Marketing Manager

Isla Holbox (hol-bosh), meaning "black hole" in Mayan, lives up to its name – it's like a portal to one of Mexico’s last unspoiled tropical islands. Golf carts and bicycles serve as the main forms of transportation, and visitors will discover sandy streets, colorful Caribbean buildings, lazing, sun-drunk dogs, and sand so fine its texture is nearly clay. The greenish waters are a unique color from the mixing of ocean currents, and on land there's a mixing too: of locals and tourists, the latter hoping to escape the hubbub of Cancún .

Using Cancún as a base? Here are the best day trips into the wider area

"I'm heading to Granada , Spain for a week or so, maybe getting in Málaga too. This will be my second visit, so I'm hoping to take a more relaxed approach this time and also catch up with friends." – Alison Killilea, Production Support Editor

With serene Islamic architecture, monumental churches, old-school tapas bars and counterculture graffiti art, Granada is Spain’s cultured, creative southern city; a place with a storied past centering on the Alhambra , one of the world’s great human-made wonders. While Granada can be scorching in summer, the city of Málaga is deemed to have the best climate in the country, with about 3000 hours of sun a year – the most in all of Spain. 

Seen the Alhambra? Here are Granada's other top experiences

Switzerland

"I'm also going to Zürich , Lucerne , Grindelwald  and Zermatt . I will mostly be hiking and doing lots of outdoorsy activities. My number one priority while I am in Switzerland is to do the highest hiking trail in Europe , the Barrhorn."  – Aoife Breslin, Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

Nowhere is perfect, but let’s face it, Switzerland gets pretty darned close. With its supermodel looks, fine weather, easy-peasy public transport , multilingual mindset and penchant for cheese and wine, this is a country where it’s easy to get comfortable – even if it is a bit on the pricey side.  Peak summer in Switzerland is  tip-top , to borrow the Swiss German phrase. Barring the odd storm, it’s nearly always hot and sunny – oppressively so, sometimes, meaning the best place to be is in the cooler air of the high mountains.

Ready to experience the best of Switzerland? Here's our guide to the top things to do

The Bahamas

"I'm heading to Eleuthera  in the  Bahamas for our annual family trip – there are 16 of us so it's always an exciting week! With age ranges of 7–70, I can report that we are all excited to do a beach bonfire and barbecue, and go sailing to swim with some piggies." – Amy Nichols, Senior Marketing Manager

The sapphire waters and  sun-soaked sands  of the Bahamas beckon travelers with warm weather that never fades. Just a short flight from the east coast of the US, this island nation is a magnet for repeat visitors and last-minute bookers alike. Eleuthera, however, is a bit tougher to get to, but is well worth the expense and effort if you're looking for vacation bliss. With its pink-sand beaches, Atlantic-battered reefs, weather-warped rock and dense subtropical scrub, this incredibly narrow 109-mile (175km-long) crescent also offers boutique hotels, revered surf breaks and some fabulous restaurants. 

Can't decide where to go in the Bahamas? We can help with this guide to the best places to visit 

"I'm heading to Naples , Florida  on a family vacation for 2 weeks. I'm planning to relax mostly, with lots of trips to the beach and eating good food! But I'm hoping to take a trip to the Everglades , too." – Aoife Breslin, Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

For upscale romance and the prettiest, most serene city beach in southwest Florida, come to Naples, the Gulf Coast's answer to Palm Beach. The soft white sand is backed only by narrow dunes and half-hidden mansions. More than that, though, Naples is a cultured, sophisticated town, unabashedly stylish and privileged but also welcoming and fun-loving. With spectacular year-round sunshine, there's certainly no bad time to visit Florida . Summers can be pretty hot, but you'll probably spend less on lodging than the winter or summer months.

Traveling to Florida on a budget? We've got some money-saving tips for you

Massachusetts

"My friends and I are going to Martha’s Vineyard , Massachusetts in July. We’re planning a Midsommar -esque garden dinner one night and will spend the rest of our time beach hopping and strolling through Edgartown." – Ann Douglas Lott, Associate Editor

Martha's Vineyard remains untouched by the kind of rampant commercialism found on the mainland – there's not a single chain restaurant or cookie-cutter motel in sight. Sunny skies and consistently hot weather make July and August the best time for a traditional beach holiday with sunning, swimming and sand-digging. The tradeoff, of course, is that July and August are the months everyone goes to the Vineyard and it's likely to be jam-packed, so plan ahead.

