12 Picturesque Spots in Greece
Greece is a living postcard between history and beauty, all under a sapphire sky. This is a place where myth and reality are one, as this nation is more than a place of destination, it’s an escape from reality. Greece has places that will take your breath away from its idyllic islands to its charming mainland.
Greece has it all, whether you’re daydreaming of crystal clear waters or dreaming of ancient ruins. Let’s not forget also the food—gyros, spanakopita and, of course, baklava—tying each adventure together. This guide leads you to some of the most dazzling locales in Greece.
Athens’ Historic Acropolis
Athens’ beating heart is the Acropolis. Imagine seeing the spot in Athens where Socrates and Plato walked, and marvelling at the Parthenon. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a history buff’s dream, but it’s also a place where ancient architecture meets modern restoration techniques. It’s famous, and studies show that tourism to Athens increased over the past decade, in large part because of it.
Crete’s Balos Lagoon
The picture perfect Balos Lagoon is found on Crete, Greece’s largest island. Nature’s masterpiece is its turquoise waters and pink sand. It’s a bit of a trek or boat ride to get there, but it’s worth every step. It lies in a protected area which keeps it in its perfect state for generations to come. Take snorkeling gear to discover the vibrant under water world alive with marine life.
Nafplio’s Venetian Charm
Greece’s most charming town is often referred to as Nafplio. It is just a delightful getaway with cobbled streets, pastel buildings and waterfront promenade. A coastal gem steeped in history, this is once the capital of modern Greece and still boasts Venetian fortifications proudly standing today. Don’t miss the jaw dropping panoramic views from Palamidi Fortress after you climb the 999 steps.
The Suspended Monasteries of Meteora
Meteora monasteries sit high above Thessalian plain. They’re built on towering rock pillars and just exude a fantasy novel quality to them. Built originally as places of solitude for monks, today only six monasteries are active. Meteora is a site of ‘outstanding universal value’, as UNESCO describes it, and it’s easy to see why. An early morning visit allows people to take in the serenity before the tour buses come.
Mykonos’ Windmills And Nightlife
Mykonos is known as the “Island of the Winds,” and is renowned for its 16th century windmills above the town. Don’t be fooled by the serene views, though, this island knows how to party. After sundown beach bars become dance floors and international DJs drop in regularly. Mykonos, a 4 hour journey from Athens and one of Europe’s premier party destinations, comes in at number one based on a 2023 travel survey that surveyed travelers worldwide with regards to their favourite party locations around Europe.
Santorini’s Caldera Views
Santorini is a synonym for romance, and awe inspiring beauty. Its volcanic beginnings gave it the caldera, a huge sea filled crater with dramatic cliffs. Popping up all around like shining gems are the villages Oia and Fira, clinging onto the edges. In fact, the experts have said that these sunsets are among the best in the world, with its golden hues reflecting of the shimmering Aegean Sea. For a less crowded experience, visit April to June or September to October.
Zakynthos’ Navagio Beach
Usually shipwrecks mean trouble, but Navagio Beach on Zakynthos, one of several Greek islands in the Ionian Sea, turned the misfortune of one into a tourist magnet. Its rusted shipwreck stands in stark contrast to the azure waters against which it is framed by limestone cliffs on which only a boat can reach. In 2021, Forbes named it one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and it’s still a top destination for sun, sea and a little adventure.
Delphi’s Ancient Oracle
The ancient Greek world once had its spiritual center in Delphi. Pilgrims came to seek divine guidance at the Oracle of Delphi whose ruins are set against Mount Parnassus. The archaeological site contains a theater, stadium and the famous Temple of Apollo. Historians say its influence peaked in the 4th century BCE. Today it’s a thought provoking trip down memory lane.
Rhodes’ Medieval Old Town
Rhodes is something of a blend between ancient and medieval wonders. The best preserved medieval town in Europe is its Old Town, a UNESCO site. It has palaces, and mosques, cobbled alleys walking through stone streets time traveling back to another era. Rhodes can offer more than just history – the beaches and forests are there for a bonus of relaxation and exploration.
Hydra’s Car-Free Bliss
Hydra is just a short ferry ride away from Athens but feels like stepping in to a time capsule. Cars are not allowed, and most people get around through donkeys or boats. The artistic vibe of the island makes it famous, particularly because it has been this way for centuries, pulling in painters and writers. Take its harbor for a stroll and see the slower life that it has to offer with cafés and boutiques thrown in.
Corfu’s Venetian Architecture
A taste of Italy in Greece, Corfu, has a Venetian past. Also a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Old Town is littered with narrow streets, archways and pastel buildings. But it’s not just architecture that’s mesmerizing; Corfu’s beaches are too. A must visit is paleokastritsa because of its emerald waters and record amount of hidden coves.
Thessaloniki’s Culinary Scene
For foodies, Thessaloniki is your paradise. With its Ottoman, Balkan and Mediterranean influences, Greece’s second largest city is a city of rich culinary heritage. You must try bougatsa, a custard or cheese flaky pastry, when you’re here. Thessaloniki is often referred to by food critics as Greece’s culinary capital, and once you’ve tasted the local fare you will understand why.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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