15 Best Places to Visit in Greece in 2023

To listing all the locations to go to in Greece could be unattainable. From rugged snow-capped mountains and historical ruins to turquoise waters and white sandy seashores, Greece can fulfill each traveler’s wants. 

Together with the stunning Greek Islands, a few of the greatest locations to go to in Greece are the nation’s wonderful historic websites.

Greece is the birthplace of democracy and in addition the cradle of Western civilization. With its mixture of awe-inspiring magnificence and historical past, tasty delicacies, and welcoming folks, Greece is most positively one of many high locations to go to.

Finest Locations to Go to in Greece

When you’re planning a visit quickly, ensure you try our epic Greece travel guide. Not solely is that this one of many cheapest places to travel, nevertheless it’s additionally on our list of the most effective international locations to journey to for meals. 

Questioning the place to go in Greece? In no specific order, right here is my listing of the 15 greatest locations to go to in Greece.

1. Santorini

Most likely one of the crucial well-known locations to go to in Greece, Santorini is the diamond of the Aegean. Hundreds are drawn to the fantastic thing about this island yearly and go away understanding that there’s nowhere else prefer it.

This spectacular place is likely one of the most scenic in all of the Greek Islands. Picturesque and world-renowned, Santorini have to be seen to be believed.

Take a dip within the turquoise waters, stroll across the stunning villages and dine within the nice eating places, Santorini will steal your coronary heart. That is nonetheless simply one in every of my favourite locations in Greece.

From its volcanic seashores and whitewashed homes to its unbelievable sunsets and surroundings, Santorini is most positively among the best locations to go to in Greece for {couples}. If there’s one factor you gained’t need to miss in Santorini, it’s this catamaran sail with lunch and an open bar. Study extra about the most effective 15 issues to see and do in Santorini in our post.

Santorini is touristy however continues to be rated as one of many easiest locations to go to in Greece

2. Nafplio

Formed over the centuries by many alternative cultures, immediately Nafplio is the playground of the Athens elite and one of many locations to go in Greece for the wealthy and well-known.

The Ottomans, Byzantines, Venetians, and plenty of extra have all left their mark on this little seaside metropolis. Citadels and fortresses dot the hillsides giving Nafplio an attractive appeal.

This pleasant and patriotic city was as soon as the capital of Greece, as most of the locals will fortunately inform you. In addition to historical past, Nafplio additionally gives some nice eating places and seashores the place you possibly can relax and calm down.

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Discover the slim and winding streets of the city and marvel on the structure. Stroll alongside the esplanade and dine on a few of the best seafood, whereas million-dollar yachts bob within the harbour subsequent to you.

Nafplio is likely one of the most romantic cities you’ll ever go to. This is likely one of the greatest locations to go to in Greece for {couples} and households. Click here for the best tours and activities.

☞ SEE ALSO: 15 Best Airbnbs in Naxos 

3. Corfu

Corfu is an island positioned off the northwest coast of the nation within the Ionian Sea. Together with its wealthy cultural heritage, the island additionally boasts rugged mountains and a few of the best beaches in Greece.

Corfu positively is likely one of the hottest locations to go to in Greece and when individuals are looking out the online for the place to go in Greece, Corfu often exhibits up within the high 10.

Nonetheless, if the throngs of vacationers should not your factor, don’t fear — remoted seashores stretch alongside the winding coast of Corfu. With so many seashores on supply, it is rather simple to seek out your individual excellent piece of paradise.

Together with white sandy seashores, there are additionally picturesque cities and villages equivalent to Perithia and Corfu outdated city. Right here you will discover the stays of the Venetian builders and in addition anti-pirate castles from an age passed by.

All in all, Corfu is an extremely stunning place to go to and there are countless things to do in Corfu. Study where to stay on Corfu in our full information to the most effective areas of the island. When you’re a foodie, this cooking class is a must-do, whereas this walking tour contains details about Corfu and meals tastings!

Nick and I even spent our anniversary in Corfu. Take a look at our movies from our time on the island to get an thought if this is likely one of the locations to go to in Greece that you simply need to see:

4. Knossos (among the best locations in Greece for historical past)

A brief automotive or bus experience from the Cretan capital Heraklion lies the Minoan ruins of Knossos. This relic of the bronze age was as soon as dwelling to the mighty Minoan civilization which dominated the area over 5000 years in the past.

The ruins of Knossos are the best-preserved bronze age relics in the entire of Greece and are an unbelievable sight to see. A go to right here is likely one of the top things to do in Crete.

Together with fairly mosaics and nice pottery, there’s additionally the corridor of kings, which is the place the legend of the Minotaur and Labyrinth was performed out.

