Mention Greece to most people and, alongside ancient columns and blue-domed churches, their minds go straight to the food. And that’s no coincidence. Greek food has a magnetic pull — the words alone generate nearly five million search queries every month from people hungry to know more about the country’s incredible gastronomy.

The secret doesn’t lie in complicated cooking techniques. It rests on the absolute freshness of ingredients, a generous pour of olive oil, and above all, the way Greeks actually eat. Food here isn’t just fuel — it’s a social event, a ritual, and the perfect excuse to sit around a table with family or friends for three hours straight.

And here’s some great news upfront — especially for fellow vegetarians: Greece is one of the most plant-friendly cuisines in the world, thanks to its abundance of vegetable mezedes, pulses, and cheese. In this guide, I’ll walk you through 20 Greek dishes you absolutely must try, along with what to order, when to eat, what to drink, and how to avoid the most common tourist pitfalls. Let’s dive in. ☺️

TL;DR

• It all starts with mezedes — small sharing plates placed in the centre of the table for everyone to pick at. Order gradually, not all at once.
• The holy trinity of classics: Greek salad (horiatiki), tzatziki, and baked moussaka. Add pastitsio and stuffed gemista to round it out.
• King of street food is gyros and souvlaki. People often mix them up, but there’s a real difference (explained below). Vegetarian versions are widely available today.
• Vegetarians are very well catered for: fava, gigantes, dakos, meatless gemista orfana, fried saganaki cheese, and dozens of vegetable starters.
• Sweet finish: baklava, galaktoboureko, loukoumades, and Greek yoghurt with honey and walnuts.
• What to drink: iced frappé or freddo espresso during the day; ouzo, tsipouro, or Assyrtiko wine in the evening.
• Watch out for: the bread scam, fish priced by weight, menus without prices, and restaurants with touts at the door.

Taverna Culture: How Greeks Actually Eat

The heart of Greek dining is the taverna. Don’t expect starched white tablecloths and hushed background music, though. A proper Greek taverna is loud, smells of charcoal and sea air, and has paper tablecloths held down by plastic clips to stop them blowing away in the breeze.

The foundation of any taverna meal is the mezedes — small plates of starters and nibbles placed in the centre of the table for everyone to share, with ouzo, tsipouro, or local wine flowing freely alongside. Greeks rarely order a single main course just for themselves; they’d far rather fill the table with a spread of smaller dishes and share everything. It’s a style of eating you’ll fall in love with instantly, because it lets you taste ten different things in one sitting.

Timing matters too. Between 3pm and 6pm, many Greeks observe an afternoon break and plenty of traditional kitchens close or cook only for tourists. Real culinary life doesn’t kick off until after 9pm, so if you turn up at 7, you’ll likely be sharing the room with other tourists.

💡 Tip: As soon as you sit down in touristy areas (such as the Plaka in Athens or on Mykonos), a waiter may bring bread and bottled water without asking. This is the so-called “bread scam” and it’ll appear on your bill as a charge of €1–3 per person. The practice is technically legal, but the charge must be listed on the menu. If it isn’t, you’re perfectly within your rights to dispute it.

The Holy Trinity (and a Few More) Greek Classics

Before you venture into regional specialities, it’s worth mastering the absolute cornerstones of Greek cuisine.

Horiatiki (Greek salad) is the ultimate pillar. It’s built from roughly chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, Kalamata olives, and green pepper, all drizzled with quality olive oil and scattered with dried oregano. In an authentic horiatiki, you’ll never find shredded lettuce, and the feta isn’t crumbled over the top — it sits as one thick slab on the crown of the salad. On a hot day, it’s one of the finest things you can eat.

Tzatziki you probably know already. Thick Greek yoghurt, grated and squeezed cucumber, plenty of garlic, olive oil, and a dash of vinegar or lemon. It’s the perfect dip for bread and vegetables alike.

Moussaka is the iconic layered dish of aubergine, potato, and minced meat in a tomato-based sauce with a hint of cinnamon, all topped with a thick béchamel and baked until golden. Traditionally made with lamb or beef, many tavernas now serve an excellent vegetarian version with just vegetables. Its cousin, pastitsio, is essentially the Greek answer to lasagne — same concept, but using long hollow pasta tubes instead of sheets.

And then there’s gemista — large tomatoes or peppers stuffed with rice and herbs, then slowly baked in the oven. It comes in a meat version and a meatless one; the latter is called orfana, meaning “orphaned”, and it’s an absolute vegetarian classic.

