Greece Travel Guide

Whether searching for a mountain retreat or secluded seaside resort, a hidden harbor or the location of a mythical battle, the following list looks beyond common destinations to uncover 11 hidden gems in Greece.

Travelers have ventured to the country for millennia for its remarkable history, enchanting mythology, and mesmerizing landscapes. Beyond the majesty of classic destinations like Athens and Santorini that have become beacons for tourists, you can find splendor and treasures that may feel like your own little secrets.

Embrace the seaside charms of Kastellorizo or trace history along the lanes of medieval villages on the island of Chios when exploring these hidden jewels.

The best time to visit the Greek Islands is from April to October, but it depends on what you wish to experience during your beach vacation in Greece.

The islands across the country offer diverse beauty, culture, and activities, with each new destination promising a new perspective, no matter the season. Many Greek islands have become year-round destinations, with promises of romance, adventure, or relaxation beyond the treasured beaches.

Whether looking for an off-the-beaten-path island in summer or the perfect family escape in spring, eager to visit ancient ruins or enticed by a dream of sailing the Aegean, the best time to visit the Greek Islands depends on the experiences you want to have.

You can embrace the past, enjoy island life, and indulge in simple pleasures with our list of the 10 best Greek islands to visit.

They embody nature’s timeless beauty and cultural preservation, and each can ignite your imagination as you settle in to enjoy splendid views, connect with ancient myths, or uncover the flavors of land and sea.

The best Greece islands can satisfy any traveler's appetite by providing access to active exploration, stunning beaches, or the legacy of Mediterranean cuisine with a Greek twist.

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos at Ornos Beach or sunset strolls along Plaka, two breathtaking shorelines we recommend in this list of the 15 best beaches in Greece.

Some are excellent places to unwind and enjoy the seclusion of hidden bays accessible by boat, while others are iconic for their bustling atmospheres. There are beaches for all travelers, whether you want to enjoy Mediterranean seafood at gourmet restaurants with panoramic sea views or hike to observation points overlooking the Santorini caldera.

Find the right beaches for your vacation in this list, highlighting the best options for adventure travel, couples on romantic trips, families visiting the Greek islands, and more.

Greece is more than sunkissed islands, with the 10 must-see places on mainland Greece immediately demonstrating the variety of experiences and settings you can admire during your Greece trip.

From historical Athens to quaint Nafplio, an exploration of mainland Greece will have you marveling at incredible architecture, dining at authentic tavernas, and taking in breathtaking views, as scenes of ancient civilization blend with modern-day lifestyle.

This article plants the seed on what and how to discover the mostly mountainous mainland of Greece. Experience the Peloponnese peninsula, the Isthmus of Corinth, and the sacred precinct of Delphi as you travel to these must-see places in Greece.

This guide on your favorite Greek islands offers information, tips, and ideas on sailing in the country, traveling the islands, the best time to visit them, and more.

Greece is emblematic of pristine Mediterranean islands, the embodiment of gorgeous sunsets and enticing European coastal escapes. From charming whitewashed homes to remarkable cliffs overlooking an iconic caldera and medieval history connected to its ancient counterpart, the best Greek islands reflect proud traditions and impressive cultural history.

Whether looking for the perfect beach or ready to embark on an island-hopping adventure, our Greek island guide can help you discover your perfect experience.

The shoulder seasons of autumn and spring represent the best times to visit Athens and Santorini, as the weather and lack of crowds allow travelers to enjoy these destinations to the fullest.

Greece’s Mediterranean climate covers its capital, Athens, in sunshine during the warmer months, and sparkling seas surrounding famous Greek Islands like Santorini shimmer under the golden light. Families, honeymooners, and eager adventurers flock to the sun-washed Greek destinations year-round, though the following information outlines the best times to visit, depending on your travel preferences.

We guide you through everything you need to know about the best time to go to Athens and Santorini, as well as sharing a Greece Travel Guide to inspire your itinerary.

Each of Athens and Santorini’s towns and districts feature their own flair and flavor, and the following showcases the 10 best places to visit in and around the regions.

Whether you yearn to discover the most talked-about ancient monuments of Athens, seek further historic exploration across the reaches of Delphi, or wish to peruse the quiet villages and best places to visit in Santorini, there is much to see during your visit to Greece to ensure your vacation is unforgettable.

From Oia to Athens and the treasures of the Athenian coast, explore where to go when you visit  on vacation.

From exploring the culinary differences of Athens and Santorini to admiring the ancient scenes of Delphi and the extravagant sunsets over the Greek Islands, the following top six things to do in Athens and Santorini are essential highlights.

