Greece is more than just blue roofs and white houses. It’s a mix of history, nature, sea, and warm people. Whether you want ancient ruins, island life, or tasty local food, this country has something for every traveler. To help you plan your trip, here are the top 10 best places to visit in Greece — from famous islands to hidden gems on the mainland.
1. Athens – Where the Past and Present Live Together
Athens is a must-see city and one of the best places to visit in Greece, especially if you love history. It’s the capital of the country and full of ancient ruins, old streets, and local life. The famous Acropolis is here, standing on a hill above the city. When you walk around, you see old temples next to modern cafés. It’s a city with a lot of energy.
The best time to visit Athens is in spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October). Summer can be very hot, and the streets get crowded. In spring and fall, the weather is still warm but not too hot, and it’s easier to walk and explore.
Some top things to see are the Acropolis and the Parthenon, the Acropolis Museum, and the Ancient Agora, where people used to gather thousands of years ago. You can also take a walk in Plaka, a pretty old neighborhood with small shops and traditional tavernas. If you like sunset views, go up to Lycabettus Hill or Filopappou Hill — both have great city views.
Athens is more than just ruins. It has cool street art, local food, friendly people, and a lot of character. Even just walking around can feel like a small adventure.
Top Things to Do in Athens
- Acropolis & Parthenon
- Plaka & Monastiraki
- Lycabettus Hill view
- Syntagma Square (don’t miss the changing of the guards)
What to Eat in Athens
- Souvlaki or gyros
- Spanakopita (spinach pie)
- Loukoumades (Greek donuts)
- Freddo cappuccino
- Greek salad
2. Santorini – Best Sunsets, White Houses, and Romance
Santorini is one of the best places to visit in Greece for couples and honeymooners. It’s famous for its sunsets, white houses with blue roofs, and the volcano view. The villages of Oia and Fira are perfect for photos, romantic walks, and watching the sun go down over the sea.
The best time to visit is from May to October, but if you don’t like big crowds, go in May, June, or September. Summer months are beautiful but busy and more expensive.
Besides the views, you can visit the volcanic beaches, take a boat tour to the caldera, or explore the ancient site of Akrotiri, a town buried in ash long ago. There are also local wineries and good food with sea views.
Santorini is peaceful and romantic, but also fun for solo travelers or small groups looking to relax and enjoy the island vibe.
Top Things to Do in Santorini
- Watch sunset in Oia
- Visit Red and Black beaches
- Explore Akrotiri ruins
What to Eat in Santorini
- Fresh seafood
- Tomato fritters (domatokeftedes)
- Local white wine (Assyrtiko)
- Fava puree
3. Mykonos – The Wildest Island on the List
Mykonos is known for its summer parties, beach clubs, and luxury feel. But it’s not only for nightlife. The town (called Chora) is full of narrow streets, white buildings, and windmills by the sea. It’s one of the best places to visit in Greece if you want to mix relaxing beach time with a bit of glamour.
The best time to visit is between late May and early September, when the weather is hot and the parties are in full swing. If you want a quieter visit, go in late May or early June.
You can spend the day at famous beaches like Paradise or Super Paradise, shop in cute boutiques, or take a photo near the famous Pelican of Mykonos. At night, there are bars, clubs, or sunset dinners in Little Venice by the water.
Even if you’re not a party person, Mykonos has its charm and is worth a visit — especially if you love a bit of luxury.
Top Things to Do in Mykonos
- Walk in Mykonos Town
- Swim at Paradise Beach
- See the windmills and Little Venice
- Take a boat to Delos Island (UNESCO ruins)
What to Eat in Mykonos
- Mykonian sausages
- Kopanisti (spicy cheese)
- Louza (cured pork)
- Baklava with local honey
4. Crete – A Bit of Everything in One Island
Crete is the biggest island in Greece, and one of the best places to visit in Greece for any type of traveler. You’ll find amazing beaches, high mountains, old villages, and a rich history that goes back to the Minoans — one of the oldest civilizations in Europe.
