Greece is an excellent country filled with ancient wonders, fabulous nature, excellent food, and a few of Europe’s best beaches. The Greek Isles are world-famous; some for the legendary beach parties and others for his or her luxurious hotels with astounding views. Luckily, we’ve been in a position to visit Greece 6 times and explore its diverse landscapes on the mainland, its laid-back atmosphere on the islands, and dove deep into its history.
Whether you’re more thinking about the culture and history of Greece or its best beaches, you’re in the best place. This guide to all the very best things to do in Greece offers loads of options for everybody and explores all the very best places to go to within the Mediterranean.
From the lunar landscapes of Milos to the incredible archeology of Athens – listed here are all the very best things to do in Greece!
We will aid you plan your ideal Greece vacation by exploring the country’s popular destinations, attractions, and hidden gems. One day, you’ll be able to traverse the sandy beaches of the west coast after which explore the archeological sites on the Dodecanese Islands. We’ve covered the whole lot most travelers like to do once they visit Greece so there are many fun activities for everybody.
Greece Quick Guide
- Must-see: Acropolis of Athens, Ruins of Delphi, Milos, Santorini, Heraklion Museum, Panathenaic Stadium, Olympia.
- Where To Stay: Astor Hotel, Lava Caves, Amira Luxury Resort & Spa
- Fun To Do: Pellion Steam Train, Yacht Getaway, Mount Olympus, Cave of the Lakes, Wintery tour,
- Day Trips: Mykonos, Zakynthos, Corfu, Patras
- Must-Try Foods: Gyros, Olives, Tzatziki, Dolmades, Loukoumades
Best Things to Do in Greece
An amazing thing about Greece is that anyone can have a great time there. It doesn’t matter for those who’re into hiking, cycling, walking around cities, or simply lounging on the beach – the country offers loads of decisions for fun and exciting adventures that attract each Greek tourists and foreign visitors. And generally, you don’t even should go to different destinations to try other things.
1. Hike to the Top of Mount Olympus
Mount Olympus is the very best mountain in Greece and the house of the Greek gods in Greek Mythology. Mytikas is the tallest summit, rising to a height of two,917 meters. If you’re feeling adventurous, you’ll be able to attempt to hike to the highest of this mythical summit for uninterrupted views of Greek landscapes.
Bear in mind that hiking to the highest of such a tall mountain is an activity reserved for essentially the most experienced mountaineers. Excursions to lower areas of the mountain can be found for other people. It’s still a rewarding experience and also you get to learn a lot concerning the mountain’s background because the seat of the gods.
Practical Information
Book a guided tour to Mount Olympus for those who’re not acquainted with the terrain.
2. Greek History At The Acropolis Museum
The Acropolis Museum tells the story of the Greek’s history, and it’s one of the necessary museums in the complete country. I like the contrast between the traditional monuments contained in the museum and the ultra-modern constructing that houses the gathering; all of the exhibits stand out much more when juxtaposed with the sleek, contemporary interior of the museum.
The museum houses all of the necessary artifacts that were uncovered at the location of the Acropolis.
Practical Information
The Acropolis Museum is open from 9 AM to five PM. Museum tickets are 10-15€.
3. Sail to Magical Milos
Milos Island is kind of a hidden gem with increasing popularity, and I like to recommend you get there ASAP before it becomes trendier than Mykonos and Santorini. Set within the Aegean Sea, it is thought for striking lunar-like landscapes on its beaches.
Sarakiniko Beach is by far the most well-liked on the island. The white rocks and caves feel such as you’re standing on the moon, and it’s almost surreal that you just’re actually on an island in Greece. The nearby Papafragas Caves are price exploring, and venturing to other areas of the island is best if you need to avoid the crowds.
What’s most special about this island is that it’s the place where Venus de Milo was discovered. Yes, Antioch’s iconic sculpture was found by a farmer on this magnificent Cyclades island.
Practical Information
Milos Island is accessible by ferries from Athens and other islands within the Aegean Sea. The ferry crossing from Athens takes roughly three and a half hours.