The ruins of Knossos are a should when visiting the Island of Crete. Greece has an extended historical past and Knossos is a superb place to catch a glimpse of the previous. Knossos stands proud as among the best locations to go to in Greece. Get your skip-the-line ticket, with a guide here.

To study extra about touring to Crete, take a look at our complete guide to the island, and our guide to visiting Elounda.

5. Zakynthos

Dwelling to a few of the Greek Islands’ greatest nightlife, Zakynthos is likely one of the most stunning spots in your complete Mediterranean. Turquoise water, white sandy seashores, and large chalk-white cliffs, all give Zakynthos its signature magnificence.

Zakynthos is likely one of the high locations to go to in Greece for a seaside vacation — there are 27 seashores on the island. Don’t miss this private tour which takes you to the gorgeous Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Cove) earlier than the hoards of vacationers arrive.

The island can also be dwelling to one of the crucial photographed spots in Greece, Shipwreck Cove. In any other case generally known as Navagio seaside, this alone makes Zakynthos a must-visit vacation spot.

The middle of the island is much less explored than the shoreline, with fir timber and olive groves including to the island’s appeal. For my part, Zakynthos is unquestionably among the best locations to go to in Greece.

☞ SEE ALSO: Zakynthos, Greece: Our Last Minute Travel Decision

Zakynthos can also be one of many Greek Islands’ largest occasion spots. So if you’re in search of some nice nightlife together with idyllic magnificence, Zakynthos is a spot that ticks all the bins. There are such a lot of things to do in Zakynthos, you’ll by no means be bored. 

For extra on touring to Zakynthos, try these widespread locations: Gerakas Beach, Navagio Beach, Laganas Beach, Zante Town, Banana Beach, Porto Azzuro, Porto Limnionas, Keri, Alykes, Xigia Beach, and Psarou Beach

6. Athens (among the best cities in Greece to go to)

There are few cities on earth which might be full of as a lot historical past as Athens. The birthplace of democracy and accredited because the founding father of Western civilization, this can be a metropolis that stretches throughout the ages.

This vibrant place is a must-visit and is probably going the most effective metropolis to go to in Greece as an entire.

Athens overflows with Greek tradition and is full of spectacular websites just like the Parthenon and the Temple of Zeus. Additionally don’t forget to go to the Plaka district. Click here for a superb tour of the Acropolis and Parthenon.

This little suburb of Athens is positioned slightly below the Acropolis and is a superb place for people-watching, procuring, and consuming. Stroll among the many cobbled streets and absorb all the handicraft outlets and eating places.

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Athens is a metropolis that defies the ravages of time and is simply one other of the unbelievable locations to go to in Greece.

Once you’re visiting Athens, you’ll be spoiled for selection on the subject of genuine meals. This metropolis is likely one of the greatest locations to go to in Greece for meals. Be sure that to take a look at these best restaurants in Athens, and prepare to observe your waistline develop.

There are countless things to do in Athens, you’ll by no means be bored right here! 

7. Rhodes

The Island of Rhodes, positioned off the southwestern coast of Turkey is likely one of the Greek Islands’ most visited spots. Rhodes caters to all tastes, from backpackers to the wealthy and well-known, all drawn to this teardrop within the Aegean.

Boasting a few of the greatest swimming spots in Greece, Rhodes has the proper mixture of quaint cities, pristine seashores, and archaic historical past. This catamaran tour is a superb solution to get out on the water. It contains all meals and drinks as nicely, making it nice worth for cash.

Whether or not you need to occasion the evening away in Faliraki or calm down in luxurious at one of many many 5 star hotels, Rhodes covers each angle.

As you’ve seen by now, Greece is the proper mix of paradise and historical past with Rhodes being no completely different.

The island’s capital, Rhodes Previous City was as soon as dwelling to a marvel of the world, the mighty Colossus of Rhodes. This type of historical past, together with the unbelievable surroundings, nightlife and swimming spots make Rhodes among the best locations to go to in Greece with buddies.

To study extra, see our full journey information to Rhodes Greece.

8. Meteora (among the best locations to go to in Greece on the mainland)

Subsequent up is one thing somewhat completely different. Meteora is likely one of the most original locations to go to in Greece, and Europe as an entire! Positioned within the coronary heart of northern Greece, Meteora is dwelling to a few of the world’s most spectacular Orthodox church buildings.

The Meteora Monasteries are one of many few UNESCO world heritage websites which have been given a double standing. UNESCO provides two completely different world heritages standing, one for artwork and one for nature. The gorgeous bluffs and hoodoos of Meteora have acquired each.

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Constructed within the 14th and sixteenth centuries, this can be a land the place fingers of stone attain for the heavens, with Orthodox monasteries perched precariously on the information. A land the place folks dwell within the sky and nonetheless worship God with a passion of a bygone age.

