Discover Greece
Explore the best places to visit in Greece, from ancient Athens and spectacular Santorini to beautiful islands, historic cities, amazing food and unforgettable Mediterranean experiences.
Greece Travel Guide
Greece is one of Europe's most popular holiday destinations, combining ancient history, beautiful islands, sandy beaches, traditional villages, excellent food and warm Mediterranean scenery. Whether you are planning a city break in Athens, a romantic trip to Santorini, a family beach holiday in Crete or an island-hopping adventure, Greece offers plenty of different experiences.
Greece at a Glance
- Capital: Athens
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Language: Greek
- Best for: Beaches, islands, history, food, culture and sunshine
- Ideal seasons: Spring, summer and early autumn
- Popular holiday types: City breaks, beach holidays, island hopping, family holidays and romantic escapes
Best Places to Visit in Greece
From ancient landmarks to beautiful island towns, these destinations are among the best places to include in a Greece holiday.
Athens
Athens is Greece's historic capital and one of Europe's most fascinating cities. It combines ancient landmarks with lively neighbourhoods, restaurants, museums and modern city life.
Don't miss: The Acropolis, Parthenon, Plaka, Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora and Monastiraki.
Santorini
Santorini is famous for its whitewashed buildings, dramatic volcanic landscape, blue-domed churches and spectacular views across the Aegean.
Don't miss: Oia, Fira, caldera viewpoints, volcanic beaches and the famous Santorini sunsets.
Mykonos
Mykonos is known for its whitewashed streets, traditional windmills, beautiful beaches, restaurants and lively nightlife.
Don't miss: Mykonos Town, Little Venice, the windmills, beaches and local restaurants.
Rhodes
Rhodes combines beautiful beaches with fascinating history. Its medieval Old Town, ancient sites and coastal villages make it a versatile holiday destination.
Don't miss: Rhodes Old Town, Lindos, the Acropolis of Lindos and the island's beaches.
Crete
Crete is Greece's largest island and offers beaches, mountains, historic towns, archaeological sites and some of the country's best-known food.
Don't miss: Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion, traditional villages and the beautiful coastline.
Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is Greece's second-largest city and is known for its waterfront, food scene, historic landmarks, museums and lively atmosphere.
Don't miss: The White Tower, waterfront promenade, Aristotelous Square and the city's historic neighbourhoods.
Best Things to Do in Greece
Greece offers much more than beaches. You can explore ancient ruins, discover traditional villages, enjoy Greek food, hike through mountain landscapes or spend your days relaxing beside the sea.
Explore Athens and Ancient History
Begin your Greek adventure in Athens and discover some of the world's most important ancient monuments. The Acropolis and Parthenon are essential sights, while Plaka and Monastiraki are perfect for exploring on foot.
Go Island Hopping
Island hopping is one of the most popular ways to experience Greece. Combining two or three islands allows you to experience different beaches, landscapes, villages and atmospheres during one holiday.
Relax on Greek Beaches
Greece has countless beaches ranging from long sandy stretches to secluded coves surrounded by cliffs and turquoise water. Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Naxos, Zakynthos and many other islands offer excellent beach experiences.
Watch a Greek Sunset
Santorini is particularly famous for its sunsets, but beautiful evening views can be found across many Greek islands and coastal towns.
Discover Greek History
Ancient temples, archaeological sites, medieval castles and historic towns can be found throughout Greece. Rhodes, Athens, Crete and many mainland destinations are excellent choices for history lovers.
Explore the Mountains
Greece is not only about the coast. The mainland and several islands have mountain landscapes, hiking routes, traditional villages and spectacular scenery.
Greek Food You Should Try
Greek cuisine is an important part of the travel experience. Traditional recipes vary between regions and islands, with fresh vegetables, seafood, olive oil, herbs, cheese and grilled meats featuring heavily.
Moussaka
A classic Greek dish made with layers of aubergine, minced meat and a creamy topping.
Greek Salad
A simple combination of tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta cheese and other fresh ingredients, usually finished with olive oil.
Souvlaki
Small pieces of grilled meat served on skewers or in a pita, often with vegetables and sauces.
Tzatziki
A refreshing dip made with yoghurt, cucumber, garlic and herbs.
Fresh Seafood
Coastal restaurants and island tavernas often serve fresh fish, squid, octopus and other seafood.
Baklava
A sweet pastry made with layers of filo, nuts and syrup or honey.
Greek Holiday Phrasebook
Learn useful Greek phrases for hotels, tavernas, ferries, beaches and emergencies. Search below or choose a category, then tap the speaker to hear the phrase in Greek when your browser supports audio.
Pronunciation spellings are approximate. Use the Greek voice menu above to choose any Greek voice available on your device, and adjust the speaking speed for clearer learning. Voice choices vary by browser and device.