Want to see more of Massachusetts? Here are the best road-trip routes

"My family is headed to Northern Michigan this summer. We're excited to paddleboard to a shipwreck, relax on the beach and sail on Lake Michigan. We'll hike and run down all the sand dunes, explore cute artsy towns full of galleries and good eats." – Sarah Stocking, Digital Editor

Summertime buzzes with travelers when draws like the  Great Lakes , charming islands and unspoiled wilderness are at their most accessible. Michigan’s high season kicks off on Memorial Day (the last Monday in May). Ferries start to depart more regularly to popular spots and while summer-only establishments lift their shutters. The weather is mostly sunny and warm, with temperatures ranging from 76°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C). This means lots of summer-only outdoor activities begin.

There are loads of great beaches in Michigan. Here's our guide to the very best

North Carolina

"My wife and I are going to Kure Beach, North Carolina for the 4th of July for five days — my favorite things to do there are take a yoga class on the beach with Kure Beach Yoga (no need to bring a mat, bring a towel!), watch the sunrise from our hotel (The Lighthouse Inn, a very laid-back and recently revamped spot right by the water so you don’t have to stress about parking, which is awful every summer), and see if we can find the boardwalk cat, Bibi." – Rachel Lewis, Senior Social Media Manager

The height of summer in North Carolina is beach time, and with 322 miles (518km) of ocean shoreline reaching from the  Outer Banks  in the north to the  South Carolina  border in the south (and 12,000 miles/19,000km of estuarine coastline along the way),  North Carolina has plenty of beaches to choose from . Kure Beach has 6 miles (10km) of protected shoreline as well as lagoons teeming with wildlife that you can explore by renting a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard.

Explore some of North Carolina's epic landscapes by foot with our guide to the best hiking routes

Rhode Island

"I'm off to Newport , Rhode Island for Memorial Day Weekend and planning on going to restaurants, wineries, mansion tours, walking and hiking." – Serina Patel, Marketing Manager

It may be the yachting capital of the world, but you don’t need nautical stripes – or a summer cottage – to enjoy the seaside retreat of Newport, Rhode Island. With its fresh briny air, expansive sea views and stunning bays, it's obvious why cityfolk continue to follow in the footsteps of the American industrialists here. Enjoy a taste of the good life by touring Newport's Gilded Age mansions built in the late 1800s, taking sailing lessons, or going wine tasting.

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16 Best Greek Cities to Visit

Whether you enjoy sun-soaked sandy beaches, classical, ancient monuments, or modern nightlife and contemporary culture, there is undoubtedly somewhere in Greece for you to uncover and explore. From the crystal blue waters of Greece’s plethora of picturesque islands, all the way to the astonishing Athens, the country is full of breathtakingly unique cities.

This guide will help you decide which cities to visit during your trip to Greece as well as their highlights, from the larger, well-known cities, right down to the smaller, yet still incredible ones.

Table of Contents

Best Cities in Mainland Greece

One of the world’s most ancient cities, Athens is a city of elegance, history, and culture, as well as taking on many modern quirks. One of the most striking things about Athens is the Acropolis, which towers dominantly over the city, reminding locals and visitors of its past.

Another highlight of the city is Ancient Agora, the ancient city’s center of culture and commerce; make sure you dedicate a vast amount of time wandering around the grounds, learning about the incredible ruins and the history of Agora. Also, make sure you spend time discovering Athens at night, as it has some great bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Thessaloniki

One of Greece’s largest cities, and a hub of gastronomical, artistic, and cultural activity, Thessaloniki is one of the country’s most charming hidden gems. You will undoubtedly fall in love with the vibrant sense of life in the city, and the locals’ sense of resilience. Some of the top things to do and see include

The Museum of Byzantine Culture, where you can discover an immense collection of Byzantine treasures, including jewelry, pots, and other artifacts. Also make sure you check out the Arch of Galerius, a monumental landmark dating from 303AD, that continues to thrive in modern-day Thessaloniki; it reminds locals and visitors alike of the country’s ancient history.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Situated in central Greece lies Kalampaka, a modern city that is the ideal place to locate yourself if you wish to visit Meteora. Meteora is an immense rock formation, that is dominated by huge rock towers with monasteries gently resting on top. Now a World Heritage-listed site, the Meteora has one of the most unique landscapes, and is one of the most visited destinations in Greece; it feels as though it has jumped right out of a fairy-tale.