The best time to go is May to October. Summer is great for beaches, but spring and early autumn are perfect for hiking and exploring.
Top places include Elafonissi Beach (pink sand!), Knossos Palace, the old town of Chania, and the beautiful Samaria Gorge if you enjoy long hikes. You can also rent a car and drive through small mountain villages with friendly locals and homemade food.
Crete feels like its own little country. It’s big, full of personality, and perfect if you want to see many sides of Greece in one place.
Top Things to Do in Crete
- Swim at Elafonissi Beach
- Visit Knossos Palace
- Explore Chania old town
- Hike Samaria Gorge
What to Eat in Crete
- Dakos (Dont miss – Cretan bruschetta)
- Kalitsounia (sweet or savory pies)
- Cretan cheese (graviera)
- Raki (local drink)
5. Naxos – Relaxed, Family-Friendly, and Authentic
Naxos is one of the best places to visit in Greece if you want beautiful beaches, less tourist crowds, and a local feel. It’s bigger than it looks and perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers who want to take it slow.
The best time to visit is from June to September. July and August are warmer and busier, but not as crowded as Santorini or Mykonos.
You can visit the ancient Portara (the big marble gate), walk around Naxos Town, and swim at calm beaches like Agios Prokopios or Plaka. Inland villages like Halki show you a quiet, green side of the island.
People here are friendly, and the food is homemade and delicious. Naxos is simple, peaceful, and full of charm.
Top Things to Do in Naxos
- Visit Portara gate
- Explore mountain villages
- Swim at Agia Anna or Plaka Beach
- Try a cooking class
What to Eat in Naxos
- Naxian cheese
- Lemon-roasted goat
- Local potatoes
- Citron liqueur (kitron)
6. Paros – Chill Vibes and Island Charm
Paros is one of the best places to visit in Greece if you want something more relaxed than Mykonos but still fun and beautiful. It has nice beaches, cute villages, and a little bit of everything — without the big crowds.
The best time to visit Paros is from June to September. The island is lively but not overwhelming, and it’s easy to get around by bus, scooter, or car.
Naoussa is the most popular town, with restaurants by the water and pretty little streets. You can swim at beaches like Kolymbithres and Golden Beach, visit the old town of Parikia, or take a boat to nearby Antiparos for a day trip.
Paros is a great mix of chill beach days and fun nights. It’s also easy to reach by ferry and great for island hopping.
Top Things to Do in Paros
- Swim at Kolymbithres Beach – A beach like no other
- Visit Naoussa port
- Day trip to Antiparos
- Explore Parikia’s old streets
What to Eat in Paros
- Grilled octopus!
- Revithada (chickpea stew)
- Local white wine
- Cheese-stuffed pastries
7. Meteora – Monasteries in the Sky
Meteora is one of the most unique places in Greece. Huge rocks rise from the ground, and on top of them are old monasteries. It’s quiet, magical, and definitely one of the best places to visit in Greece if you like nature and something different.
The best time to visit is spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October). It’s cooler and more comfortable for walking and sightseeing.
You can visit the six active monasteries, all built on top of cliffs with amazing views. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the hiking paths around Meteora are peaceful and beautiful. The nearby town of Kalambaka is a good base with places to stay and eat.
Meteora feels peaceful and spiritual, even if you’re not religious. It’s perfect for photographers, hikers, or anyone who wants a calm, powerful experience.
Top Things to Do in Meteora
- Visit the six monasteries
- Hike or take a sunset tour
- Stay in Kalambaka or Kastraki
- Learn about the history at the visitor center
What to Eat in Meteora
- Local pies with cheese or spinach
- Grilled meats and mountain herbs
- Spoon sweets (fruit preserves)
- Tsipouro (strong drink like ouzo)
8. Rhodes – Beaches, Castles, and Old Town Vibes
Rhodes is one of the top destinations to visit in Greece if you want a mix of beach, history, and fun. It’s the biggest island in the Dodecanese and has something for everyone — families, couples, and solo travelers.
