19 Really Breathtaking Locations To Discover In Greece

This sun-kissed European nation affords all the pieces from serene sandy seashores to vibrant historical historical past. It caters to all, from historical past buffs and nature lovers to clubbers and beachgoers. Listed below are the locations that actually stood out to me…

1. Santorini

This is named being one of the vital romantic islands on the planet! I personally thought the maze of slim, cobblestone streets weaving by means of putting white buildings and blue domes, all set in opposition to the breathtaking backdrop of the deep blue Aegean was and spectacular sunsets was enchanting. Though it was busy with vacationers throughout my summer time journey, I believed the entire place exuded a dreamy and magical ambiance! 

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 an enormous volcanic eruption round 1600 BC. I used to be in awe of its dramatic caldera views, distinctive volcanic-sand seashores, and historical 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 Purple Seashore which had putting purple 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

My favourite highlights…

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

2. Mykonos

This is without doubt one of the most Instagrammable Greek islands! I used to be personally wowed by its iconic whitewashed Cycladic buildings, vibrant shutters, winding cobblestone streets, and beautiful seaside views, and stylish vibe all set in opposition to the dazzling blue of the Aegean Sea! Sure it’s a well-liked social gathering island, however I liked the way it nonetheless possesses pure and conventional magnificence.

Positioned within the Aegean Sea, it’s a part of Greece’s Cyclades island group, located between Tinos, Syros, Paros, and Naxos, round 150 kilometers southeast of Athens. It’s 85.5 sq. kilometres stuffed with windmills, fashionable nightlife and a set of photogenic Cycladic structure (beautiful white-washed dice buildings) set round a picturesque fishing village bay.

I spent every week right here and relaxed on sandy seashores (the full of life Paradise, family-friendly Ornos, the beautiful Platis Gialos Seashore, 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 means of the cobblestone streets of Mykonos City and watching a putting sundown at Paraportiani Church.

My highlights…

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

3. Zakynthos 

That is beautiful gem! 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 a laid-back but vibrant vibe! 

Also referred to as Zante, it’s positioned within the Ionian Sea, off the western coast of mainland Greece, and is the third largest of the Ionian Islands, overlaying an space of 405 sq. kilometers. It’s a popularMediterranean vacation spot recognized for its Shipwreck Seashore, Blue Caves, and cute loggerhead sea turtles. 

I stayed right here for a blissful seven days and visited the very Insta-worthy Navagio (Shipwreck) Seashore, explored the mesmerising Blue Caves, relaxed on the beautiful sandy seashores (my favourites had been Laganas and Kalamaki) snorkelled with loggerhead turtles in Marathonisi Island’s clear waters, discover 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

My private highlights…

• Staying on the Mon Repo Secret Suites – I actually liked the Insta-worthy non-public infinity swimming pools, the earthy boho styling and large comfortable beds! 
• Going for cocktails on the Roof Backyard Restaurant & Bar on the cosmopolitan coastal promenade Strada Marina – I liked the excellent rooftop views and the ouzo-based Zakynthos Dawn! 

4. Kefalonia

That is such a ruggedly picturesque island! I at all times wished Kefalonia after studying Captain Corelli’s Mandolin (which made the island well-known!) and after 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, southwest of Lefkada and northeast of Zakynthos. It’s an more and more well-liked vacation spot however I really like that it nonetheless has a relaxed vibe and conventional Greek lifestyle and tasteful low rise largely boutique-style accommodations.

I stayed right here for a dreamy fortnight and swam on the iconic Myrtos Seashore, explored the paranormal Melissani Cave and underground lake, visited the picturesque village of Assos, relaxed on the serene Antisamos Seashore, 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.
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My highlights…

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

5. Rhodes

That is well-liked however nonetheless very charming island vacation spot! I used to be in awe of its mix of medieval attraction, with historical stone partitions and cobblestone streets, golden seashores, turquoise waters, inexperienced hills and vibrant but timeless vibe! Though it’s house to some full of life social gathering resorts, there are nonetheless many unspoilt areas of really excellent pure magnificence. 

The most important 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 house to an UNESCO-listed medieval Previous City, the Colossus of Rhodes’ historic legacy, and being one of many sunniest locations in Europe with over 300 sunny days yearly.

