19 Really Breathtaking Locations To Discover In Greece

This sun-kissed European nation gives every thing from serene sandy seashores to vibrant historic historical past. It caters to all, from historical past buffs and nature fans to clubbers and beachgoers. Listed below are the locations that really stood out to me…

1. Santorini

This is named being one of the romantic islands on the planet! I personally thought the maze of slim, cobblestone streets that weave by hanging white buildings and blue domes, all set towards the breathtaking backdrop of the deep blue Aegean was and spectacular sunsets was severely dreamy! Though it was actually busy with vacationers throughout my summer time journey, it’s nonetheless a really particular place – it’s in style for a cause! 

Positioned within the southern Aegean Sea, about 200 kilometres southeast of Greece’s mainland, a part of the Cyclades island group it was fashioned by a large volcanic eruption round 1600 BC. I used to be in awe of its dramatic caldera views, distinctive volcanic-sand seashores, and historic ruins.

I stayed for every week and explored the traditional ruins of Akrotiri, loved a sundown in postcard-perfect Oia and Fira the place {couples} roamed hand-in-hand, relaxed on the distinctive Crimson Seaside which had hanging crimson volcanic sand, sampled scrumptious native wines at a volcanic winery, hiked the breathtaking path from Fira to Oia, and took a ship tour across the caldera.

• Location: southern Aegean Sea, 120 miles southeast of the mainland.
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: late spring or early fall (nice climate and fewer crowds)

My favourite highlights…

• Staying on the Dana Villas & Infinity Suites – the breathtaking views of the caldera from my personal terraces and the Insta-worthy personal swimming pool and the holistic spa remedies made it a severely particular keep! 
• Exploring the attention-grabbing black sand seashores of Perissa, Perivolos and Agios Georgios – I particularly beloved the crystal-clear waters and dramatic backdrop of Mesa Vouno on Perissa Seaside! 

2. Mykonos

This is likely one of the most Instagrammable Greek islands! I used to be personally wowed by its iconic whitewashed Cycladic buildings, vibrant shutters, winding cobblestone streets, glistening seaside views, and stylish vibe all set towards the dazzling blue of the Aegean Sea. Sure it’s a in style occasion island, however it’s nonetheless a jaw-dropping magnificence spot!

Positioned within the Aegean Sea, this island is a part of Greece’s Cyclades group, located between Tinos, Syros, Paros, and Naxos, about 150 kilometers southeast of Athens. Protecting 85.5 sq. kilometers, it’s recognized for its iconic windmills, vibrant nightlife, and photogenic Cycladic structure, with gorgeous white-washed dice buildings surrounding a picturesque fishing village bay

I spent every week right here and relaxed on sandy seashores (the energetic Paradise, family-friendly Ornos, the gorgeous Platis Gialos Seaside, and the serene Elia had been my favourites), explored the charming Little Venice space with waterfront cafes and boutiques, visited the long-lasting Sixteenth-century windmills, strolled by the cobblestone streets of Mykonos City and watching a hanging sundown at Paraportiani Church.

• Location: Aegean Sea, 93 miles east of Athens.
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: 
• late spring or early fall (nice climate and fewer crowds)

My highlights…

• Dancing at Cavo Paradiso which was perched atop a 100-foot cliff overlooking the ocean – I used to be completely wowed over by the open-air dance ground, the state-of-the-art Funktion-One sound system, and the cool swimming pool formed just like the island of Mykonos! 

3. Zakynthos 

This dazzling gem can be known as Zante! I fell for its golden sandy seashores, dramatic sea caves like Navagio, well-known ship-wreck, lush inexperienced hills, and charming whitewashed buildings with Venetian-inspired structure, picturesque villages and its laid-back but vibrant vibe. 

I stayed right here for a blissful seven days and visited the very Insta-worthy Navagio (Shipwreck) Seaside, explored the mesmerising Blue Caves, relaxed on the gorgeous sandy seashores (my favourites had been Laganas and Kalamaki) snorkelled with loggerhead turtles in Marathonisi Island’s clear waters, explored the hilltop Venetian Fort in Bochali, and sampled the superior nightlife in Zakynthos City! 

