Are you getting ready for some Greek adventure? Well, here is a list of the top 13 places in Greece that can captivate you with some enthralling beauty of nature and ancient history.
Greece is perhaps one of the most beautiful countries in the world It is not only famous for its gods and goddesses but also for its unparalleled beauty of natural landscapes and cities. The country is filled with numerous places of interest to visit which is the prime reason why millions of global travelers visit the country every year. Whether it is the aesthetic Athens, Serene Santorini, or the incredible island of Aegina; Greece is full of wonders. Even though it is a small country; the place has a lot to offer including pristine beaches, blue seas, green islands, and many others.
If you are planning your next international vacation to Greece; here are the top 13 places you cannot miss out. Each of the places on the list has its own charm and value. Let’s take a better look.
- Athens
The Euro trip is practically incomplete without paying a visit to one of the oldest cities on the continent. Athens is a significant part of the European history and culture which makes it a bucket list for everyone. Athens is the capital of Greece which is best known for its mixed bag essence of trendy and traditional. Offering a blend of ancient and modern, this place has become the perfect tourist destination for all kinds of global travelers. There is natural beauty as well as cosmopolitan architecture which make it a perfect fit for all. One can find huge open roads, ancient buildings, restaurants as well as bars on the streets that travelers can easily enjoy at any hour of the day.
Being a cultural hub, the place is also filled with many fascinating galleries, museums as well as outdoor cinema setups. And of course, you need to see the Parthenon with your own eyes which is one biggest wonders of the world. Athens is Europe’s oldest democratic capital which offers the perfect essence of a laid-back European city.
- Aegina
The island of Aegina is perhaps a little underrated yet offers the most beautiful scenic beauty along with a greater piece of history. This place is only an hour away from the port of Piraeus. The Greek independence war ended back in 1827 and back then, Aegina became the capital of the free country. It is one of the most attractive destinations in Europe which is well revered for its pistachio trees and their immense production. The pistachios found on the island are considered to be the best grade in all over the world. Tourists can also visit the Aphea Temple which is considered home to the goddess Athena. One can also visit the Islet of Moni and the Saint Nektarios Monastery which is located nearby only. Wild deer and peacocks roam around here without any fear of humans.
- Crete
Crete is Greece’s biggest island and if you want to explore it all; you might need to rent a car. However, if you are looking for some outdoor activities rather than sitting in your all day long; Crete can offer you everything that you are looking for. Starting from museums, and UNESCO Heritage sites to old towns and golden beaches; one can find everything on this island. The island can be divided into two major parts. The lively part at the west is known as Chania and on the other hand, there is Sitia on the east side which is famous for its picturesque rural landscape along with attractive coves and beaches. Wilderness lovers and hikers can visit Samaria which is the longest gorge in Europe. They can also visit Minoan palaces for some cultural taste while kids can have a splash at the beautiful waterparks built all over the island.
- Zakynthos
You might have seen this place in multiple movie scenes. It is one of the most popular places in Greece which offers unreal natural beauty and formations that offer a unworldly experience. Zakynthos, also known as Zante is also famous to the party people as the place is notorious for its nightlife adventures. Venetians also call it ‘the flower of the East’ which is blessed with spectacular natural beauty. The beautiful shipwreck beach surrounded by the turquoise ocean water is not something you see daily. The sheer cliffs are not safe to climb but you can have a conversation about the seals and turtles found on the beach and the lagoon. Zante is truly wild, ethereal, and mesmerizing.
- Santorini
Santorini is another picturesque town in Greece which is best known for its bright white and blue painted town that looks absolutely stunning beside the blue ocean. It is one of the islands based on the Aegean Sea which almost seems like the creation of God. Whitewashed villages overlooking the coastline are some of the most spectacular views one can find in Greece. The beaches here are filled with black sand, red sand, and other material which makes them look unreal and artistically beautiful. One can also find rural vineyards beside the village. So, if you are an explorer, a foodie, or an admirer of wine; Santorini has everything for you. Starting from exciting skiing spots to archaeological sites; this place has a lot to offer for everyone.
