Top 27 Best Places to Visit in Greece in 2025

With an expected 40 million tourists this year, Greece is eyeing a high spot among the most-visited vacation destinations. This growth has been steady over the years, which makes many of those seeking their next getaway spot wonder: what makes this southern Balkan country so attractive? From the famous historical sites in Greece, such as the Acropolis, the Temple of Hephaestus, and the Theatre of Dionysus, to name a few, to the unrivalled Greek beaches with their crystal-clear waters, there will be a perfect location even for the pickiest tourists.

What are the best places to visit in Greece, and how to structure your ideal route? The plan must stem from your preferences and vacation goals. Are you travelling alone, with your partner, or with your family? Are you a fan of active tourism or prefer to sunbathe on a beach? Are you, perhaps, attracted to ancient ruins, museums, and historical spots? Take into account all these factors when scheming out your Greek islands travel. We will gladly help you with that.

Delve into our breakdown of the top places to visit in Greece, and we guarantee that you will fall in love with this country with every paragraph, just like we did.

Best Greek Islands to Visit

Mainland Greece is home to multiple must-visit spots, but the Greek Islands tempt vacationers no less. One of the main questions is which island to choose for your trip in regard to your budget, season, and goals. Here are some of the beautiful places to visit in Greece for those planning to hop on the local islands.

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Santorini

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Santorini, located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, is the prime spot for tourists discovering the Greek islands for the first time. Santorini, also known as Thira or Thera in classic Greek, is famous for its white houses with blue domes, located on the cliffs that overlook the caldera. It was once a volcano that erupted over 3,600 years ago, now leaving a crescent-shaped island with steep hills and the most fascinating sunsets. The Blue Domes of Oia are the best spot for observing the Santorini sunsets, and the romantic atmosphere is worth every second spent there.

Main attractions:

• Oia Village: Iconic sunsets and white-washed houses; reachable by bus or rental car from Fira in about 30 minutes.
• Fira Town: Cliffside cafes, shops, and views; central hub for buses around the island.
• Red Beach & Akrotiri Ruins: Ancient Minoan site and a colorful beach; drive or bus to Akrotiri, then walk.

Mykonos

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The heart of Greek nightlife, Mykonos is part of the Cyclades, located between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. It is known in the entire world for its beach clubs, bars, and parties sprawling over nights. Mykonos attracts top DJs and travellers looking for a lively, energetic atmosphere. At the same time, one will find a bunch of pristine, relaxing beaches like Ornos, which is the complete opposite of Super Paradise, the heart of all party life.

For those willing to explore, it’s worth visiting Chora, the charming old town with narrow, winding streets, or diving into the rich history of the city at the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos. Being close to other parts of the Cyclades, Mykonos serves as a great base to visit nearby islands like Delos, Tinos, and Naxos.

Main attractions:

• Mykonos Town (Chora): Maze-like alleys, shops, and Little Venice; easily walkable from most central hotels.
• Paradise & Super Paradise Beaches: Famous for beach clubs and parties; bus, taxi, or boat transfer from the port.
• Delos Island: Sacred ancient ruins; short boat ride of about 30 minutes from Mykonos Old Port.

Crete

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Crete is a popular choice of those looking for interesting places in Greece to visit. The island is home to the country’s most famous resorts, including Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, and Maleme. Apart from relaxing on a beach like Elafonissi with its pink sands, block your calendar to visit the Palace of Knossos, the legendary Labyrinth of King Minos, as well as explore ancient ruins and archaeological museums.

The island is full of scenic drives and charming little towns, such as the Venetian harbors of Chania and Rethymno, and the Cretan cuisine deserves a whole page of praise. Think olive oil, wild greens, cheese, lamb, honey, and raki! Most family-run tavernas in Crete serve farm-to-table meals.

Main attractions:

• Knossos Palace (near Heraklion): Ancient Minoan ruins; 20 minutes by bus or taxi from Heraklion city center.
• Samaria Gorge (Chania region): Epic hike through dramatic nature; access via early bus to Omalos, then a short hike and a ferry.
• Elafonissi Beach: Pink sand and turquoise water; car rental is best, but day tours and buses are also available.