4. Stay in Athens for a While
Athens is the capital of Greece and a city with an immensely wealthy history. Whether you need to study old Greece, tour an art museum, hang around on a beach, or discover the country’s Mediterranean culinary delights, Athens is the place to be. Athens can also be considered the cradle of Western civilization, with landmarks just like the Acropolis symbolizing its cultural impact. Read more: Where To Stay In Athens – A Guide To The Best Neighborhoods
History is unquestionably the highlight of a visit to Athens, so you need to be certain that you hit all an important sights. Whether you select to book a tour or need to explore the town on your personal, remember to see the Ancient Agora of Athens, the Acropolis of Athens, the Athens National Garden, and Areopagus Hill. I haven’t even begun to scratch the surface of all of the wonderful attractions in Athens, so don’t be surprised for those who see that some have earned their very own spot on this list. Check out: 16 Best Day Trips from Athens
Practical Information
Athens is serviced by a world airport, and it’s easiest to succeed in the town by plane. An area train can take you from the airport into the town in 45 minutes.
5. Yacht Getaway within the Ionian Islands
Sailing the Ionian Sea on a yacht is the very best technique to explore the Ionian Islands. Discover Corfu, Paxos, Ithaca, Lefkada, and more whilst you travel to fishing villages and quaint towns on the shore. Yacht rental is affordable in Greece, especially once you compare the prices to the country’s luxury resorts.
Also, you’ll be able to make a choice from a wide range of itineraries. Each yacht features a skipper and a number, which is able to take you to all the very best spots you need to see. The exact price of getaways will depend on the route and the length of the cruise, which might be customized to your wishes.
Practical Information
We recommend Yacht Getaways to your magical vacation in Greece as we traveled with this operator and had an incredible time. Read more: Discover the Magic of Yacht Getaways – Greece Ionian Explorer
6. Tour the Ruins of Delphi
The Oracle of Delphi, in central Greece, is one of the famous stories in Greek Mythology, and for those who are even barely thinking about ancient history, you should visit this tiny town. The ruins of the Temple of Apollo are here in Delphi and are one of the famous landmarks on this ancient country.
Here, you can even see the Ancient Theater of Delphi, the Castalia Spring, the Delphi Archaeological Museum, and the trendy town of Delphi, which is west of the archeological sites. The museum is great since it has all of the statues, art, and other items that got to the Oracle of Delphi over time.
Practical Information
The Delphi Archeological Site is open from 8 AM to 7 PM. Tickets are 6-12€. Book this highly rated day trip to Delphi from Athens.
7. Discover the Viewpoints of Rhodes
Rhodes is the dominant certainly one of the Dodecanese Islands, known for archeological sites, sandy beaches, and excellent resorts. It’s a top Greek island to go to, whether you need to spend your time relaxing at a resort or exploring all the several historic sites.
This island can also be an incredible destination for fun outdoor adventures. Rhodes’ quite a few hiking trails will take you to all the very best viewpoints on the island and let you discover its canyons, waterfalls, tall peaks, and so far more. The nature of Rhodes is gorgeous, and truthfully, even higher than its lovely sandy beaches.
Gadoura Dam, Jacob’s Canyon, and the Butterflies Valley are a couple of of the very best natural landmarks on the island. There are also a great deal of museums, monasteries, churches, and other ancient sites which might be price trying out, along with all of the beaches and fancy resorts.
Practical Information
Rhodes is serviced by a world airport and ferried from other Dodecanese islands, in addition to ports in mainland Turkey.
8. Prehistoric Tour of Santorini
Santorini is one of the famous Greek islands, best known for the white and blue houses on the cliffs. It’s an idyllic destination for summer vacations in Greece, however the island has far more to supply along with its spectacular beaches.
Prehistoric tours of Santorini aren’t as famous because the island’s wineries but are very much a thing. Visit Akotiri to see evidence of prehistoric settlement, which is believed up to now from the Neolithic Period. Then, hike to Ancient Thera for mountaintop ruins and dramatic sea views.
The historic walk from Fira to Oia is one other popular thing to do on the island, especially for adventurous travelers. The hike takes 3-5 hours, and it’s mostly downhill if done on this direction. It also offers stunning views along the way in which.
