From island hopping to ancient history, and from Athens to the Aegean Sea, Greece is a destination that keeps tourists coming back for more.
With so much to see and do throughout the country, it can be difficult to decide where you’d like to visit, so we’ve pulled together a list of some of Greece’s greatest sights and attractions to help you choose your perfect Greek getaway.
Here are 30 amazing things you can do in Greece.
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Athens and Around
1. Explore the Acropolis
The Acropolis and its crowning glory, the Parthenon, are Athens’ unmissable ancient sites. These iconic 2,500-year-old ruins and their crumbling golden pillars are a magical and mythical tribute to the war goddess, Athena. They’re a quintessential symbol of Greece’s foundational role in Western civilisation and a place to breathe in history.
2. Wander through Plaka
A few steps down from the Acropolis and a step back in time, a stroll through Plaka is the perfect chaser to the shot of history you’ve just experienced. After the grandiosity and magic of the ancient ruins, Plaka feels like landing back down on this mortal Earth in the loveliest way.
Higgeldy-piggeldy pastel houses, cosy tavernas, and charming artisanal craft and produce…a place to relax, eat, shop and watch the world go by.
3. Visit the National Archaeological Museum
After witnessing the ancient majesty of the Acropolis, you may well have developed an appetite for some more ancient Greece. There’s no better serving than the National Archaeological Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of ancient Greek artefacts.
From Cycladic figurines to the famous mask of Agamemnon, the museum displays the tangible treasures that bring life to ancient Greece’s greatest stories.
4. Enjoy the sunset from Lycabettus Hill
Hike up or take the charming funicular. Either way, don’t miss the spectacular sunset from the crest of Lycabettus Hill. From here, you’ll see the Acropolis, the city, and, on a good day, the Aegean Sea. You’ll find a cafe at the top of the hill to enjoy a drink while the sun sets over Athens.
5. Take a day trip to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon
Just outside Athens, these seaside temple ruins loom over the Aegean Sea. Epic in the same way that the Acropolis is, Cape Sounion will call to mind the Nereids (sea nymphs) and sea gods of ancient Greece. It’s beautiful, day or night, but if you can make it here for a sunset, it will be another one you won’t forget.
Delphi and Meteora
6. Discover the Sanctuary of Apollo
Delphi was once considered the centre of the world. The Temple of Apollo is where oracles came to share their divine prophecies with Kings and commoners. Nestled dramatically on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, it’s a place of mystery and serenity, where the epic journeys of past pilgrims are palpable.
7. Visit the archaeological Museum of Delphi
This museum provides a deeper insight into Delphi’s history and heritage, a perfect way to contextualise the sanctuary’s ruins. It also features remarkable artefacts, including the famously lifelike bronze Charioteer of Delphi and the beautiful Sphinx of Naxos.
8. See the Meteora Monasteries
A spiritual marvel, as well as a feat of architecture, the Meteora monasteries are perched mysteriously on top of towering rock formations. These UNESCO-listed monasteries are incredible in their own right, but also home to many frescoes and ancient manuscripts. This is a site where the journey up is as inspiring as the views at the top.
Peloponnese Peninsula
9. Walk through the Lion Gate at Mycenae
If Homeric heroes and ancient kings are your thing, you’ll be in your element at Mycenae. From the moment you step through the massive Lion Gate, you’ll be in awe. A once-mighty kingdom and home to Agamemnon (king of Mycenae), a civilisation flourished here from 1600-1000 BC.
Don’t miss the Treasury of Atreus (Agamemnon’s tomb) – and you can get to the Corinth Canal in about 40 minutes from here, too.
10. Theatre of Epidaurus
The Theatre of Epidaurus, built in the fourth century BC, is known best for its perfect acoustics. This ancient theatre still hosts performances to this day, and if you get the opportunity, it’s worth trying to experience one.
If you’re there when nothing’s showing, test the acoustics by whispering from the stage to hear it echo perfectly throughout the seats.
11. While a day away in Nafplio
Nafplio was modern Greece’s first capital. Today, it’s a romantic and picturesque coastal town that beautifully harkens back to Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences.
Climb to the beautiful and imposing Palamidi Fortress for panoramic views, wander the waterfront promenade, and find a little taverna for a fresh seafood lunch.
12. Transport yourself back to the ancient games at Olympia
Birthplace of the Olympic Games, Olympia, is an archaeological treasure. Wander through the ruins of the ancient stadium, the gymnasium, the wrestling centre, and the magnificent Hera Temple ruins, where the Olympic flame is lit today.
Make sure you visit the onsite museum, too, which houses the famous Hermes of Praxiteles statue.
13. Have a dip at Voidokilia Beach
Shaped like the letter Omega, this stunning white-sand beach is a pristine haven. Visitors can cool off in the heat of the Grecian sun in the calm, turquoise Mediterranean waters.
There are some fabulous hiking trails nearby, too, and you can explore the nearby Nestor’s Cave, where Hermes hid his cattle.
Cyclades Islands
14. See that famous Santorini sunset
Time for some Aegean island hopping…and you can’t get much better than Santorini’s dramatic cliffs and gleaming whitewashed buildings.