Meteora is a panoramic place you gained’t need to miss. This tour from Athens is the easiest way to go to Meteora.

On the lookout for locations to go to in Greece that aren’t on an island? Look no additional than Meteora.

9. Delphi

Right here is one other vacation spot for historical past lovers. Delphi, the spiritual centre of the traditional world nonetheless clings on even immediately. Perched on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, these historical ruins have been as soon as a spot that drew folks (even kings) to listen to the phrases of the Oracle.

The Oracle of Delphi has been etched into Greek historical past and the priestess of Apollo’s phrases has echoed by way of the ages.

The Temple of Apollo nonetheless stands and is likely one of the highlights of Delphi. Together with the Temple of Apollo, there’s additionally the Athena Priene, a theatre, and an historical stadium.

Take a stroll among the many ruins and transport your self again in time. Delphi is actually among the best locations to go to in Greece. Delphi makes for an awesome day journey from Athens. Take a look at this highly-rated trip.

10. Skyros

Positioned within the centre of the Aegean, Skyros is understood for its gorgeous seashores, jagged shoreline, and seaside villages. Steeped in custom and nonetheless comparatively untouched, Skyros is a superb selection for an idyllic getaway.

The place the north is all rolling farmlands and pine forests, the south is characterised by arid hills and rocky shorelines. Skyros has managed to fly below the radar for a very long time and doesn’t entice the lots of vacationers like most of the different Greek Islands.

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When you do make it to Skyros, hold an eye fixed out for the legendary wild horses of the island. For millennia Skyrian horses have roamed the island, sadly nevertheless they’re changing into fewer and fewer. Who is aware of how for much longer it is possible for you to to see these animals within the wild.

11. Olympia

Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Video games is one other place to go to in Greece which is carved into historical past.

Positioned within the hallowed Valley of the Gods, it’s nonetheless doable to see the traditional stadium and coaching grounds of the Olympians. At the moment, Olympia would’ve been among the best cities to go to in Greece.

Together with the stadium and coaching grounds, the UNESCO-accredited Olympia additionally boasts a few of the best-preserved monuments and temples in all of Greece.

These hallowed monuments are devoted to the nice gods of outdated equivalent to Zeus and Hera. Positioned within the rugged hills of the Peloponnese, the Valley of the Gods is an awe-inspiring place.

Together with Olympia itself, the valley additionally has some unbelievable climbing and mountain bike trails and is located near the Alfos River Valley. All of this mixed makes Olympia and the Valley Of The Gods among the best locations to go to in Greece. Click here for a superb, personal tour of Olympia.

12. Skiathos

Skiathos is dwelling to a few of the most beautiful beaches in all of Greece. Finest recognized for its seaside and nightlife, Skiathos has blasted onto the itinerary of many vacationers in recent times.

With crystal clear waters and white sandy seashores, together with some unbelievable nightspots, it’s simple to see why.

Regardless of the inflow of tourism, this island within the Aegean has misplaced none of its magnificence. With over 60 beautiful seashores and climbing trails by way of rolling pine forests, Skiathos is a nature lover’s dream.

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Together with the pure great thing about the island, there’s additionally Skiathos City which caters completely to vacationers. Good eating places spill out onto the streets the place you possibly can sit and dine the night away because the solar slowly dips into the Mediterranean. When you select one factor to do in Skiathos, make it this sailing trip which incorporates snorkel gear, meals, and drinks — chances are you’ll even spot dolphins!

13. Halkidiki

Simply south of town of Thessaloniki lies the peninsula of Halkidiki. This very nicely may very well be Greece’s best-kept secret.

Dwelling to a few of the greatest stretches of sand in northern Greece, the Halkidiki peninsula has an ideal mix of recent luxurious and custom.

The Halkidiki peninsula is cut up into three fingers which splay out into the Aegean.

There are the Golden sandy seashores of the Sithonia headland, the resorts and eating places of Kassandra, and at last the mysterious Athos which is dwelling to a few of the most stoic monastic communities in Greece and is conventional within the excessive.

When mixed, all three headlands of the peninsula come collectively to create the proper retreat. Halkidiki, in the interim, continues to be comparatively crowd-free. How lengthy this may final nevertheless is unknown, go to quickly earlier than the phrase is out. Don’t miss this incredible sailing trip round Halkidiki.

14. Mycenae

Subsequent up, we now have a metropolis that dominates the myths and legends of outdated. The partitions of Mycenae have been so excessive that the traditional Greeks credited their creation to the Cyclops.

Town of Mycenae comes from a time earlier than Greece and is featured in tales such because the Fall of Troy. Its most well-known ruler was the mighty King Agamemnon himself.