I spent every week right here and loosen up on beautiful seashores (my favourites had been the soft-sanded Tsambika, the peaceable Agathi Seashore and the secluded Anthony Quinn Bay), strolled by means of the medieval Previous City and Road of the Knights, explored the traditional acropolis of Lindos, visiedt the beautiful Valley of the Butterflies, and hiked to the Monolithos Fort which had excellent panoramic views.

• Location: southeastern Aegean Sea, 225 miles southeast of Athens.
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My private highlights…

• Consuming at Rustico Restaurant, a cute tavern with a contemporary twist that gives outside seating and even vegan choices – their Greek Salad with black olives was divine! 
• Exploring the shoreline through a quick boat tour with Jet Boat Rhodes.
• Mountain climbing alongside the coastal path from Lindos to Saint Paul’s Bay – it had actually beautiful views of the glowing sea under.

6. Athens

I didn’t know what to anticipate from the Greek capital however I severely liked it! Among the many chaos, there was pockets of spectacular magnificence in Athens – with world-famous historical landmarks and neoclassical buildings, set in opposition to a backdrop of golden sandy seashores and rocky coves alongside the Athenian Riviera. I believed it was a really distinctive metropolis, gritty in some elements, nevertheless it was undoubtedly by no means boring!

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

• Handle: Acropolis of Athens Dionysiou Areopagitou Road Athens, 105 58
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My highlights…

• Seeing the unimaginable historical monuments which appear to spring from actually each nook within the metropolis, even within the H&M retailer! The favored vogue retailer had a visual part of an historical 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 once we went and onerous to get a seat nevertheless it was definitely worth the wait!

7. Corfu

I personally suppose Corfu is a beautiful gem! The surroundings right here is actually breathtaking with Venetian-inspired structure within the Previous City, golden sandy and pebble seashores like and emerald-green hills mixing with the turquoise waters of the glistening Ionian Sea. I liked the way it combined a full of life Mediterranean power with a heat Greek hospitality! 

• Handle: Ionian Sea, northwest coast of mainland.
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My favourite highlights…

• Eating on the conventional Taverna Ninos which served up genuine Corfiot delicacies  in Corfu city – I liked their homestyle gyros! 
• Kicking again on my favorite seashores, the picturesque Paleokastritsa Seashore and the distant Voutoumi Seashore.
• 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 well-liked vacation vacation spot! On my journey I used to be completely gained over by its golden sandy and rocky seashores, crystal-clear waters, and charming cities that includes historical stone buildings, Byzantine church buildings, and Venetian fortresses, all set in opposition to a backdrop of rugged mountains. I discovered that folks to be extremely welcoming and pleasant, and the meals was particularly divine! 

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

I went actually rustic and stayed within the very peaceable mountains on the Casale Panayiotis however I frolicked on the well-liked 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 with their ornate Byzantine frescoes! 

• Location: Japanese Mediterranean Sea, 500 miles southeast of the mainland.
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My favorite highlights…

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

9. Thassos

That is an idyllic, extra under-the-radar island! I believed it was beautiful although with unspoilt landscapes resembling rolling inexperienced hills, golden sandy and pebbled seashores, and charming stone-built villages that includes conventional Greek structure, all set in opposition to the glittering waters of the Aegean Sea. I liked its laid-back and tranquil vibe.

It’s northernmost Greek island, is positioned within the northern Aegean Sea close to the coast of mainland Greece, overlaying an space of 380 sq. kilometers and is accessible by ferry from Kavala or Keramoti. I discovered wealthy marble quarries, conventional honey manufacturing, tasteful and intimate low rise accommodations, and an interesting historical historical past as a centre for gold mining. 

I relaxed on the beautiful seashores (my favorites had been the serene Paradise, the white-sand Chrissi Ammoudia seaside and the pristine Marble Seashore), explored the traditional ruins of the Agora in Limenas, hiked the plush trails of Ipsarion Mountain, visited the standard village of Panagia, loved conventional delicacies on the picturesque harbor 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.
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My private highlights…

• Occurring a sea-kayaking tour with Insula TASOS and exploring fantastic 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 believed it was a fascinating spot with pristine sandy seashores, inexperienced valleys, and charming whitewashed buildings with blue accents in conventional villages and a stunning mountain backdrop. I liked its a laid-back but vibrant vibe!

It’s the most important island within the Cyclades and is positioned within the Aegean Sea, southeast of the mainland. It covers an space of 429 sq. kilometres and is thought for its fertile valleys, myth-surrounded Mt. Zeus, historical marble quarries, and the long-lasting Portara, the doorway to the unfinished Temple of Apollo!