Make your way up to Oia for a blissful sunset. Yes, it can get busy here – but the views down over the caldera with tumbling houses glowing in the golden hour make it worthwhile.
15. Have dinner at Kastro, Oia
One great way to avoid the throngs but enjoy the sunset at Oia? Book dinner at Kastro. The sunset menu is special, with fresh seafood, shellfish and Mediterranean flavours.
But the best part is the stunning dining terrace from which you can watch the Santorini sun go down while you sip a glass of wine.
16. See the windmills of Mykonos
Mykonos is famously glamorous these days, and a favourite destination of footballers and influencers, with a great party scene. But there’s so much more to it than that.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the iconic windmills on the hill in Chora overlooking Little Venice. And when you’ve done that, why not head down to one of Little Venice’s charming seaside bars for cocktails and people-watching?
17. Delos
Just a 30-minute ferry ride from Mykonos, you can step onto the tiny, sacred island of Delos. Delos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Greece’s most important archaeological and mythological places.
A guided tour is the best way to see Delos and hear about its incredible history and connection to ancient myths. But if you’d rather self-guide, just make sure you don’t miss the epic terrace of the Lions.
18. Cruse the blue lagoon in Paros
Paros is one of the less ‘glam’ jetsetter-type Greek islands blessed with charming, understated elegance. Visitors can cruise to its stunning blue lagoon and swim in some of the most beautiful waters you’ll ever dip a toe into.
Crete
19. Palace of Knossos
Home of Minos and the bull-man Minotaur, these restored ruins are a fascinating remnant of the long-dead Minoan civilisation. Here, you’ll see intricate wall carvings and restored frescoes that paint an incredible picture of an ancient time of rites and rituals.
20. Eat spanakopita in Chania Old Town
Chania’s Venetian harbour is an absolute pleasure to explore with its pastel buildings, delightful gift shops, and cosy tavernas. We’d recommend stopping at one to enjoy some delicious spanakopita, a fresh, crispy Greek pastry filled with cheese and spinach.
21. Hike the Samaria Gorge
Hiking the full gorge takes about six hours through beautiful scenery, including cliffs and forests. It ends at Agia Roumeli, a quaint village on the Libyan Sea where you can cool off with a well-earned crispy cold beer – and maybe a dip!
22. Elafonisi Beach
Famous for its pink sand formed by finely crushed shells and coral, Elafonisi is a unique and incredibly pretty natural wonder. You can wade through the beach’s shallow waters here and get to the nearby islets, just off the shore.
23. Swim at Falassarna
There are many superb beaches in Greece and Crete, but Falassarna is a real gem among them and is considered by many to be one of the best.
Its stunning blue waters have a little more life than some of the Greek Islands’ shallow, glassy waters, and the beach is lined with beautiful little tavernas where you can watch the sun go down with some seafood.
North Greece
24. Explore Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki is a vibrant, fun city and a cultural melting pot. Visit the iconic White Tower, explore the city’s beautiful Byzantine churches, and indulge in some bougatsa (cream-filled pastry) at one of the delightful little cafes on the waterfront promenade.
25. See the Royal Tombs of Vergina
The ancient site of Aigai (meaning ‘goats’) was the first capital of the kingdom of Macedon. Here, you’ll find a museum full of gold treasures, detailed and beautiful ancient mosaics, and Philip II’s tomb.
26. Hike Mount Olympus
This one is not for the faint of heart (or leg) – but a hike to Greece’s highest peak is an unforgettable experience. If you’re not a big hiker/climber, why not hike a portion of the trail through some of the foothills’ lush forests and beautiful meadows? You can still enjoy some great views without going to the top.
27. Bask in the sun in Halkidiki
The most popular tourist destination in Northern Greece, with crystal-clear waters, unspoiled beaches and eponymous olives, Halkidiki is a slice of paradise. Whether you’d like lively resorts or secluded coves, you’ll have a perfect day in the sun here.
The Dodecanese Islands
28. Walk the cobbled streets of Rhodes Old Town
This is a real medieval gem; cobbled streets, staunch fortresses, and the equally imposing and enchanting Palace of the Grand Master. This is a place to wander the labyrinthine old alleys and soak in the island’s dramatic history.
29. Climb to the Lindos Acropolis
The perfect fusion of ancient history and natural beauty. Climb to the Lindos Acropolis for stunning views over golden cliffs to the azure sea, and explore the ancient ruins built in dedication to the goddess Athena.
30. Escape to Symi Island
Symi is a hidden gem among the many jewels that make up the Greek Islands. A picture-perfect escape with a colourful and bustling harbour, crystal clear water, superb little waterside tavernas and an atmosphere that will make you want to stay longer than the typical day trip. Consider relaxing here for a few days – you won’t regret it.
Final thoughts…
Whether you’re interested in ancient myths and legends, just fancy chilling on a paradise beach, or do a little bit of both, a trip to Greece will hit the spot.
If you’re considering a Greek holiday but need ideas for where to go, we hope our article has helped. One thing we can be sure of is that when holidays in Greece are concerned, every choice is a good one!
For further reading, check out our article: 10 of the best Greek Islands to visit (that you might not have heard of).
Are you considering a trip to Greece? Have you been, or are you one of its many repeat visitors? Let us know your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below.
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