Greece Travel Guide
Greece, a country steeped in history and blessed with breathtaking landscapes, offers a captivating destination for travelers seeking a blend of ancient heritage and natural beauty. The country boasts a diverse landscape, ranging from golden sandy beaches and turquoise waters to rugged mountain ranges and lush valleys. The Greek islands, such as Santorini, Paros, and Crete, offer idyllic retreats with charming white-washed villages, picturesque sunsets, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling or sailing. Greece is also where you’ll find iconic ruins of ancient Athens, intricate mosaics, and historic archeological sites. From history and culture to delicious food and pure beauty, Greece promises an unforgettable journey.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Greece is during the shoulder seasons of spring (May to June) and fall (September to October). You’ll find fewer visitors and lower prices than in high season and still experience good weather and fewer crowds. For those interested in food and wine, the September and October harvest season is perfect for enthusiasts to explore vineyards and enjoy fresh local produce.
Top regions to visit
Athens
For anyone interested in history, Athens is a must-see destination. The most well-known landmark is the Acropolis, an ancient citadel containing the remnants of many ancient buildings, including the Partheon. If you’re planning a visit to the Acropolis, be sure to go first thing in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat. Athens is also home to the incredible Ancient Agora—a historical sight that overlooks the Acropolis. The food in Athens is incredible, and if you stay away from the most touristy areas, you can find great, fresh, and inexpensive food. Athens can be crowded and chaotic, but much of its original charm remains, and the architecture and history is second to none.
Greek Islands
Island hopping is one of the most popular ways to explore Greece, offering a unique way to explore the country’s diversity. Each island has its own charm, from the historical ruins of Crete to the beauty of lesser-known gems like Mols and Paros. Traveling between islands is done through a network of ferries.
Bri’s Insider Tip: The ferries in Greece are the most popular, easiest, and cheapest way to island hop—however, they can be a bit chaotic. They’re often late, and it’s crucial to book your ferry tickets ahead of time online. Download the Ferry Hopper app to secure your spot, and arrive early. Consider upgrading your ferry especially on larger and longer trips, as this can make a significant difference in terms of comfort. Learn more on Instagram.
Crete
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Greece. There’s a little something for everyone in Crete, from ancient ruins and historic sites to architectural wonders, charming villages with narrow streets, and white-sand beaches. Crete is packed with rugged mountains and cliffside beaches, offering picture perfect views around every corner.
Santorini
The island of Santorini is one of the more well-known and popular islands in Greece. When you see a postcard of Greece, you’re almost always seeing an image of Santorini. The main island is split further into picturesque villages painted in dazzling blue and white hues, outlining the holiday resort's multi-faceted personality and its extraordinary variety of landscapes. Your experience in Santorini will differ depending on which side of the island you stay. If you want to experience it all, consider breaking up your stay in Santorini to stay on both the east and west sides.
The eastern side of the island is where you’ll find black sand beaches and beach bars. If you’re looking for a pure beach experience, this is the side of the island for you. On the western tip of Santorini, you’ll find fishing villages, cliffside sunsets, and narrow winding streets lined with charming shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Bri’s Insider Tip: Santorini is on many travelers’ bucket lists, and while it is a great place to visit, there are many other opportunities to have a more authentic Greek experience. To get the true essence of Greece, pair Santorini with another island with less tourists to round out your trip.
Paros
Paros is a bit more authentic and less chaotic when compared to the bigger islands like Santorini. Here, you can have a remote and serene experience in the main village, or stay in a nearby town like Naoussa or Lefkes for an even more peaceful stay. From here, you can take a day trip on a private boat, explore the local cafes and restaurants, walk the winding streets with historic buildings, and sample the traditional Greek food.
Naxos
The largest of the Cyclades islands, Naxos offers a more laid-back and authentic Greek experience. With its lush valleys, mountainous landscapes, and long sandy beaches, it's a paradise for nature lovers. Naxos is rich in history, boasting impressive ancient ruins like the Portara and the Temple of Demeter. The island's villages, like Apiranthos and Halki, offer a glimpse into traditional Greek life. For beach enthusiasts, Plaka and Agios Prokopios are must-visits. Naxos is also renowned for its local produce, including cheeses, potatoes, and the Kitron liqueur.
Milos
Known for its unique volcanic landscape, Milos is home to hidden coves, crystal clear waters, colorful fishing villages, and numerous picturesque beaches. Milos is the perfect destination for scuba diving, exploring by boat, swimming, and enjoying unique cocktail bars and restaurants.
Top activities in Greece
Walking and food tour in Athens
Learning about history and sampling local food is a great way to spend a day in Athens, and a fun way to split up your history lessons for the day. On a private guided tour, you can visit some of Athens’ best sites like the Ancient Agora and the Tower of Winds. After taking in the ancient history of the area, enjoy lunch by the Agora and taste some authentic cuisine from gyros to tzatziki dip.