Insider Tip: The walk from Fira to Oia takes place over exposed terrain, so bring numerous sunscreen.
Practical Information
Santorini is accessible by ferries and planes.
9. All You Can Eat Greek Food
When in Greece you should try Greek food. Tzaziki, Gyros, feta cheese, and copious amounts of olive oil are the staples of Greek cuisine, and I’m getting serious nostalgia just occupied with all of the delicious food I ate in Greece. We like to taste local wine in tavernas, and wine tastings are a part of the entire Greek dining experience.
Greek food is Mediterranean and fresh ingredients are key to the Greek flavours. What I like most about this cuisine is that it’s so varied. While fish and seafood is hottest within the south especially on the islands, the north is thought for heartier dishes. Lamb is as popular as fish but vegetables are more popular than meat. Greek food is vegetarian friendly but you would possibly struggle to seek out local vegan options because the Greeks love so as to add feta cheese to the whole lot. And drizzle olive oil, I’m not complaining. Tasting local wine is an element of the travel experience in Greece, it enhances the food and the views.
Practical Information
Food tours can be found in most cities throughout Greece. Athens and Thessaloniki are the most well-liked.
10. Party on Mykonos
The Island of Mykonos is known for its nightlife and daytime beach parties. Anyone trying to have the time of their life in Greece should head straight to Mykonos. With countless beautiful beaches tucked away in secluded bays, luxurious villas, and a few of the very best beach bars in Greece, Mykonos is a top destination for summer fun.
It’s a giant island, and there are definitely other things to do there if you need to do greater than just party. Waterfalls, ruins, and historic landmarks with stunning sights are all available in Mykonos as well. The Archaeological Site of Delos is a fast boat ride from Tourlos, and that’s one of the necessary sacred islands of Ancient Greece.
But in my experience, the history is more of an afterthought on Mykonos, so do consider other destinations (like Santorini or Naxos) for those who’re more thinking about exploring than dancing.
Practical Information
Mykonos is serviced by ferries and planes.
11. Go On a Winery Tour
Winery tours can be found almost all over the place in Greece. They’re inexpensive, fun, and a must for all wine lovers traveling within the Mediterranean. Greece is in the highest 20 wine-producing countries on the planet and it has a few of the oldest vineyards, so Greek wine is unquestionably special and price trying.
Tours with wine tastings offer insight into the wine production and history. Santorini is a very good destination for winery tours, in addition to Achaia Clauss. It’s certainly one of the country’s oldest wineries, situated within the Peloponnese.
Practical Information
The wineries of Santorini are a few of the country’s best.
12. See The Shipwreck Beach on Zakynthos
Shipwreck Beach is a legendary sight. It’s utilized in virtually all promotional material for Greece, and I doubt there’s a one that hasn’t seen the enduring image at the least once. This famous beach is on the island of Zakynthos, and until 2023, you possibly can reach it on boat tours and swim in the ocean.
That’s not the case because there’s a danger of landslides, and it’s still unknown whether the beach will again open to the general public. The excellent news is you could still see the beach from a platform on the cliffs.
The view is much more dramatic from above, and the one difference is you could’t get near the shipwreck But that just gives you an excuse to return to Navagio Beach when it’s once more protected to go to.
Practical Information
Zakynthos is an Ionian Island, accessible by ferries from other islands and Kyllini on the mainland. It’s also serviced by an airport and reachable by flights.
13. Unesco World Heritage Site: Acropolis of Athens
The Acropolis of Athens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and doubtless essentially the most famous historical landmark in Greece. It’s an attraction you should visit when traveling to Athens, as it truly is essentially the most iconic landmark in the complete city.
Standing amongst the traditional ruins is an incredible feeling. It’s surreal to have a look at all those temple ruins and think that humans lived there greater than a thousand years ago. Also, the Acropolis offers a beautiful view of downtown Athens. The historic site is on a better elevation than the remaining of the town, and the vista of Athens’ rooftops stretches from the ruins.
Insider Tip: Wear sturdy shoes since the terrain on the Acropolis may be very slippery, even in dry weather.
Practical Information
Tickets for the Acropolis are 10€ within the winter season and 15€ in the summertime season. The opening hours depend upon the season, however the Acropolis is at all times open until at the least 5 PM.