Best Greek Islands to Visit
Choosing the right Greek island can make a big difference to your holiday. Some islands are famous for romantic sunsets and luxury hotels, while others are better for beaches, nightlife, family holidays, history or peaceful escapes.
Santorini
Santorini is one of Greece's most famous islands, known for its dramatic volcanic landscape, whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches and spectacular views across the caldera.
Best for: Couples, honeymoons, photography, sunsets and romantic holidays.
Don't miss: Oia, Fira, caldera viewpoints, volcanic beaches and a sunset overlooking the Aegean Sea.
Recommended stay: 3–4 nights.
Mykonos
Mykonos combines traditional Cycladic architecture with a lively, cosmopolitan atmosphere. Its whitewashed streets, windmills, beaches, restaurants and nightlife make it one of Greece's best-known island destinations.
Best for: Nightlife, beach clubs, luxury holidays, couples and stylish summer breaks.
Don't miss: Mykonos Town, Little Venice, the famous windmills, local restaurants and the island's beaches.
Recommended stay: 3–4 nights.
Crete
Crete is Greece's largest island and offers an impressive combination of beaches, mountains, historic towns, archaeological sites, villages and traditional Cretan cuisine.
Best for: Families, food lovers, road trips, beaches, history and longer holidays.
Don't miss: Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion, traditional villages, mountain landscapes and the island's coastline.
Recommended stay: 5–7 nights.
Rhodes
Rhodes is a fantastic choice if you want to combine a beach holiday with history and sightseeing. The island has a remarkable medieval heritage as well as beaches, villages, mountains and archaeological attractions.
Best for: History, families, beaches, sightseeing and first-time visitors to Greece.
Don't miss: Rhodes Old Town, Lindos, the Acropolis of Lindos, coastal villages and the island's beaches.
Recommended stay: 4–6 nights.
Corfu
Corfu has a distinctive character influenced by its long and varied history. It combines green landscapes, beautiful beaches, traditional villages and an attractive historic town.
Best for: Families, couples, scenery, beaches and relaxed holidays.
Don't miss: Corfu Town, coastal villages, beaches, countryside drives and local Greek food.
Recommended stay: 4–6 nights.
Naxos
Naxos is an excellent all-round island for travellers who want beaches, traditional villages, countryside, local food and a more relaxed Cycladic experience.
Best for: Families, couples, beaches, food and travellers looking for a slower pace.
Don't miss: Naxos Town, the Portara, sandy beaches, mountain villages and local tavernas.
Recommended stay: 3–5 nights.
Which Greek Island Is Right for You?
For romance: Santorini is a popular choice for couples, especially for its caldera scenery and famous sunsets.
For nightlife: Mykonos is known for its lively atmosphere, beach clubs and nightlife.
For history: Rhodes is particularly appealing because of its medieval Old Town, archaeological sites and historic attractions.
For families: Crete, Corfu and Rhodes offer a good mixture of beaches, sightseeing, food and activities.
For a quieter holiday: Consider smaller islands or less developed destinations rather than focusing only on the busiest resorts.
More Greek Islands Worth Exploring
Greece has many island destinations beyond the most famous names. The country's islands are spread across several groups, including the Cyclades, Dodecanese, Ionian Islands, Sporades and North Aegean islands.
Paros
A popular Cycladic island with attractive villages, beaches, restaurants and a relaxed but lively summer atmosphere. Paros is a good choice for travellers who want classic Cycladic scenery and a variety of activities.
Milos
Known for unusual volcanic landscapes, dramatic coastline and beautiful coves. Milos is particularly appealing to travellers who enjoy beaches, nature and photography.
Zakynthos
Located in the Ionian Islands, Zakynthos is famous for turquoise waters, beaches and dramatic coastal scenery. It is a strong choice for a classic summer beach holiday.
Ios
Ios combines beautiful sandy beaches with a lively nightlife scene. Its traditional Hora and hilltop views also give it plenty of classic Cycladic character.
Symi
Symi is a smaller Dodecanese island known for its colourful harbour, traditional architecture, clear waters and peaceful atmosphere.
Thirasia
Located close to Santorini, Thirasia offers a quieter experience with traditional villages, volcanic scenery and a slower pace of life.
Greek Island Hopping
Island hopping is one of the best ways to experience Greece. Instead of staying on one island for your entire holiday, you can combine destinations with different personalities.
A first-time itinerary could combine Athens, Santorini and Mykonos. Travellers with more time could add Crete, Naxos, Paros or another island that fits their interests.
When planning an island-hopping trip, allow enough time between destinations rather than trying to visit too many islands in one holiday. Ferry schedules can vary by season, so check current connections before finalising your itinerary.
