Greece is truly a fantastic destination for a seaside vacation, offering a wealth of attractions. From the cultural landmarks of the capital, Athens, to the archaeological sites of Ancient Greece, the monasteries of Meteora, and the Samaria Gorge in Crete, a trip to the land of myths and legends is always a great idea. Completing the experience are delicious local cuisine and the warmth of the local people. 10 Things to Do in Greece
Discover the History of Ancient Greece in Athens The Greek capital is a paradise for history enthusiasts. Its Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the city's icon and an unmissable attraction. Nearby, the ancient neighborhood of Plaka enchants with its relaxed atmosphere and labyrinthine streets. To fully immerse yourself in Ancient Greece's history, make sure to visit the National Archaeological Museum of Athens.
Experience Adventure on the Island of Crete Crete is famous for its tropical-like beaches, Minoan civilization sites such as the legendary Palace of Knossos, and its varied landscapes. The island is also perfect for exploration, and by venturing into its mountainous interior, you'll encounter many adventures. Drive through lunar landscapes to the site of Zakros, trek the Samaria Gorge, and discover the most rugged beaches.
Be Amazed by Meteora Meteora features a series of monasteries perched on sandstone heights, creating a surreal landscape. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the largest and most important centers of the Orthodox Church in the country. With a guided tour, you’ll not only visit this spectacular site but also learn about the life of the monks while enjoying a panorama that seems straight out of a fairy tale.
Make a Stop in the Peloponnese The Peloponnese, a peninsula connected to the mainland by the Corinth Canal, is rich in history and also highly appreciated for beach vacations. Visit Mycenae, the city of Agamemnon, and explore ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. After your cultural visits, enjoy some well-deserved relaxation on the beaches of Nafplio, Cape Sunio, or Kalamata, sipping a cold coffee and savoring the delicious dishes from the beachside tavernas.
Follow in the Footsteps of the Knights in Rhodes The largest of the Dodecanese islands offers a captivating mix of natural sites, dream beaches, and historical attractions. Between the 14th and 16th centuries, the Knights of the Order of St. John settled here, leaving various traces of their presence and countless fascinating stories. You can retrace Rhodes' history by visiting the medieval city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Palace of the Grand Masters, and walking along the Street of the Knights.
Relax on the Beaches of Corfu Corfu is renowned for its turquoise sea, beautiful beaches, and green landscapes. This is why it’s a favorite among those wanting a vacation full of sunbathing, swimming, and nature. However, as often happens on major islands, relaxation can be combined with cultural visits, exploring historical attractions such as the Venetian Fortress in Corfu Town and the Achilleion Palace.
Go Island Hoping in the Cyclades The Cyclades archipelago is particularly suited for island hopping, a type of vacation that lets you "hop" from one island to another. It’s a wonderful option for seeing different places while staying within the relaxed spirit that characterizes Greek islands. The two stars of the archipelago, Mykonos and Santorini, are about 2 hours by ferry from each other. While Mykonos is known for its party scene and Santorini as a romantic haven, both offer landscapes that will stay in your heart. Also worth visiting are Paros and Naxos for a more authentic and less crowded atmosphere.
Explore the Shipwreck of Navagio Beach Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is one of Greece's most famous shores. Nestled in a cove on the island of Zakynthos, the beach is only accessible by sea and features the wreck of a smuggler's ship that sank in the 1980s. Its uniqueness, white pebbles, and crystal-clear waters attract many visitors each year and have made it one of the country’s symbols.
Visit the Archaeological Site of Delphi Considered the center of the world by the ancient Greeks, Delphi still holds a magnetic charm today. Home to the famous Oracle of Apollo, this archaeological site is set in a stunning natural context and reveals the mystical and ceremonial side of one of the most significant civilizations of the Western world. Not to be missed are the ancient theater, which offers a beautiful view of the surrounding valleys, and the Delphi Archaeological Museum, which displays significant artifacts found on the site.
Top-quality eating and drinking Mediterranean products, Turkish and Middle Eastern influences make Greek cuisine a real delight, with tasty dishes and fresh options ideal for the country’s warm summers. During your vacation, try moussaka, a baked casserole with eggplant and minced meat, dolmadakia, stuffed grape leaves, and the indispensable Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. For drinks, tsipouro and ouzo are traditional spirits to sip during meals, often with a few ice cubes. Among wines, Retsina is the most produced, known for its resin aroma.
