Comprising thousands of islands on both Aegean and Ionian seas, Greece is surely a country that is on many travelers’ wish lists. And it is not hard to see why. The country is rich in history and of course, features numerous world-renowned destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, Thessaloniki, and the capital Athens. Since there are too many places to visit and things to see and enjoy, you may be confused about deciding where to go to enjoy the ultimate vacation in Greece. You have come to the right place because this article elaborates the top things to do in Greece for an unforgettable escape. Keep reading.
1. Explore Temple of Aphaia on Egina island (from USD 155.0)
Why explore the beautiful Greek islands one by one when you can enjoy many of them together? Book this tour and you will get to travel to Poros, Hydra, and Egina in the Saronic Gulf all in one trip through a full-day cruise. Every time you reach an island, you will enjoy free time to explore, go sightseeing, and shop as you wish. Upon arrival at Egina, it is highly recommended that you explore the famous Temple of Aphaia at your own expense. What is more, the tour includes a Greek lunch while you are on the ship. Enjoy the delicious lunch while marveling at the views of the water and surroundings.
Greece Hydra, Poros, and Egina Cruise from Athens, VIP Option
Duration: 11 hours
2. Wander around Acropolis (from USD 386.0)
Other than spectacular views, Greece is also rich in history, particularly a history that is related to the gods. You cannot leave Greece without checking out Acropolis, Greece’s famous citadel on a hill. This tour allows you to customize your trip in Athens. You are free to choose the landmarks that are most appealing to you. Highly recommended points of interest include Temple of Zeus, Royal Palace of Athens, and Archaeological Museum. You can also enjoy skip-the-line admission to Acropolis through this tour. Avoid large crowds whenever you can so you will have time to explore more of the objects.
Athens Private Tour with Skip-the-Line Acropolis Admission
Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
3. Discover the monasteries of Meteora (from USD 47.0)
Let yourself be captivated by the charm of the ancient religious traditions of Greece by paying a visit to Meteora that is renowned not only for its panoramic views but also its orthodox monasteries. The monasteries have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage. Learn about the unique customs of the religious communities that perch high above the ground upon a stunning cliff. You are going to visit six monasteries in total and will have the opportunity to learn more about the Greek orthodox monastic life inside three of the six monasteries. Make sure to spend time to look below from the cliff as the views of the rock formations and the surrounding lush greenery are just beyond compare.
Meteora Panoramic Morning Small Group Tour with Local Guide
Duration: 4 hours
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4. Peruse the artifacts at Heraklion Archaeological Museum in Iraklio (from USD 50.97)
Indulge in a one-day trip from Rethymno to Iraklio and make a visit to Heraklion Archaeological Museum. But before you visit the museum, you will first enjoy a journey that will bring you back in time to the days of King Minos at Knossos Palace. Explore the archaeological site of Knossos in which King Minos built his magnificent palace. Be careful as you are exploring the palace because it will be hard to find your way out without a guide. Only after this you will finally get to the archaeological museum to discover Minoan art by observing a collection of statues, frescoes, and more. The museum is claimed to be one of the finest museums in the country.
Chania/Rethymno: Knossos & Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Duration: 8.0 hour
5. See the Roman Temple of Olympian Zeus (from USD 72.0)
Are you curious about what modern Greece looks like and are you interested in discovering the country’s greatest treasures? Take a trip to Athens’ top-notch sites. You are going to make stops at Greek Parliament and Panathenaic Stadium, which is a stage of the first modern Olympic Games. Once you are satisfied, you will witness the glory of Parthenon and see the Roman Temple of Olympian Zeus to gain insights into Athens in the past.
Athens Half-Day Guided Sightseeing Tour
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
6. Visit Delphi archeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (from USD 106.0)
Greece is loaded with many attractions that have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of them is Delphi archaeological site. As you set foot in Delphi, you will soon learn why the city was claimed to be the center of the world during ancient Greece. Let yourself be captivated by the myths and the monuments in Delphi archaeological site. Some must-sees include Delphi Archaeological Museum, Sphinx of Naxos, and Charioteer of Delphi.
