It would be impossible to list all the best places to visit in Greece. It is a country with so much beauty with an endless variety of landscapes. From rugged, snow-capped mountains and ancient ruins to turquoise waters and white-sand beaches, Greece can satisfy the needs of any traveler.
Apart from the stunning Greek islands, the country’s historical sites are some of the best places to visit in Greece.
Greece is the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of Western civilization. With its mix of beauty and history, Greece is undoubtedly one of the best destinations to visit.
There are many places to visit and things to do in Greece to satisfy any type of traveler.
If you’re planning a trip soon, be sure to check out our epic Greece travel guide. Not only is it one of the cheapest places to travel, but it’s also on our list of the best countries to travel for food.
1.Santorini,Oia and its plunging cliffs in a blue sea
Probably one of the best known places to visit in Greece, Santorini is the diamond of the Aegean. Thousands of people are drawn to the beauty of this island each year and leave knowing that there is nothing quite like it.
This spectacularly beautiful place is one of the most picturesque of all the Greek islands. Picturesque and world famous, Santorini has to be seen to be believed.
Take a dip in the turquoise waters, stroll through the beautiful villages and dine in the fine restaurants, Santorini will steal your heart. This is still and always one of our favorite places in Greece.
With its volcanic beaches, whitewashed houses, amazing sunsets and landscapes, Santorini is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Greece. To learn more about the 15 best things to see and do in Santorini, check out our article.
Where to stay in Santorini?
Here is a list of the top 3 rated and affordable properties in Santorini . Click on the links and check for yourself.
- Villa Valvis – From $34 / night, note 9.1.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Platia – From $91/night, note 9.8.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Fileria Suites – From $136/night, note 9.4.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
☞Click heret o compare prices and see reviews of all the accommodation options available in Santorini on Booking.com.
Santorini is very touristy, but it is still considered one of the best places to visit in Greece.
2. Nafplion, not far from Athens
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Shaped over the centuries by many different cultures, Nafplion is today the playground of Athens’ elite and one of the places to visit in Greece for the rich and famous.
The Ottomans, Byzantines, Venetians and many more have all left their mark on this small seaside metropolis. The citadels and fortresses that dot the hills give Nafplio an alluring charm.
This friendly and patriotic city was once the capital of Greece, as locals will gladly tell you. In addition to history, Nafplion also offers excellent restaurants and beaches where you can relax.
Explore the city’s narrow, winding streets and admire the architecture. Take a walk on the esplanade and taste the best seafood, while yachts worth millions of dollars float in the harbor beside you.
Nafplio is one of the most romantic cities you can visit. It is one of the best places in Greece for couples and families.
Where to stay in Nafplio?
Here is a list of the top 3 rated and affordable properties in Nafplio . Click on the links and discover them for yourself!
- Pension Althaia – From $50/night, note 9.0. Click here to see the latest price on Booking.com
- Marianna Vacation Home – From $65/night, note 9.7.Click here to see the latest price on Booking.com
- Anassia Villas – From $95/night, note 9.5.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
☞Compare prices and see reviews of all the accommodation options available in GREECE on Booking
3. Corfu, to bask in the sun
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Corfu is an island located off the northwest coast of the country. Apart from its rich cultural heritage, the island is also blessed with rugged mountains and some of the best beaches in Greece.
Corfu is definitely one of the most popular places to visit in Greece and when people search the web for where to go in Greece, Corfu usually comes up in the top 10 of all places in Greece.
However, if tourist crowds aren’t your thing, secluded beaches stretch along Corfu’s winding coastline. With so many beautiful beaches, it is very easy to find your own piece of paradise.
In addition to the white sand beaches, there are also picturesque towns and villages like Perithia and the old town of Corfu. Here you will find the remains of Venetian builders as well as anti-pirate castles from a bygone era.
All in all, Corfu is an incredibly beautiful place to visit and there are endless things to do in Corfu. Find out where to stay in Corfu in our comprehensive guide to the best parts of the island.
Where to stay in Corfu
Here is a list of the top 3 rated and affordable properties in Corfu on Booking.com. Click on the links and check for yourself.
- Ocean View – From $30/night, note 9.2. Click here to see the latest price on Booking.com
- Tango apartment on the beach – From $58 / night, note 9.3.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Efi Apartments &; Sofia – From $96 / night, note 9.5.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
4. Knossos (one of the best places in Greece for history)
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A short drive or bus ride from the Cretan capital of Heraklion are the Minoan ruins of Knossos. This Bronze Age relic was once home to the mighty Minoan civilization that dominated the area over 5,000 years ago.
The ruins of Knossos are the best preserved Bronze Age remains in all of Greece and are an incredible sight. A visit here is one of the best things to do in Crete.