- Tinos
Hidden in the Cyclades archipelago; Tinos is another gem in Greece that is quite famous for its secluded beauty. Beautiful buildings with carved marble elements and a captivating food palette make Tinos a desired place for people who to chill with their friends. In order to reach the place, one has to fly to Mykonos and then get a ferry from there. While it may sound intimidating, the journey is absolutely worthwhile and can make your international trip memorable. You can find some of the best Greek wines here as well as some of the best chefs in all over Europe. It is recommended to try out the traditional menu of Greece at Thalassaki.
- Naxos
The collection of Cyclades islands offers some of the greatest wonders and its biggest island Naxos also does the same. However, this place is still unexplored which offers a greater chance of finding something new and intriguing. One can find secluded beaches and relaxing weather which brings out the laid-back European nature. It is perhaps a small place yet offers a significant amount of diversity. The place is filled with a huge collection of endless beaches along with a handful of mountain villages. Foreigners can have a great time at Naxos without any worries.
- Corfu
If you are looking for mountains and beaches together, where one can find grey rocks and green trees together right beside the bright blue ocean; Corfu is the ideal destination for you. The place is capable of sparking a romantic essence for you as well as for your loved ones. The lush island offers a ton of adventurous activities to take part in while one can also lay in the sub with ginger ale and their favorite Greek Salad. Strolling on the streets can offer vivid representations of Venetian and Byzantine architecture. There is also a medieval monastery in Paleokastritsa. Jump in the Sea and have a taste of the turquoise blue seawater.
- Rhodes
Rhodes is one of the oldest towns in not only Greece but the whole world. It is the place where a 33-meter-long Colossus statue was situated, the Sub God of Greece. Although the statue was destroyed back in 226 BC, this place falls under the category of Unesco world heritage-classed old town. Enriched with its own charm and historical value; Rhodes is one of the most attractive places in Greece where you can still find the fourteenth-century houses where medieval warriors used to live. Going outside the town will offer more mountain villages and old towns that ooze a fairy tale essence with its unparalleled beauty. The old towns can also offer you lively restaurants and bars; offering a modern touch.
- Kastellorizo
On the opposite of the Turkish town Kaş, Kastellorizois situated which is another island that is furthest from the capital Athens. Situated at the edge of the country; this place can be easily reached with the help of a boat ride or a flight. The island of Rhodes in the Dodecanese can help to reach this place quickly which is remote otherwise. Its pristine natural beauty, colorful buildings, and delicious seafood options can satisfy the soul of every traveler in the country. It is the perfect place to chill with your friends. This place is also enriched with a rich and fascinating history where you can find the castle of the Knights Hospitaller, right beside the Aegean Sea. It is said that the 4th century BC Lycian tomb is right below the castle. Going up 315 steps on the mountain, one can reach the fort-monastery of Agios Georgios which offers a mesmerizing view of the surroundings.
- Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is the second city of the ancient Byzantine Empire which makes it a powerful hub in European history. Later on, this place became a highly efficient Ottoman port city that helped to connect the east and west. This place became a part of Greece in 1912 and it is noticeable through its Middle Eastern textures. The place has a different vibe and if you visit the big central market of Kapani; it might appear like Istanbul sometimes rather than a European market. The architecture here reflects Ottoman civilization and offers a fair depiction of ancient times. However, this Greek region is also famous for its nightlife as most bars and clubs can be found open till 6 am in the morning sometimes even beyond that. If you are hungover the next day, you can also have ouzo and bougatsa breakfast to get ready for the next day.
- Kalamata
Kalamata is perhaps one of the most renowned areas in Greece which is situated in Peloponnese. Along with the intriguing ruins of Messenia and the aesthetics of Navarino Lagoon beach; Kalamata is the best Greek destination to enjoy with your friends and loved ones. The place is also famous for its olives and as Kalamata olives are world famous. Only a few tourists explore this region which makes it more secluded and more enjoyable for everyone. At the Ant farm, you can find ten tree houses built on Olive Trees and you can stay in any one of them.
- Mykonos
Well, Mykonos might be the most privileged Greek island, which is also known as the ‘Greek Ibiza’ as the super clubs here are mostly filled with world-class DJs. The crowd here likes to join the parties via jet-ski, yachts, and private jets. With the global DJs headlining, people here like to rave and there are also plenty of cute hotels where you can secure your accommodation along with affordable gourmet restaurants that offer delicious meals.
These are the top 13 destinations you must visit if you are in Greece.