Delphi Day Trip from Athens
Duration: 10 hours
7. See Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Games were held (from USD 142.0)
Did you know where the first Olympic Games were held? The answer is at Panathenaic Stadium. By participating in this tour, you can explore the stadium that hosted the first modern Olympic Games back in 1896. But before the museum, the tour will also take you to some of the most important sites in Greece like Parthenon and Acropolis where you can enjoy a pleasant stroll and New Acropolis Museum where you can discover archaeological wonders from ancient Greece.
Athens City Tour with Acropolis, Parthenon, Plus Cape Sounion
Duration: 9 hours
8. Go for a relaxing walk at National Garden in Athens
Feast your eyes and ease your mind and soul by making a stop at National Garden, one of the prettiest public parks in Greece. Open from dawn till dusk, the park lets you enjoy a relaxing walk where along the way, you can spot rare kinds of plants and lush vegetation. You can also meet birds and admire some statues.
National Garden, Athens
Address: Leoforos Vasilisis Amalias 1, Athina 105 57, Greece
Opening hours: 6am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 2 EUR (2.26 USD)
9. Discover the viticulture of Santorini (from USD 132.0)
Santorini is not only famous for its panoramic views but also wine production. Enjoy a rare opportunity of learning more about viticulture in Santorini with this tour that will last for approximately four hours. During this time, you can explore a vineyard, walk around wine cellars, and learn about wine production in the area. You will also get a chance to try the best Santorini wine.
Santorini Wine Tasting, Vineyard Small-Group Tour
Duration: 4 hours
10. Ride a train through the scenic Peloponnesian countryside (from USD 109.0)
One of the best ways to enjoy a beautiful countryside is through boarding a train. If you are a nature lover and have always wanted to enjoy a scenic countryside journey by train, this is your chance. Travel by train and admire the stunning views of Peloponnesian along the way from Athens to Meteora monasteries so make sure to keep your eyes open all the time. Once you get to Meteora, you can explore the monasteries and take in spectacular views of the valley and the mountainous range from atop sandstone cliffs.
Meteora Day Trip via Bus from Athens
Duration: 14 hours
11. Walk along the cobbled streets of Plaka (from USD 25.0)
A fun way to discover the best of Athens is through city sightseeing with a hop-on and hop-off bus. Enjoy an open-top, double-decker bus that will make stops at 37 of the most popular attractions in Athens. New Acropolis Museum and Acropolis are of course, two must-visit attractions. But, make sure to also stop at the Plaka, which is known for its beautiful cobbled streets.
Athens, Piraeus, Riviera Hop-On Hop-Of City Sightseeing Tour
Duration: 80 to 110 minutes
12. See the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus (from USD 414.0)
The rich history of classical Greece is not something to be missed. Lasting for three days in total, this tour will take you to visit Deplhi Archaeological Museum and two other important sites, Epidaurus and Olympia. But, the highlight of this tour is a place named Sanctuary of Asklepios, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated within the Valley of Dreams, the sanctuary was a temple that was built to pay respect to the Greek God of Healing, Asklepios.
Greece 3-Day: Epidaurus, Mycenae, Nafplion, Olympia, Delphi
Duration: 3 days
13. Laze off on the white sands of Myrtos Beach
Nestled in the beautiful region of Pylaros, Myrtos Beach has attracted a lot of visitors from around the world for its white sands and blue water. You can just laze off on the soft white sands without having to do anything else for a few hours or go swimming and try other beach activities. Enjoy the sun and the surrounding mountains, namely Agia Dynati and Kalon Oros.
Myrtos Beach
Address: Pylaros, Greece
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
14. Try local food at LIONDI Traditional Greek Restaurant in Athens
Shrips special #liondi #greekfood #greece #restaurant
Posted by Liondi - Traditional Greek Restaurant on Saturday, 1 September 2018
It is a must to try local food in a new destination. So while you are in Athens, you should make your way to LIONDI Traditional Greek Restaurant, one of the best restaurants in the city that serve authentic Greek cuisine. Lamb chops, chicken souvlaki, and shrimp specials are among the most popular dishes in the restaurant. Give them a try.