The best time to visit is from May to October, with June and September being the most comfortable.
The Old Town of Rhodes is a medieval city full of castles, stone streets, and markets. You can also visit Lindos, a beautiful white town with an acropolis on top, and enjoy long beach days at places like Tsambika or Anthony Quinn Bay.
Rhodes is great for road trips, beach hopping, and exploring villages with delicious food and local wine.
Top Things to Do in Rhodes
- Go to the Valley of the Butterflies (in summer – a must see)
- Walk in the medieval Old Town
- Visit Lindos Acropolis
- Swim at Anthony Quinn Bay
What to Eat in Rhodes
- Melekouni (honey + sesame sweet)
- Pitaroudia (chickpea fritters)
- Fresh fish by the beach
- Local white wine
9. Thessaloniki – Food, Culture, and Cool City Life
Thessaloniki is the second-largest city in Greece and full of energy, history, and amazing food. It’s not an island, but it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Greece for a city break with a local feel.
The best time to visit is autumn or spring, when the weather is nice and the streets are full of life. Summers are hot, but the sea breeze helps — and there are fewer tourists compared to Athens.
You can walk along the waterfront promenade, visit the White Tower, explore Byzantine churches, and relax at a seaside café. The Rotunda and the Arch of Galerius are also must-sees, showing the city’s Roman side. For views, climb up to the old town — Ano Poli — and enjoy sunset over the sea.
Thessaloniki is famous for food. From bakeries to street snacks to family tavernas, you’ll always find something tasty. The city has a mix of cultures and flavors, and you feel it in the atmosphere — lively, creative, and down-to-earth.
Top Things to Do in Thessaloniki
- Visit the White Tower
- Explore Ano Poli (Old Upper Town)
- See the Rotunda and Arch of Galerius
- Walk the sea promenade at sunset
What to Eat in Thessaloniki
- Trigona Panoramatos – triangle-shaped pastry filled with rich custard and syrupy sweet
- Tsoureki (sweet bread, often with chocolate)
- Bougatsa with creme or cheese (custard or cheese pastry)
- Souvlaki with spicy sauces
- Koulouri (sesame bread ring)
10. Pelion – Hidden Villages, Forests, and Secret Beaches
Pelion (or Pilio) is one of the best places to visit in Greece if you want a peaceful mix of nature, sea, and mountain villages — all without stepping onto a ferry. It’s located in central Greece, between Athens and Thessaloniki, and feels like a secret paradise known mostly by locals.
The best time to visit is spring to autumn — from May to October. In summer, you can enjoy quiet beaches and hiking paths under the trees. In autumn, the forests turn golden and cozy. In winter, there’s even a ski resort, making Pelion a year-round destination.
Pelion has many small traditional villages like Makrinitsa, Tsagarada, and Portaria with stone houses, fountains, and amazing views. You can hike old cobblestone paths through the forest, swim at beaches like Mylopotamos or Fakistra, and eat fresh food at mountain tavernas. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy nature, calm vibes, and local culture.
Pelion is not touristy like other places. That’s what makes it special. It’s the kind of place where you slow down, enjoy the view, and feel like you found a hidden part of Greece.
Top Things to Do in Pelion
- Visit the village of Makrinitsa for mountain views
- Swim at Mylopotamos or Fakistra beach
- Hike between villages through forest paths
- Ride the old train from Ano Lechonia to Milies
What to Eat in Pelion
- Spetsofai (sausage with peppers and tomato)
- Local honey and spoon sweets
- Baked lamb with herbs
- Apple pie from Zagora (famous apples)
Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in Greece
There you have it — the top 10 best places to visit in Greece. From the famous islands to beautiful mainland towns and ancient ruins, Greece offers a perfect mix of culture, nature, food, and local charm.
No matter your travel style — city explorer, beach lover, or history fan — you’ll find something unforgettable in every corner of this amazing country. Just bring comfortable shoes, an open heart, and a big appetite.
Ready to plan your trip? Save this list and start exploring Greece — one unforgettable place at a time.
