Planning a summer escape? Greece should be at the top of your list—no debate. From the buzz of cosmopolitan cities to dreamy islands where time slows down, this country has a way of stealing your heart and never giving it back. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, there’s always something new to discover.
So, where should you go? If it’s your first time in Greece, start with Athens. Seriously—every traveler should feel the pulse of this ancient city at least once. Walk through centuries of history, eat your weight in souvlaki, and catch golden-hour views from Lycabettus Hill. But don’t stay too long! Just a short ferry ride away are charming islands like Aegina, Poros, and Hydra—ideal for a peaceful weekend getaway.
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Already done Athens? Then let us introduce you to Paros, one of the best places to go in Greece right now. It’s the quieter, cooler cousin of Santorini—same stunning sunsets, fewer crowds, more charm. And if you’re craving island-hopping, the Cyclades are your playground.
We have roamed the country from north to south, and with our insider picks and our travel-loving hearts, we’ve gathered a list of the best places to visit in Greece this summer. So pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and get ready for a holiday you’ll never forget.
Greece is waiting!
Which Are the Best Greek Islands to Visit?
When it comes to the best Greek islands to visit, the usual stars—Santorini and Mykonos—always steal the spotlight. And sure, they’re iconic for a reason: dazzling views, incredible nightlife, and those famous blue-domed churches. But with over 6,000 islands and islets scattered across the Aegean and Ionian Seas, there’s so much more to explore—each island offering something entirely unique.
Take Crete, for example. It’s the largest Greek island and a total paradise for food lovers, bursting with bold flavors, ancient ruins, and mountain villages that feel frozen in time. Then there’s Paros—elegant yet relaxed, quickly becoming one of the best places to visit in Greece thanks to its blend of postcard-worthy beaches and charming towns.
Naxos is another hidden treasure, especially if beach days are high on your wishlist. It boasts some of the best, softest sands in the Aegean and a surprisingly low-key vibe despite its beauty. But if you’re craving something a little different from the usual Aegean suspects, head west to the Ionian Sea.
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There, you’ll find islands like Corfu, Zakynthos, Lefkada, and Kefalonia—a world away in atmosphere, influenced by their Italian neighbors. Expect lush green hills, colorful towns, turquoise waters, and a slower pace of life. It’s one of the most refreshing things to see in Greece—and perfect if you’re after a mix of nature, history, and a few hidden coves to call your own.
In short? The best Greek islands to visit really depend on what you’re looking for. But wherever you go, you’ll find the magic that makes Greece one of the best places to visit—again and again.
1. Athens
You can’t talk about the best places to go in Greece without starting with Athens. This city is a beautiful contradiction—ancient ruins and timeless myths meet street art, rooftop bars, and modern design. Athens blends the old and new so effortlessly, it feels like walking through a living museum with a buzzing, creative heartbeat.
Wander down wide boulevards lined with cafés and tavernas, then lose yourself in narrow, cobbled alleyways tucked behind neoclassical facades. Visit world-class museums, pop into indie galleries, and don’t miss the iconic Acropolis—it’s even more breathtaking in person. As for food? From souvlaki stands to sleek restaurants serving modern Greek cuisine, every bite is a revelation.
Why go? Athens isn’t just a history buff’s dream—it’s also one of the best places to visit in Greece for a city break. With its exciting nightlife, lively neighborhoods like Psiri and Exarchia, and warm Mediterranean energy, it rivals Paris or Rome any day.
🤫 Insider tip: When the city heat kicks in, head for the shady National Gardens. It’s a peaceful, green retreat in the middle of the chaos—complete with palm trees, winding paths, and even a mini zoo with peacocks and goats.
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2. Crete
As one of the best Greek islands to visit, Crete offers an unforgettable blend of wild nature, deep-rooted history, and warm island charm. It’s Greece’s biggest island, so yes—you’ll want to rent a car to explore it properly. But every kilometre is worth it.
On the western side, Chania is a lively, picture-perfect harbour town with Venetian architecture, bustling markets, and a vibrant food scene. Head east and you’ll find Sitia, a quieter gem with untouched coves and serene beaches—ideal if you’re after a more laid-back, local vibe. Adventure lovers can hike through Samaria Gorge, Europe’s longest, while history buffs will be drawn to the ancient Minoan palaces like Knossos, full of myth and mystery. And if you’re travelling with kids? The island’s many waterparks make Crete a hit for all ages.
Why go? Crete isn’t just for beach lounging (though the beaches are divine)—it’s a dynamic mix of natural wonders, ancient legends, hearty cuisine, and welcoming people. Whether you’re exploring mountain villages, diving into history, or soaking up the sun, Crete truly earns its spot as one of the best Greek islands to visit.
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3. Paros
Just a short and scenic ferry ride from Athens, Paros is quickly becoming one of the best Greek islands to visit—and for good reason. It offers all the charm of Santorini or Mykonos, but with fewer crowds and more authenticity. Think gleaming whitewashed buildings, winding alleyways in Parikia, and golden beaches that feel like your own private paradise.
What makes Paros stand out? It has a lively nightlife scene that rivals Mykonos, yet you’ll still find quiet corners full of tradition and heart. Renting an ATV is the best way to explore—venture off-road to stumble upon tucked-away tavernas serving the freshest seafood and local favourites, or discover secluded coves that look like they’ve never been touched by time. Despite its rising popularity, Paros has held tight to its local spirit, and that’s exactly what makes it one of the best places to visit in Greece.
🤫 Insider tip: Want a unique view of the island’s famous granite sculptures at Kolymbithres Beach? Book a kayaking tour. You’ll snorkel in crystal-clear water, stop by a tiny nearby island, and enjoy a laid-back picnic lunch prepared just for you. Absolute bliss.