LIONDI Traditional Greek Restaurant
Address: Makrigianni 19, Athina 117 42, Greece
Website: LIONDI Traditional Greek Restaurant
Opening hours: 12pm - 10pm
15. Tour Old Fortress in Corfu
Nestled on the island of Corfu, Old Fortress is among the most popular landmarks that are surely not to be missed. Old Fortress was actually a natural rocks formation that was transformed into a fortress to protect the city in 8th century AD by the Byzantines. Inside the Venetian fortress you can admire a collection of historical records, such as images of the Byzantine era and the Byzantine collection of sculptures.
Old Fortress, Corfu
Address: Corfu 491 00, Greece
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 3 EUR (3.39 USD)
16. Admire crystalline formations inside Cave of Lakes (from USD 387.0)
Prepare to be awed by the beautiful crystalline formations in Cave of Lakes. If you are eager to find out the beauty of these crystalline formations, then it is a must to visit Cave of Lakes. In addition to the crystalline formation, the legendary Cave of Lakes is also known for its archaeological remains. On your way to the spot, you can enjoy the views of vineyards and olive groves. Then, you will spend an unforgettable moment on a train along Vouraikos Gorge that will bring you to your next destination, which can be either Ancient Corinth or Mega Spilaio Monastery. You will also be served a traditional Greek lunch that can be enjoyed in a mountain village.
Corinth, Cave of Lakes, and Odontotos Railway Private Tour
Duration: 10 hours
17. Enjoy an aerial dining experience at Dinner in the Sky (from USD 193.0)
This must be one of the most thrilling experiences that you will never forget. Enjoy the sensation of dining in the sky right above Athens. Have an aerial dining experience in a revolving restaurant suspended in the sky. As you are savoring your six-course Greek meal with unlimited soft drinks, beer, and wine, you have to look below because the well-lit city of Athens at night is just spectacular. Make sure to catch the illuminated Acropolis as the table slowly rotates.
Dinner in the Sky Athens
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
18. Explore the ruins of Knossos (from USD 85.66)
Delight yourself with the beautiful ruins of Knossos without having to queue for tickets. The majestic Palace of Knossos will bring you back in time to approximately 3,500 years. Learn more about the history of Greece through a detailed guided walking tour around the palace. There is over 1,500 interlocking rooms inside the palace. The king’s residence highlights the House of the Frescoes, which boasts its colorful wall paintings, along with unbelievable water management systems and impressive storage areas.
Heraklion: Knossos Palace Skip-the-Line Guided Walking Tour
Duration: 1.5 hour
19. Visit Drogarati Cave and Melissani Lake (from USD 60.0)
Just like Athens and Corfu, Kefalonia boasts its own spectacular sights. Lake Melissani is going to be your first stop as soon as you reach Kefalonia. Board a small boat and enjoy your cruise along the lake while admiring awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites. Then, you are going to move on to your next destination that is just as astonishing, Drogarati Cave. Tucked away 200 feet (60 meters) under the ground, the 200-million-year-old cave features unique rock formations that are made even beautiful with artificial lighting. Witness the magnificence of Sala of Apotheosis, the best feature of the cave. It also regularly hosts music performances and other shows.
The Caves ....Drogarati Cave and Melissani Lake
Duration: 4 hours
20. Check out Temple of Hephaestus in Athens
With so many temples scattered across Greece, you may find it difficult to decide which temples to go to and which ones you can skip. While in Athens, you would not want to miss visiting Temple of Hephaestus, simply because of its magnificence. That is how it was built back in 450 BC and it has remained so until today. The temple is among the most preserved temples in Greece and was built as a dedication to the god of fire Hephaestus and Athena, patron of arts and crafts.
Temple of Hephaestus
Address: Athens 105 55, Greece
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
21. Tour the ruins of ancient Corinth (from USD 508.0)
A morning excursion from Athens to Corinth is surely something to wake up the brain and pump the soul. Open you eyes to look outside the window and you will be presented with panoramic views along Saronic Gulf. You will also pass through stunning beaches before finally reaching your first destination, Corinth Canal. The canal was built a long time ago in the 1890s with the purpose of linking the gulfs of Saronic and Corinth. After which, you can start to explore the ruins of Corinth. In case you do not know, Corinth was a highly influential city at one point in time. Before you finally return to Athens, you are going to make one more stop at Kehreai, a seaside town.
