With incredible beauty and culture, there are lots of splendid places to visit in Greece that will blow your mind. Greece is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, and one of the most visited in the world.
Greece is a country that attracts people from all over the world for many reasons. It is not just because the country is beautiful, but also because of the people.
Greece hosts some of the most hospitable people globally, and Greece has something that everyone loves. The Greeks are warm people who enjoy meeting new people and have an appreciation for life. There is a reason that the word “hospitality” is so vital to the culture.
Plus, a large part of that is because of the fantastic scenery along the country’s coast.
Love beautiful sceneries? How about going on a scenic ride? Click here to read about the 20 best scenic rides in the world
Here’s a set of questions: Do you love history, art, nature, or long walks on the beach? Do you fancy exploring an ancient civilization that has birthed some of the most advanced technologies of all time? If yes, Greece is the place for you!
So why not take a trip to Greece to see it for yourself?
When considering where you should travel to visit soon, it can be hard to narrow down your options. While most people only consider the obviously chosen destinations, many hidden gems are worth going to.
For this, we have curated a list of the 20 best places to visit in Greece that are sure to impress you.
1. Places to Visit in Greece: Athens
Renowned as the cradle of Western civilization, Athens is a city of ancient ruins and modern buildings. Athens has been inhabited for more than 3,000 years.
Most of us already know that Athens has the best archaeological ruins and monuments so visiting those places is a must. Go and check out the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the Ancient Agora, the Temple of Zeus, and the Theatre of Dionysos.
Athens also has a bustling city life that boasts vibrant nightlife, culture, and trade.
Since it is the capital and the largest city of Greece, half of the population lives here, due to which there are various eateries. The authentic food of Athens will surely make your tastebuds happy.
Its neighborhoods like the Plaka and Monastiraki districts are also beautiful places that have charm.
Also, wander the cobbled streets and shop for souvenirs at the handicraft shops.
2. Places to Visit in Greece: Santorini
Located in the Aegean Sea, Santorini is a beautiful island that is known for its beautiful sceneries. Many people get the image of Santorini when thinking about Greece.
Santorini is a sunny place that has one of the best heritage and gastronomy scenes in Greece. It is also a romantic getaway for travelers looking forward to a couple’s vacation.
Besides taking in the views of white houses with blue roofs and pools, you can take a dip in the turquoise waters and relax at the beaches. Having lunch as the sun sets is genuinely a mesmerizing feeling.
Visit the villages of Santorini named Fira and Oia. These villages are located above the sea and have beaches with white, black, and red lava pebbles.
If you are looking to carry out some fun activities, you can hike the Fira-Oia trail or visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thira. Also, go to the Akrotiri Archaeological site to check out the well-preserved ancient city erased by a volcanic eruption about 3500 years ago.
3. Places to Visit in Greece: Corfu
Located off the northwest coast, Corfu is an island that boasts a rich cultural heritage and amazing landscapes. It also has some spectacular beaches where tourists can relax.
Corfu is an excellent destination for all nature lovers due to its green and lush characteristics. There are also many isolated beaches that give you a feeling of being in paradise.
Visit Corfu between May and August to save yourself from the rain.
Visit the Vlacherna Monastery on the Mouse Island. The Corfu old town, the village of Sidari, and Perithia are also some of the quaint places to visit in this city.
4. Places to Visit in Greece: Mykonos
If you want adventure while having a laid-back chill time, Mykonos is the place to go. This city is renowned for its water sports, party atmosphere, and cultural heritage.
If your motive is to party and get wild, go to Paradise Beach or Super Paradise Beach. These beaches have great bars and even better music. Many dance bars attract world-class DJs.
If you want to visit some great attractions, visit the 16th-century windmills in Chora that sit on a hill above this town. These windmills are the symbols of Mykonos.
Mykonos also has excellent Greek and European restaurants that serve the best Mediterranean cuisine and seafood. When you are here, try the traditional Greek alcohol called Ouzi and eat the kopanisti, a spicy cheese.
5. Places to Visit in Greece: Thessaloniki
Greece’s second-largest city, Thessaloniki, is also the capital city of the Macedonian region. It is a cosmopolitan city renowned for its vibrant festivals and nightlife.
Thessaloniki also has a history that dates back to over three thousand years. You can see the magnificent Roman ruins and Ottoman buildings in the city. Byzantine churches are also here and there in Thessaloniki.
You can stroll the waterfront area and visit its 15th-century White Tower. Thessaloniki is a historical city that also has archaeological sites.
You should check out the White Museum, Aristotelous Square, and the Byzantine Castle.
This city is also known for its buzzing nightlife. Since it has a large student population, the city thrives with festivals and excellent clubs.
Read about the biggest music festivals in the world
Plus, there are lots of restaurants catering to local cuisine.
6. Places to Visit in Greece: Halkidiki
Halkidiki is situated south of Thessaloniki and is renowned for its fantastic beaches, nightlife, and monks. There are three significant headlands in this city: Kassandra, Sithonia, and Athos.
Go to Kassandra to check out the best restaurants and resorts. Kassandra also has the best nightlife in Halkidiki.