Street Food: Gyros, Souvlaki, and the Difference Between Them

Greece has a rich street food tradition, and two terms dominate it — terms that travellers constantly mix up. Let’s settle this once and for all.

Souvlaki are small chunks of meat (usually pork or chicken) threaded onto a skewer and grilled over charcoal. They can be eaten on their own on a plate with a squeeze of lemon, or wrapped in a pitta with tomatoes, onion, chips, and tzatziki. Gyros, on the other hand, is made from thin slices of meat stacked onto a huge vertical rotisserie spit, slowly roasting and shaved off as it spins. It goes into a pitta in exactly the same way. In short: souvlaki is the skewer, gyros is the spinning spit.

For locals, this is the national fast food — and it costs just a few euros. Vegetarians needn’t despair either: plenty of places now offer gyros made with mushrooms or halloumi, and in any decent-sized town you’ll find falafel in pitta that works just as well.

Once you head inland from the coast into the mountains, a different league awaits. Tavernas up there serve paidakia (chargrilled lamb chops) and kleftiko — lamb slow-roasted in parchment paper. The name kleftiko comes from the Greek word for bandits, who supposedly used to cook stolen meat in underground pits so the smoke wouldn’t give them away. For meat lovers, these are the local legends.

Cheeses You Have to Try

Greeks consume more cheese per person than anyone else in Europe, and honestly, we completely understand why. The lion’s share goes to feta — a salty, crumbly cheese made from sheep’s (and sometimes goat’s) milk with protected designation of origin status. Under EU rules, only cheese made in mainland Greece and on the island of Lesbos can legally be called feta.

But feta is far from the only dairy miracle the country has to offer. Graviera is a hard cheese with a sweet, nutty flavour that pairs beautifully with wine. Manouri is a soft, creamy whey cheese that finds its way into both sweet and savoury pastries.

And then there’s our personal favourite: saganaki. This isn’t actually a type of cheese — it’s a cooking method. A thick slab of hard cheese is dusted in flour and fried in a very hot pan until it has a crisp, golden crust and a molten centre, then served piping hot with a generous squeeze of lemon. As a simple vegetarian starter, it’s hard to beat.

Gifts from the Sea: More Than Just Fish on a Plate

Octopus drying on a line outside a taverna like laundry is one of the most iconic images of the Greek coast. The sun draws out the moisture and intensifies the flavour before they head to the grill. Seafood is a huge deal here, for locals and visitors alike, and it’s something many people simply can’t leave the coast without trying.

Among the most popular seafood dishes: kalamarakia (fried squid rings with lemon), grilled sardines known as sardeles, and garides saganaki — prawns braised in a thick tomato sauce with feta and a splash of ouzo. For whole fish, Greeks love tsipoura (sea bream) and lavraki (sea bass).

⚠️ If you’re ordering seafood, be very careful about pricing. Fresh catches (often listed as “catch of the day”) are sold by weight, not by portion. Before you order any fish, ask to see it, have it weighed, and get the final price confirmed upfront. Otherwise the bill can come as a very nasty shock.

Regional Specialities: Every Island Tastes Different

Greek cuisine is anything but uniform. Every region has its own traditions, local ingredients, and historical influences, so even if you travelled the whole country, you’d be eating something slightly different at every stop. Here’s a quick overview.

For vegetarians, this table is something of a treasure trove. Cretan dakos, Santorini’s fava and tomatokeftedes rank among the finest things Greek cuisine has to offer — and not a scrap of meat in sight.

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The Sweet Finish

Greek desserts are rich, sticky, and ferociously sweet — honey, nuts, and paper-thin filo pastry play the starring roles in almost all of them. And we’re completely hooked.

The ultimate classic is baklava — layers of pastry with chopped walnuts, drenched in sweet syrup. Going one step further is galaktoboureko, filo pastry filled with a rich semolina custard, also soaked in syrup after baking. And fans of fried food must try loukoumades — small Greek doughnuts fried until golden, drizzled with hot honey, and dusted with cinnamon.

After something lighter? Plain Greek yoghurt with honey and walnuts works brilliantly as a dessert, and in many tavernas they’ll bring it out as a complimentary treat at the end of your meal.