Ancient Corinth and Corinth Canal Private Tour from Athens
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
22. Be awed by Arch of Hadrian in Athens
When you are in Athens, be sure to drop by Syntagma Square in which you will find the mighty Arch of Hadrian that is set in between the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Rock of Acropolis. You may be wondering why the temple is so famous and has become one of the landmarks in Athens. Well, it is a triumphal arch. If you look carefully, you can see the resemblance between Arch of Hadrian and a Roman triumphal arch. This is because the arch was constructed to honor Hadrian, a Roman emperor.
Arch of Hadrian
Address: Leoforos Vasilisis Amalias 50, Athina 105 58, Greece
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
23. Spend a day relaxing on Hydra island (from USD 187.0)
Escape Athens for a little while and find your way to relax on Hydra Island for a day. To get to this beautiful island, you will have to catch a ferry. One important thing you should know about Hydra Island is that it is part of the Aegean Sea. Now you know why it is a must to cross to Hydra Island. As soon as you leave your ferry, you can start exploring Hydra Town on your own. Discover the charming harbor, explore the hidden lanes, make stops at your favorite shops and restaurants, and just admire the views of the cosmopolitan island for a few hours. You can also try a water taxi if you wish to indulge in a sweet escape in the secluded bays.
Hydra Private Day Trip by Ferry from Athens with Transfers
Duration: 12 hours
24. Marvel at Arch of Galerius and Rotunda in Thessaloniki
The Arch of Galerius and Rotunda is one of the grandest landmarks in the city of Thessaloniki. The arch was built as a celebration of Galerius’ victory over the Persians. If you take a look at the pillars of the arch closer, you can see details of friezes celebrating the victory. The arch is an extension to a massive palace complex, Rotonda of Galerius, that is located in the same area.
Arch of Galerius and Rotunda
Address: Egnatia 144, Thessaloniki 546 22, Greece
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
25. Visit the famed Monastery of the Virgin Mary on Corfu island (from USD 415.0)
Last but not least, your vacation in Greece will not be complete without making a stop at the famed Monastery of the Virgin Mary. Situated on top of a hill, the 13th-century monastery is so massive that it dominates the whole region of Paleokastritsa. The coastline of the monastery is truly astonishing that it was once featured in one of the James Bond movies. In addition to Monastery of the Virgin Mary, this tour will also take you to Achillion Palace.
Corfu Private Tour from Port: Achillion Palace, St. Spyridon
Duration: 5 hours
26. Visit archaic monuments like Temple of Apollo and Sanctuary of Artemis (from USD 66.0)
Even if you might not believe in Greek mythology and legends, you can still pay respect to Apollo and Artemis, two of the mightiest Olympian gods in history. As you are exploring Temple of Apollo and Sanctuary of Artemis, you can gain some knowledge on the rich history of Greece. Your expert guide will tell you informative stories about the myths and legends of ancient Greece as well as culture of the Greek empire.
Ancient Delos Tour
Duration: 5 hours
27. Cruise along the rocky shores of Thirasia (from USD 99.0)
Santorini is among the most popular destinations in Greece, so much so that many of us have already heard about its beauty. This time, you will get the opportunity to cruise along the rocky shores of Thirasia by boarding a Santorini cruise in the evening. Witness the incredible sunset over the island of Santorini as you are indulging in an on-board dinner and a glass of wine. You will also be given free time to explore Nea Kameni volcano and if interested, you can relax your muscles in the hot springs at your own expense.