• Location: Ionian Sea, 12 miles west of the Greek mainland.
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: late spring or early fall (nice climate and fewer crowds)

My private highlights…

• Staying on the Mon Repo Secret Suites – the Insta-worthy personal infinity swimming pools, the earthy boho styling and the large cozy beds made it a really particular keep!
• Going for cocktails on the Roof Backyard Restaurant & Bar on the cosmopolitan coastal promenade Strada Marina – I beloved the very good rooftop views and the ouzo-based Zakynthos Dawn! 

4. Kefalonia

That is such a ruggedly picturesque and tranquil island! I at all times wished to go to Kefalonia after studying Captain Corelli’s Mandolin (which made the island well-known!) and once I did I discovered severely dreamy surroundings together with towering limestone cliffs, sandy seashores lapped by glistening turquoise waters and impossibly fairly villages that includes pastel-coloured Venetian-style buildings. 

It’s the most important of the Ionian Islands, positioned in western Greece within the Ionian Sea, overlaying an space of 781 sq. kilometers. Positioned southwest of Lefkada and northeast of Zakynthos, it’s an more and more in style vacation spot, but it retains a relaxed vibe, conventional Greek lifestyle with tasteful, low-rise boutique-style inns for lodging.

I stayed right here for a dreamy fortnight and swam on the iconic Myrtos Seaside, explored the paranormal Melissani Cave and underground lake, visited the picturesque village of Assos, relaxed on the serene Antisamos Seaside, strolled alongside the charming Argostoli Harbour and hiked Mount Ainos, which had breathtaking views of the island! 

• Location: Ionian Sea, 30 miles west of the western coast of the mainland.
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: late spring or early fall (nice climate and fewer crowds)

My highlights…

• Staying at Thalassa Boutique Resort – I beloved the in-pool solar loungers, the fashionable boho decor and the superior swim-up rooms!
• Eating on scrumptious fried aubergines and courgettes outdoors terrace of the laid-back The MOLOS Conventional Tavern within the very-scenic city of Assos!
• Visiting Agios Gerasimos Monastery a Sixteenth-century church advanced – I actually loved its zen-like courtyard, well-kept gardens and its impressively preserved structure! 

5. Rhodes

That is very fashionable however nonetheless charming island vacation spot! I used to be in awe of its mix of medieval allure, with historic stone partitions and cobblestone streets, golden seashores, turquoise waters, inexperienced hills and vibrant but timeless vibe! Though it’s residence to some energetic occasion resorts, there are nonetheless many unspoilt areas of actually excellent pure magnificence. 

The biggest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, it’s positioned within the southeastern Aegean Sea, close to the coast of Turkey and overlaying an space of 1,401 sq. kilometres. It’s residence to an UNESCO-listed medieval Outdated City, the Colossus of Rhodes’ historic legacy, and it’s one of many sunniest locations in Europe with over 300 sunny days yearly.

I spent every week right here and relaxed on gorgeous seashores (my favourites had been the soft-sanded Tsambika, the peaceable Agathi Seaside and the secluded Anthony Quinn Bay), strolled by the medieval Outdated City and Road of the Knights, explored the traditional acropolis of Lindos, visited the beautiful Valley of the Butterflies, and hiked to the Monolithos Fort which had very good views.

• Location: southeastern Aegean Sea, 225 miles southeast of Athens.
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: late spring or early fall (nice climate and fewer crowds)

My private highlights…

• Consuming at Rustico Restaurant, a cute tavern with a contemporary twist that had outside seating and even vegan choices – their Greek Salad with regionally grown black olives was divine! 
• Climbing alongside the coastal path from Lindos to Saint Paul’s Bay – the gorgeous views of the glowing sea beneath made it price it!

6. Athens

I wasn’t certain what to anticipate from the Greek capital, however I completely beloved it! Among the many chaos, there have been pockets of actually spectacular magnificence – with world-famous historic landmarks and neoclassical buildings, set towards a backdrop of golden sandy seashores and rocky coves alongside the Athenian Riviera. I assumed it was a really distinctive metropolis, gritty in some elements, however it was undoubtedly by no means boring!