What to Drink: From Frappé to Retsina

Greeks are a nation of coffee lovers, though their coffee culture has its own distinct character. In summer, two national drinks dominate. The first is frappé — instant coffee shaken with water into a thick foam and served over ice, invented by accident at the Thessaloniki trade fair in the 1950s. The more modern and now wildly popular alternative is freddo espresso: a shot of espresso rapidly chilled and frothed with ice.

Traditional Greek coffee is brewed directly in a small copper pot called a briki, grounds and sugar included. There’s one golden rule: never stir the coffee in the cup, or you’ll disturb the sediment and end up with a mouthful of mud. ☺️

Come evening, it’s time for something stronger. Ouzo is an anise-flavoured spirit that must always be served with ice or cold water — when you add the water, it turns a milky white in a satisfying chemical reaction. A more traditional and potent alternative is tsipouro, known as raki on Crete. Greek wine is also enjoying a real renaissance, so forget cheap carton wine and seek out crisp, mineral Assyrtiko from Santorini or full-bodied red Agiorgitiko from the Peloponnese. A special case is retsina — white wine flavoured with pine resin, which you’ll either love or hate. And beer? You’ll most often find light lagers such as Mythos, Fix, or Alfa, which in the summer heat essentially do the job of water.

How Much Does Food Cost in Greece?

The good news is that eating well in Greece is still very affordable if you steer clear of the most tourist-heavy spots. Prices vary significantly by island — on Mykonos or Santorini, expect to pay roughly double compared to the mainland — but here’s a general sense of what to budget.

A gyros or souvlaki pitta — the classic grab-and-go street food — costs around €3 to €5 and is genuinely filling enough for a full lunch. An iced frappé or freddo espresso at a café runs about €3 to €4, while a Greek salad or a plate of mezedes at a taverna comes to roughly €6 to €9.

For a proper sit-down dinner at a family taverna — a few shared starters, a main course, and a carafe of house wine — budget around €15 to €25 per person. For that price, you’ll eat royally and probably leave feeling you’ve overdone it. Vegetarians often spend less, since vegetable starters and pulses tend to be the cheapest items on the menu.

How Not to Get Stung: Surviving the Tourist Jungle

Greece is a phenomenal place to eat, but in the most heavily visited spots — Athens, Mykonos, Santorini — it’s surprisingly easy to fall into tourist traps. A bit of common sense and a few simple rules will keep you out of trouble.

• A tout outside is a bad sign. If someone is standing in the doorway with a menu, actively pulling people in off the street, walk on. A good taverna doesn’t need one.
• A menu without prices means run. If they hand you a menu with no prices, or tell you they’ll “let you know the price”, get up and leave. It’s an age-old trick that ends with a €200 bill for two portions of calamari.
• Eat where the locals eat. Look for places tucked away down side streets. If there’s a large Greek family at the next table arguing loudly over the food, you’re in exactly the right place.
• Order gradually. Don’t let them bring everything at once. Greeks have starters, eat them, sip their wine, and only then order the next round. Waiters are used to this pace — don’t feel rushed.

A Mini Greek Food Glossary

Knowing a handful of basic phrases will go a long way in any taverna. Locals genuinely appreciate the effort and you’ll often find the welcome becomes noticeably warmer.

• Kalimera – Good morning / good day
• Kalispera – Good evening
• Efcharistó – Thank you
• Parakaló – Please (also “you’re welcome”)
• To logariasmó, parakaló – The bill, please
• Nero – Water
• Krasi – Wine (lefko = white, kokkino = red)
• Yamas! – Cheers!

Where to Eat and Where to Stay

The best rule for finding a great taverna is to wander away from the main tourist drags and watch where the locals congregate. In Athens, neighbourhoods like Psyri and Koukaki are worth seeking out; on the islands, head to inland villages where the food tends to be better and considerably cheaper than on the beach.

💡 Accommodation and experiences tip: We usually book accommodation through Booking.com, which tends to offer the most flexible cancellation policies. And if you want to truly get under the skin of Greek cuisine, a food tour or cooking class with locals is well worth it — you can find and compare the best options on GetYourGuide.

Accommodation in Athens starts from around €60 per night; on the islands, prices climb higher in peak season. Wherever you’re headed, book early — the best-value spots with a great price-to-quality ratio go fast.