Rhodes

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The largest of the Dodecanese islands of Greece, Rhodes is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rhodes Town, which is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. While walking through the cobblestone streets, tourists will be able to travel back in time by exploring sites like the Palace of the Grand Master or Lindos, an ancient cliffside village with an acropolis overlooking the sea.

Whether you are looking for a boisterous nightlife or a calm getaway on a beach, Rhodes presents an ideal balance of both: after your itinerary through the ancient landmarks, kick back and relax on clear-water gems like Tsambika or Agathi, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and even water sports.

Main attractions:

• Rhodes Old Town: Medieval streets, castle walls, and shops; walkable from anywhere in the city center.
• Lindos Acropolis: Clifftop ruins above a whitewashed village; bus or car rental (about 1 hour from Rhodes Town).
• Anthony Quinn Bay: Crystal-clear waters and snorkelling; best accessed by car, taxi, or boat tour.

Corfu

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Corfu is a green, elegant, and culturally rich Greek island that differs from the Cyclades due to its undeniable Italian vibe. With a strong Venetian influence, vibrant green landscapes, and calm beaches, it’s an all-in-one destination for relaxation, history, and scenic beauty.

Corfu is covered in olive groves, cypress trees, and rolling hills, making it one of the greenest Greek islands. On your exploration, visit the Achilleion Palace and Byzantine churches, hop on a boat tour to Pontikonis, and relax on shallow beaches like Glyfada, Paleokastritsa, and Agios Gordios.

Main attractions:

• Corfu Old Town: Venetian architecture, forts, and lively squares; easily explored on foot.
• Achilleion Palace: Elegant royal residence with gardens; 20 minutes by car or bus from Corfu Town.
• Paleokastritsa Beach & Monastery: Scenic coastal views and nature; bus or car from town (about 40 minutes).

Best Tourist Attractions in Greece

It is hard to imagine a trip to Greece without visiting all the tourist spots. The word “tourist” is there for a reason - no need to sugarcoat it, get ready for big crowds at the most sought-after sites, especially in the high season, which is in July and August. For your convenience we have gathered the most famous places in Greece to visit that definitely should be on your bucket list.

Acropolis of Athens

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The Acropolis of Athens opens our rating of the nice places in Greece to visit. Perhaps the most iconic symbols of ancient Greek civilization, it overlooks the capital city from a rocky hill. A must-visit place is, of course, the Parthenon, Athena’s temple, which dates back to the 5th century BCE. The Acropolis is a primary spot on most tourist itineraries for a reason: it appeals both to the eager fans of ancient architecture and new tourists seeking to start their journey from a memorable historical site.

Ancient Agora

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Another one of the famous Athens attractions, the Ancient Agora, was the heart of public life in ancient Athens. It used to be a marketplace, a political hub, and, of course, a spot for many cultural gatherings. Philosophers like Socrates once debated here, just northwest of the Acropolis, and citizens gathered for democratic decision-making.

Now it attracts thousands of tourists every year, mainly to the Temple of Hephaestus, one of the best-preserved Greek temples turned into a museum. For those seeking a glimpse at daily life in classical Athens, the Agora is the must-visit spot.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

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One of the most popular places to visit in Greece mainland, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, also known as the Olympeion, was once the largest temple in the country, dedicated to Zeus, king of the Olympian gods. The reconstruction of the temple lasted from the 6th century BCE to the 2nd century CE. Originally, it had 104 massive Corinthian columns, of which only a few remain standing today. Even though more than half of the temple is in ruins today, it still attracts visitors from all over the world seeking to witness the mastery of ancient architects first-hand.

Theatre of Dionysus

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Nestled on the south slope of the Acropolis, the Theatre of Dionysus is known as the birthplace of Western theatre. It is dedicated to Dionysus, the god of wine and drama, and back in ancient times, it could hold up to 17,000 spectators. Right here, the words of Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides, and Aristophanes were first performed during dramatic festivals. The theatre is only partially restored today, but the preserved seating tiers and stage area still remind visitors of the grandeur of ancient Greek performance culture.