I spent 4 days right here staying in a beautiful boutique lodge and explored the Acropolis and Parthenon, strolled across the eclectic neighbourhoods, visited the Historical Agora (which as soon as served as a served as a bustling market), found the Nationwide Archaeological Museum, relaxed alongside the scenic Athenian Riviera, and loved sundown views from Lycabettus Hill.

• Handle: Acropolis of Athens Dionysiou Areopagitou Road Athens, 105 58
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: late spring or early fall (nice climate and fewer crowds)

My highlights…

• Seeing the unimaginable historic monuments which appear to spring from actually each nook within the metropolis, even within the H&M retailer! The favored style retailer had a visual part of an historic wall preserved inside a glass case! 
• Sipping on a Stormy Martini cocktail at A For Athens Rooftop Bar which had unimaginable views of the Acropolis. It was very crowded on my journey and really laborious to get a seat, however it was well worth the wait!

7. Corfu

I personally thought Corfu is a beautiful gem! I discovered the surroundings to be actually breathtaking with Venetian-inspired structure within the Outdated City, golden sandy and pebble seashores like and emerald-green hills mixing with the turquoise waters of the glistening Ionian Sea. I beloved the way it combined a energetic Mediterranean power with a heat Greek hospitality! 

• Handle: Ionian Sea, northwest coast of mainland.
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: late spring or early fall (nice climate and fewer crowds)

My favourite highlights…

• Eating on the conventional Taverna Ninos which served up genuine Corfiot delicacies  in Corfu city – I beloved their homestyle gyros! 
• Kicking again on my favorite seashores, the picturesque Paleokastritsa Seaside and the distant Voutoumi Seaside.
• Visiting the lovable residents on the Corfu Donkey Sanctuary – my private favorite resident was Maios the donkey hooligan who ran over to greet me!

8. Cyprus

Cyprus is an eternally in style vacation vacation spot! On my journey I used to be completely gained over by its mixture of golden sandy and rocky seashores, crystal-clear waters, and charming cities which featured historic stone buildings, Byzantine church buildings, and Venetian fortresses, all set towards a backdrop of rugged mountains. I discovered that folks to be extremely welcoming and pleasant, and the meals was particularly divine! 

It’s nestled within the japanese Mediterranean Sea, south of Turkey, overlaying an space of 9,251 sq. kilometres. The island is split into the Republic of Cyprus within the south and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus within the north, separated by a UN Buffer Zone. I’ve to confess, the political scenario provides the island a barely edgier vibe, with some areas being utterly off-limits (the border that runs by the once-popular resort of Nicosia).

I discovered the occasion zones had been Nissi Seaside in well-known Ayia Napa and Paphos (simply barely extra chilled) and Pissouri, Latchi, and Polis had been the quieter choices.

I personally went actually rustic and stayed within the very peaceable mountains on the Casale Panayiotis however I frolicked on the in style soft-sanded Fig Tree Bay, explored the traditional ruins of Kourion, visited the historic Kyrenia Fort, hiked the scenic Troodos Mountains, and found the UNESCO-listed Painted Church buildings which had very ornate Byzantine frescoes! 

• Location: Jap Mediterranean Sea, 500 miles southeast of the mainland.
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: late spring or early fall (nice climate and fewer crowds)

My favorite highlights…

• Stress-free on the small however completely fashioned Sirena Bay which was a soothing spot with tender golden sand – there wasn’t many vacationers and I beloved the blissful vibe!
• Occurring a one-day personal boat tour with a skipper, we went to beautiful Cape Greco and snorkelled within the gorgeous blue lagoon.

9. Thassos

That is an idyllic, extra under-the-radar island! I assumed it was gorgeous, with unspoilt landscapes – right here rolling inexperienced hills, golden sand and pebbled seashores, and charming stone-built villages full of conventional Greek structure, are all set towards the glittering waters of the Aegean Sea. I additionally beloved its laid-back and tranquil vibe! 