Separating historical past from delusion may be very troublesome at Mycenae as town was at its strongest over 3500 years in the past! Mycenae lies means off the overwhelmed vacationer path and can take you to part of the nation that few vacationers get to see. 

Certainly, Mycenae is likely one of the nice archeological websites of Greece and can go away you awestruck on the engineering prowess of the ancients. The tradition, surroundings, and historical past all come collectively to make Mycenae one of many nation’s must-see locations.

Discover Mycenae on the map, here. Or, take this day trip from Athens which is the easiest way to see Mycenae.

15. Chios

Chios is somewhat bit off-track however may be very a lot underrated. Nick and I visited this tiny little island on our most up-to-date go to to Greece and we completely beloved it.

Hidden medieval villages, gorgeous seashores, distinctive lodging choices, and nice eating places make this island among the best locations to go to in Greece.

As Chios is gaining popularity and extra companies are opening on the island, we figured we had so as to add it to this listing when updating it for 2023!

We rented a automotive throughout our final go to to Chios and met some wonderful folks. We extremely advocate testing Oz Cocktail Bar within the city of Chios for some award-winning combined drinks and don’t miss a bicycle tour with Goat Trails (superior title, proper?).

If in case you have time (and you’re keen on Greek meals as a lot as we do), then head to Chios Cooking Lessons for a household lunch at an area’s dwelling. Discover Chios on the map, here, and take a look at our guide to spending 5 days in Chios.

Finest Locations To Go to in Greece Video

Extra Prime Greece Locations

There are too many unbelievable locations to see in Greece to have an inventory of simply 15. Listed here are a number of bonus spots so as to add to your listing. 

1. Lesvos

Positioned close to the nation of Turkey, Lesvos (or, Lesbos) is one other island within the North Aegean that you simply gained’t need to miss. We spent 5 days right here and actually loved our keep. There are sufficient things to see and do in Lesvos to maintain you busy.

Lesvos is the third largest island within the nation and is a type of locations to go in Greece for those who’re in search of someplace away from the crowds. 

From the pottery-filled, mountainous village of Agiasos and the Petrified Forest within the west, to the scenic coastal city of Petra and the neoclassical capital of Mytilene; Lesvos actually is a various vacation spot in Greece.

When you’re an adventure-seeker, Lesvos can also be an awesome place to discover above and beneath the water.

We joined a novel expertise that mixed crusing with scuba diving and had an exquisite day. For scuba diving, go to Lesvos Scuba Oceanic Center and for crusing see George at Alternative Sailing — each are skilled corporations that we advocate. 

2. Mykonos

There are countless islands to go to in Greece, and Mykonos positively deserves a spot on the listing. 

The island is understood for its whitewashed blue-roofed houses, nevertheless it’s additionally a go-to for honeymooners and party-goers. This Cyclades island is likely one of the hottest within the nation. 

Whereas Mykonos is a superb place to go to in Greece for buddies (because of the enjoyable events), it additionally has a chilled-out aspect, with fairly slim streets and alleyways, wine-tasting tours, wonderful sundown spots, fascinating museums, and little villages to go to. 

You don’t should be a partier in an effort to take pleasure in a visit to Mykonos. Click here for a top-recommended villa in Mykonos. See our listing of the best things to do in Mykonos.

3. Paros

One other island is positioned within the Cyclades. Paros gives gorgeous landscapes, fertile valleys, and rolling hills. You’ll additionally discover monasteries, medieval ruins, picturesque villages, and azure blue waters.

They are saying that Paros is like Mykonos was 20 years in the past — providing the environment, with out the crowds and hefty worth tags. Plus, there are quite a few things to do in Paros to maintain you entertained. This is likely one of the greatest locations to go in Greece. Click here for a beautiful, budget-friendly lodging possibility in Paros.

Methods to Get Round Greece

Figuring out in regards to the stunning locations in Greece is one factor, however attending to them will take somewhat little bit of planning. There are six essential island teams, plus mainland Greece.

You possibly can fly to just about wherever from Athens, or for a extra comfy, reasonably priced expertise, you are able to do some island hopping by ferry.

From Athens, there are 8 completely different ports you possibly can take a ferry on to, together with Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, and Heraklion (Crete). Simply seek for ferry occasions, routes, and costs here.

Now You Know The Finest Locations to Go to in Greece

This unbelievable nation gives the proper mixture of rest, tradition, and historical past. A go to to Greece is one which you’ll always remember and this nation will draw you again time and time once more. 

We even have quite a lot of nice journey info together with the place to remain, when to go, the most effective issues to do and extra. To study extra, try our Greece Travel Guide.

What number of of those unbelievable locations have you ever visited? What’s your favorite place in Greece? Do you like historical ruins or irresistible seashores?

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