On my journey, I relaxed on beautiful 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 means of the charming Previous City and Fort of Naxos, hiked up Mt. Zeus and found conventional villages like Apiranthos and Halki.

• Location: Aegean Sea, roughly 100 miles southeast of Athens.
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My highlights…

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

11. Lefkada

Lefkada is positioned on Greece’s west coast and is definitely linked to the mainland through a floating bridge and a causeway. It’s one of many few Greek islands you may go to by automobile.

I adore it for its timeless villages surrounded by wild olive groves and rolling hills, spectacular inlets and little bays in direction of the south (which has good circumstances for windsurfers and kite surfers) and crystal blue waters and really beautiful white seashores, a lot of that are like these within the Caribbean – sure, actually!

Additionally count on conventional taverns serving freshly caught fish, fairly coves and charming conventional villages. For seashores I suggest heading for Egremni, Kathisma, and Porto Katsiki seashores, that are very Insta-worthy spots. 

I additionally preferred visiting the zen-like Panagia Faneromeni Monastery, the Nidri waterfalls and the fascinating ruins of the Fort of Santa Maura.

• Location: the Ionian Sea, 0.6 miles west of the mainland
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My private highlights…

• Going seaside hopping and seeing all of the unimaginable seashores right here, my favorite was Egremni. 
• Visiting the Lefkas Earth Vineyard, the beautiful environment and their particular purple wine had been sufficient causes to go to!
• Visiting the quirky Folklore Museum, I particularly liked the historic fairly embroidery work! 

12. Crete

Crete is the most important island within the nation! I personally liked its beautiful sandy seashores, dramatic gorges and mountains, and charming cities stuffed with Venetian harbours, whitewashed buildings, and historical ruins. 

Crete is positioned within the southern a part of the Aegean Sea, on the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, and spans an space of 8,336 sq. kilometers. I discovered it was house to historical Minoan civilization, a number of the finest seashores within the Mediterranean and a mixture of full of life and extra serene resorts.

When 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 means of the Venetian harbour of Chania, visited the historic Arkadi Monastery and took a ship journey to the beautiful Balos Lagoon.

• Location: jap Mediterranean Sea, 99 miles south of the mainland.
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My private highlights…

• Attending to know the locals within the bars, eating places, and cafes, they’re severely pleasant! I particularly liked “The chickpea” restaurant for its unimaginable paprika hummus.
• Visiting Takis Shelter , a social media star Takis is legendary everywhere in the world for rescuing canine and housing them at his cage-free shelter. My favorite resident was the humorous and candy Grioula! 

13. Meteora, Kalabaka

Positioned in central Greece, this putting and weird rock formation is house to a monastery based within the 14th century and now has UNESCO World Heritage web site standing.

The complicated of six monasteries is constructed precariously atop 1,300-foot-high sandstone pinnacles on the northwestern fringe of the Plain of Thessaly, close to the scenic Pineios River and Pindus Mountains.

Be warned that there’s some stair climbing concerned, nevertheless it’s value it, it’s an superior sight that personally left me speechless. If you wish to see one thing just a little completely different then I extremely suggest it! 

• Handle: Meteora Monasteries Meteora, Kalabaka 422 00 Thessaly
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My highlights…

• Taking a digicam and photographing it, it is a very distinctive and jaw-dropping spot! 
• Staying on the close by Alsos Visitor Home, I liked the comfortable vibe and the terrace with fabulous views the place we ate breakfast! 

14. Nafplio

Positioned within the Japanese Peloponnese area of Argolis is Nafplio on mainland Greece; it is a romantic seaport metropolis (which was as soon as the capital of the brand new state of Greece between 1821 and 1834).

I used to be awestruck by the medieval castles, Ottoman fountains, historical partitions, statues, monuments, and neoclassical and Venetian buildings. It’s additionally simple to get to from Athens which is simply 94 kilometres away.

Uncover the Turkish Fountains, medieval Previous City, the superbly preserved neoclassical mansions, and slim cobblestone alleys. I additionally recommend stopping by Syntagma Sq. and taking within the monuments and historic buildings earlier than heading to the Palamidi Fort, which stands tall at 216 meters above sea stage.

I additionally extremely suggest taking a ship journey to the Venetian fortress of Bourtzi, visiting the Struggle Museum, and the Byzantine Twelfth-century church. 