14. Admire Greek Art on the National Archaeological Museum
The National Archaeological Museum is one of the necessary in Athens. It’s a delight to tour for those who’re thinking about ancient Greek art and archaeological findings. History enthusiasts are likely to enjoy their time at this museum, and the art collection is stunning enough you could admire it even without being a history buff.
Don’t miss out on the museum garden, either. The landscaping is gorgeous, and there are a great deal of pretty trees and plants to see. Walk across the green space first, after which head up the steps to see the exhibit in the very best museum in Athens.
Practical Information
Tickets for the National Archaeological Museum are 6€ within the off-season and 12€ from April to November. The opening hours also depend upon the season.
15. Visit The Meteora Monasteries
The Meteora monastery complex is among the finest places to go to in central Greece, renowned for its cultural heritage and natural beauty. If you’re planning a road trip within the country or simply a visit within the off-season, that is by far among the finest landmarks away from the islands.
Come here to see dramatic rock formations with monasteries atop. Six of the unique 24 monasteries remain, and the incredible architecture of the place has rightfully earned it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. The monasteries were inbuilt the thirteenth and 14th centuries, all atop the present pillars. The place is completely sensible, and for me, it’s among the finest places you’ll be able to visit in the complete country.
Practical Information
Entrance to individual monasteries is charged 3€, but the doorway to the complex is freed from charge. Meteora is roughly 4 hours north of Athens, and guided tours of the complex can be found from the capital.
16. Explore Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is the second-largest city in Greece and an incredible place to go to for those who’ve already been to the capital. This has the vibe of Athens within the sense that you just’re staying in a buzzing metropolis filled with historic landmarks and ancient ruins. But the crowds are much smaller, so it’s generally a bit easier to enjoy your stay.
Thessaloniki has its justifiable share of historic landmarks and cultural attractions that supply insight into the lives of the locals. And it’s much easier to find those attractions once you don’t should bump elbows with other tourists simply to get to a ticket office.
But even greater than history and culture, Thessaloniki is thought for Greek food. Seafood, olives, and the delicious Bougatsa are all inviting you to get a taste of Thessaloniki and forget all about Athens for a day or two.
Practical Information
Thessaloniki is in northern Greece, accessible by planes, ferries, and trains from other European cities.
17. Hiking in Tzoumerka National Park
Greece has incredible nature, however it’s often neglected in favor of its coast. It’s not that surprising, considering the country has world-famous beaches on its countless islands. But if you need to explore more of mainland Greece’s forests, mountains, lakes, and other landscapes, a visit to Tzoumerka National Park is ideal for you.
Visit Tzoumerka to see rushing rivers, picturesque villages, and ancient houses built into the cliffs. Traverse the hiking trails, ride on the mountain biking paths, and climb to the highest of each hill and mountain you would like. It’s an incredible opportunity to find some mesmerizing Greek landscapes that don’t have anything to do with sand or sea.
Practical Information
Tzoumerka National Park is accessible by road in the summertime. No fees or permits are required for park entrance.
18. Visit the Birthplace of the Olympic Games
The Archaeological Site of Olympia on the Peloponnese peninsula is where the traditional Olympic Games took place. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and among the finest remnants of ancient Greece.
Tour the archeological site to see the ruins from several different periods in Olympia’s history. Walk around the previous center for wrestling, see the ruins of ancient temples, statues of Greek gods, and far more. If you’re even a tiny bit thinking about history, Olympia shall be an enchanting place to tour.
Practical Information
The Archaeological Site of Olympia is open from 8 AM to three/7 PM. Tickets are 6-12€.
19. Feel the (Pink) Sand Between Your Toes at Elafonissi Beach
Elafonissi Beach is on the southwestern fringe of Crete. It’s famous for pink sand, turquoise water, and enchanting surroundings. The beach is an element of a nature preserve, and it’s accessible only in good weather.
Come here if you need to see certainly one of the country’s prettiest beaches and loosen up on a lounger for a couple of hours. Although Elafonissi Beach is mesmerizing, there’s not much else to do here apart from sunbathing. The sea may be very shallow, and you have got to walk for ages to succeed in knee-deep water, so it’s not a great beach for swimming.