Santorini Sunset Dinner Cruise with Nea Kameni Volcano Visit
Duration: 8 hours
28. Take your children to Attica Zoological Park in Athens (from USD 22.05)
You may want to have a change of situation while exploring Athens. Instead of visiting temples, ruins, and arches, you can also have a fun time in a zoological park, especially if you are traveling with your little ones. Enjoy quality family time by taking your kids to Attica Zoological Park for the whole day. You are free to explore the zoo by yourself. Along the way in the zoo, be prepared to meet face-to-face with bears, lions, tigers, and many other animals. The zoo is home to over 2,000 animals from around the world. If you still have the energy after meeting all the animals, you can also enjoy a shopping spree at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet shopping mall.
Athens: Full-Day Attica Athens Zoological Park Ticket
29. Explore Achilleion, a palace on the island of Corfu (from USD 49.0)
Do not forget to revel in the magnificence of Corfu Island through this excursion with a guided tour. As soon as you reach Corfu Island, you will be taken into a magnificent palace called Achilleion Palace, a neoclassical palace. If you observe the architecture of the palace, you can understand how it was inspired by Greek mythology. Afterward, you will continue your journey to another UNESCO World Heritage Site called Old Town. Here, you will have time to admire Venetian architecture along with elegant mansions and charming squares. Highlights include New Venetian Fortresses and St. Spyridon Church.
Corfu Old Town and Achilleion Palace Shore Excursion
Duration: 4 hours
30. Ride roads and trails to Lasithi Plateau and Dikti Mountains (from USD 162.0)
Depart from Hersonissos and for the whole day, have fun with an off-road buggy trip. Look around and breathe in the beauty of the surrounding villages and countryside as you are riding a four-wheeler. You are welcome to drive it, too, if you can. The four-wheeler will go on its way to Lasithi Plateau with the beauty of Dikti Mountains in the background. Ride roads and trails, cross through a riverbed, pass through olive groves, and finally ascend a mountain slope. There is a reservoir dam that is very much picture-worthy. Pause here for a while before climbing up toward Lasithi Plateau.
Off-Road Buggy Adventure in Crete
Duration: 7 hours
Greece's unrivaled beauty will leave you speechless
It does not matter where you are in Greece, there will always be something to take your breath away. Whether it is a temple, a beach, ruins, or vineyards, indeed there is no place like Greece. The beauty is unrivaled and indescribable–something you must see for yourself. Admire the beauty, learn about the culture, mythology, and history, and relish Greek cuisine. Book a trip now; Greece awaits your presence.
Tip from Content Creator
Greece is definitely my favourite country in Europe. Here are a few things I loved the most about this country and I hope you will too!
- The crystal-clear waters of Paxos
- The colourful, mouthwateringly delicious fruits at Corfu’s Central Market
- The deep blue sea right next to AntiPaxos where I jumped right off the boat for a swim
- The Greek sunshine glow
-. Beach views in Paleokastrista, the best beach on the island in my honest opinion
- The perfection that is a fancy Greek salad
- Hiking in Paleokastrita; I got breathless, but the views were totally worth it
Explore Asklepion in Kos
Contributed by Content Creator, Faye
Asklepion is an ancient medical centre in Kos. It was the ultimate healing centre of the ancient world. The seven columns of The Temple of Apollo have been restored to help bring the site back to life. If you’re visiting Kos this summer, it’s well worth a visit! For kids, there’s a cafe and lots of cats.
Some other things to do in Kos:
- Agios Stefanos Beach (best beach on the island)
- Kos Town
- Plaka Forest
- Therma Beach
- Zia - a traditional village in the mountains
Enjoy a passionfruit margarita at the clifftop La Grota Bar in Corfu
Contributed by Content Creator, Yari
Source: Yari
This is hands-down the world’s most beautiful bar. Yes, folks, in my honest opinion, this is the número uno spot on the planet. It’s not every day a girl walks into a bar that’s built into the side of a rocky cliff! On top of that, it overlooks a tumultuous turquoise sea, plays serene electronic beats and serves up the most delightful canary-yellow passionfruit margaritas. But it gets better—there’s a diving board for you to take a dip straight into the sea.
This bar is certainly one to add to your bucket list, stat! You can arrive by foot or by boat, roll onto a chaise lounge that overlooks the water and spend an afternoon or evening in pure bliss. This place is the definition of magic. But don’t take my word for it, visit it next summer!
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