Besides magnificent mosaics and beautiful pottery, there is also the Hall of Kings. The Hall of Kings is where the legend of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth is played out.
The ruins of Knossos are a must when visiting the island of Crete. Greece’s history stretches far back into the mists of time and Knossos is a great place to push back the mist and get a glimpse of the past. Knossos stands out as one of the best places to visit in Greece.
For more on traveling to Crete, check out our comprehensive guide to the island.
Where to stay near Knossos
Here is a list of the top 3 rated and affordable properties near Knossos. Click on the links and discover them for yourself!
- Christina Apartments – From $53/night, note 9.1.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Idili – From $69/night, note 9.7.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Z Boutique Hotel – From $129/night, note 9.5.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
5.Zakynthos
Home to some of the best nightlife in the Greek islands, Zakynthos is one of the most beautiful places in the entire Mediterranean. Turquoise water, white sand beaches and huge white chalk cliffs give Zakynthos its characteristic beauty.
The island is also home to one of the most photographed places in Greece, the stunningly beautiful island of Zakynthos.
The Wreck Cove, Also known as Navagio Beach, it alone makes Zakynthos a must-see destination.
The center of the island is less explored than the coastline, with fir trees and olive groves adding to the charm of the island.
In our opinion, Zakynthos is definitely one of the best places to visit in Greece.
☞ SEE ALSO: Zakynthos, Greece: Our last minute travel decision
Zakynthos is also one of the biggest party spots on the Greek islands. If you are looking for intense nightlife and idyllic beauty, Zakynthos is a place that meets all expectations. There are so many things to do in Zakynthos that you will never get bored.
For more on travel in Zakynthos, check out these popular sites:
Where to stay in Zakynthos
Here is a list of the top 3 rated and affordable properties in Zakynthos. Click on the links and discover them for yourself!
- Armonia Boutique Hotel – From $32/night, note 9.5.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Denise Apartments – From $59/night, note 9.7.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Αggi’s – From $95/night, note 8.2.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
*Editor’s Note: We stayed at Katerina Rooms and loved our stay – the owner was so nice!Click hereto see the latest price and reviews.
6. Athens (one of the best cities in Greece to visit)
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There are few cities on earth that can boast a history like Athens. Cradle of democracy and recognized as the founder of Western civilization, it is a city that spans the ages.
This pulsating and vibrant place is a must visit and probably the best city to visit in Greece.
Athens is brimming with Greek culture and packed with spectacular sights like the Parthenon and the Temple of Zeus. Also, don’t forget to visit the Plaka district. This small suburb of Athens, located just below the Acropolis, is of a splendid beauty.
Stroll the cobbled streets and admire the craft shops and restaurants.
☞ SEE ALSO: Discover the magic of Kefalonia – Our 5-day travel guide
Athens is a city that defies the ravages of time and is just another of the amazing places to visit in Greece. When visiting Athens, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to authentic food. Be sure to check out these top restaurants in Athens, and get ready to see your waistline increase.
There are endless things to do in Athens, you will never be bored here!
Where to stay in Athens
Here is a list of the top 3 rated and affordable properties in Athens. Click on the links and discover them for yourself!
- Sappho House – From $30/night, note 8.8.Click here to see the latest price on Booking.com
- Olga’s studio – From $59 / night, note 9.5.Click here to see the latest price on Booking.com
- Dipson in Gazi – From $103/night, note 9.5.Click here to see the latest price on Booking.com
7.Rhodes
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The island of Rhodes, located off the southwest coast of Turkey, is one of the most visited places of the Greek islands. Rhodes caters to all tastes, from backpackers to the rich and famous, all drawn to this drop in the Aegean Sea.
With some of the best bathing spots in Greece, Rhodes offers the perfect mix of quaint towns, pristine beaches and archaic history.
Whether you want to party the night away in Faliraki or relax in luxury at one of Rhodes’ many beach resorts, you’ll find it all.
As you have already noticed, Greece is a perfect blend of paradise and history, and Rhodes is no different.
The old town of Rhodes, the capital of the island, was once home to a wonder of the world, the mighty Colossus of Rhodes. This kind of history, along with the incredible scenery, nightlife and swimming spots make Rhodes one of the best places to visit in Greece.
For more, check out our comprehensive travel guide to Rhodes in Greece.
Where to stay in Rhodes
Here is a list of the top 3 rated and affordable properties in Rhodes. Click the links and check for yourself!
- Studio Themis – From $24/night, note 9.5.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Stegna apartment with sea view – From $59 / night, note 9.9.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Lindian Polis – From $124/night, note 9.7.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking
8. Meteora (one of the best places to visit in mainland Greece)
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The next step is a little different. Meteora is one of the most unique places to visit in Greece, and Europe in general!
