The Best Places to Go in Greece: Your Ultimate 2025 Travel Guide

If you’re anything like me, the mere mention of Greece conjures up images of dazzling white villages cascading down cliffsides, ancient ruins standing proudly against the sapphire Aegean Sea, and the smell of oregano and sea salt carried on a gentle breeze. Greece is more than just a destination; it’s an experience—a journey through mythology, history, and unparalleled natural beauty.

I’ve spent considerable time exploring this stunning country, and I can tell you that choosing the best places to go in Greece is truly a delightful dilemma. How do you possibly narrow down thousands of islands, magnificent archaeological sites, and vibrant modern cities?

The secret is recognizing that Greece offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach worshiper, a foodie, or an intrepid hiker, there is a perfect spot waiting for you. In this comprehensive guide, I’m going to walk you through the absolute must-see destinations, sharing insider tips on what makes each location one of the best places to visit Greece. Get ready to plan the trip of a lifetime!

The Essential Mainland Must-Sees: History and Heritage

Before we dive into the turquoise waters of the islands, we absolutely must start on the mainland. This is where the foundation of Western civilization was laid, and the historical sites here are simply breathtaking. If you’re looking for the best cities to visit in Greece that blend ancient wonders with modern life, the mainland is your starting point.

Athens: Where Democracy Was Born

Athens, the sprawling, exhilarating capital, is often viewed as a necessary stopover before hitting the islands. I encourage you to rethink that! Athens deserves at least three days of dedicated exploration. It’s a city where the past and present collide beautifully, making it arguably one of the best cities to visit in Greece.

The Glory of the Acropolis

Standing beneath the Parthenon, you realize why this marble structure has captivated humanity for millennia. It’s a demanding climb, especially in the heat, but the view—and the sheer historical weight—is worth every step.

• Insider Tip: Visit the Acropolis Museum after you visit the site itself. The museum houses thousands of artifacts recovered from the rock and offers incredible context for what you’ve just seen. Try to go early in the morning, right when the gates open, to beat the massive midday crowds.

Exploring the Heart of the City: Plaka and Monastiraki

Once you descend from the Acropolis, you land directly in Plaka, the charming, historic neighborhood nestled at its base. Plaka’s neoclassical architecture, winding pedestrian streets, and cozy tavernas feel like a village within the metropolis. Nearby, the Monastiraki flea market is a chaotic, vibrant hub where you can find everything from antique jewelry to locally produced olive oil. This is the authentic Athenian street life we all dream of.

Delphi: The Navel of the Earth

Venturing a few hours northwest of Athens brings us to Delphi, a site absolutely mandatory for history enthusiasts. In ancient times, Delphi was considered the center of the world—the place where the mighty Oracle delivered prophecies that steered empires and kings.

The setting itself is dramatic: the ruins cling precariously to the slopes of Mount Parnassus, offering dizzying views down the valley toward the sea. Walking the Sacred Way, imagining the pilgrims who came seeking divine guidance, is a profoundly moving experience.

• Practical Advice: Delphi works well as a long day trip from Athens, but if you can spare a night in the nearby village, you’ll enjoy a much more peaceful experience and better access to the site before the tour buses arrive.

Meteora: Monasteries in the Sky

When I first saw photos of Meteora, I thought they had to be digitally altered. Trust me, they are not. Meteora is a geological miracle in central Greece, featuring massive sandstone pillars that pierce the sky. Perched impossibly atop these pillars are 24 Eastern Orthodox monasteries (six are currently accessible to visitors), built by monks seeking isolation and spiritual solitude centuries ago.

Visiting Meteora is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Greece. The blend of human faith and natural wonder is simply staggering. You literally climb up into the clouds to reach these spiritual fortresses.

• Must-Do Experience: Hire a local guide or rent a car to explore the various viewpoints, especially for sunrise or sunset. The golden light bathing the rock formations and the intricate monasteries is phenomenal. This is definitely one of the most unique best places to go in Greece.

The Cycladic Jewels: Iconic Islands and Postcard Views

When most people picture Greece, they are picturing the Cyclades. This cluster of islands in the Aegean Sea is famous for its cubic, whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and incredible sunsets. While they can be crowded in summer, their beauty is undeniable.

Santorini: The Volcanic Dreamscape

Santorini is, without a doubt, the undisputed king of Greek islands for romantic visuals. Formed by a massive volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, the island’s western side is a sheer cliff face—the Caldera—where Fira and Oia hang suspended over the deep blue sea.

