Greece is a country where mythology meets breathtaking landscapes, where ancient ruins stand beside turquoise waters, and where every sunset feels like a masterpiece. From world-famous archaeological wonders to whitewashed island villages and vibrant coastal towns, Greece offers an unforgettable mix of history, culture, adventure, and relaxation. If you're planning a trip and wondering about the best places to visit in Greece, this guide highlights the top 10 cities and destinations across the country, along with the best things to do in each. Read on to pick your favourite spots!
Top 10 Places to Visit in Greece for Every Traveller
1. Athens
The capital of Greece, Athens is the cradle of Western civilization and a fascinating blend of ancient heritage and modern urban life.
Things to Do in Athens
- Visit the iconic Acropolis of Athens and marvel at the Parthenon
- Explore the Acropolis Museum for ancient artifacts
- Wander through the charming streets of Plaka
- Watch the sunset from Lycabettus Hill
- Enjoy Greek cuisine at a traditional taverna in Monastiraki
2. Santorini
Famous for its whitewashed buildings and blue domes, Santorini is one of the most romantic places to visit in the world. Perched on the edge of a dramatic volcanic caldera, the town offers a perfect blend of romance and natural beauty. Visitors can relax on unique volcanic beaches, explore the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, sail around the caldera and enjoy world-class dining with panoramic views, making it an unforgettable stop on any Greek itinerary.
Things to Do in Santorini:
- Watch the sunset in Oia
- Relax on unique volcanic beaches like Red Beach and Perissa
- Take a boat tour around the caldera
- Visit the ancient site of Akrotiri
- Enjoy wine tasting at a cliffside vineyard
3. Mykonos
Known for its vibrant nightlife and cosmopolitan vibe, Mykonos also boasts beautiful beaches and charming architecture. Its whitewashed streets, iconic windmills, and picturesque Little Venice create a postcard-perfect setting, while golden beaches like Paradise and Psarou attract sun-seekers from around the world. Beyond the parties, visitors can explore charming alleyways, enjoy waterfront dining, and take a boat trip to the nearby archaeological island of Delos for a glimpse into ancient Greek history.
Things to Do in Mykonos:
- Explore Mykonos Town and Little Venice.
- Visit the iconic windmills.
- Party at beach clubs like Paradise and Super Paradise.
- Take a day trip to the sacred island of Delos.
- Relax on Psarou or Ornos Beach.
4. Thessaloniki
Blending rich history with a lively contemporary spirit, Thessaloniki is Greece’s vibrant northern gem. Overlooking the Thermaic Gulf, the city is known for landmarks like the White Tower of Thessaloniki, Byzantine churches, and Roman ruins that reflect its diverse past. Thessaloniki also boasts a dynamic food scene, bustling waterfront promenade, and energetic nightlife, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking culture, history, and modern urban charm in one place.
Things to Do in Thessaloniki
- Visit the White Tower of Thessaloniki.
- Explore Ano Poli (Upper Town) for panoramic views.
- Discover Byzantine churches and Roman ruins.
- Walk along the waterfront promenade.
- Experience the city’s vibrant food scene.
5. Chania
Nestled on the sparkling shores of Crete, Chania is a charming coastal destination known for its Venetian harbour, colourful buildings and rich history. The old town’s narrow alleyways are filled with boutique shops, waterfront cafés, and historic landmarks that reflect centuries of Venetian and Ottoman influence. Beyond the city, visitors can explore stunning natural attractions like Balos Lagoon and Samaria Gorge, making Chania a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and outdoor adventure.
Things to Do in Chania
- Stroll around the Old Venetian Harbor.
- Visit Balos Lagoon and Elafonissi Beach.
- Explore Samaria Gorge.
- Discover the Maritime Museum of Crete.
- Enjoy fresh seafood by the waterfront.
6. Rhodes
Steeped in history and sun-soaked charm, Rhodes is a captivating island that blends medieval architecture with stunning beaches. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town, complete with the Palace of the Grand Master, cobbled streets, and ancient walls, transports visitors back in time. Beyond history, Rhodes offers golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant local markets, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both cultural exploration and leisurely seaside relaxation.
Things to Do in Rhodes
- Explore the medieval Old Town (UNESCO-listed).
- Visit the Palace of the Grand Master.
- Relax at Lindos Beach.
- Discover the ancient Acropolis of Lindos.
- Wander through cobbled stone streets.