Delphi

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Once regarded as the center of the world in ancient Greek religion, Delphi was one of the most important religious sanctuaries in antiquity. Located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, the site includes the Temple of Apollo, a well-preserved theatre, a stadium, treasuries, and the Castalian Spring. Pilgrims from across the Greek world came to seek prophetic guidance from Pythia, the high priestess of Apollo. Delphi has some of the most stunning mountain views in all mainland Greece.

Mycenae

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Located in the northeastern Peloponnese, Mycenae was a major Greek center during the Late Bronze Age. It is often linked to Homeric legends such as the tale of King Agamemnon and the Trojan War.

Here, curious tourists will observe the massive cyclopean walls, the Lion Gate, and the beehive-shaped Tholos Tombs, including the so-called Treasury of Atreus. Mycenae represents the Mycenaean civilization, which dominated the Aegean world before the rise of classical Greece. Walk through its ruins to get a sense of the power and mystery of this sophisticated ancient kingdom.

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Best Places to Visit in Greece for Couples

Good news for those looking for the best places to visit in Greece for couples: both mainland Greece and the islands offer some of the most breathtaking spots for couple tourism. Depending on the starting point of your trip, you can build an itinerary that will fill your everyday life with a new romantic adventure.

Nafplio

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This idyllic coastal city in the Peloponnese region opens our list of Greece honeymoon destinations. Nafplio creates a fairytale-like setting thanks to the Palamidi Fortress towering above the entire city and the Bourtzi Castle sequestered on a tiny harbour island.

Two can take a boat ride to Bourtzi and have an adventure straight from a romantic movie, stroll down the cobblestone streets, relax on crystal-clear beaches like Karathona or Tolo Beach, or visit local art shops and museums without getting lost in noisy crowds. Nafplio is a place where time slows down, and it’s perfect for a quiet romantic escape.

Main attractions:

• Palamidi Fortress: Climb 999 steps (or drive up) to this massive Venetian castle with stunning views.
• Old Town Nafplio: Charming alleys, neoclassical houses, and seaside cafés; easily explored on foot.
• Bourtzi Castle: A small fortress on an islet; a short boat ride from Nafplio port.

Milos

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Seeking to escape the crowded tourist places to visit in Greece, couples often end up in Milos, a volcanic island in the Aegean north of the Sea of Crete. Milos is home to over 70 beaches, and the major part is only accessible through a boat ride or a hike. Couples can hop on private boat tours and explore hidden coves off the beaten path. The intimacy of the trip can be prolonged by observing the magical sunsets over the sea from Plaka, the hilltop capital, or dining in local tavernas and seaside restaurants with fresh seafood and the best Greek wine.

Main attractions:

• Sarakiniko Beach: Moon-like white rock formations and turquoise water; accessible by car, ATV, or bus.
• Kleftiko Caves: Stunning sea caves and swimming spots; only reachable by boat tour.
• Plaka Village: Hilltop town with traditional Cycladic charm and sunsets; drive or bus, then walk the narrow paths.

Paros

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For a couple looking to spend a budget-friendly vacation, Paros is at the top of our list of cheap places to visit in Greece. The atmosphere in the harbour and around it is reminiscent of Mykonos, only with fewer tourists and thus more opportunities for a secluded holiday. While in Paros, find some time to visit its capital city, Parikia, and spend a day among the good-old whitewashed houses, as well as visit antique shops and bars.

Main attractions:

• Naoussa Village: Lively harbor town with nightlife and boutiques; easy access by bus or rental from Parikia.
• Parikia (Old Town & Port): Ferry hub and historic center with a windmill and ancient church; walkable and central.
• Kolymbithres Beach: Unique rock formations and clear water; short drive or water taxi from Naoussa.

Best Places to Visit in Greece for Young Adults

Young adults are among the most eager tourists, filled with energy to explore something new. Greece is indeed a multi-layered destination, offering fun, social, and, most importantly, affordable experiences. Looking for some adventure and mind-boggling outdoor activities? Consider these spots for your Greek voyage.