Further Reading

Before you head off to eat your way around Greece, check out our other articles on the country:

• Where to Go in Greece: Islands, Mainland & Tips
• Crete Holiday: 34 Things to See and Do
• Athens: 21 Things to See and Do
• Best Beaches in Greece: TOP 20 + Practical Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

Close your eyes and picture the perfect holiday — chances are you’re imagining turquoise water and an endless stretch of white sand or pebbles baking in the sun. You’re definitely not alone. The best beaches in Greece are searched for hundreds of thousands of times every month, and it’s no wonder. Greece has literally thousands of them and consistently ranks second in the world for Blue Flag awards, currently holding around 620.

Finding your dream cove, though, isn’t as simple as jabbing a finger at a map. Some of the most famous beaches are now groaning under the weight of crowds, others have been closed by nature itself, and still others have been quietly hijacked by overpriced beach clubs where two sunbeds cost more than your flight.

That’s why this honest guide exists. I’ll walk you through 20 of the most beautiful Greek beaches, sorted by what you actually want from your holiday — alongside the practical rules for 2026 (sunbeds, the closed Navagio, the new beach law) and a handy summary table at the end. Let’s dive in. ☺️

TL;DR

• Postcard-perfect iconic beaches: Elafonissi (pink sand), Balos (lagoon), Myrtos, and Sarakiniko. Stunning, but often packed — arrive early to make the most of them.
• Watch out for Navagio (Shipwreck Beach) on Zakynthos: it’s still closed for 2026 due to ongoing rockfalls. You can’t set foot on the sand or swim near the wreck — views from a boat or the clifftop lookout are your only options.
• Families with children will love the shallow, calm waters of Agios Georgios (Naxos), Tigaki (Kos), and Golden Beach (Thassos).
• Party from afternoon till dawn at Super Paradise (Mykonos), Paradise Beach (Kos), and Kavos (Corfu).
• Escaping the crowds is easy at Voidokilia, Simos, Vai with its palm grove, or the wild sands of Egremni.
• New beach law: at least 70% of every beach must remain free of sunbeds and umbrellas. You can now lay your own towel down almost anywhere.
• Water shoes are a must on the Ionian Islands — the pebbles and sea urchins are no joke.

Essential Greek Beach Rules for 2026

Before you head out to catch some sun, it’s worth knowing how things work right now — Greek beach culture has changed considerably in recent years, and a few things have shifted quite dramatically.

The biggest talking point is sunbeds and umbrellas — and the wildly varying prices. On quieter islands like Thassos or on the mainland, a set of two sunbeds and an umbrella will cost you around 5 to 15 euros per day. At the luxury beach clubs of Mykonos, that same setup can set you back an eye-watering 100 euros or more. On many smaller islands like Kos or Naxos, the friendly “free sunbed with a purchase” rule still applies — order a frappé and something to eat at the nearby taverna and the spot is yours for the day.

The golden rule: always ask the price upfront. Many beach bars don’t display a price list anywhere, and your eyes will water when the bill arrives.

The Towel Movement and the New Law

If you’d rather not pay anything and prefer to spread your own towel, the law is now firmly on your side. Under Greek legislation, at least 70% of every beach must remain freely accessible to the public (and in Natura 2000 protected zones, that rises to 85%). For years, bar operators ignored this and staked out the sand all the way down to the waterline — but in the summer of 2023, a huge wave of public anger erupted, known as the “Towel Movement” (Κίνημα της Πετσέτας). Locals protested against illegal sunbed sprawl, the government cracked down hard, deploying drones and handing out fines of between 2,000 and 60,000 euros. People can now report violations directly from the beach via the official MyCoast app, which received more than eleven and a half thousand complaints in a single summer. The result? You can now plant your own umbrella almost anywhere.

Sea Urchins, Pebbles, and Safety

Lifeguards and warning flags are only found on large, organised beaches, where a red flag means swimming is prohibited. At wild coves, you’re on your own — so keep two things in mind.

The Ionian Islands (Kefalonia, Lefkada, Zakynthos) are famous for their extraordinary blue water, which they owe to white limestone pebbles. They look spectacular, but walking on them is genuinely painful, so water shoes are an absolute necessity here. The second hazard is sea urchins, which tend to cluster on rocks and stones in clear water. On a purely sandy beach you won’t encounter them, but the moment you’re picking your way into the sea over rocks, watch your step carefully.

The good news is that Greek waters rank among the cleanest in Europe. The country has 623 Blue Flag beaches for 2025, a designation that covers water quality, safety, and facilities all in one. If you’re travelling with someone with limited mobility, check out the Seatrac accessible ramps, which are now installed at nearly 150 Greek beaches and allow independent sea entry.