I relaxed on the gorgeous seashores (my favourites had been the serene Paradise, the white-sand Chrissi Ammoudia seaside and the pristine Marble Seaside), explored the traditional ruins of the Agora in Limenas, hiked the plush trails of Ipsarion Mountain, visited the normal village of Panagia, loved conventional delicacies on the picturesque harbour of Limenaria and found the fifth century BC Acropolis within the capital, Limenas.

• Location: northern Aegean Sea, 6 miles off the northeastern coast of mainland.
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: late spring or early fall (nice climate and fewer crowds)

My private highlights…

• Occurring a sea-kayaking tour with Insula TASOS and exploring hidden sea caves.
• Discovering Maries Waterfall which was positioned within the western a part of the island – I reached it through a brief hike from Maries village! 

10. Naxos Island

I actually loved this hidden gem! I assumed it was a fascinating spot with pristine sandy seashores, inexperienced valleys, conventional villages and charming whitewashed buildings with blue accents. I beloved its beautiful mountain backdrop and laid-back but vibrant vibe!

It’s the largest island within the Cyclades, sitting fairly within the Aegean Sea, simply southeast of the mainland! Protecting an space of 429 sq. kilometers, it’s recognized for its fertile valleys, the myth-enveloped Mt. Zeus, historic marble quarries, and the long-lasting Portara, the doorway to the unfinished Temple of Apollo!

On my journey, I relaxed on gorgeous seashores (my favourites had been the lengthy sandy Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, Plaka) explored the long-lasting Portara on the Temple of Apollo, wandered by the charming Outdated City and Fort of Naxos, hiked up Mt. Zeus and found the normal villages of Apiranthos and Halki.

• Location: Aegean Sea, roughly 100 miles southeast of Athens.
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: late spring or early fall (nice climate and fewer crowds)

My highlights…

• Hiring a catamaran with a skipper for the day and seeing the beautiful surrounding waters in model! It was notably superb at sundown whereas sipping on prosecco! 
• Going for a tasty vegan pizza and melon-based cocktails on the eatery Hug Me Naxos. I beloved the fashionable decor and vibe right here!

11. Lefkada

That is much less well-known however nonetheless very enchanting island! It’s additionally severely jaw-dropping and I discovered vibrant Ionian structure, vividly painted buildings, charming slim alleys, good white pebble and sandy seashores and hanging turquoise waters with a laid-back, bohemian vibe and a contact of sophistication thrown in!

It’s the fourth largest Ionian Island, overlaying an space of 302.5 sq. kilometres, located within the Ionian Sea, off the western coast of mainland Greece. I drove throughout a floating bridge and a causeway to achieve it from the mainland.

• Location: the Ionian Sea, 0.6 miles west of the mainland
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: late spring or early fall (nice climate and fewer crowds)

My private highlights…

• Visiting the Lefkas Earth Vineyard – I used to be actually charmed by the gorgeous environment and their particular crimson wine! 
• Visiting the quirky Folklore Museum – it was nice to admire the historic fairly embroidery work that they had on show! 

12. Crete

Crete is the largest island in Greece! I personally beloved its stunning sandy seashores, dramatic gorges and mountains, and charming cities full of Venetian harbours, whitewashed buildings, and historic ruins. 

Positioned within the southern a part of the Aegean Sea, on the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, it spans an space of 8,336 sq. kilometers. I discovered it to be residence to the traditional Minoan civilisation, among the greatest seashores within the Mediterranean, and a mix of energetic and extra serene resorts.

Whereas right here, I relaxed on my favorite seashores – the pink-sanded Elafonissi and the pristine Balos – explored the traditional Palace of Knossos, hiked the well-known Samaria Gorge, strolled by the Venetian harbour of Chania, visited the historic Arkadi Monastery, and took a ship journey to the gorgeous Balos Lagoon.

• Location: japanese Mediterranean Sea, 99 miles south of the mainland.
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: late spring or early fall (nice climate and fewer crowds)

My private highlights…

• Staying on the beautiful 4 star gem Elounda Tales Boutique Resort – I really like the boho model and conventional textiles, the non-public intimate vibe and the natural wellness spa.
• Attending to know the locals within the bars, eating places, and cafes, they’re severely pleasant! I particularly beloved The Chickpea  Restaurant in Heraklion which served up scrumptious paprika hummus! 
• Visiting Takis Shelter , a social media star Takis is known all around the world for rescuing canines and housing them at his cage-free shelter. My favorite resident was the humorous and candy Grioula! 

