Greece is the cradle of democracy and the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Myths and legends, temples and gods — you’ll find them all here. But Greece is more than history. From bustling cities to sun-soaked islands, from the labyrinth of the Minoans to hidden corners that feel like Atlantis, the country offers experiences that delight every traveler.

Whether you’re exploring the lively streets of Athens, wandering through medieval towns, or hopping between islands, Greece’s cities & islands each have their own charm. Among the most well-known destinations you might consider for your itinerary are: Athens, Thessaloniki, Corinth, Delphi, Mycenae, Patras, Meteora, Mount Olympus, Mount Athos, and the islands of the Cyclades, Dodecanese, and Ionian Sea.

Before heading to the popular spots, why not explore one (or more) of Greece’s hidden island gems? These “secret” islands are easy to reach, largely untouched by mass tourism, and perfect for savoring local cuisine, quiet beaches, and authentic village life.

Mainland Greece

Athens

The capital with the most glorious history in the world, is a city of contrasts. The historical sites mix really well with the luxury shops and restaurants and the vibrant nightlife.

Thessaloniki

It is one of the oldest cities in the world and the second largest in Greece. The White Tower has been city’s symbol for centuries. Historical sites, museums and entertainment, all make Thessaloniki a must-see when planning your Greek vacation.

Corinth

It was a very important city in Ancient Greece. Today it’s the second largest in the Peloponnese. The ruins of ancient Corinth are worth your time.

Delphi

This is a charming city where you can find the remains of the ancient Delphi. Don’t miss visiting the circular-style temple and visit the on-site museum. Enjoy the beaches and do some jewelry shopping.

Mycenae

It is one of the must-see attractions of the Peloponnese peninsula. Best known for its history, visiting Mycenae is a very popular day trip from Athens.

Meteora

This is the home to the amazing clifftop monasteries. Just beyond the town of Kalampaka, 6 monasteries are “suspended in air”. The monasteries are used as museums and offer a real interesting insight in the Orthodox monastic life.

Patras (Patra)

Greece’s third largest city is totally different than the capital or Thessaloniki. There are a lot of historical sites to check out and the main even here is the spring Carnival.

Mount Olympus & Mount Athos

For nature lovers, Mount Olympus offers dramatic landscapes and hiking trails steeped in mythology. Mount Athos, a monastic peninsula, is a spiritual retreat, accessible with special permits for visitors.

Fourka

It is a popular stop in Halkidiki area. Low rates, nice beaches and some history make it a nice vacation destination.

Cyclades Islands

Santorini

The island offers the most spectacular sunrises in the world. The volcano, the black sanded beaches and the white houses create magnificent scenery. Visit the historical sites or stop to pray in one of the Orthodox churches or monasteries.

Mykonos

The island is famous for ”Little Venice” and its windmills. Petros the Pelican has been the island’s mascot for the past 50 years. The nightlife is considered one of the best in the Mediterranean, rivaling with Ibiza and Rimini. The beaches attract thousands of tourists every year.

Naxos

It is the largest island in the Cyclades group. Its fertile lands allow for excellent produce to be grown here. Make sure to try kitron.

Paros

It is a very popular vacation destination in the Cyclades group. It stands in the center of the group and offers quick access to other islands.

Amorgos

It is the easternmost island of the Cyclades and one of the most romantic places to visit in Greece. It’s perfect for those who want to experience the traditional way of life.

Sifnos

The island is also known as “The Poets Island” and was once famous for the gold and silver mines. Today, the local products include wine, honey, some local cheeses and pottery. But for travelers, Sifnos is known as a summer resort , a lovely island where one can admire the whitewashed houses and enjoy the magnificent nightlife.

Dodecanese Islands

Rhodes

This is the “sun island” and the location of one of the Seven Wonders of the World: The Colossus of Rhodes. “The Old Town” has been designated by UNESCO as a world monument of architectural heritage, while the beaches are always a must-visit in your travel agenda.

Kos

Kos is the second most popular island in the Dodecanese group. It is located very close to the Turkish coast. There are plenty of historical sites to enjoy and let’s not forget the beaches, either.

Karpathos

Popular for the natural sponges, Karpathos also offers superb beaches and picture perfect villages.

Patmos

This is a very small Greek island. It’s famous for being for being mentioned in the Christian scriptural Book of Revelation. In 2006, the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian, the island’s historic center and the Cave of the Apocalypse were declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. The island is a place of pilgrimage. Visitors come to pray in the monasteries dedicated to St. John.

Samos

Located close to the Turkish mainland, Samos is the birthplace of the Greek philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras. There is a UNESCO Heritage Site to visit and there are, of course, beaches to enjoy.

Saronic Islands

Hydra

The island is the favorite place where Athenians escape the city life. The small island is a haven for artists and tourists alike. Cars aren’t allowed on the island and your preferred means of transport will soon be a donkey.

Sporades Islands

Alonissos

This island is still among the “unknown” destinations in Greece. The Island is starting to be famous among British and German travelers. It’s know for the marine wildlife preserve , traditional Greek villages and its beaches.

Skiatos

The island is popular among yachters and Athenians. The island is renowned for the honey and olive oil. An apple-scented ouzo is being produced here.

Spetses

The island is located very close to the Greek mainland and is very popular among Athenians. It is a nice destination to enjoy a relaxed day checking out the charming old port.

North Aegean Islands

Ikaria

Located in the Aegean Sea, the island is filled with history. The beaches are also worth your time.

Lesbos/Lesvos

This is the third largest of the Greek islands and a place enjoyed by travelers who want to experience the real Greece. A variety of wildlife, a unique Petrified Forest, medieval castles, traditional villages, lovely beaches…virtually unaffected by mass tourism but yet so welcoming.

Thassos

It is one of the “secret” Greek islands, mainly visited by Greeks and Europeans. The “Emerald of the Aegean” is home to annual festivals taking place in July and August. Don’t miss visiting the Archeological Museum of Thassos and the Church of the Panagia.

Ionian Islands

Corfu

It offers a lot of interesting sights, such as The Old City (Kerkyra), the Venetian Citadel or The New Corfu Fort. Enjoy the hidden beaches, hike or fish.

Kefalonia

It was the setting for “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin”. The largest of the Ionian islands, Kefalonia is a lovely place to visit if you are interesting in history and spending time on the beach.

Zakynthos (Zante)

It is the third largest of the Ionian islands and a very popular island among European travelers.

Other Islands

Crete

This is one of the most popular tourist destinations. The fifth largest Mediterranean island is the home to the legendary Minotaur. The Palace of Knossos still leads travelers astray when they try to visit the labyrinth by themselves. The Venetian Fortezza offers incredible views of the city and ocean. The beaches cater for every traveler, from those who want to relax to those who want a vibrant nightlife.