Iconic Beaches You Know from Postcards

These are the beaches you’ve seen in travel brochures and all over Instagram. They’re breathtaking — but their fame comes at a price, so going in with a strategy makes all the difference.

Navagio (Shipwreck Beach), Zakynthos

A cove sheltering the rusting hull of the smuggler’s ship Panagiotis, surrounded by sheer white limestone cliffs — this is probably the most photographed spot in all of Greece. It’s also a genuine headache at the moment.

⚠️ Current status for 2026: the beach is closed to visitors. Following a series of dangerous rockfalls and seismic activity, authorities extended the strict access ban after an inspection in March 2026. You cannot set foot on the sand or swim near the wreck — indefinitely. Don’t be taken in by touts promising a picnic right next to the ship.

So what can you do? You can either book a boat trip (departing from Porto Vromi, Alykes, or Skinari) that takes you into the cove to photograph it from the deck. Or head to the clifftop viewing platform high above the beach, which offers an equally jaw-dropping perspective. Expect queues and occasional restricted access, especially in strong winds. For more tips on making the most of the island, check out our guide to Zakynthos.

💡 Tip: You can browse and book Navagio boat trips in advance on GetYourGuide — it saves you hunting for tickets on the day and lets you pick the best-reviewed boat.

Elafonissi, Crete

A lagoon on the south-western tip of Crete, famous for its blush-pink sand — the colour comes from crushed shells of tiny sea creatures. The water is incredibly shallow and warm, so you can simply wade from the mainland across to the small islet alongside, and kids have a playground that looks straight out of a fairy tale.

It sounds like paradise, but in July and August Elafonissi becomes an absolute ant colony, with hundreds of cars and dozens of coaches arriving daily — up to 5,000 people on a single day. To truly enjoy it, you need to be strategic. Arrive before 10am, or alternatively after 5pm, once the organised tour groups have left. And remember that the entire lagoon is a nature reserve, so you can’t take the pink sand home as a souvenir. More tips in our guide to Crete.

Balos, Crete

Another Cretan lagoon, this time in the north-west — raw, wild beauty where dozens of shades of blue and green collide. Getting here is half the adventure.

The more relaxed option is a full-day boat trip from Kissamos harbour (around 30–40 euros), which also stops at the pirate islet of Imeri Gramvousa before dropping you right at the water’s edge. The alternative is driving, but that means eight kilometres of dusty off-road track along the cliff edge — a route most car hire companies explicitly exclude from their insurance. At the end you park and descend (and later, in the blazing heat, climb back up) about twenty minutes along a rocky footpath. The reward is an utterly unbeatable view from above that will stay with you long after you’ve left.

💡 Tip: You can book a full-day boat trip to Balos and Gramvousa from Kissamos well in advance on GetYourGuide — boats fill up fast in high season.

Myrtos, Kefalonia

Dazzling white pebbles set against deep blue water and steep green cliffs — Myrtos has a dramatic, almost cinematic quality that makes it one of the most photographed beaches in the Ionian Islands.

The water drops sharply and the currents can be deceptively strong, so this isn’t the ideal spot for young children. For confident swimmers and photography lovers, though, it’s an absolute must. Don’t forget your water shoes — the pebbles are unforgiving. Kefalonia has plenty of quieter coves too; see our guide to Kefalonia for more.

Porto Katsiki, Lefkada

The name translates as “Goat Harbour” — because once upon a time, only goats could get down here. These days a road leads to the clifftop and you descend to the beach via around a hundred steep steps bolted into the rock face. The water, thanks to the limestone bedrock, is a milky, otherworldly turquoise that genuinely takes your breath away.

Worth knowing: in the afternoon the sun hammers mercilessly off the white cliff face, so bring plenty of water and prepare for serious heat. Lefkada has many more beaches of this calibre — explore them in our guide to Lefkada.

Sarakiniko, Milos

Sarakiniko isn’t really a beach in the traditional sense — it’s more like a lunar landscape. Brilliant white volcanic rock has been sculpted by wind and sea into smooth, rounded forms; there’s barely any sand, you lie directly on sun-warmed stone, and you leap into the water from the rocks.

