Greece Vacations are truely unforgettable when it comes to combining history, culture and natural beauty. Here are 37 places to visit in Greece, from the Acropolis in Athens, to the whitewashed villages in Santorini, to the party scene in Mykonos. From the ruins of Olympia on mainland Greece to the beautiful hike through Samaria Gorge in Crete to the glorious sunsets of Oia. With idyllic coastal villages and lesser-known spots like Ikaria and Syros, each presents evidence of Greece’s enduring charm. These destinations are sure to treat you with an abundance of Greece vacation experience.
Must-See Destinations for Greece Vacations
1. Must-See Greek Islands
Known for stunning beauty, rich culture, and a Mediterranean way of life, the Greek islands
- Santorini — the most famous for its gorgeous sunsets, volcanic beaches and some of the richest blue-domed churches.
- Mykonos – Famed for hosting wild parties, iconic windmills, and classy, cosmopolitan atmosphere.
- Crete – the largest of the Greek islands, with sandy beaches, snow-capped mountains and the Minoan Palace of Knossos.
- Rhodes – A medieval old town and ancient ruins
- Corfu – Venetian-style buildings and greenery
- Zakynthos – With Navagio (Shipwreck Beach) and turquoise waters.
- Paros – Quaint villages and golden sand beaches
- Naxos – Island with ancient temples and hiking trails for families
- Milos – Beautiful volcanic scenery and colourful fishing villages.
- Ios – Gorgeous beaches and a vibrant party vibe.
2. Historic Cities and Ancient Landmarks
Greece boasts some of the most significant archaeological sites in the world, and one of the best-preserved populations of ancient ruins.
- Athens – Explore the Acropolis, Parthenon, and bustling Plaka district.
- Delphi – It was the center of the ancient world, the home of the Temple of Apollo.
- Olympia – Home of the Olympic Games
- Sparta — Where the ruins of a historic battleground lay.
- Meteora Monasteries – Stunning cliff-side monasteries
- Thessaloniki – Byzantine churches, nightlife, and cultural events
- Epidaurus – Well known for its ancient theatre with incredible acoustics.
- Mycenae – Archaeological site with the Lion Gate and royal tombs
- Delos — Beautiful island with temples, relics
3. Natural Wonders and Scenic Destinations
Greece, apart from its history, islands, has widely diverse landscapes, mountains, and natural parks.
- Samaria Gorge (Crete) — A well-known hiking route featuring stunning landscapes.
- Mount Olympus Greece – The mythical home of the gods and a hiker´s paradise
- Vikos Gorge (Epirus) – Deepest gorges in the world
- Lake Plastira – Mountains embrace an artificial lake, heavenly during the summer.
- Cape Sounion – Temple of Poseidon facing the Aegean Sea
- Meteora Valley – UNESCO World Heritage Site sized temple rock.
4. Charming Villages and Cultural Towns
Greece has such a vibrant culture so full of picturesque towns and villages that act as the window to the most authentic way of Greek life.
- Oia (Santorini) – Famous for sunset views around the world.
- Chania (Crete) – A taste of the Venetian harbor and Old Town magic.
- Hydra – A car-less island with preserved buildings
- Monemvasia — a medieval town on a tiny island.
- Molyvos (Lesbos) – Picturesque stone houses by the sea.
- Arachova (close to Delphi) – Ski resort city that bustles and buzzes.
- Kardamyli (Peloponnese) — Coastal settlement with amazing beaches and mountains view.
5. Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Greece
If you like to be away from the tourist hotspots, these under-the-radar places are for you.
- Kastoria – Town at the edge of the lake, with Byzantine churches and an important centre for the fur trade
- Syros– The Neoclassical Capital of Cyclades
- Ikaria – The Island of Long-Lived People
- Kythira – Traveller appeal but less than iconic waterfalls and secluded beaches.
- Sifnos – Authentic island with delicious local gastronomy.
Traveling in Greece is a journey of time, culture and magnificent landscapes. From the ancient ruins of Athens and Olympia to the stunning beaches of Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, the variety of destinations in the country are endless. From the cliff-top monasteries of Meteora or the move and less bustling villages of Chania and Oia to quieter gems like Ikaria and Syros – each destination is brilliant in its own way. Greece is home to over 35 amazing locations for travel discovery, relaxation, and inspiration. A trip to Greece is not merely a vacation — it is a slice of timeless memories.
