Discover Greece: Top 10 Holiday Destinations in Greece
Welcome to Greece, a country that combines ancient history, interesting culture and breathtaking landscapes. The charm of this Mediterranean paradise is undeniable, with its sunny beaches, stunning islands and charming villages. The country is a true paradise for tourists worldwide, offering an incomparable combination of relaxation and adventure.
Greece is a destination that is suitable for every type of traveller. Whether you are a history, nature or culinary lover, you will find something to suit your interests. From lively Athens to the peaceful Aegean islands, Greece is a country that promises to fascinate and inspire at every turn.
Greece is often referred to as the cradle of Western civilisation thanks to its significant contributions to philosophy, politics and the arts. The country is a living museum filled with ancient ruins, historical monuments and archaeological sites. But Greece is not a country stuck in the past. It is a place that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, offering visitors a unique and immersive cultural experience.
1. Athens: the Heart of Ancient Civilization
Let’s begin our tour of Greece with Athens, the country’s bustling capital and the heart of ancient civilization. It’s a city steeped in rich culture, and Athens’ iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and the Parthenon are reminders of its storied past.
Walking through the cobbled streets of Athens, you’ll be taken back in time. The city is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, historical monuments and archaeological sites, each with its own fascinating story. But Athens is not just a city of the past. It’s a vibrant metropolis that pulses with energy, filled with trendy boutiques, fashionable cafes and cutting-edge art galleries.
In addition to its historical landmarks, Athens is also home to a thriving culinary scene. The city is a gastronomic food heaven with its busy markets, street food stalls and Michelin-starred restaurants. Whether you try traditional Greek dishes such as souvlaki and moussaka or try innovative fusion cuisine, you are guaranteed to enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience.
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2. Santorini: A piece of paradise
Let our next stop be Santorini, an island often described as a true paradise. With its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches and stunning sunsets, Santorini is a place that seems to have stepped out of a postcard.
Santorini is best known for its breathtaking views of the caldera, which are some of the most photographed ones in the world. But this island has much more to offer than its perfect landscapes. From ancient ruins and charming villages to world-class wineries and vibrant nightlife, Santorini’s attractions offer something for everyone.
One must-do for those of you visiting Santorini is to explore the island’s unique volcanic beaches. Each one is different, with sand ranging from black to red and white. There’s nothing better than spending a lazy afternoon on one of these beaches, sunbathing and enjoying the stunning views.
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3. Mykonos: Тhe party island
If you’re looking for a place to relax and party at the same time, look no further than Mykonos. Known as the nightlife island of Greece, Mykonos is a place where the fun never stops. From lively beach bars and raucous nightclubs to world-famous music festivals, Mykonos is a destination that knows how to keep you entertained.
But Mykonos isn’t just about nightlife. The island is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, with crystal clear waters and golden sands. And let’s not forget about its charming old town with its narrow streets, colourful houses and iconic windmills.
Despite its reputation as an island with a rich nightlife, Mykonos has a quieter side. There are plenty of secluded beaches and hidden spots to discover, making it a great destination for those looking for a combination of relaxation and fun.
A holiday on this beautiful Greek island is always a good choice. You’ll always find what you’re looking for, from the beautiful beaches and sights of Mykonos during the day, to the fun at the venues until late at night.
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4. Crete: for history lovers
For history lovers, the Greek island of Crete is a dream come true. As the birthplace of Minoan civilization, the island is rich in history and culture. From the ancient palace of Knossos to the archaeological museum of Heraklion, Crete offers several historical sites that are assured to satisfy your inner history interest.
But Crete is not just about the past. It is also a place of stunning natural beauty, with its rough mountains, lush valleys and pristine beaches. The island offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking to snorkelling and windsurfing.
Another major attraction of Crete is its vibrant culinary scene. The island is famous for its healthy and delicious Cretan diet, which is characterised by the use of fresh local ingredients. The island impresses with dishes based on old local recipes that can only be tasted here. From the world-famous olive oil to fresh seafood, Crete is a gastronomic delight that is sure to excite your taste buds.
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5. Thessaloniki: The cultural centre
Next up is Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece and its cultural centre. Known for its vibrant art scene, lively nightlife and rich history, Thessaloniki is a city that is brimming with energy and creativity.
Thessaloniki is a city that loves to celebrate, with a rich calendar of festivals and events throughout the year. From the International Film Festival to the Food Festival, there’s always something exciting happening in Thessaloniki.
The city’s historic centre is a must-see, with its Byzantine walls, Turkish baths and Roman forum. But don’t forget to explore the modern part of town with its modern art museums, trendy boutiques and bars.
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Our journey continues to the islands of Corfu and Rhodes, two of the most popular destinations in the Ionian and Dodecanese archipelagos. Each island has its unique charm and character, offering a different slice of Greek island life. They are part of the most preferred Greek islands for holidays.
6. Corfu: Island of tranquillity and beauty
Corfu is one of the most beautiful Greek islands, famous for its breathtaking landscapes, Venetian architecture and cultural life. Situated in the emerald waters of the Ionian Sea, it is a great opportunity for relaxation and fun. The island offers picturesque coves, hiking trails and historical sites.
Corfu is famous for its ancient ruins and archaeological sites, so be sure to explore the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with narrow streets, lively squares and charming cafes.