It’s an experience you won’t find anywhere else in Greece — just bear in mind that there is absolutely no shade on those white rocks, and the stone reflects the sun so intensely that you’ll burn in no time. Bring a hat, plenty of sunscreen, and aim to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon. We cover this volcanic island in more detail here.

Family-Friendly Beaches

Travelling with kids? Then dramatic cliffs and deep water aren’t what you’re after. You want fine sand for building castles, a gently shelving entry where toddlers can splash safely, and solid facilities — toilets, tavernas, the works. These beaches were made for little swimmers.

Agios Georgios, Naxos

Naxos is generally considered to have the best sandy beaches of all the Cycladic islands, and Agios Georgios sits right beside the main town of Chora. The water stays shallow for tens of metres from the shore, waves are almost non-existent, and parents can sit at a taverna with their children in full view the whole time.

A huge bonus is that you can walk here straight from town — no car needed at all. If you’re choosing one island for a family holiday, Naxos is a safe bet every time.

Tigaki, Kos

A long, wide strip of pale sand on the north coast of Kos, with excellent facilities and plenty of sunbeds — but also plenty of free space for your own towel. The water is crystal clear, exceptionally shallow, and holds a Blue Flag. Tigaki is calm, well-equipped, and ideal for a holiday with children. Kos is also brilliant for cycling, so you can easily ride here from town. For more island highlights, take a look at our guide to Kos.

Golden Beach (Chrissi Ammoudia), Thassos

Golden Beach lives up to its name. Three kilometres of soft sand backed by lush green mountains, with calm, warm water that’s perfect for the youngest swimmers. Thassos is also one of the most affordable Greek islands, so you won’t be paying a fortune for sunbeds here. If you’re after relaxed family vibes without the crowds or inflated prices, this is your place.

Falassarna, Crete

If Elafonissi feels too overwhelming, Falassarna on the western coast of Crete is an excellent alternative. It’s enormous — made up of several adjoining sandy sections — so even at the height of summer you can find your own quiet corner. The water is beautifully clear and the beach is well-equipped.

The open sea does mean a stronger breeze here on occasion, which wave-lovers will appreciate more than absolute beginners in the water. In return, it rewards you with some of the finest sunsets on the entire island.

Agios Gordios, Corfu

A beautiful bay on Corfu’s west coast, surrounded by ancient olive groves and dramatic rock formations. The sand is a little coarser than elsewhere, but the entry into the water is completely safe and there are some excellent family-run tavernas right on the beach. It’s one of those spots where you can happily spend an entire day without a care in the world. More island tips in our guide to Corfu.

Party Beaches for Dancing Till Dawn

If a beach holiday means DJ sets, cocktails, and dancing in the sand rather than a quiet book and the sound of the waves, Greece has its legends. Just don’t go near these if you’re after peace and quiet. 😅

Lukáš and Lucie recommend

Where to stay in Greece

1 accommodation — hotels and other lodging options

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Super Paradise, Mykonos

Ground zero for Greek beach hedonism. By day it’s all luxury sunbeds and expensive cocktails; come afternoon the music cranks up and the whole cove transforms into an enormous open-air club packed with the global jet set.

It is expensive, exclusive, and very, very loud — sunbeds at premium clubs like Scorpios need to be reserved weeks in advance. But if you want to dance the night away and feel like a celebrity for a day, you’re in exactly the right place. We cover the most famous party island in Greece in our guide to Mykonos.

Paradise Beach, Kos

A smaller and considerably more affordable cousin of the Mykonos legend. Also known as “Bubble Beach” because volcanic activity sends tiny streams of bubbles rising up from the seabed. It’s a brilliant swim during the day, and by afternoon a lively atmosphere takes hold with music and water sports. The perfect compromise when you want fun but aren’t prepared to pay Mykonos prices.

Kavos, Corfu

The southern tip of Corfu has been claimed almost entirely by young British holidaymakers. The beach itself isn’t the prettiest on the island, but if you’re after cheap drinks, loud music, foam parties, and a raucous nightlife scene, Kavos delivers on every count. It’s a purpose-built party zone and one of the most intense in Europe — families and anyone seeking quiet should definitely look elsewhere.

Wild and Quiet Beaches Away from the Crowds

For those who want nothing but wind and waves, and don’t mind trading beach-bar comforts for space and silence. The reward is solitude, elbow room, and the feeling that you’ve discovered it all yourself.