It is best to stay in Kalampaka and go on a number of excursions and guided tours around the area so that you can learn about the history and geography of the area; if you are a lover of hiking, there are also several incredible trails you can do.

Volos and Pelion Villages

The wonderful port city of Volos is one of Greece’s most popular destinations, as it has so much to offer its visitors; it is sheltered by magnificent mountain scenery and is perched right next to the beautiful blue waters. Volos is a great place to base yourself if you would like to explore the Pelion Villages, which are situated on the nearby Mount Pelion.

One of these villages is Portaria, which is a magical little village famous for its Byzantine architecture, cheese history, and beautiful surrounding scenery. Another Pelion Village is Zagora, which is famed for its breath-taking views of the sea, and its delicious red wines and scenic vineyards.

One of Greece’s lesser-known cities, but certainly one of the most beautiful is Kavala. This slow-paced city is a traditional port city, and has a great gastronomical charm, serving some of the most authentic and fresh Greek food in the whole country.

Today, Kavala is split between the Old City and the more modern city, which is full of Neoclassical mansions, quirky shops, bars, and restaurants, whereas the Old City is full of winding, narrow little alleyways that could lead anywhere, exuding a unique charm and character. One thing you will remember the most about Kavala is that the locals are incredibly friendly, charming, and welcoming, and will go out of their way to make your stay comfortable.

Perhaps one of the most charming seaside cities in the entirety of Greece, Nafplio offers visitors both gorgeous natural scenery, as well as a beautiful contemporary culture and gastronomical delights. One of the best things to do in Nafplio, particularly if you are visiting in the summer, is to wander around the city’s Old Town, gazing at the beautiful bright colored buildings and street-art, perhaps even stopping for a glass of local wine at one of the many authentic Greek-style bars. Nafplio is incredibly romantic and is the perfect place to escape to if you and your partner are looking for a weekend getaway trip.

The mesmerizing landscape of the glorious Kastoria is unlike anywhere else you will visit in Greece. One of the things that you will first when you arrive in Kastoria is its gorgeous, enormous deep blue lake, that the city is built around. One of the highlights of the city is to take a boat ride across the lake, a perfect place for snapping some postcard-like photos and relaxing in the luscious scenery.

Another highlight is because of the lakeside location, there are so many bars, cafes, and restaurants that all offer incredible views, which is made even better by tucking into some authentic Greek dishes.

As the capital of Epirus, Ioannina is a vibrant, bustling lakeside city. If you are someone that prefers a smaller, lesser well-known city when visiting a new country, Ioannina is a perfect size, with just the right amount of activities to do and things to see.

One of the city’s highlights is the Castle of Ioannina, which was constructed in the year 528 AD by Emperor Justinian to symbolize the power and importance of the Byzantine Empire; it is the oldest Byzantine fortress in the entire country and is fascinating to explore and discover its immense history. Also, make sure you spend lots of time doing lakeside walks, and dining in restaurants with lake views!

Despite being very un-touristy, Nafpaktos is the perfect place to visit if you love to get a feel for authentic, local life. It is magnificently picturesque, with its quaint Venetian port and local businesses, all resting on the crystal blue waters that glisten in the summer sunlight.

What you will notice about Nafpaktos is its Medieval style characteristics, which is what gives it its unique and historic charm. Many visitors stopover in Nafpaktos if they are en route to other destinations, such as Olympia, however, the town should be visited in its own right as well, as it offers a taste of quintessential mainland Greece.

Hailed as the second-biggest city in the Peloponnese, Kalamata is blessed with charm and natural beauty and has a plethora of exciting things to experience. One of the most enjoyable things about Kalamata is its abundance of exciting and easily-accessible museums, for instance, The Museum of

Traditional Greek Costumes, which recently opened in 2017; here, you can discover traditional Greek folk outfits, ranging all the way from the eighteenth-century until the twentieth. Another thing to explore is the Kastro, which is a thirteenth-century fort, which offers great views of Kalamata, and also has a vast amount of history just waiting to be uncovered.

Best cities to visit in the Greek islands

Rhodes town.

