Top 5 destinations to explore in Greece this year

Choosing the ideal places to visit in Greece during your holidays may seem overwhelming at first, but we're here to simplify the options for you.

Located in southeastern Europe, Greece is a favored travel destination featuring a hilly mainland filled with vibrant landscapes and surrounded by thousands of islands. No matter where you arrive, Greece offers stunning beaches, serene countryside, dramatic gorges, towering mountain ranges, and ancient historical sites that date back millennia.

Must-visit destinations in Greece – Attica

Attica is the most densely populated region in Greece, home to the capital city, Athens, which is the most visited city in the country. However, there’s more to Attica than just Athens; the region also boasts beautiful mountains, a picturesque coastline, and lush lowlands that are home to much of the population.

Athens

When people mention traveling to Greece to see historical landmarks, they are often referring to Athens. This city was once the largest and most powerful of the Greek city-states and is famously known as the birthplace of democracy. Exploring Athens is a delight for history enthusiasts and those curious about the origins of Western civilization. It boasts numerous iconic attractions, including the Parthenon, Acropolis Museum, Acropolis of Athens, Ancient Agora of Athens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and Mount Lycabettus.

Athens Riviera

The Athens Riviera is a beach destination that you might not realize you need until you discover its stunning shores. This coastline spans approximately 34 miles, stretching from Faliro to Cape Sounion, allowing visitors to explore various spots along Athens' southern coast, including the beautiful seaside suburbs of Voula, Glyfada, and Kavouri, as well as the Vouliagmeni peninsula. Kavouri Beach is among the finest in the area, featuring crystal-clear waters for swimming, sunbeds and umbrellas for comfort, and a variety of activities to enjoy.

Marathon

If you find yourself in eastern Attica, one of the must-see destinations is Marathon, renowned for its fascinating archaeological site: the Tymbos of Marathon. This vaulted tomb is believed to be the final resting place of Athenian soldiers who perished in the historic battle against the Persians in 490 BC. A short walk from the tomb reveals artifacts from the Battle of Marathon and remnants of a nearby Egyptian temple. On the outskirts of the village lies an artificial lake known as Lake of Marathon, and northeast of the town center, you’ll discover the area's premier beach: Schinias.

Best places to visit in Greece – Macedonia

Macedonia, the largest region in Greece, dominates the northern part of the country. It's rich with stunning historical towns, sun-soaked beaches with crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking mountain peaks. The coastline of Macedonia is a major draw for tourists, alongside numerous historical sites scattered throughout the region. A popular quick getaway is the narrow peninsulas of Chalkidiki, which embrace the legendary Mount Olympus, inviting adventurous souls to climb its heights.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is often regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in Greece. It offers a vibrant blend of shopping, dining, and access to the Aegean Sea, making it a year-round favorite with delightful weather. The city boasts a rich history, featuring well-preserved landmarks such as the remarkable Roman Agora at its center, as well as the Arch of Galerius and the Rotunda.

The city boasts an impressive array of museums that reflect its rich history, showcasing artifacts from Ancient Greece and Rome right through to contemporary Thessaloniki. Additionally, Thessaloniki is a culinary gem, offering a diverse selection of late-night bites, street food, pastries, and fine dining, all influenced by a fusion of Asian and European flavors, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Kastoria

Kastoria is renowned for its fur trade and is a picturesque town located along the shores of Lake Orestiada. The town is home to nearly 60 Byzantine and post-Byzantine churches, some dating back to the 9th century. In Kastoria, you can explore ancient monasteries like Panagia Mavriotissa and the Agion Taxiarchon church, then wander through the historic Doltso district before strolling along the serene lakefront.

Mavrovo National Park

Mavrovo National Park is the largest national park in Macedonia, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes. It’s an ideal destination for animal enthusiasts, featuring Mavrovo Mountain, the tallest peak in the region, and Lake Mavrovo, which extends nearly four miles. This area attracts mountain climbers and fishermen alike. A notable highlight of the park is the almost-submerged Church of St. Nicolas, which was flooded in the 1950s and has gradually emerged to become a fascinating sight.

Best places to visit in Greece – Thessaly

Thessaly is flanked by the Pindus mountain range, showcasing a rich and diverse topography. The region features sprawling low-lying plains, home to cities like Larissa and Trikala, as well as the rugged coastal areas of Pelion and Ossa along the Aegean Sea.

Meteora Monasteries

Meteora is arguably the most renowned destination in Thessaly, with its origins tracing back to the 11th century when ancient monks settled in the caves among the towering rocks. The name Meteora means 'suspended in the air,' and it encompasses a remarkable collection of enormous rock formations, atop which several monasteries were constructed.