Located in the heart of northern Greece, Meteora is home to some of the most spectacular Orthodox churches in the world.
The Monasteries of Meteora are one of the few UNESCO World Heritage Sites to enjoy dual status. UNESCO grants two different statuses to World Heritage, one for art and the other for nature. The amazing cliffs and hoodoos of Meteora received both.
☞ SEE ALSO: Chios, Greece: The magic of the North Aegean.
It is a land where fingers of stone soar skyward, with Orthodox monasteries perched precariously on their ends. A land where people live in heaven and still worship God with the passion of a bygone era.
Built in the 14th and 16th centuries, Meteora is a place that will amaze you.
Where to stay in Meteora
Here is a list of the top 3 rated and affordable properties in Meteora. Click on the links and discover them for yourself!
- Hotel Anax – From $41/night, note 9.4.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Gkoura Guest House – From $53 / night, note 9.3.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Archontiko Mesohori Suites & Apartments – From $107 / Night, Rating 9.5.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
9.Delphi
Here is another destination for history buffs. Delphi, the religious center of the ancient world, still clings today. Perched on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, these ancient ruins were once a place that drew people (even kings) to listen to the words of the Oracle.
The Oracle of Delphi has been etched in Greek history and the words of Apollo’s priestess have echoed through the ages.
The Temple of Apollo is still standing and is one of the highlights of Delphi. Besides the Temple of Apollo, there is also the Athena Priene, a theater and an ancient stadium.
Wander among the ruins and transport yourself to a time when Delphi echoed with cries of the oracle and kings bowed before the Temple of Apollo. Delphi is definitely one of the best places to visit in Greece.
Where to stay in Delphi
Here is a list of the top 3 rated and affordable properties in Delphi. Click on the links and discover them for yourself!
- Hotel Sibylla – From $36 / Night, Rating 8.8.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Hotel Nidimos – From $59 / night, note 9.3.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Hotel Ef Zin Studios & Suites – From $107 / Night, Rating 8.9.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
10.Skiros
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Located in the center of the Aegean Sea, Skyros is known for its beautiful beaches, rugged coastline and seaside villages. Steeped in tradition and still relatively untouched, Skyros is an ideal choice for an idyllic getaway.
While the north is made up of rolling farmland and pine forests, the south is characterized by arid hills and rocky shores. Skyros has managed to slip under the radar for a long time and does not attract the masses of tourists like many other Greek islands.
If you travel to Skyros, keep an eye out for the island’s legendary wild horses. For millennia, the horses of Skyros have roamed the island, but unfortunately they are dwindling in number. Who knows how much longer you will be able to see these majestic animals in the wild.
Where to stay in Skyros
Here is a list of the top 3 rated and affordable properties in Skyros. Click on the links and discover them for yourself!
- Eleana Studios – From $41/night, 8.5 rating.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Antigoni Studios – From $63/night, note 9.7.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Hotel Ammos – From $107/night, note 9.1.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
11. Olympia
Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, is another of the places to visit in Greece that is etched in history.
Located in the Sacred Valley of the Gods, it is still possible to see the old stadium and training grounds of the Olympians. At that time, Olympia would have been one of the best cities to visit in Greece.
Along with the stadium and training grounds, the UNESCO-accredited Olympia also boasts some of the best-preserved monuments and temples in all of Greece.
These sacred monuments are dedicated to the great gods of old, such as Zeus and Hera. Located in the rugged hills of the Peloponnese, the Valley of the Gods is an impressive place.
Besides Olympia, the valley has amazing hiking and mountain biking trails and is close to the spectacularly beautiful Alfos river valley. All this makes Olympia and the Valley of the Gods one of the best places to visit in Greece.
Where to stay in Olympia
Here is a list of the top 3 rated and affordable properties in Olympia. Click on the links and discover them for yourself!
- Anesi Rooms for rent – From $35/night, Note 8.9.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Leonidaion Guest House – From $65/night, note 9.2.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Hotel Europa Olympia – From $113 / Night, Rating 9.6.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
12. Skiathos
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Skiathos is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Greece. Known for its beach and nightlife, Skiathos has burst onto the itinerary of many travelers in recent years.
With its crystal clear waters and white sand beaches, as well as its incredible nightclubs, it’s easy to see why.
Despite the influx of tourists, the island has lost none of its beauty. With over 60 stunning beaches and hiking trails through pine forests, Skiathos is a nature lover’s dream.
☞ SEE ALSO: The best time to visit Greece and the Greek islands
In addition to the natural beauty of the island, there is also the town of Skiathos which perfectly meets the needs of tourists. Friendly restaurants sprawl the streets where you can sit and dine all evening as the sun slowly dips into the Mediterranean.