Oia Sunset: The Essential Experience

Everyone goes to Oia for the sunset, and while it is touristy, it is a spectacle you shouldn’t miss. Find a spot near the Byzantine Castle Ruins well before sunset, grab a glass of local Assyrtiko wine, and prepare to be amazed.

• Beyond the Sunset: Don’t just stay in Oia or Fira. Explore Akrotiri (the “Minoan Pompeii”), relax on the unique Red Beach, or take a boat tour into the caldera to swim in the hot springs. Santorini offers luxury, history, and natural beauty, solidifying its spot among the best places to go in Greece.

Mykonos: Cosmopolitan Charm and Endless Energy

If Santorini is about romance and quiet reflection, Mykonos is about energy, style, and luxury. It has earned its reputation as a party destination, but there is so much more to this island than just its vibrant nightlife.

Wandering Little Venice and Mykonos Town

Mykonos Town (Chora) is an architectural maze designed centuries ago to confuse pirates. Today, it confuses tourists, but delightfully so! Explore the famous windmills overlooking the sea and wander through Little Venice, where colorful houses sit right on the water’s edge.

• Beaches for Every Mood: If you want non-stop music and social interaction, head to Paradise or Super Paradise. If you prefer a quieter, more upscale atmosphere, try Elia or Psarou. Mykonos successfully blends high-end tourism with Cycladic charm, making it a must-see.

Naxos and Paros: Authentic Island Life

For those of us seeking a slightly more grounded, authentic island experience—or perhaps a more budget-friendly and family-friendly environment—Naxos and Paros are excellent alternatives to their famous neighbors.

Naxos: The Land of Plenty

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades and boasts the most fertile land, meaning the food here is outstandingly fresh and local. Its beaches, such as Plaka and Agios Prokopios, are famous for their golden sand and crystal-clear, shallow waters.

• Historical Highlight: Don’t miss the Portara (Great Door) at the harbor entrance, the massive marble remnant of an unfinished Temple of Apollo—it offers incredible photo opportunities, especially at dusk.

Paros: Sophisticated Simplicity

Paros strikes a wonderful balance: it has the cosmopolitan flair of Mykonos but maintains a more relaxed, approachable vibe. The charming villages of Naoussa and Lefkes are perfect for strolling and enjoying traditional tavernas. Paros is also a watersports hub, particularly for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

• Island Hopping Tip: Due to their central location, Naxos and Paros are two of the best islands for hub-and-spoke island hopping. I highly recommend using them as a base to visit smaller islands like Antiparos or Delos.

The Dodecanese and Crete: Rich History and Diverse Landscapes

Moving away from the central Cyclades, we find islands defined by their proximity to Turkey and their lengthy occupation by various powers, resulting in a fascinating cultural blend.

Rhodes: The Island of the Knights

Rhodes is truly special, primarily because of its astonishing UNESCO World Heritage-listed Medieval Old Town. Stepping through the walls of Rhodes Town is like entering a time machine. The Street of the Knights, the Palace of the Grand Master, and the massive fortifications are incredibly well-preserved.

• Beyond the Walls: Rhodes offers more than just history. Head down to Lindos, a beautiful village overlooked by a dramatic acropolis, or enjoy the beautiful beaches on the island’s southern coast. For sheer variety of attractions, Rhodes consistently ranks among the best places to visit Greece.

Crete: A Continent Unto Itself

I often tell people that Crete isn’t just an island; it’s a small country. As the largest island in Greece, Crete offers a staggering diversity of landscapes, from snow-capped mountains and deep gorges to stunning pink-sand beaches and sophisticated cities.

Chania and Heraklion: Urban Gems

Chania, with its Venetian harbor and lighthouse, is arguably the most picturesque city in Greece. The colorful buildings, the waterfront cafes, and the narrow back alleys create an atmosphere of timeless romance.

Heraklion, the capital, is home to the archaeological site of Knossos, the center of the Minoan civilization. For history buffs, the palace complex is essential viewing.

Natural Wonders: Gorges and Beaches

Crete is a hiker’s paradise. The Samaria Gorge, one of the longest in Europe, is an all-day trek through stunning scenery. If hiking isn’t your speed, head to the south coast to Elafonisi, famous for its uniquely pink sand, or Balos Lagoon, a spectacular confluence of three different seas.