Sithonia is where the beaches are. It is quieter than Kassandra and has clear water and campgrounds. Also, relax on the sandy beaches of Sithonia.
Lastly, Athos is the easternmost peninsula that is home to the stoic monastic community. Sadly, Athos is only open to male pilgrims.
7. Places to Visit in Greece: Zagori
Zagori is a beautiful municipality located in the Pindus mountains in Epirus. Visiting this place will show you splendid landscape views of northwestern Greece. The lush forests and rugged mountains preserved by its two national parks make it a destination worth visiting.
Visit its provincial capital-Ioannina. It is a beautiful university town on the shores of Lake Pamvotida. Here, you can visit the Fethiye Mosque and the Municipal Ethnographic Museum of Ioannina.
Also, visit Moni Kipinas monastery which is situated in a scenic location.
Check out the beautiful scenery from the Vikos Gorge.
Another best place to visit in Zagori is the Zagori village and its stone bridges. Here, you can see stone cottages paved by cobbled footpaths. Its Vradeto staircase is an excellent place for a strenuous hike.
Read how to stay hydrated while hiking
If you are visiting the region during winter, go to the Pindos Mountains to ski.
8. Places to Visit in Greece: Delphi
Delphi is located some two and a half hours from Athens and is the best destination for history lovers. Delphi boasts one of the most famous archaeological sites in Greece.
Myth has it that Delphi was once known as the center of the earth. It is still taken as a pilgrimage site that is dedicated to the god Apollo.
People used to come to Delphi to ask the oracle for advice on topics like relationships, trade, and politics.
Now the site remains in ruins. Admire these significant sites such as the Temple of Apollo, the Athenian Treasury, a theater, and an ancient stadium where the ancient Pythian Games were hosted.
Also, check out the Athena Priene.
9. Places to Visit in Greece: Meteora
Meteora is located in northern Greece and has some of the historical monasteries suspended on the cliffs at a height of 1,200 feet. No wonder it is called Meteora, which means “suspended in the air” in Greek.
The monasteries that lie on the top were built in the 14th and 16th centuries by monks seeking spiritual isolation. These monasteries are the UNESCO World Heritage Sites that have received the status for their art and nature.
After you reach the monastery, you will be wowed by the breathtaking views of the Kalambaka and Kastraki villages that lie below, along with the spirituality that is present in the air.
10. Places to Visit in Greece: Crete
Crete is the largest Greek island that boasts stunning landscapes that range from sunny coastlines to rugged mountains. It has metropolitan cities that take its roads to the rolling countryside.
When in Crete, visit Rethymno. It is a stunning city that has beautiful beaches. You can wander around the city to see a mix of Roman, Venetian, and Ottoman architecture. Go to the Venetian fortress to witness the beauty.
The metropolitan areas of Crete have many outdoor cafes where you can have a coffee. Since the city has a large student population, the city is lively.
Another city to visit in Crete is Chania. It is where you go for a laidback time. There is plenty of sunny beaches and seafood restaurants. We will elaborate on this city below.
You can spend your time cycling, swimming, or checking out Venetian and Byzantine architecture.
11. Places to Visit in Greece: Nafplio
Nafplio is a beautiful Greek city that is a favorite vacation spot for tourists as well as locals. Its stunning architecture and harbor fronts are to blame.
Nafplio has three fortresses that you can explore if you love history. Visiting these fortresses will also show you incredible vistas of the sea and hills.
Nafplio is full of Venetian, Byzantine, and Ottoman architecture that you can see in the fortresses and citadels. Just wandering the city gives you a grandeur experience.
To make it better, Nafplio also has some of the best restaurants and beaches to chill. You can eat the delicious seafood and sightsee the million-dollar yachts on the harbor.
12. Places to Visit in Greece: Rhodes Town
Located off Turkey’s southwestern coast, Rhodes Town is the capital city of the Island of Rhodes. Unlike most of Greece’s cities, Rhodes Town is suitable for budget travelers and the elites.
Rhodes Town’s history dates back to the fifth century and thus, has lots of historical attractions to entertain the tourists. It used to be the home of the mighty Colossus of Rhodes.
Wander the alleyways of the city and visit the walled Old Town that lights up beautifully at night.
This town also has bars, restaurants and the best beaches where you can relax. If you want to party, go to Faliraki.
13. Places to Visit in Greece: Heraklion
Heraklion, known as Iraklio, is the capital city of Crete and the best thing about this place is that it is full of life. This city has a lot of attractions in its vicinity ranging from fortresses to waterfronts.
The first site to visit is the Palace of Knossos. It is a vast archaeological site that dates way back to the Minoan civilization. Here, you will see the ancient ruins, frescoes, and baths.
If you want to check out more places like this, go to Heraklion’s Venetian port to see the Koules fortress.
It would be best if you stop by some exciting museums. Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to see an exciting collection of Minoan art.
The modern part of the city doesn’t have many attractions to see; however, you can visit some great restaurants and shopping malls.
14. Places to Visit in Greece: Patras
Patras is the third-largest city in Greece. Located 215 kilometers west of Athens, Patras is also home to one of the country’s busiest ports.