13. Meteora, Kalabaka

That is such a singular place! I discovered it to be a spot of actually breathtaking magnificence, with historic monasteries perched atop huge rocky pinnacles, making a hanging distinction towards the plush valleys and the normal stone structure of the close by city of Kalabaka. I completely beloved the way it exuded such a tranquil and religious vibe!

Nestled within the Pindus Mountains and overlooking the Plain of Thessaly in central Greece, close to the city of Kalabaka within the Thessaly area, this UNESCO World Heritage web site dates again to the 14th century. It consists of six Jap Orthodox monasteries constructed precariously atop 1,300-foot-high sandstone pinnacles.

I stayed right here for 2 days and climbed the steep stairs carved into the rock formations (which had been fairly difficult, to be trustworthy!). I explored the gorgeous monasteries—my favorites had been the Nice Meteoron and Varlaam—wandered by the distinctive rock formations and caves, hiked scenic trails, and found the wealthy historical past and delightful Byzantine frescoes displayed inside the monasteries.

• Handle: Meteora Monasteries Meteora, Kalabaka 422 00 Thessaly
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: late spring or early fall (nice climate and fewer crowds)

My highlights…

• Staying on the close by Alsos Visitor Home, I beloved the cosy vibe and the terrace the place we ate breakfast with the unimaginable views of the towering Meteora rock formations! 

14. Nafplio

This picturesque seaside city completely charmed me! I discovered a sexy mix of Venetian and neoclassical structure with vibrant facades lining cobblestone streets, hilltop castles and a mixture of seashores, from sandy stretches to pebble coves with crystal-clear waters.

Positioned on the japanese a part of the Peloponnese peninsula, within the southern a part of the mainland, it sits on the Argolic Gulf, about 86 miles southwest of Athens, making it very accessible for each day journeys and longer stays from the capital. It was really the primary capital of recent Greece from 1823 to 1834 and I used to be awestruck by the medieval castles, slim cobblestone streets, Ottoman fountains, and the traditional partitions, church buildings, statues, and monuments.

I spent a few days exploring the majestic Palamidi Fort, perched excessive above the city, strolling alongside the romantic promenade to the Bourtzi fortress on a tiny islet, admiring the distinctive structure, and unwinding at cute cafes within the historic Syntagma Sq..

• Location: northeastern a part of the Peloponnese peninsula 85 miles southwest of Athens.
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: late spring or early fall (nice climate and fewer crowds)

My favorite highlights…

• Climbing the entire 999 steps up the hillside to Palamidi Fort and  – it was superb to see previous city’s vibrant buildings, the Argolic Gulf and the Bourtzi fortress on its islet as soon as I used to be lastly up there!
• Folks watching with an expresso and a Bougatsa (a creamy custard pie) within the charming cafe Koustenis in Syntagma Sq..

15. Mystras, Peloponnese 

This can be a jaw-dropping fortified city! It has a dramatic setting on the slopes of Mount Taygetos and is adorned with well-preserved medieval ruins that embrace palatial complexes, Byzantine church buildings full of ornate frescoes, and monastic constructions. I assumed it exuded a mysterious and tranquil vibe!

Nestled on the slopes of Mount Taygetos, overlooking the Eurotas Valley within the southeastern a part of the Peloponnese peninsula, close to the trendy metropolis of Sparta and about 215 kilometers southwest of Athens, it was based by the Franks within the thirteenth century and is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage web site.

• Location: Peloponnese area, 136 miles southwest of Athens. 
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: spring to fall

My favorite highlights…

• Eating on the stylish Chromata Restaurant which was positioned on the Mystras entrance – I used to be completely gained over by the spectacular views of the Mystras ruins and the smoky eggplant dip and Gigantes Plaki (baked large beans in a wealthy tomato sauce with herbs).