• Location: northeastern a part of the Peloponnese peninsula 85 miles southwest of Athens.
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My favorite highlights…

• Exploring the photogenic and quaint Previous City. 
• Taking a visit to Palamidi Fort and climbing the entire 999 steps! 
• Sipping on an expresso and folks watching in Syntagma Sq..

15. Mystras, Peloponnese 

Mystras is a mountainous village close to Sparti, Laconia, on mainland Greece. UNESCO classifies it as a World Heritage Monument.

It’s well-known for its archaeological web site, as Mystras was a vital medieval city within the Byzantine Period.

The archaeological web site consists of well-preserved Byzantine church buildings and a robust Fortress, and I extremely suggest exploring it if you wish to see an off-the-beaten-track attraction. There aren’t many vacationers right here!

• Location: Peloponnese area, 136 miles southwest of Athens. 
• Location Map

My favorite highlights…

• Exploring all of the historic websites and photographing the beautiful views.
• Paying a go to to the Digital camera Museum which was stuffed with fascinating retro artefacts.

16. Delphi Theatre, Phocis

Delphi is an archaeological web site and a contemporary city on mainland Greece. It’s on the southwestern spur of Mount Parnassus within the valley of Phocis.

The Delphi theatre was constructed atop a hill going through the gorgeous valley within the 4th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage web site.

Constructed as Apollo’s sanctuary and oracle, its 35 rows might maintain as much as 5,000 visitors, who in historical instances loved performs, poetry readings, and musical occasions.

I personally suppose it is a beautiful historic web site, and I particularly liked the views of the encompassing mountains.

17. Mount Olympus Nationwide Park

Declared a Nationwide Park in 1938, Mountain Olympus is Greece’s highest mountain and stands at 9,573 toes!

This unspoilt attraction is positioned in mainland Greece and is stuffed with thick forests, alpine fields, rocky peaks, deep gorges, fairly waterfalls and uncommon plant species.

It’s positioned distant from crowded Greek hotspots and that’s why I adore it a lot right here! There are some curious guests although and campsites and cheap accommodations have sprung up within the area to cater for them.

Litochoro is the primary village and it may be simply accessed from Athens by prepare and bus. I extremely suggest not lacking the Historic Dion Archaeological Museum on the base of Mount Olympus and the various wonderful mountaineering trails. 

• Location: Mount Olympus Nationwide Park Litochoro 602 00 Pieria
• Location Map

My private highlights…

• Occurring a mountaineering tour to see the putting Enipeas Canyon full with the spectacular Enipeas Waterfall and the emerald inexperienced pool under.
• Feeling courageous and occurring a novices mountaineering tour are organized which set off from Litochoro. 
• Making an attempt a number of the native delicacies like Fasolada (a conventional Greek white bean soup) and Loukoumades (scrumptious deep-fried dough balls drizzled with honey).

18. Lake Kerkini

That is distinctive place positioned on mainland Greece. It’s truly positioned within the coronary heart of the chicken migration route is house to 1000’s of protected and uncommon birds, which is a really unimaginable sight, particularly the pelicans!

In addition to plenty of birds I additionally noticed gigantic sq. meters of water lilies, and unbelievable views of the Krousia and Belasica mountains.

It’s additionally house to buffalo herds, various fish varieties, over ten species of amphibians and nineteen species of reptiles.

Actions right here embrace boat rides, kayaking, 4×4 off-roading excursions, biking and mountaineering trails.

• Location: northern Greece, 62 miles northwest of Thessaloniki.
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My highlights…

• Renting a ship and seeing the fantastic birds up shut.
• Taking my digicam and capturing the beautiful wildlife and sundown.

19. Monemvasia Fortress 

Monemvasia Fortress is positioned alongside the Peloponnese coast which is on the jap aspect mainland Greece and the primary settlement might be traced again to the sixth century.

Each the sprawling Byzantine fortress and the excellent seashores positioned close by are open to locals and vacationers who can’t get sufficient of this extraordinary place and with good cause, it’s a novel magnificence spot! 

I personally suppose it’s a refined and idyllic spot and as a historical past fan I liked how I might spot the Ottoman, Venetian, Frankish, and Byzantine influences throughout the entire city.

I additionally suggest visiting the close by fascinating Kastania Cave, historic church buildings and the Emvasis Cafe which additionally serves scrumptious cocktails.

• Handle: Monemvasia Fortress Monemvasia 230 70 Laconia, Peloponnese
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The place is Greece?

Greece is positioned in South Japanese 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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