• The Cretan Diet: We absolutely must talk about the food. Crete has one of the healthiest and most delicious regional cuisines in the world. Look for dakos (rusks topped with tomato and cheese) and sample the local Raki (a potent grape-based spirit).

The Ionian Islands: Lush Greenery and Turquoise Waters

Located off the west coast of the Greek mainland, the Ionian Islands are fundamentally different from the dry, stark landscapes of the Cyclades. Thanks to higher rainfall, they are dramatically greener, more forested, and have been heavily influenced by Venetian, French, and British rule, giving them a distinct character.

Corfu: Venetian Elegance and Natural Beauty

Corfu (Kerkyra) is characterized by its lush olive groves and cypress trees. The capital, Corfu Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a breathtaking display of Venetian architecture, complete with two commanding fortresses. Walking through the Liston, the town’s elegant promenade modeled after Paris’s Rue de Rivoli, feels distinctly European.

• Coastal Retreats: For the best swimming, head to Paleokastritsa, a series of rocky coves with incredibly clear, icy-blue water. Corfu offers a mix of sophisticated city life and dramatic coastal landscapes, making it one of the most well-rounded best places to go in Greece.

Kefalonia and Zakynthos (Zante): Dramatic Coastlines

These two neighboring islands offer some of the most dramatic coastlines in the Mediterranean.

Kefalonia: A Tranquil Escape

Kefalonia is less crowded than many other islands and known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural sights. Myrtos Beach, frequently cited as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, features brilliant white pebbles set against towering cliffs. Don’t miss the Melissani Cave, a subterranean lake where sunlight streams through a collapsed roof, turning the water an ethereal blue.

Zakynthos (Zante): The Iconic Shipwreck

Zakynthos is famous worldwide for Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), where a rusty wreck sits on a secluded strip of white sand surrounded by sheer limestone cliffs. While access to the beach itself has been restricted recently due to safety concerns, the view from the cliff above remains one of the most spectacular vistas in all of Greece.

• Getting the Shot: To see the famous viewpoint for Navagio, you must drive to the northern end of the island, near the village of Anafonitria. It’s an absolute must-see when exploring the best places to visit Greece.

Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Treasures

While the iconic destinations are fantastic, sometimes the most rewarding travel experiences come from venturing off the well-worn path. If you are a seasoned traveler looking to discover the real Greece—the one untouched by mass tourism—I have a few spectacular suggestions.

The Pelion Peninsula: Mythical Mountains and Coastal Villages

Located halfway between Athens and Thessaloniki, the Pelion Peninsula is one of my personal favorites and truly one of the best places to go in Greece for a blend of mountain and sea. According to mythology, this was the summer home of the Olympian gods.

Pelion is characterized by thick forests, traditional stone villages clinging to the slopes, and tiny, secluded beaches hidden at the base of steep hills. Villages like Tsagarada and Makrinitsa offer stunning views and incredible traditional Greek architecture.

• Seasonal Appeal: Pelion is one of the few places in Greece that is fantastic year-round. You can ski on Mount Pelion in the winter and swim in the Aegean Sea in the summer.

Monemvasia: The Greek Gibraltar

Imagine a medieval fortress town built entirely on a massive rock island, connected to the mainland only by a narrow causeway. That is Monemvasia. This hidden gem in the Peloponnese region feels completely magical and frozen in time.

The Lower Town is charming, filled with Byzantine churches and guesthouses. The Upper Town, now mostly ruins, offers spectacular views and a sense of ancient solitude. It’s a perfect spot for couples seeking unique history and dramatic scenery, far removed from the typical tourist crowds.

Zagori and Epirus: A Hiker’s Paradise

For travelers who prefer mountains to beaches, the Epirus region in northwestern Greece is a revelation. The Zagori region, in particular, is defined by the incredible Vikos Gorge (one of the deepest in the world) and dozens of traditional stone villages (Zagoria).

• Architectural Marvels: One of the most unique features of this region is the stunning network of arched stone bridges, built centuries ago to connect the villages across the deep ravines. Hiking the gorge or river rafting on the Voidomatis River are truly memorable ways to experience the wild, untamed side of Greece.

Practical Planning: When to Visit the Best Places in Greece

When you decide to visit the best places to visit Greece, timing is everything. The weather and the crowds will dramatically impact your overall experience.

Season Breakdown: High, Shoulder, and Low Season

High Season (Mid-June to Mid-September)

• Pros: Guaranteed excellent weather, warm seas, all services (ferries, restaurants, hotels) are fully operational.
• Cons: Extreme heat (especially July/August), maximum crowds, highest prices. Santorini and Mykonos can feel overwhelmingly crowded. If you are sensitive to heat and crowds, I recommend avoiding August altogether.