Zakynthos

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Zakynthos is the rightful leader among the best places to visit in Greece for young adults. Commonly known as Zante among British and European tourists, travel companies, and partygoers, this city blends natural beauty, vibrant nightlife, and affordable fun. During the day, travellers can spend time on the Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach) with its turquoise waters and cliffside views, or take boat tours to the Blue Caves.

By night, Zakynthos magically turns into a party paradise, especially in Laganas, known for beach bars, clubs, and all-night events that unite travellers from all over the world. There are many budget-friendly options, making Zante a perfect starting spot for young adults looking for an unforgettable Greek island experience.

Main attractions:

• Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach): One of Greece’s most iconic beaches; boat tour only, from Porto Vromi or Agios Nikolaos.
• Blue Caves: Natural sea arches and glowing waters; visit by boat tours from various island points.
• Laganas Bay: Popular for nightlife and turtle spotting; bus, taxi, or car from Zante Town (about 15–20 minutes).

Ios

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One of the Cycladic islands located between Santorini, Paros, and Naxos, Ios is undoubtedly one of the tourists’ most loved spots. The coast is busy with bars offering budget-friendly drinks and regular parties, attracting young adults seeking a taste of Greek nightlife.

Ios is also super-social, with the average age range of travellers between 18 and 30, making it ideal for meeting new people, making friends, and hopping on adventures together. While in Ios, make sure to visit one of its unforgettable sunset parties at Ios Club or Pathos Lounge.

Main attractions:

• Chora (Main Town): Whitewashed houses, bars, and hillside windmills; walkable, often lively at night.
• Mylopotas Beach: Golden sand and water sports; 5 minutes by bus or ATV from Chora.
• Homer’s Tomb: Legendary poet’s burial site (disputed but scenic); 30-minute drive to the island’s north end.

Best Places to Visit in Greece with Family

Families, whether seeking a calm or an active vacation, will also find plenty of memorable experiences to engage in. Here is our ultimate roster of the best places to visit in Greece with family.

• Kos. Located in the southeastern part of the Aegean Sea, the island of Cos boasts shallow water beaches perfect for kids. It is mostly flat, with bike paths around the town, ideal for families willing to explore the city on two wheels. As for the entertainment, Lido Water Park is a hit with kids of all ages, and ancient sites like the Asklepion (ancient healing center) allow for having fun and learning at the same time.
• Crete. With its impressive diversity, Crete is a perfect vacation spot for families passionate about mythology and archaeology. Starting with the Knossos Palace, you can continue your visit by exploring the wildlife at aquariums and parks like Cretaquarium or Dinosauria Park. For big families, it is possible to rent a car and discover different parts of the island with ease.

If you travel with a family, look for hotels that offer kitchenettes, pools, and kids' clubs, as well as entertainment and babysitting services for the little ones.

Cheap Places to Visit in Greece

Who said that budget travel in Greece is impossible? Although the big tourist sites are notorious for their price tags, there are multiple unique places to visit in Greece that won’t bite into your budget. Consider them for getting an authentic Greek experience, taste the best traditional food, and shop at local souvenir spots while spending the minimum.

• Thessaloniki. Despite being Greece’s second largest city, it is cheaper than Athens but similarly rich in culture, history, and food. It is rightfully called a street food paradise, as you can taste the best local bougatsa, gyros, or koulouri for just €1-3. Most of the attractions in Thessaloniki that are worth visiting are also low-cost: consider the White Tower, Ano Poli (Old Town), Byzantine churches, and open-air ruins with little to no entry fee. The city is mostly walkable, which eliminates the need for public transportation, and there are multiple affordable accommodation options, such as hostels, boutique guesthouses, and budget hotels around, especially in Ladadika and Valaoritou.
• Peloponnese. This peninsula will be perfect for road trips, especially in groups, which also allows for splitting the cost. UNESCO cities like Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, and Ancient Corinth are surprisingly affordable, with discounts for students. Most of the beaches in Mani, Nafplio, and Messinia are free to enter and, despite this, uncrowded. Due to fewer tourists, the Peloponnese has lower prices.
• Kefalonia. If you are looking to enjoy nature, wildlife, and an authentic atmosphere, Kefalonia is the place that won’t break the bank. Towns like Lixouri, Sami, or Agia Efimia offer affordable accommodation, and the quality of food at local home-style tavernas is top-tier despite the exceptionally low price tags. We recommend renting a car, as Kefalonia is big and has a lot of spots to explore; splitting the cost among a group will go easy on the wallet and guarantee a comfortable experience.