Rhodes Town offers visitors a large history and a combination of different architectural styles and various cultures, all in a unique and magical mixture. The Old Town is lined with cobblestones and Medieval architecture and various different features, giving off almost an Italian atmosphere rather than a typical Greek one.

The New Town is a lot more modernized and is packed with trendy bars and cafes which offer beautiful views of the neighboring scenery. One thing you will love about Rhodes Town is its unique mix of cultures, styles, as well as the old with the new; it is a colorful, charming, and incredibly welcoming place to visit.

You might be interested in: Things to do in Rhodes

What is charming about Corfu Town is its incredible mixture of artistic culture with the natural surrounding scenery, providing it with an irresistible atmosphere. Also known as Kerkyra, Corfu Town is an elegant destination, full of Venetian charm and poise.

Moreover, it is a gastronomical haven for any foodie lover, particularly those who favor authentic, traditional cuisine; there is something for everyone, however, as there are many modern, trendy restaurants, as well as more rustic ones. Corfu Town is also perfectly located if you are someone who enjoys taking day trips; for instance, a trip to Vidos Island, a simple island that is accessible by boat, and shows another layer of Corfu culture.

Chania, Crete

Combining Venetian and Turkish influence, Chania, also known as Hania, is a wonderful place to visit, which is like nowhere you’ll have experienced before. It offers a simple, slow-paced way of life, incredible food, and majestic architecture, particularly evident at its grand harbor.

Located at the Venetian Harbour is the Lighthouse, which is the perfect place to visit at sunset, where you can watch the sky turn to a stunning pink hue, whilst seeing the rest of Chania transform into its night-time state. There is also an array of museums to visit, such as the Maritime Museum of Crete, which exhibits Crete’s nautical heritage, and is absolutely fascinating.

Rethymno, Crete

Situated on the western side of Crete, Rethymno is a beautiful town, with its Medieval architecture and Venetian ports, it feels quintessentially Greek. It is nearby to some of the best beaches in the entire country, such as Preveli, which is the perfect place to spend the day catching some well-deserved sun rays and getting lost in a good book.

Rethymno is also a great place to base yourself if you would like to do some exploring of the surrounding area and nearby villages; a recommended village is Agia Galini, a gorgeous, simple village that offers a local experience, and is a hub of incredible food; it also has a great beach which is ideal for a relaxing sunny afternoon.

Heraklion, Crete

Famed as being one of the highlights of Crete, Heraklion has some of the clearest, most beautiful waters you will ever see. It is the largest city in Crete, as is the heart of the island’s culture and spirit. The city offers an abundance of ancient ruins (Archaeological site of Knossos), as well as more recent architecture and monuments, giving it a really charming and special character.

Like many larger cities and towns in Greece, there is a modern side and an older side, which means that whatever your interests are, they can more than likely be met; there is something for everyone!

Mytilene, Lesvos

One of the oldest cities in the entire world, Mytilene has been continuously inhabited since the tenth century BC. The city itself is sheltered by demanding mountains, whilst also providing it with a beautiful backdrop; many people go hiking through these mountains, and there are lots of incredible trails that provide hikers with jaw-dropping views of the surrounding natural beauty.

Around the city itself, you can expect to find a vast array of authentic Greek taverns to eat at, most of which provide fresh, local seafood, which you will find absolutely irresistible. Ensure that you spend a lot of your time allowing yourself to get lost, just wandering around the historic streets and taking it’s the unique beauty of Mytilene.

Whether you are someone who enjoys natural scenery, hiking, and taking boat trips, or someone who would rather dine at a modern lakeside restaurant and shop until you drop on large, designer-lined boulevards, there is undoubtedly somewhere in Greece that is perfect for your needs.

Greece is a country that has it all; it is one of the oldest civilizations in the world and has some of the most spectacular ruins that are lovingly preserved by locals and historians, as well as some of the astonishingly good gastronomy you will ever experience.

This list has given a run-down of some of the larger, well-known Greek cities, as well as some of the more unfamiliar ones, which hopefully encourages you to step out of your comfort zone and try something new and different!

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Where to watch UEFA EURO 2024: TV broadcast partners, live streams

Saturday, June 8, 2024

Article summary

Find your local broadcast partners, and get live streams of UEFA EURO 2024 matches where you are.

Article top media content