Athens is the home of Ancient Greece and the magnificent monuments that reflect millennia-old heritage for visitors eager to wander from the dazzling districts to the steps of the Acropolis and beyond. Across the Aegean Sea at Santorini, sunsets silhouette the typical blue-roofed and white-washed town that hangs on the island’s rugged cliffs.

Athens and Santorini vacations will amaze you as you explore the heart of Greece and the famous Cycladic island in the following ways.

Our top six things to do on a 10-day vacation in Greece narrow down the options to give you an idea of how to spend your trip experiencing the best of Mykonos, Santorini, and more.

From beach getaways to island exploration, incredible ruins to sensational cuisine, the essential experiences are customizable should you have specific ideas of activities and experiences you wish to explore.

No matter the kind of trip you hope to have, the following experiences offer a guide for any kind of traveler to ensure you enjoy your 10-day vacation in Greece how you wish.

From Athens to Crete, Greece highlights why it's one of the most coveted European countries to visit, with essential experiences you can have during your 12-day Greece vacation.

Grecian culture reflects from the distinct white-washed Cycladic architecture of Santorini, ancient history unravels beneath the momentous pillars of the Parthenon, and soothing seaside scenery backdrops illustrious Greek islands in the Aegean Sea.

Whether looking at popular cities, hidden peninsular gems, or famous islands, the top experiences you can have during your 12-day Greece trip can reveal the wonders of the culture, history, land, and sea.

When it comes to choosing destinations, there are so many options available, each offering something unique when considering the best places to visit on a 12-day Greece vacation.

Over and above the many marvelous cities of mainland Greece, the country offers access to a series of island paradises in the Aegean Sea.

While all of our itineraries are customizable to suit your preferences, the following list outlines the main Greek destinations you can visit during a 12-day vacation, spotlighting the incredible experiences and distinct charms you can embrace during your tour.

The best time to visit Greece for a 12-day vacation is from May to early September, as the temperate and sunny Mediterranean climate allows you to embrace the landscape and the country’s warm waters, wander its sun-bathed hillsides, and hop from island to island during its pleasant summer months.

While crowds gather in the country’s sought-after cities year-round, there are quieter moments throughout the year to explore Grecian culture, jeweled architecture, and swishing coastlines.

In this article, we highlight the perfect times to visit Greece for 12 days, depending on your preferences.

January is a good time to experience Greece's history, culture, and mild winter climate. From the lively capital of Athens to sleepy seaside villages, the country takes on a quiet, authentic charm in winter as it is not prime tourist season.

With fewer crowds and lower prices, January offers you the opportunity to explore iconic sites like the Acropolis and Delphi without the intense summer heat and large tourist crowds. Temperatures range from cool to mild, with a mix of sunny and rainy days perfect for hearty hiking, beach strolls on quiet islands, and cozying up in traditional tavernas over delicious Greek cuisine.

This guide highlights the reasons to visit Greece in January and provides tips on the best areas, activities, weather, and more.

Greece in February offers a tranquil experience far from the summer crowds and scorching heat. This off-season month provides opportunities to explore ancient sites, enjoy cultural experiences, and witness the country's natural beauty in a more intimate setting.

When visiting Greece in February, you can expect cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall, but also periods of clear, crisp weather perfect for outdoor activities. The quieter atmosphere allows for a more authentic connection to Greek life. Many popular attractions remain open with reduced hours, and you can enjoy them without the long queues typical of peak season. February also brings the vibrant celebration of Apokries, the Greek Carnival, to many towns and cities across the country.

Find highlights of the best destinations and activities, as well as tips on making the most of your winter exploration of Greece.

The hot summer month of June in Greece is a popular time among travelers of all persuasions. The following guide shares the best places to visit and what to do during a warm and sunny time in Greece.

From the shimmering shores of islands famous for their upbeat atmosphere to historic cities and ancient towns that provide an escape from the energetic neighborhoods, Greece and the Greek Islands are the premier Mediterranean getaways for summer vacations in June.

We pinpoint the weather, the best places to visit depending on your travel activities and goals, and some exciting experiences to look forward to.

When visiting Greece in July, you could find yourself soaking up the glorious sunshine, enjoying lazy days, or tracing Greek history in Athens. Greece stands out as a strong favorite when seeking a mid-summer vacation or idyllic escape in July.

With the large number of Cyclades, Ionian, Dodecanese, and Saronic islands that make up the Greek archipelago, you have a choice as to where you wish to spend your July trip in Greece. You may wish to explore intimate islands such as Milos, larger destinations such as Crete, or the islands of Santorini and Mykonos.