Private boat tour in Paros
Spending a day on the water sunbathing and swimming is an excellent way to enjoy the island of Paros. On a half day boat tour, visitors will visit hidden caves, islands, and more.
Explore Naoussa
The quaint fishing village in Paros boasts a picturesque harbor, white cobbled alleys, lovely seafront restaurants, cute boutique shops and stunning photo spots. The best way to explore Naoussa is to just wander around and get lost in the maze-like narrow alleyways. The old port of Naoussa is straight out of a Greek postcard, and here you’ll find the ruins of an old Venetian castle that was once used as a watchtower for pirate attacks.
Village of Lefkes
Lefkes, the former capital of Paros, is a small picturesque mountain village located in the middle of the island. The village is surrounded by idyllic hills and olive groves. It’s a popular tourist destination, so it’s best to explore the cute narrow alleys of Lefkes early in the morning to fully enjoy the charm of this traditional village. Here, you’ll find small shops, cafes, and old churches. This village is also the start of the Byzantine Road, the oldest walking trail of the island, connected Lefkes and Prodromos.
Wine tasting in Santorini
The south side of Santorini is home to some delicious traditional wineries. Enjoy local wines surrounded by vineyards with great views at Boutaris Winery, Gavalas Winery, and Estate Argyros.
Santorini sunset catamaran tour
There’s no better way to explore the crystal blue seas and islands around Santorini than from the water. A sunset catamaran tour will have you sail past some of the best-known Santorini landmarks and beaches as well as experiencing the unique opportunity of sailing into the spectacular caldera. Stop at some local beaches for swimming and sunbathing, and end your cruise enjoying local wine while enjoying the sunset over the water.
Best hotels in Greece
Kymo Luxury Suites, Paros—Overlooking the Aegean Sea, these whitewashed suites feature minimal yet distinctive architecture, a spacious and bright interior, and unobstructed views of the sea. Each suite has a private balcony, and there’s a beach and infinity pool on the property. The suites are located in the northern part of the island on the seafront of one of the most famous beaches in Paros.
Istoria Hotel, Santorini—A 12 suite retreat located right on the beach. Most rooms feature a private outdoor hot tub or pool, and the grounds include a large pool, lounge chairs, and a pool bar. The restaurant serves modern Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.
Andronis Arcadia, Oia—Located right outside the fishing village of Oia on a clifftop. This hotel features views overlooking the Aegean Sea and rooms with a private pool. In addition, the hotel itself has three different pools to choose from.
Andronis Minois, Paros—This boutique hotel on Paros offers intimate luxury with a collection of chic suites and stunning sea views.
Grace Hotel Santorini—Grace Hotel Santorini is a small, upscale hotel in Imerovigli, known for its minimalist design, stunning caldera views, and personalized services.
Canaves Epitome—Located in Oia, this exclusive boutique hotel features high-end villas with private pools and panoramic sea views.
Deos Mykonos—Deos Mykonos is a stylish boutique hotel with contemporary accommodations and peaceful atmosphere.
Naxian on the Beach—This small, upscale beachfront hotel on Naxos features bohemian-style suites and a relaxed island vibe.
Cosme, Paros—Cosme, Paros is a boutique hotel offering elegant suites and personalized services in a picturesque setting.
Parilio Luxury Hotel Paros—This boutique hotel located in the countryside of Paros and features spacious suites.
Villa Emanuele, Crete—Villa Emanuele is a private luxury villa in Crete, offering a secluded retreat with modern amenities and stunning views.
Domes Zeen, A Luxury Collection Resort, Chania—This beachfront luxury resort featuring stylish bungalows and suites and family-friendly amenities.
What to eat in Greece
Food:
Moussaka—A baked dish made with layers of eggplant, ground meat (usually lamb), and béchamel sauce.
Gyros—Rotisserie-cooked meat, typically pork or chicken, served in pita bread with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki.
Saganaki—Fried cheese.
Keftedes—Greek meatballs, often flavored with mint and served with a dipping sauce or in a pita.
Dolmades—Grape leaves stuffed with rice, pine nuts, and herbs.
Souvlaki—Skewers of grilled meat, often served with pita bread, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce.
Tzatziki—A dip made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and herbs.
Spanakopita—A savory pie made with spinach, feta cheese, and phyllo dough.
Baklava—A sweet dessert made of layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.
Restaurants:
Yemeni, Naoussa—Small and popular restaurant serving seasonal local dishes alongside traditional Greek favorites. Be sure to book in advance!
Statheros, Naoussa—Organic farm-to-table Parian-Greek meze restaurant based on three generations of one family’s recipes.
Kargas, Paros—A simple and affordable menu featuring the best gyros and souvlaki in Paros.
Ellinikon, Santorini—A traditional cafe with authentic Greek meze, affordable prices, and one of the best sunset views over the water of any restaurant in Oia.
Ammoudi Fish Tavern, Santorini—A popular restaurant serving fresh seafood and local cuisine.
Pacman, Santorini—An open air sushi bar also serving seafood dishes.
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