7. Corfu
Lush, green, and steeped in history, Corfu is a captivating island known for its Venetian architecture, scenic landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage. The charming Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features narrow streets, elegant squares, and historic fortresses, while the island’s coastline offers pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can explore the majestic Achilleion Palace, enjoy local cuisine at seaside tavernas, and take in breathtaking sunsets, making Corfu a perfect blend of history, nature, and relaxation.
Things to Do in Corfu:
- Explore Corfu Old Town
- Visit Achilleion Palace
- Swim at Paleokastritsa Beach
- Discover the Old and New Fortresses
- Take scenic coastal drives
8. Nafplio
Often hailed as one of Greece’s most picturesque towns, Nafplio enchants visitors with its neoclassical architecture, charming streets, and seaside charm. The town is famous for its historic fortresses, including Palamidi and Bourtzi Castle, which offer panoramic views of the Argolic Gulf. Strolling through Syntagma Square or along the scenic Arvanitia Promenade reveals quaint cafés, boutiques, and lively local culture, making Nafplio a perfect destination for history enthusiasts, romantics, and travelers seeking an authentic Greek experience.
Things to Do in Nafplio
- Climb the steps to Palamidi Fortress.
- Walk along the Arvanitia Promenade
- Marvel at the iconic 15th-century Bourtzi Castle
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Syntagma Square
- Take a day trip to nearby Epidaurus
9. Heraklion
The vibrant capital of Crete, Heraklion is a hub of history, culture, and local life. It is famously home to the ancient Palace of Knossos, a centrepiece of Minoan civilization, and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which houses countless artifacts from the Bronze Age. Beyond its historical treasures, the city offers bustling markets, lively cafés, and a charming Venetian harbour, making Heraklion a dynamic destination where Greece’s past and present come vividly to life.
Things to Do in Heraklion
- Visit the Palace of Knossos.
- Explore the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
- Walk along the Venetian walls.
- Discover local markets.
- Savour traditional Cretan dishes.
10. Kalamata
Nestled in the heart of the Peloponnese, Kalamata is renowned for its olives, rich history, and stunning coastal scenery. The city features a blend of modern life and traditional charm, with highlights including Kalamata Beach, the historic Kalamata Castle, and the Archaeological Museum of Messenia. Visitors can stroll through its lively streets, enjoy fresh local cuisine at waterfront tavernas, and take scenic drives through the nearby Mani Peninsula, making Kalamata an ideal destination for relaxation, culture, and authentic Greek experiences.
Things to Do in Kalamata
- Relax on Kalamata Beach
- Visit Kalamata Castle
- Explore the Archaeological Museum of Messenia
- Stroll through the historic centre
- Take scenic drives through the Mani Peninsula
From the ancient wonders of Athens to the sun-drenched shores of Santorini and the medieval charm of Rhodes, the diversity of places to visit in Greece is truly remarkable. Whether you're seeking history, nightlife, beach relaxation, or cultural immersion, Greece offers something for every traveller. Each city tells its own story, shaped by centuries of mythology, conquest, trade, and tradition. Book one of our Greece tour packages and get ready to step into a world of magical moments, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality that will draw you back again and again.
FAQs - Places to Visit in Greece
First-time visitors should explore Athens for ancient history, Santorini for iconic sunsets, Mykonos for nightlife, and Crete for beaches and culture. These destinations offer a perfect introduction to Greece’s history, scenery, and cuisine.
Santorini is famous for its dramatic caldera views, while Mykonos is known for vibrant beaches. Crete offers diverse landscapes, and Corfu stands out for its lush greenery. The “most beautiful” island depends on your travel style.
A 10–14 day trip is ideal to explore multiple places in Greece, including Athens and 2–3 islands. If you have limited time, 5–7 days can cover Athens and one nearby island.
The best time to visit Greece is from April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and popular destinations are less crowded compared to peak summer.
Greece can suit different budgets. While islands like Santorini and Mykonos can be expensive, destinations such as Nafplio, Thessaloniki, and parts of Crete offer more affordable accommodation and dining options.
Must-visit historical sites include the Acropolis in Athens, the Palace of Knossos in Crete, the medieval Old Town of Rhodes, and ancient theaters like Epidaurus in the Peloponnese.
For stunning beaches, visit Mykonos, Crete (especially Elafonissi and Balos), Rhodes, and Corfu. Each offers crystal-clear waters and a variety of beach experiences, from lively to secluded.
Yes, Greece is family-friendly with safe cities, beautiful beaches, interactive museums, and outdoor activities. Islands like Crete and Corfu are especially great for families due to their relaxed atmosphere and diverse attractions.