Visiting Greece in July offers you a chance to enjoy the warm Mediterranean waters and the following information can help you plan your trip when considering where to go, what to do, and more.

Greece in August offers a vibrant combination of experiences, from sun-soaked beaches to ancient cultural sites. This peak summer month brings hot weather, lively festivals, and ideal conditions for island hopping.

You can expect hot, dry weather perfect for beach activities and water sports. August is the busiest tourist season, with crowded attractions and bustling nightlife. The month is filled with cultural events and festivals across the country, providing rich opportunities to immerse yourself in Greek traditions. From the medieval city of Rhodes to the tranquil landscapes of Pelion, you can enjoy diverse experiences ranging from historical explorations to secluded getaways. The warm Aegean and Ionian seas invite sailing adventures and island exploration.

This article will guide you through the best places to visit, exciting activities to experience, weather expectations, and insider tips to help you plan an unforgettable August tour through Greece.

Idyllic weather and fewer crowds make September an ideal time for a Greek vacation. As summer fades, this transitional month ushers in milder temperatures while still offering ample sunshine to soak up historic sites and paradisiacal islands.

September's brilliant blue skies and comfortable heat provide perfect conditions for exploring Greece's ancient ruins and sun-drenched isles. Beloved destinations begin to empty of peak crowds, yet retain their vibrant energy. Witness grape harvests unfold across vineyard-draped hillsides as the first hints of fall arrive over olive groves and turquoise waters.

Discover the best places to experience Greece in September, from popular islands to lesser-known treasures, as well as seasonal events and activities that immerse you in the country's ancient culture and modern delights.

Greece in October offers an enchanting escape from the ordinary. The beaches are less crowded and the climate is perfect for exploring the country’s ancient sites or island hopping across the Aegean Sea.

With mild weather and fewer tourists, you can enjoy festivals, long stretches of sand, and oceans tinted azure blue. Wander quiet alleyways, discover seasonal cuisine, or lounge on the waterside.

Whether you want to visit vineyards, stroll through historical Athens, or sail to Santorini, October is a magical month in which to visit Greece.

Greece in November marks the final month of fall. With far fewer tourists and cooler weather than in the busy summer months, it's an ideal time to explore Greece's ancient ruins, wander quaint villages, and appreciate the natural beauty.

During November in Greece, most areas enjoy temperatures that, although cool, are comfortable for sightseeing and exclusive travel experiences. Olive harvest season is in full swing at this time of the year, so you can see local farmers gathering olives before pressing them into rich oils. The colors of the fall landscape also make an ideal backdrop for hikes among majestic mountains or open-air visits to archaeological marvels like the Acropolis.

With tips on where to go, information on the weather in Greece in November, and what to do during the month, this article will help you craft your perfect November trip to Greece.

Greece in December offers festive charm and off-season appeal. With far fewer tourists than in the summer months and temperate winter weather, December reveals a more authentic side of Greece.

During this time, most major sites and islands remain open, but with smaller crowds. Visitors can stroll through the ancient ruins of Athens and Delphi or explore the whitewashed villages of the Cyclades at an unhurried pace. December in Greece also offers ideal conditions for skiing, cycling, and sightseeing. Christmas celebrations, with glittering lights and festive markets, provide a charming atmosphere across mainland cities and towns.

This article covers everything you need to know to plan your December trip, from where to find the best island getaways to festive Christmas destinations, suggestions on what to do, and more.

Greece in summer is a paradise of sun-soaked islands, ancient wonders, and vibrant culture. From crystal-clear waters to historic ruins, this Mediterranean gem offers unforgettable experiences.

During the summer months, you can expect long, warm days perfect for beach hopping and outdoor exploration. The Greek islands come alive with festive atmospheres, while mainland attractions showcase their beauty under clear blue skies. Travelers can indulge in fresh seafood at seaside tavernas, explore millennia-old archaeological sites, and immerse themselves in local traditions at summer festivals. The warm Aegean and Ionian seas invite swimming, snorkeling, and sailing adventures.

This article will guide you through the best destinations, activities, and practical tips for experiencing Greece in summer, helping you create a perfect itinerary tailored to your interests and preferences.

If you are considering Greece for a winter vacation, the following information will share ideas and insight on the weather, best places to visit, and top experiences you can enjoy when traveling through the country at this time of year.

If you wish to explore the ancient history in Athens or enjoy fewer crowds in January, looking for a view of snowcapped peaks around the hanging churches of Meteora, or interested in experiencing the temperatures in Greece in December, winter across the country is a wonderland of experiences.

To help you plan your Greece tour in winter, we share the ideal places to indulge in the seasonal ambiance, from the mainland to the islands.