These stunning monasteries not only provide breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery but also offer a glimpse into the monastic life of the medieval era. With six of the original monasteries still inhabited by clergy, it attracts countless visitors from around the globe. Kalabaka, a charming town situated at the base of these majestic rocks, serves as an ideal base for the journey to the monasteries.

The six monasteries in this area include Saint Nicholas Anapausas Monastery, Saint Stephen Monastery, Rousanou Monastery, Varlaam Monastery, Great Meteoron Monastery, and the Holy Trinity Monastery. If you find yourself in this part of Greece, make sure to visit all these monasteries to gain a true insight into the monastic life of yesteryear.

Pelion

Pelion is a mountainous peninsula in Thessaly, nestled between the Pagasetic Gulf and the Aegean Sea. While the region may not have extensive tourist facilities, one highlight is Mount Pelion. This hiker's paradise stretches approximately 27 miles long and about 12 miles wide, offering breathtaking views of dense vegetation, oak forests, and fir trees against a backdrop of ocean waves and sandy shores—making it a worthwhile hiking destination.

Best places to visit in Greece – Dodecanese Islands

Greek islands are categorized into clusters, each named according to its geographical location. The Dodecanese Islands lie in the Aegean Sea, spanning both the central and eastern parts, with several islands positioned near the Turkish borders.

Rhodes

As the largest and most renowned island in the Dodecanese, Rhodes is often called the island of the knights due to its occupation by knights during the 13th and 14th centuries. Key attractions include the historic old town and the port, where remnants of knightly architecture transport you back in time.

At the heart of the island lies the Acropolis of Lindos, perched atop a rock that overlooks the enchanting village below, providing stunning vistas of Lindos' charming homes. Rhodes boasts several beautiful beaches, including Faliraki, Saint Paul’s Bay, Tsambika, and Kallithea, perfect for lounging in the sun and enjoying a refreshing cocktail while savoring the ocean breeze.

Karpathos

Karpathos is celebrated for its preservation of ancient traditions and is home to some of Greece's most charming and secluded villages. You’ll encounter women dressed in traditional Karpathian attire, and many locals continue to practice age-old crafts like wood carving and embroidery. Stroll through the island to discover Olympos, a picturesque village rich in local customs, or visit the Ancient Potideon archaeological site and the Acropolis of Arkassa. Don’t forget to explore the island’s stunning beaches, such as Achata, Kyra Panagia, and Ammoopi.

Patmos

For centuries, Patmos has been a significant destination for pilgrims, largely due to Saint John, who penned the book of “Apocalypse” here. The island also boasts stunning beaches, a lively nightlife, and breathtaking natural scenery across its landscape and villages.

This serene island features an unparalleled natural environment that remains largely untouched by tourism. Patmos harmoniously blends its stunning landscapes with numerous religious sites, delectable local dishes, year-round festivals, pristine beaches, and rolling green hills.

A highlight for many visitors is exploring the Cave of Apocalypse. This sacred site, perched between Skala and Chora, includes a white stone sanctuary that offers panoramic views of the island and is adorned with stunning bell towers.

Inside the cave, you can immerse yourself in the experience that Saint John had when he chose this location for solitude, where he received his vision of the “Apocalypse.”

Epirus – Greece’s Mountainous Marvel

Nestled between the Ionian Sea and the Pindus mountains in northwest Greece, Epirus offers a coastal escape adorned with pine-fringed coves and a mild climate, alongside a vast interior featuring snow-capped peaks during winter. This region attracts visitors from around the globe eager to explore its diverse natural attractions.

Vikos–Aoos National Park

This national park boasts the deepest gorge in relation to its width on the planet, plunging approximately 0.5 miles at its lowest point. You can explore the park and the gorge in two ways: by taking in the view from above or embarking on a long trek down to the gorge floor along the Voidomatis River. The hike to the village of Vikos takes about 5 hours and provides an unforgettable experience of this astonishing natural wonder.

Ioannina

Ioannina, the capital of Epirus, is nestled in northwest Greece around Lake Pamvotida and became part of Greece in 1913. While the city may not offer a plethora of activities, its breathtaking scenery and the tranquil waters of the lake create an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Take a moment to relax on a bench by the lake, soaking in the beautiful surroundings and peaceful ambiance. A must-see besides the stunning lake is the Ioannina Castle, the oldest Byzantine fortress in Greece, constructed in the 6th century, which remains an inhabited area today.

Acheron River

Originating near the village of Zotiko and flowing to its mouth at Ammoudia, the Acheron River offers a vast playground for various activities such as water trekking, swimming, rafting, and horseback riding, depending on the season. Historically, this river was thought to lead to Hades, as it winds through gorges and occasionally disappears underground.

Along the river, you can savor local dishes at nearby restaurants or, if you're feeling adventurous, explore hiking paths and rafting routes. For the brave, a quick dip in the icy, crystal-clear waters promises a refreshing experience.