Kavourotrypes (Orange Beach), Halkidiki

A cluster of small coves with white sand and turquoise water, framed by fragrant pine forests and smooth white rocks. This isn’t one continuous beach — it’s a whole chain of hidden coves along the Sithonia peninsula in Halkidiki.

It does get busy in peak season, but in June or September it turns into absolute paradise. Halkidiki also holds more Blue Flags than any other region in Greece, so water quality is never in doubt.

Egremni, Lefkada

⚠️ Access remains difficult. The famous staircase leading down to this stunning beach was largely destroyed by a powerful earthquake in 2015. It has been partially rebuilt, but the descent — and especially the climb back up — in summer heat is an extremely demanding undertaking that I wouldn’t recommend to anyone who isn’t in solid physical shape.

The best and safest way to experience Egremni is to arrive by boat from Nidri or Vassiliki. From the water, that endless wall of white cliff plunging into turquoise sea looks even more extraordinary than from above.

Vai, Crete

At the far eastern tip of Crete you’ll find something genuinely unique: the largest natural palm grove in Europe. With thousands of date palms swaying behind the shoreline, Vai feels more like the Caribbean than the Mediterranean — and it’s a sight you simply don’t expect.

It does function as an organised beach with full facilities, but venture a little further from the main entrance and you’ll find the peace and quiet you came for. It’s a long drive to the other end of the island, but absolutely worth the effort.

Simos, Elafonisos

A bit of a hidden gem, this one. Elafonisos is a small island just off the southern tip of the Peloponnese (not to be confused with Elafonissi in Crete), and you reach it via a short ferry crossing from the port of Pounta — barely ten minutes on the water.

Simos is a spectacular double bay of fine white sand and dunes, nicknamed the “Caribbean of Europe”. It’s a remote spot favoured by Greeks themselves, so if you want to go where the locals go, this is it.

For Nature Lovers: Turtles and a Perfect Crescent

To finish, two beaches where the main attraction isn’t a beach bar or sunbeds, but nature itself. One is home to endangered sea turtles; the other has a shape so perfect it barely seems real.

Gerakas, Zakynthos

Zakynthos is about far more than a closed shipwreck. In the south of the island lies Gerakas, a key nesting site for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta), which falls within the National Marine Park and operates under strict rules.

You can’t plant your own umbrella in the sand (to protect the nests), no dogs are allowed, motorised water sports are banned, and crucially the beach closes strictly at sunset. The water is beautifully clear, warm and shallow, and with a snorkel you may well spot a fully grown loggerhead just metres from the shore. Just remember the golden rule: don’t touch, don’t chase — observe quietly from a respectful distance. Full park rules are on the official website.

Voidokilia, Peloponnese

An almost flawless semicircle in the shape of the Greek letter omega (Ω), rimmed by a band of sand dunes. Voidokilia on the Peloponnese is so perfectly symmetrical it looks almost artificial, and it’s one of the most photogenic beaches in the whole of Greece.

The water is shallow and calm, and above the beach sits the Cave of Nestor alongside a Frankish castle, while behind it a lagoon teems with birdlife. This is a wild, protected beach with no cafés or sunbeds, so bring your own shade, water, and snacks. For all its simplicity, it’s one of the most unforgettable spots in Greece.

The Full List: TOP 20 Greek Beaches at a Glance

Here’s a quick overview of all twenty beaches in one place — whether you’re choosing by island, beach type, or whether you’re travelling with children or in search of a party.

Where to Stay Near the Best Greek Beaches

💡 Accommodation tip: We always search for places to stay on Booking.com, which tends to have the best cancellation policies — handy if weather or beach access conditions change. For tours, boat trips, and activities, it’s worth comparing and booking through GetYourGuide.

Where you base yourself depends hugely on which beaches you want to explore. On Crete, choose your base according to the beaches on your list. For Elafonissi and Balos, Chania in the west is ideal; for Vai and the eastern beaches, Sitia or Agios Nikolaos make more sense. Apartment prices start around 50–70 euros per night, and in high season booking a few months ahead is wise.

For family beaches, Naxos or Kos are reliable choices — both have plenty of self-catering apartments within walking distance of the sea. If you’re heading to Mykonos for the party scene, bear in mind it’s the most expensive island in Greece and a decent place to stay in season will start at around 150 euros a night. Kos offers a similar vibe at a fraction of the cost.