Shoulder Season (April-May and Late September-October)

• Pros: This is my favorite time to travel. The weather is still beautiful (mild and sunny), the seas are warm enough for swimming (especially in September/October), prices are significantly lower, and the ancient sites are much more enjoyable without the punishing summer sun.
• Cons: Some smaller islands may have reduced ferry service or closed restaurants in October.

Low Season (November to March)

• Pros: Best prices, no crowds, ideal for city breaks (Athens, Thessaloniki) and historical exploration.
• Cons: Many islands essentially shut down (limited flights/ferries), cold weather, and the sea is too cold for swimming. This is the perfect time to explore the mainland and the best cities to visit in Greece.

Transportation Tips: Ferry vs. Flight

If you plan to visit multiple islands, you must master the logistics of getting around.

• Ferry Travel: The backbone of Greek island travel. High-speed ferries are fast but more susceptible to delays due to high winds (the meltemi winds in the summer can be challenging). Conventional ferries are slower but cheaper, more stable, and ideal for longer journeys or if you need to transport a rental car. Book tickets in advance during high season!
• Flying: For long distances (e.g., Athens to Crete or Rhodes), domestic flights are often faster and surprisingly affordable, especially if booked early. This is the best way to save precious travel time if you only have a week or two.

Culinary Adventures: Eating Your Way Through Greece

No guide to the best places to go in Greece would be complete without talking about the food. Greek cuisine is a celebration of fresh, seasonal, and simple ingredients. Eating in Greece is not just sustenance; it’s a social event—a parea.

Regional Specialties You Cannot Miss

While you’ll find classics like Moussaka, Souvlaki, and Greek Salad everywhere, look for regional specialties to truly appreciate the diversity of Greek cooking:

• Crete: The Cretan diet is legendary. Look for Xynomizithra cheese, Kalitsounia (small cheese pies), and wild greens (horta). Their olive oil is considered some of the best in the world.
• Thessaloniki/Northern Greece: Heavily influenced by Ottoman flavors, this region excels at sweets and baked goods. Try Bougatsa (a creamy custard pie) for breakfast.
• The Cyclades (especially Santorini): The volcanic soil produces unique ingredients, like white eggplant and fava beans (not the green beans, but a delicious split pea puree).
• The Peloponnese: Famous for Kalamata olives and strong red wines.

Taverna Etiquette

When you sit down at a traditional taverna, don’t rush. Order a variety of small plates (mezedes) to share. The waiter will rarely bring all the food at once; dishes arrive as they are prepared. Take your time, enjoy the local wine or ouzo, and savor the experience.

Finding Your Perfect Greek Itinerary

Deciding which of the best places to go in Greece to prioritize depends entirely on your interests.

• For the History Lover: Start with Athens, then move to Delphi and the Peloponnese (Mycenae, Olympia, Monemvasia).
• For the Beach Enthusiast: Focus on the Ionian Islands (Corfu, Kefalonia) for lush scenery or Naxos and Crete for expansive sandy shores.
• For the Party/Luxury Seeker: Santorini and Mykonos offer the ultimate high-end experience.
• For the Authentic Explorer: Head to the Pelion Peninsula, Zagori, or the lesser Cyclades (like Folegandros or Milos).

I recommend choosing locations that are geographically close to minimize travel time. For example, pair Athens with the Saronic Gulf islands (Hydra, Spetses), or combine the Cyclades (Santorini, Naxos, Paros) with a short flight back to the mainland.

Conclusion: Why Greece Captures the Heart

Greece is a country that truly lives up to the hype. It’s a place where every sunset feels like a masterpiece, every stone tells an epic tale, and every meal is a celebration. We’ve covered everything from the ancient glory of Athens, one of the best cities to visit in Greece, to the dramatic beauty of Meteora, and the iconic, sun-drenched cliffs of the Greek islands.

Whether you choose the bustling vibrancy of the capital or the quiet serenity of a hidden Aegean cove, you are guaranteed an unforgettable journey. I hope this guide has given you the confidence and the inspiration you need to start planning your exploration of the best places to go in Greece. Trust me, once you experience the famous Greek hospitality (filoxenia), you’ll be planning your return trip before you even leave. Start booking those ferries—your Hellenic adventure awaits!