When it comes to nightlife, Corfu is one of the best destinations in Greece. The island is dotted with bars, clubs and restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a relaxed walk, Corfu offers something for everyone.
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7. Rhodes: the Knights’ Island
Rhodes is the largest of the Greek Dodecanese islands and is a paradise for sun-seekers and history lovers. The island offers some of the most beautiful beaches and summer resorts in Greece.
However, Rhodes remains mostly famous for its many historical sites, ancient ruins and relics from the time of the Crusades. A must-visit is the old town of Rhodes with its ramparts, the medieval street of the knights and the legendary castle of the Grand Masters.
The Valley of the Butterflies is a unique nature reserve located only 30km from the capital of Rhodes. There you can enjoy an unforgettable walk in the vanilla-scented air. Special trees of the styrax genus emit incredible aromatic resins, which in turn attract all kinds of butterflies. The experience is definitely worth it.
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8. Zakynthos Island (Zante): The jewel of Greece
Zakynthos is perhaps one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece. The island undoubtedly offers stunningly beautiful beaches with crystal blue clear waters, gorgeous scenery and plenty of sights to see.
Navagio, one of the most famous beaches, not only in Greece but in the whole world, is located here on Zakynthos. Almost everyone has heard of it, as it is also the hallmark of this paradise island. Laganas Beach is of particular interest because of the Caretta Caretta turtles which lay their eggs every year in the National Marine Park.
The port town of Zakynthos is the capital of the island. You’ll be surprised how many attractions this downtown offers, most of which are centred around the waterfront Solomos Square.
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9. Halkidiki: the Trident of Northern Greece
Halkidiki is an incredible peninsula, divided into three arms that stretch out into the crystal waters of the Aegean Sea. Halkidiki offers a host of incredible beaches, summer adventures and the opportunity for a religious journey to the Holy Mountain- an autonomous monastic community located on Mount Athos the easternmost arm of the peninsula.
In turn, the middle arm, Sithonia, which is mostly a protected area, attracts its tourists with unspoilt nature and a wide variety of golden beaches, most of which with the Blue Flag award. The atmosphere in Sithonia is extremely relaxing and preferred mainly for family holidays with children.
Kassandra is the westernmost arm of Halkidiki. It features a lively nightlife and beautiful resorts full of taverns, bars and restaurants. Of course, the beaches in Kassandra are also at an extremely high level, with opportunities to practice numerous water sports.
When combined, the three arms of the peninsula create the perfect destination for a unique summer holiday. Halkidiki definitely knows how to satisfy every taste.
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10. Thasos: The Green Island
Thasos is the northernmost island in the Aegean Sea, located 7km from the mainland of Northern Greece and only about 20km from the city of Kavala. Thasos has a circular shape, which makes it extremely easy to navigate considering the many hiking trails that crisscross over it.
Thasos is quite an attractive destination that definitely has a lot to offer its visitors. The beaches of Thasos are truly amazing and absolutely worth a visit. Most are nestled in picturesque coves partly covered with natural shade from pine forests. The seawater is crystal clear and full of fish and seafood.
But besides the beautiful beaches and green landscapes, in Thasos, you will also find traditional architecture and a rich history. The island has some of the most interesting historical sites and attractions, for example, the Ancient Agora – a place with a preserved ancient theatre, old temples and sanctuaries.
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Hidden ‘gems’: Little-known but extremely charming destinations in Greece
Apart from these popular destinations, some in Greece are not so well-known but definitely worth a visit. From the pristine islands of the Cyclades to the charming villages of the Peloponnese, these offbeat destinations offer greater authenticity and a unique experience completely unlike anything else.
One of our favourite hidden spots happens to be the island of Naxos, which is famous for its stunning beaches, ancient ruins and delicious local cuisine. Another such region is Epirus, charming visitors with its beautiful mountains, traditional villages and picturesque rivers.
These exceptional destinations are still preserved, precisely because they are less known among tourists. They can therefore offer a unique charm and unspoilt beauty that is hard to find elsewhere. So, why not stray off the beaten path and discover the hidden side of Greece?
Planning a holiday in Greece: time, budget, accommodation
Once you’ve seen what Greece has to offer, it’s time to start planning your holiday there. Here are some tips to help you plan your trip.
First, decide on the best time to visit. Greece benefits from a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The peak tourist season is from June to August when the weather is hottest and the islands are lively. However, if you prefer a more peaceful and relaxing holiday, consider visiting the islands in spring and autumn when the weather is still pleasant and the tourist crowds are fewer.
Then consider your budget. Greece is a relatively affordable destination, but prices can vary depending on the time of year and location. For example, popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos are more expensive than less popular destinations. Do your research and plan your budget accordingly.
Finally, be sure to immerse yourself in the local culture. Try to learn a few basic Greek phrases, sample the local cuisine, and participate in local traditions and festivals. Greeks are known for their hospitality, so don’t hesitate to interact with the locals and learn more about their way of life.
In conclusion, we can only add that Greece is a country that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a history, nature or culinary lover, you are guaranteed to find something to spark your interest. From ancient ruins and spectacular landscapes to vibrant culture and warm hospitality, Greece is a destination that promises to captivate and inspire you.
Why wouldn’t you choose Greece for your next holiday? It’s a destination you won’t forget and will definitely enchant you with its beauty.