Where to stay in Skiathos
Here is a list of the top 3 rated and affordable properties in Skiathos. Click on the links and discover them for yourself!
- House in Skiathos – From $38/night, note 9.5.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Kallisti Apartments – From $77/night, note 9.6.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Villas Zoe – From $130 / Night, Rating 9.6.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
13. Halkidiki
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Just south of the city of Thessaloniki is the peninsula of Chalkidiki. It might just be Greece’s best-kept secret.
The Halkidiki peninsula is home to some of the best stretches of sand in northern Greece and offers the perfect blend of modern luxury and archaic tradition.
The Halkidiki Peninsula is divided into three fingers that extend into the Aegean Sea. There are the golden sandy beaches of the tip of Sithonia, the resorts and restaurants of Kassandra, and finally the mysterious Athos which is home to some of Greece’s most stoic monastic communities and is extremely traditional.
When combined, the peninsula’s three headlands come together to create the perfect retreat. For now, Halkidiki is still relatively uncrowded. It’s unclear how long this will last, but be sure to get there before word gets out.
Where to stay in Halkidiki
Here is a list of the top 3 rated and affordable properties in Halkidiki. Click on the links and discover them for yourself!
- Eytyxia Apartments – From $33/night, note 9.5.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Marianna Apartments – From $41/night, note 9.6.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Villa Kristy – From $89/night, note 9.1.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
14. Mycenae
Finally, we have a city that dominates the myths and legends of the past. The walls of Mycenae were so high that the ancient Greeks attributed their creation to the Cyclops.
The city of Mycenae comes from a time before Greece and appears in tales such as the fall of Troy. Its most famous ruler was the mighty King Agamemnon himself.
It is very difficult to separate history from myth in Mycenae, as the city was at its peak over 3500 years ago.
Mycenae is off the beaten track and takes you to a part of the country that few tourists get to see. Without a doubt, Mycenae is one of Greece’s great archaeological sites and will leave visitors in awe of the engineering prowess of the ancients.
A visit to Mycenae will not disappoint. Located south of Corinth, the ruins lie at the heart of ancient legends. Culture, landscapes and history combine to make Mycenae one of the country’s must-see destinations.
Where to stay in Mycenae
Here is a list of the top 3 rated and affordable properties in Mycenae. Click on the links and discover them for yourself!
- Hotel Apollon – From $41/night, note 9.4.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- The Little Planet – From $50/night, note 9.2.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Mycenae – From $65/night, note 9.3.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
15. Chios
Chios is a bit off the beaten track but is very underrated. We visited this tiny little island on our last visit to Greece and absolutely loved it.
Hidden medieval villages, stunning beaches, funky accommodation options and great restaurants make this island one of the best places to visit in Greece.
As Chios becomes more and more popular and more businesses are opening on the island, we figured we’d add it to this list when it’s updated for 2020!
We rented a car on our last visit to Chios and met some amazing people. We highly recommend checking out Oz Cocktail Bar in Chios Town for award-winning mixed drinks and don’t miss a bike tour with Trails of the Goats (awesome name, right?).
If you have time (and if you love Greek food as much as we do), head to Cooking Class in Chios for a family lunch at a homestay.
Where to stay in Chios
Here is a list of the top 3 rated and affordable properties in Chios. Also, the cool place we stayed is listed first!
- Emporios Bay Hotel – From $62/night, note 9.2.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Spiti Anatoli – From $25/night, note 9.4.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
- Luxury apartment in the center of Chios – From $95/night, note 9.9.Click hereto see the latest price on Booking.com
Video of the best places to visit in Greece
16. Bonus: Lesvos
Located near the country of Turkey, Lesvos (or Lesbos) is another island in the North Aegean that should not be missed. We spent 5 days here and really enjoyed our stay. There is enough to see and do in Lesvos to keep you busy!
Lesvos is the third largest island in the country and is one of the places to visit in Greece if you are looking for a place away from the crowds.
From the pottery-filled mountainous village of Agiasos, to the petrified forest to the west, to the coastal town of Petra and the neoclassical capital of Mytilene, Lesvos is a very diverse destination in Greece.
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If you like adventure, Lesvos is also a great place to explore the surface and the depth of the water.
We took part in a unique experience that combined sailing and scuba diving and had a wonderful day. For scuba diving visit Lesvos Ocean Diving Center and for sailing see George at Alternative Sailing – two professional companies we recommend.
Now you know the best places to visit in Greece
This incredible country offers the perfect blend of relaxation, culture and history. A visit to Greece is an experience you will never forget and this country will draw you in again and again.
We also have a wealth of travel information including where to stay, when to go, best things to do and more. To find out more, see our Travel Guide to Greece.
How many of these amazing places have you visited? What is your favorite place in Greece? Do you prefer ancient ruins or irresistible beaches?