Practical Information
Elafonissi Beach is most easily accessible on tours from Chania.
20. Tombs and Palace Ruins on the Archaeological Site of Mycenae
The Archaeological site of Mycenae is one of the necessary in mainland Greece. It features palace ruins, grave circles, an ancient palace, and the Archeological Museum of Mycenae, which exhibits all of the necessary objects uncovered at this site.
Mycenae was so crucial for the event of the country that a whole period of Greek history is known as after it. From 1600 BC to 1100 BC, Mycenae was one of the necessary centers of Greek civilization.
Practical Information
The Archeological Museum of Mycenae is open from 8 AM to three:30/7 PM. Tickets are 6-12€.
21. Explore Chania’s Venetian Architecture
Chania is a port city on the island of Crete. It’s best known for the Venetian architecture that adorns much of the town, the very best example of which is the Venetian Port of Chania. Old city partitions, ruins of a Byzantine castle, and the Lighthouse of Chania are a couple of other notable landmarks within the town.
Come to this excellent city for the proper balance of ancient history and delightful sandy beaches. Crete is home to a few of the very best beaches in Greece, and plenty of are easily accessible from Chania.
Practical Information
Chania is serviced by planes and ferries, and flying to the island is the very best option.
22. See the Legendary Panathenaic Stadium
The first modern Olympic Games took place at Panathenaic Stadium back in 1896, cementing the venue’s place in recent history. Also, it’s the one stadium on the planet made entirely of marble, making it certainly one of the highest three landmarks in Athens.
I like to recommend getting the audio guide for the stadium tour since it provides a lot context concerning the place. Without it, you’re just looking at rows of marble seats and statues.
Practical Information
Panathenaic Stadium is open from 8 AM to 7 PM. General admission is 10€.
23. Admire Minoan Art in Heraklion
Heraklion is the capital of Crete and among the finest cities on the island. Just like Chania, it is known for its beautiful Venetian architecture. Byzantine churches, monasteries, and countless other landmarks are scattered throughout this ancient city.
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is an absolute must for those who end up in Heraklion on Crete. The museum boasts a group of many desirable items, by far the very best of which is its collection of Minoan Art. It’s the most important collection of its kind on the planet, with statues, jewelry, furniture, and far more.
Practical Information
Heraklion is serviced by a port and airport. Ferries depart from Athens and travel for roughly 9 hours.
24. Explore the Ancient Agora of Athens
Walk back in time and follow within the footsteps of the traditional Greeks on the Ancient Agora of Athens. This is the center of ancient Athens, where residents would gather to discuss politics, commerce, and social issues. As you walk through the ruins, you will note several amazing ancient monuments, the Temple of Hephaestus and the reconstructed Stoa of Attalos, which now houses the Museum of the Ancient Agora.
The Ancient Agora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers you a glimpse into day by day life in ancient Greece. The museum has more information on the location, and the exhibits show you the artifacts that tell the story of this civic centre. Whether you’re a history buff or simply inquisitive about the past, the Ancient Agora is a must see when in Athens.
25. Samaria Gorge in Crete
Hike the stunning Samaria Gorge, which is certainly one of Crete’s most famous natural wonders. This 16 km long gorge within the White Mountains is a difficult but rewarding hike through a few of the island’s most beautiful landscapes. The trail takes about 6-8 hours to finish and winds its way through narrow passages, past towering cliffs, and alongside a crystal clear river.
The Samaria Gorge is home to many species of natural world, including the endangered Cretan goat, the kri-kri. The gorge’s natural beauty and tranquility make it a must-see for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
26. See a Play at Ancient Epidaurus
Experience ancient Greek theatre on the Ancient Epidaurus, a historic theatre famous for its acoustics and scenery. Located within the Peloponnese region, this ancient site comes alive throughout the summer months with Greek tragedies, comedies, and modern plays.
Seeing a play on the Ancient Epidaurus is an experience like no other. The theatre is designed in order that the faintest sound might be heard from every seat; it’s an intimate and immersive experience. Surrounded by greenery and hills, the setting is as beautiful because the performances.