A question that many budget-travellers ask is what’s the deal with mobile internet in Greece? In order to always stay in touch and share the best moments of your trip with friends, buying a prepaid SIM card in Greece is the way to go. It’s affordable, easy to set up, and the coverage is generally excellent across cities, islands, and tourist areas. Consider options like Yesim, COSMOTE, Vodafone Greece, and Nova Mobile. You can purchase a card at an airport kiosk upon arrival or at one of the official mobile providers’ stores located in the city.

Most Famous and Historical Places in Greece

Historical places to visit in Greece will be a treat to those eager to trace the life and traditions of one of the oldest ancient civilizations on Earth. Mainland Greece, in particular Athens, is home to the most famous historical sites like the Acropolis or Agora, but there is plenty to see beyond. Here are some of our top picks.

Athens: Panathenaic Stadium

This unique ancient site saw the light of day twice: when it was first built in 330 BC and then rebuilt in 144 AD. It is fully made out of marble and, what’s remarkable, it hosted the Olympic games in 1896. The Panathenaic Stadium is rarely among the tourists’ priorities, but we definitely recommend paying it a visit while in Athens and awe before its inexplicable grandeur.

Argolis: Theatre of Epidaurus

Similar to the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, the Theatre of Epidaurus is located in Argolis, Peloponnese, and dates back to the 4th century BC. With a capacity of 16,000 people, it was widely used for musical and theatrical performances in Ancient Greece. Impressively, it remains an active festival venue to this day thanks to its well-preserved state.

Crete: Minoan Palace of Knossos

If you are travelling to Crete, it would be a crime to bypass the Palace of Knossos, one of the most famous Greek ruins off the mainland. This palace still holds the legacy of the fallen Minoan civilization, with maze-like halls, ancient frescoes, and vibrant red columns. Due to its maze-like structure, this palace is the myth of the Minotaur coming alive.

Read also: Greece: Mobile Internet and SIM Cards for Tourists

Unique and Interesting Places in Greece

Looking for some special locations in Greece to get off the beaten path? Here are some often overlooked gems that are definitely worth a visit.

Diros Caves – Underground Lakes

Find these magical caves filled with underground lakes and breathtaking stalactites in the Mani Peninsula. Visitors can glide through the caverns by boat, moving in enchanting silence in the crystal-clear water. The Diros Caves are among the most spectacular cave systems in Europe, and it remains a mystery why they are still often overlooked by many tourists.

Volcanic Island of Nisyros

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The remnants of volcanoes are not new for the Greek Islands, but Nisyros, in the Dodecanese Islands, takes the exploration experience to another level. It has way fewer tourists than neighbouring Kos or Rhodes, which makes it a quiet and pristine place to explore. Who would just pass by the opportunity of walking inside a massive volcanic crater?

Arachova Village – "Greek Alps"

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After all, Greece is not only famous for its sprawling, boundless sea. There are mountains, too, and charming mountain villages like Arachova are known for their stone houses, cobbled streets, and alpine vibes, especially in winter. What’s peculiar is that this village, located near Delphi, is exceptionally popular with Greeks, but remains under the radar for international tourists. Consider it as a spot for your winter getaway, ideal for skiing and cozy tavern dinners.

Conclusion

What is the ultimate best place in Greece to visit? If it is your first time visiting the country, we recommend starting from Athens and ticking all the most famous tourist spots off your bucket list. From there, take off to the island of your choice, whether you are travelling alone, with a partner, or with family, the scope of options is abundant.

As you plan your journey, ensure you're connected on-the-go with an eSIM and enjoy every moment of your Greek adventure!

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