Greece is guaranteed to please the hedonist as much as the history buff. Life for visitors is centered around the blue Aegean lapping golden beaches, waterside tavernas serving fresh-grilled fish, bouzouki beats playing late into the night, and ancient, sun-bleached ruins defying the ravages of time. Athens -- where the Parthenon reigns over the city -- is the hub, but the Greek islands are the jewels.
Crete, Santorini, Rhodes, Mykonos, Corfu and dozens of lesser-known isles are among the world's most beautiful, thanks to the splendors of nature and architecture. Greece tour packages visit these as well as the many spectacular mainland sights.
Whether your tour takes you biking around the mainland or to some of the storied islands, you'll find that Greece offers just the right combination of sun, sea, sights and the celebration of life.
5 Best Cities in Greece (Besides Athens)
Most of us have heard of Athens, and know about the many beautiful islands that dot the country’s coast, but if you want a little more flavor to your Greek vacation, consider visiting some of the other best cities has to offer:
1. Agios Nikoloas
This city, found on the island of Thessaloniki, is a cultural melting pot with a gorgeous old town that you will never get tired of exploring. It will also satisfy your urban cravings with its impressive modern art scene and vibrant nightlife.
Oia, Santorini. This is the city you always see photographed when you do a quick Google search of “Greece.” There are more things to Oia (pronounced “ee-ah”) than just scenic vistas; take a visit to the Oi Castle, and visit its world-class Greek craft stores for the perfect souvenir.
This is the city you always see photographed when you do a quick Google search of “Greece.” There are more things to Oia (pronounced “ee-ah”) than just scenic vistas; take a visit to the Oi Castle, and visit its world-class Greek craft stores for the perfect souvenir.
This city is the perfect stop on any foodie’s bucket list. Its streets are lined with word class restaurants and an animated bars. When you’re ready for a bit more cultural exploration, check out the city’s old fortress, Casa Parlante (a 19th century nobleman’s home turned museum), Spianada Square, walk the old town, and try to see at least some of the island’s 39 churches!
This town is a UNESCO listed heritage site, walled in by an impressive, medieval fortification system including watchtowers and gates. Inside, pedestrians will be able to explore without a worry, as no cars are allowed inside.
Rethymno is heaven for shoppers, its cobblestone streets crowded with stores and boutique selling everything from high-end clothing and jewelry, to pottery, to food. For those interested in culture, Rethymno has a great folk museum.
No matter what you are doing in the town, though, you can be sure you’ll be surrounded by some of the best preserved historic architecture.
Island Hopping in Greece
The first thing to note when traveling to Greece is when to visit. August and July are usually when it’s most crowded. June and September have slightly fewer crowds but maintains its nice, sunny weather.
The next thing on your itinerary is transportation. The larger and more popular islands can be accessed by plane. But, a ferry ticket is just as easy and much more affordable.
The Cyclades are the easiest islands to reach from Greece’s mainland. Daily ferry trips are offered from Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrio.
Santorini and
Mykonos are the Cyclades more popular islands. But Paros, Milos, and Naxos all have an understated beauty and have far fewer crowds.
The Dodecanese consists of numerous isles, twenty-six of which are inhabited. Rhodes and Kos are the most popular islands within the Dodecanese. The Dodecanese are great for those who want a quieter and more culturally immersive experience of Greece.
The Ionian Islands are mainly located on the Ionian Sea. Geographically, they are much greener than the other clusters of islands. This unique terrain provides picturesque beaches and countrysides.
Navagio Beach, Myrtos Beach and Porto Katsiki Beach are the most talked about beaches. The Ionian Islands are ideal for nature lovers who enjoy active excursions like
hiking, snorkeling, and camping.
Top Islands in Greece
This is the island where the iconic photos you’re probably familiar with are taken. The cliff-side city of Oia (pronounced ee-ah) is simply bursting with windmills, white and blue churches, cliff-side restaurants, and impeccable shopping. The Santorini islands are formed by the submerged caldera so many of the beaches on the island are blackened from the lava in the water.
Reminiscent of Ko Samui in
Thailand, Mykonos has a vibrant party atmosphere with lots of day beach clubs and a robust nightlife. But you don’t have to be into this scene to enjoy Mykonos -- there are countless restaurants and shops all opened late. The narrow streets are great for strolling through day or night.
3. Koufanisis
An off-the-beaten-path island with a small, country feel. Fishermen are along the waterfront on their boats, many with family restaurants where they bring their day’s catch for the freshest dishes. There is a beautiful windmill bar on the island which is great for star-gazing.
4. Naxos
This is one of the least traveled to islands. You don’t have to go far to find delicious restaurants mixed in with abundant small shops and boutiques. Winding through the small alley streets, you can make your way to ancient ruins and the famous Castle of Naxos.
Important Information About Traveling to Greece
Capital city: Athens
Dialing code: +30
Language: Greek
Currency: Euro