Patras has some excellent attractions on offer since it houses Ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine monuments. You will witness these if you visit the Fortress of Rio, the Roman Odeon, or the Fortress of Patras.
Since Patras is located at the foot of Mount Panachaikon, you will get a view of the Gulf Of Patras.
There are also old churches and cathedrals where you can visit. Also, visit the Ionian Islands by taking a ferry from Patras.
15. Places to Visit in Greece: Kalamata
Kalamata is located on the shores of the Messinian Bay and is the second most populous city in southern Greece after Patras. It is also the capital city and the chief port of Messenia.
Tourists love Kalamata because of its calmness and serenity. The city is renowned for its black Kalamata olives and beautiful sunset.
The city has a rich history which you can witness through the city’s large cathedrals and castles. You should stroll the old town and visit the museums to learn more about this place.
The Archeological Museum of Messenia is a great place to see the finds dating back to the Byzantine era.
The Railway Museum in Kalamata will also be a great place to visit. It is a vast open-air museum that also houses Greek society’s aspects.
Also, visit the Karelia Tobacco Company which has been operating since 1888.
16. Places to Visit in Greece: Chania
Located on the northwest coastline of Crete, Chania is a beautiful place known for its Turkish and Venetian architecture. Its narrow streets and tiny restaurants are a plus point to its beauty.
When in Chania, visit its 16th-century lighthouse. It is an authentic place that has vast Venetian, Ottoman, and Egyptian influence.
If you want to see some model ships and know all about them, visit the Nautical Museum. Talking about museums, check out the Archaeological Museum of Chania, which used to be the former monastery of St. Francis.
If you want a nice day trip, explore the Samaria Gorge.
Head to a seafood restaurant for an excellent gastronomy session when you are here. You can swim and have fun at the beaches or opt to walk or cycle around this quaint city.
17. Places to Visit in Greece: Kavala
Kavala is situated north of Greece and is renowned for its historic center, spectacular beaches, and incredible archaeological sites. It is the capital of the Kavala regional unit.
Since it is located on the Bay of Kavala, it has one of the best picturesque settings in Greece. The blue waters paired with the ancient Ottoman citadels make traveling in Kavala a pleasant experience.
When you are here, check out the Turkish quarters that have Byzantine influence. Also, go to see the 16th-century aqueduct and take a picture for your Instagram.
Visit the old city of Panagia. Here, you can see Mohamed Ali Square and the magnificent aqueduct of Kavala.
Another splendid place to see in Kavala is the Imaret. It was originally an Islamic school made by Mohamed Ali in the 19th century. Now, it is a beautiful hotel.
For some relaxation, go to the Mud Bath of Krinides. Besides the overrated mudbaths, you should get yourself a massage too.
Since Kavala is a gateway to the Aegean Islands, make the most out of your trip and take an extra day to explore those islands.
18. Places to Visit in Greece: Knossos
Knossos is the oldest city in Europe that has the largest Bronze Age archaeological site of Crete. It is located just a short car/bus ride from Heraklion.
The primary thing about Knossos is the Minoan ruins of Knossos, also known as the Minoan Palace of Knossos. As we know, Greece’s history goes way back in time, and Knossos is the prime example of it.
The Minoans built the palace more than 5000 years ago. Now, you will see the best-preserved bronze age relics that were once a part of the Minoan civilization. You can see the fantastic frescoes and artworks too.
You will also see some fine pottery works and the hall of kings.
19. Places to Visit in Greece: Olympia
I guess all of you know about the Olympic Games- one of the most prestigious sports events in the world.
Situated in the Valley of Gods in the Peloponnese peninsula, Olympia is where the Olympic Games was born.
Here, you can see the ancient stadium and training grounds where the Olympians once trained. The ruins of Olympia also include temples and monuments that were dedicated to the gods Zeus and Hera.
If you want to get in-depth information about this city, visit the Archaeological Museum of Olympia. Here, you will also see the finds from the site and a statue of Hermes.
If you want to try out some outdoor activities, Olympia is an excellent place for hiking and mountain biking. Since the city and the Valley of the Gods are located near the Alfons River Valley, you will see magnificent views while hiking in this region.
20. Places to Visit in Greece: Asos
Asos is a small village located on the west coast of Kefalonia Island. Founded under Venetian rule, it is now one of the most picturesque places in the Ionian Sea.
Asos is renowned for its fishing villages and some delicious seafood. Stroll the beautiful Assos View villas that are on the top of a hillside. Due to its setting on the cliffs, they have amazing views.
Go to Myrtos Beach. It is one of the best beaches in Greece that changes its hue with the change in the light. It would be great if you also tried hand-gliding when you are here.
Another fabulous beach to visit is Xi Beach which is situated near Lixouri.
If you want to check out a natural wonder, visit Melissani Lake. Myth has it that this place used to be the Cave of the Nymphs. Take a small rowboat tour to admire the lake’s beauty.
Talking about caves, visit the Drogarati Cave to see the Royal Balcony and several natural rock formations.
So these are the 20 best places to visit in Greece. Let us know which cities have you added to your travel bucket list.
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