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4. Santorini
Santorini is, without question, one of the best Greek islands to visit and a true gem of the Aegean Sea. Famous for its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and dramatic caldera views, it’s easily one of the best places to visit in Greece for romance, scenery, and unforgettable sunsets.
Built on the edge of a volcanic crater, Santorini’s villages like Oia and Fira offer cliffside charm and postcard-perfect views. Take a boat tour around the caldera, hike the volcano, or relax in the island’s natural hot springs. The sunsets here are legendary—especially from Oia, where the sky lights up in vibrant pinks and golds.
Santorini’s beaches are just as unique, thanks to its volcanic past. Visit the black sands of Kamari and Perissa, the dramatic Red Beach near Akrotiri, or the stunning White Beach for a truly one-of-a-kind coastal experience.
There’s no shortage of things to see in Greece, but Santorini stands out for its blend of beauty, culture, and adventure. From catamaran cruises and photo tours to hiking and horseback riding, it offers something for every traveler. Whether it’s your first time in Greece or your tenth, Santorini always leaves a lasting impression.
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5. Corfu
Corfu is a lush, storybook island where culture, history, and natural beauty intertwine. Once home to the Durrell family, it’s a place where you’ll find Italianate villages nestled among olive groves, grand palaces steeped in history, and some of the most romantic beaches you could ever dream of.
Shaped by centuries of foreign influence, Corfu has a character all its own. Sip ginger ale alongside your Greek salad, wander through cobbled streets lined with Byzantine and Venetian architecture, and stumble upon hilltop monasteries where monks still live in peaceful solitude—like the breathtaking one in Paleokastritsa.
Whether you’re admiring the frescoes in a quiet chapel, getting lost in the winding alleys of the old town, or enjoying a fresh seafood lunch with a sea view, Corfu offers moments that linger in memory long after you’ve left. And of course, after a full day of exploring and indulging, there’s no better reward than diving into the island’s unbelievably blue waters.
6. Rhodes
Best places to go in Greece don’t get much more iconic than Rhodes, and it’s also one of the best Greek islands to visit for a seamless blend of ancient history and modern charm. Once home to the legendary Colossus—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—Rhodes still carries the weight of its epic past, even if the statue itself was lost to an earthquake in 226 BC.
What remains is just as spellbinding. The UNESCO-listed old town is a maze of medieval inns, cobbled streets, and grand knight’s houses that have stood the test of time. Step outside the city, and you’ll find mountain villages and cliff-top towns that could easily be mistaken for fairytale backdrops.
But Rhodes isn’t just about the past. The island pulses with modern energy—chic boutiques, lively bars, and welcoming restaurants bring a fresh vibrancy to its ancient soul. It’s this contrast of old and new that gives Rhodes its unforgettable appeal, making it a destination that captures both your imagination and your heart.
7. Kastellorizo
Tucked away at Greece’s edge, just across from the Turkish town of Kaş, Kastellorizo (or Megisti) is one of the best Greek islands to visit if you’re after tranquility, character, and a splash of history. Though it’s a bit of a trek—reachable by flight or ferry from Rhodes—this colourful little island is absolutely worth the journey. Think harbours lined with rainbow-hued houses, slow-paced days, and the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste. Among the things to see in Greece, don’t miss the medieval Castle of the Knights Hospitaller and the fascinating 4th-century BC Lycian tomb beneath it. Feeling brave? Climb the 315 steps to Agios Georgios of the Mountain for one of the most unforgettable views in the Aegean.
8. Mykonos
Often dubbed the ‘Greek Ibiza,’ Mykonos is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Greece for party-lovers and beach dreamers alike. Superclubs featuring world-renowned DJs, yacht-filled marinas, and stylish beach clubs paint a picture of glitz and glamour—but there’s more to this Cycladic hotspot. You’ll find charming backstreets, peaceful corners, and family-run tavernas that offer a quieter side of the island. For balance, avoid staying in the busy town of Chora—opt for Ornos instead, which is calm yet only ten minutes from the action. Whether you’re there to dance till dawn or discover hidden beaches at the end of dirt trails, Mykonos offers the perfect blend of wild and serene.
9. Thessaloniki
When listing the best places to go in Greece, don’t overlook Thessaloniki. This vibrant northern city is a cultural melting pot shaped by Byzantine, Ottoman, and Greek influences. You won’t find postcard islands here—but you will find centuries of layered history, including Ottoman architecture, bustling markets like Kapani, and the house where Atatürk was born. It’s an entirely different side of Greece, one that pulses with energy, especially in the Ladadika district, home to some of the most dynamic nightlife in the Balkans. Wake up the next morning to stroll through the old town and refuel on ouzo and bougatsa—this city is a true hidden gem among the things to see in Greece.
10. Nafplio
Nafplio is a romantic seaside town in the Peloponnese that feels like it belongs in a storybook. With its cobbled alleys, pastel-painted houses, and bursts of bougainvillaea at every turn, the Old Town is perfect for leisurely walks and candlelit dinners. Though it gets a little crowded in the summer months, peace and quiet are never far—secluded beaches are just a short drive or walk away.
For those up for a challenge, the climb to Palamidi Fortress rewards you with breathtaking views—just maybe avoid tackling the 999 steps during peak sun hours. Nafplio also has a rich cultural side, with ancient ruins, neoclassical mansions, and charming squares that invite you to slow down and explore. Just a heads-up: if you’re driving, the narrow streets in the centre can be tricky to navigate, especially in a rental car.