Greek Islands at a Glance
| Island | Best For | Suggested Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Santorini | Romance, sunsets, scenery | 3–4 nights |
| Mykonos | Nightlife, luxury, beaches | 3–4 nights |
| Crete | Families, food, beaches, road trips | 5–7 nights |
| Rhodes | History, beaches, sightseeing | 4–6 nights |
| Corfu | Families, scenery, relaxation | 4–6 nights |
| Naxos | Beaches, food, relaxed holidays | 3–5 nights |
| Paros | Villages, beaches, island hopping | 3–4 nights |
| Milos | Beaches, nature, photography | 3–4 nights |
Getting Around Greece
Getting around Greece is relatively straightforward, although the best transport option depends on whether you are travelling around the mainland or between islands.
Ferries
Ferries are one of the main ways to travel between the Greek islands. They are particularly useful when island hopping.
Domestic Flights
Flying can save considerable time when travelling longer distances, particularly between Athens and some of the larger islands.
Car Hire
Hiring a car can be useful for exploring larger islands such as Crete, Rhodes and Corfu, particularly if you want to visit smaller villages and beaches away from the main resorts.
Public Transport
Buses are available in Athens and other Greek cities, while many islands also have local bus networks connecting major towns and beaches.
Walking and Cycling
Historic centres and traditional island towns are often best explored on foot. Cycling can also be enjoyable in suitable areas, although some Greek destinations are very hilly.
Greece Travel Budget
Greece can suit different travel budgets. Costs vary considerably depending on the destination, season, accommodation and type of holiday.
| Travel Style | Typical Experience |
|---|---|
| Budget | Hostels, simple hotels, local tavernas, public transport and free attractions |
| Mid-range | Comfortable hotels, restaurants, organised activities and occasional taxis |
| Luxury | High-end hotels, private transfers, fine dining, cruises and premium experiences |
How to Save Money in Greece
- Travel outside the busiest summer weeks.
- Stay slightly away from the most expensive tourist centres.
- Eat at local tavernas instead of tourist-focused restaurants.
- Use public transport where practical.
- Book accommodation and transport early for popular islands.
- Consider combining a more expensive island with a lower-cost destination.
10-Day Greece Itinerary
If you are visiting Greece for the first time, this itinerary combines ancient history, famous islands, beaches, food and sightseeing.
Days 1–2: Athens
Explore the Acropolis, Parthenon, Plaka, Monastiraki and the Acropolis Museum. Spend an evening enjoying traditional Greek food in the historic centre.
Days 3–5: Santorini
Explore Oia and Fira, enjoy the caldera views, visit volcanic landscapes and take time to enjoy the island's restaurants and spectacular sunsets.
Days 6–7: Mykonos
Discover Mykonos Town, Little Venice and the island's beaches. Enjoy the restaurants and lively evening atmosphere.
Days 8–10: Crete
Finish your holiday in Crete. Explore Chania or Heraklion, enjoy local food and spend time discovering the island's beaches and countryside.
Greece Travel Tips
Learn a Few Greek Words
Learning simple words such as hello, thank you and please can make interactions with locals more enjoyable.
Book Popular Attractions Early
Popular attractions and accommodation can become busy during peak summer periods, so advance planning can be useful.
Allow Extra Time for Island Travel
When island hopping, avoid planning connections too tightly. Ferry schedules can change and weather conditions can sometimes affect travel.
Explore Beyond the Famous Places
Greece has many smaller towns, villages and islands that offer a more relaxed experience away from the busiest tourist areas.
Respect Local Customs
Dress appropriately when visiting churches and monasteries, especially when travelling outside the main beach resorts.
Take Your Time
One of the best ways to enjoy Greece is to avoid rushing between too many destinations. Give yourself time to enjoy local food, beaches, villages and the atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions About Greece
What is the best place to visit in Greece?
It depends on what you want from your holiday. Athens is ideal for history and culture, Santorini for scenery and romance, Mykonos for nightlife, Crete for beaches and longer holidays, and Rhodes for history combined with a beach holiday.
What is Greece famous for?
Greece is famous for its ancient history, archaeological sites, Greek islands, beautiful beaches, Mediterranean food, traditional villages and stunning coastal scenery.
Is Greece good for a family holiday?
Yes. Crete, Rhodes, Corfu and many other Greek destinations offer beaches, family-friendly accommodation, restaurants and activities suitable for different ages.
What is the best time to visit Greece?
Spring and early autumn can offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, while summer is popular for beach holidays and island trips.
Can I travel between Greek islands?
Yes. Ferries connect many Greek islands, making island hopping possible. However, routes and schedules vary, particularly outside the main summer season.
Is Greece expensive?
Greece can suit a range of budgets. Prices vary significantly between destinations and seasons, with some famous islands generally costing more than less touristy destinations.
How many days do I need in Greece?
A week can provide a good introduction to Greece, while 10–14 days gives you more time to combine Athens with several islands or explore a larger island such as Crete.
Ready to Discover Greece?
From ancient Athens and beautiful Santorini to the beaches of Crete and the historic streets of Rhodes, Greece offers something for almost every type of traveller.
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