16. Delphi Theatre, Phocis

This is likely one of the most essential archaeological websites within the nation! It’s an historic Greek theatre, and I discovered it to be a panoramic spot, with spectacular historic structure completely built-in into the mountainous panorama, and unimaginable, peaceable views of the valley.

Constructed as Apollo’s sanctuary and oracle, its 35 rows may maintain as much as 5,000 company at a time, who in historic occasions loved performs, poetry readings, and musical occasions.

I drove 2.5 hours from Athens, paid the 12 euros entrance price and climbed the reasonably difficult stone steps for quarter-hour then explored whereas gazing on the panoramic views on the identical time! 

• Location: Delphi 330 54
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: spring to fall

17. Mount Olympus Nationwide Park

This was established in 1938 as Greece’s first nationwide park! I assumed this protected pure space was stunning with dramatic landscapes of rugged peaks, thick historic forests, alpine fields, deep gorges, uncommon plant species and cascading waterfalls. I really like that it’s additionally near golden sandy seashores and conventional stone-built mountain villages. 

Positioned within the northern a part of the mainland, straddling the border between the areas of Macedonia and Thessaly, close to the city of Litochoro, it’s not overrun by vacationers, which is why I beloved it a lot! Although some curious guests do come, the realm nonetheless retains a peaceable allure, with a handful of campsites and budget-friendly inns obtainable.

I took the 4 hour practice journey from Athens and spent a few days right here, mountain climbing the Enipeas Gorge, ascending Mytikas (which is the very best peak in Greece!), visiting the paranormal waterfalls of Orlia, and discovering the gorgeous conventional mountain villages of Litochoro and Paleos Panteleimonas. 

• Location: Mount Olympus Nationwide Park Litochoro 602 00 Pieria
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: spring to fall

My private highlights…

• Occurring a four-hour guided mountain climbing tour to see the hanging Enipeas Canyon – it was additionally superior to see the picturesque Enipeas Waterfall and its emerald inexperienced pool. 
• Attempting among the native delicacies – my favorite was the Fasolada (a conventional Greek white bean soup) and Loukoumades (scrumptious deep-fried dough balls drizzled with honey).

18. Lake Kerkini

That is distinctive and unspoilt magnificence spot! It’s synthetic reservoir residence to serene waters lined with sandy lakeshores and full of numerous chicken species and surrounded by towering mountains. Conventional villages with charming stone-built homes reside close by.

It’s positioned within the northern a part of the nation, within the area of Central Macedonia round 100 kilometres northwest of Thessaloniki. It was created in 1932 and spans about 110 sq. kilometres and in addition to being in coronary heart of the chicken migration route it’s residence to buffalo herds, numerous fish varieties, over ten species of amphibians and nineteen species of reptiles.

• Location: northern Greece, 62 miles northwest of Thessaloniki.
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: April to Might and September to October (when the pelicans cease right here)

My highlights…

• Occurring a enjoyable 4 hour 4×4 off-roading tour – we went trails alongside the foothills of the Krousia and Belasica mountains, the gorgeous wetlands, and even the buffalo grazing areas.

19. Monemvasia Fortress 

This can be a medieval fortress city positioned on a small island! I discovered it to be a singular and charming spot, with a timeless vibe, that includes enchanting medieval stone buildings and Byzantine church buildings nestled inside historic fortress partitions, all perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Positioned on a small island off the southeastern Peloponnese coast, it was based within the sixth century and served as a key Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman stronghold, that includes well-preserved medieval buildings, cobblestone streets, and breathtaking views.

• Handle: Monemvasia Fortress Monemvasia 230 70 Laconia, Peloponnese
• Location Map
• Finest time to go to: spring to fall

My private highlights… 

• Stopping on the rustic-chic Emvasis Cafe and cocktail bar afterwards – I beloved the nice and cozy welcome, the very good views of the ocean and the fortress and the divine Loukoumades (fried dough balls drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon).

The place is Greece?

Greece is positioned in South Jap Europe and borders the Ionian and Mediterranean Seas to the north, Albania, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia to the east, and Turkey to the east. 

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