27. Find Your Beach
Greece has an extended coastline and a beach for each style of traveler. Whether you like sandy beaches, pebbled beaches, or secluded coves, you’ll find your perfect spot to loosen up. Some of the most well-liked beaches are mentioned above, but I also wanted to offer a shout-out to Koukounaries Beach in Skiathos for the golden sand and pine forest behind.
Each beach is different, from swimming and sunbathing to water sports and beach bars. The landscapes and waters are so beautiful that Greece’s beaches are a few of the very best on the planet and the proper place to spend your holiday.
28. Cruise the Cyclades
Sail the blue waters of the Aegean Sea and discover the beautiful Cyclades. Famous for its beaches, villages, and nightlife, the Cyclades are the final word Greek island experience. A ship trip through this beautiful archipelago is the very best technique to see all of it and get immersed within the local culture.
Choose from day trips to multi day cruises. Popular stops are Santorini with its famous sunsets and white houses, Mykonos with its beach parties and Paros with its traditional villages and turquoise waters. Swim, snorkel and sunbathe on a few of the most beautiful beaches of the Aegean Sea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 7 Days Enough For Greece?
7 days is enough for Athens and a few day trips in Greece. Plan a vacation of at the least two weeks for a more thorough exploration of Greece and its wonderful islands.
What is the Nicest Part of Greece to Visit?
The nicest a part of Greece to go to is its islands, at the least by way of landscapes and weather. Santorini, Mykonos, Zakynthos, Milos, Rhodes, and plenty of others all offer mild weather, sunny days, and plenty of miles of sandy beaches.
Where Should I Go For My First Time in Greece?
Athens is ideal for first-time visitors, especially if you need to discover history and culture. One of the countless islands is healthier for those who’re on the lookout for a more relaxed vacation destination.
What Is The Number One Attraction In Greece?
The Acropolis of Athens is the primary attraction in Greece. This ancient site is a UNESCO Heritage Site and by far the country’s most famous tourist attraction.
Where To Stay in Greece
Stay in Athens for those who’re going to Greece for history and culture. The capital has by far the very best landmarks and attractions, and it’s perfect for first-time visitors.
For a more relaxed vacation, stay at Milos Island and wander around its mesmerizing beaches. And for the very best balance of island fun and ancient Greek landmarks, select Crete. Here are a few of the very best hotels in Greece for all budgets:
Tips and Information For Visiting Greece
Best Time To Visit
The best time to go to Greece is from April to October. Greece is a highly regarded destination in the summertime due to the nice and cozy weather and countless miles of sandy beaches, so it is advisable to avoid traveling in July and August. If you don’t like crowds, early spring and late fall are excellent times to be in Greece.
May, June, and September are still good times to go to for smaller crowds and to swim in the ocean. The weather is warm enough you could comfortably go for a swim and lounge on the beach, but the remaining of the world hasn’t entirely caught on, so that they haven’t all arrived.
Winters in Greece are dreary and wet. It’s not fun walking on slippery cobblestones, and I don’t recommend traveling to Greece from November to March.
Getting There
Athens International Airport is the most important one in Greece, so there’s a great likelihood you’ll land at this airport. A train service is out there to take you to downtown Athens, and it’s often the fastest way of traveling.
The roads leading into the town can get quite congested, so taxis and personal transfers can sometimes take longer to get you to the town center. A one-way train ticket is just 9€.
If it is advisable to get somewhere from Athens, look into trains, buses, ferries, and flights. Greece has loads of smaller airports, but they’re mostly serviced by local (inexpensive) airlines.
How Much Time Do You Need
The period of time it is advisable to go to Greece really will depend on how you need to experience the country. If you’re just staying in Athens, you wish at the least three days to explore the town, preferably five. But if you need to go island hopping on either coast, you’ll need at the least seven days to have the option to see a couple of different towns.
Road trips on the mainland are also an option, and you wish 7-10 days for those as well. Keep in mind that each one the timeframes I’ve listed are the bare minimum; for those who can spare two or three weeks for Greece and also you’re not afraid of going out and exploring, your days shall be crammed with amazing adventures and beautiful views.