For quieter beaches like Voidokilia or Simos, staying in the surrounding villages gives you an authentic atmosphere and local prices. Wherever you’re headed, it’s worth comparing options on Booking.com and booking early — the best value options go first.

Whether you end up at a buzzing beach bar in the Cyclades or a hidden cove in the Ionian Islands, don’t forget what matters most: respect the local rules, look after the nature around you, and soak up every bit of that incredible laid-back feeling the Greek coast does better than anywhere else. Have a wonderful trip! ☺️

Read More

Before you go, check out our other articles on Greece to get every last detail of your holiday sorted:

• Where to go in Greece: islands, mainland, and travel tips
• Crete holiday guide: 34 things to see and do
• Zakynthos holiday guide: 20 things to see and do
• What to pack for a holiday in Greece

Frequently Asked Questions

If you think Kos is nothing more than a factory of giant all-inclusive resorts and lazy days by the pool, let me set the record straight right away. 😊 This sun-drenched corner of the Dodecanese is genuinely unique — it blends deep ancient history with surprisingly active, adventurous holidays in a way that few Greek islands manage. I’ve put together 15 things to do in Kos, Greece that cover something for every type of traveller, from ancient ruins and thermal springs to a day trip on a different continent. The island is also the birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, so fascinating historical sights are never in short supply. I’ll tell you where to stay for the best base, why you should hire a bike on day one, and what to watch out for if you decide to hop across to neighbouring Turkey.

TL;DR

• Greece’s most cycle-friendly island: The northern part of Kos is beautifully flat and criss-crossed by over 200 kilometres of cycle paths — hire a bike on your first day.
• Hippocrates’ legacy: Don’t miss the ancient healing centre of the Asklepion or the famous plane tree in the heart of Kos Town.
• Natural spa: At Bros Therma beach you can soak in hot sulphurous springs that bubble up directly into the sea — completely free of charge.
• Watch out for crowds: The mountain village of Zia is famous for its stunning sunsets but suffers from severe overtourism in high season — go early in the morning instead.
• Day trip to Turkey: From Kos you can see the Turkish town of Bodrum on the horizon — ferries run daily, but you’ll need a valid passport.
• Great for families: Long sandy beaches with a very gradual entry into the sea make Kos an ideal choice for a holiday with young children.

When to Visit Kos

Thanks to its southerly position, Kos boasts an incredible three hundred sunny days a year and ranks among the sunniest spots in the entire Aegean. If swimming and soaking up the sun on the beach is your main goal, the ideal window is June through to mid-September. Temperatures regularly climb above 30 °C during the summer months and the sea is as warm as a bathtub — perfect for families with young children. Bear in mind, though, that this is also when the island is at its busiest and accommodation prices are at their peak.

Active travellers who want to explore the island by bike and take in the ancient sights will find May, June and especially late September into October a better fit. October in particular is something of a hidden gem across the Dodecanese — the tourist crowds thin out dramatically, hotel prices drop sharply, yet the sea retains a very pleasant temperature after the long hot summer. Up in northern Greece the weather can already be turning by then, but down here you can still sunbathe without a second thought.

From mid-May to mid-September, the Aegean is also swept by the dry northerly wind known as the meltemi. On Kos it tends to be a little gentler than on the neighbouring Cyclades, but it can still kick up waves along the northern coast — which windsurfers and kitesurfers absolutely love. On the eastern shores the same wind brings a very welcome cooling breeze during the scorching August heat, so even when the sun is blazing you won’t feel like you’re being slowly baked alive.

Where to Stay in Kos

💡 Travel tip: We always search for accommodation on Booking.com, which tends to have the best cancellation policies. For tickets, tours and activities, it’s worth comparing and booking through GetYourGuide.

Although Kos is a fairly compact island — you can drive from one end to the other in just over an hour — choosing the right base will shape the whole character of your holiday. If long, fine sandy beaches with shallow water are your priority, head to the northern coast and the resorts of Tigaki or Marmari. This area is ideal for families with children and for anyone who wants to spend their evenings strolling along the shore. A great pick in Tigaki is the luxurious five-star Astir Odysseus Kos Resort & Spa, offering huge pools and top-class wellness facilities, while in Marmari the highly rated Caravia Beach hotel is a perennial family favourite.

The eastern coast around Kos Town, along with the neighbouring resorts of Lambi and Psalidi, is a great choice for travellers who want historical sights and a lively nightlife scene on their doorstep. You’ll find decent mid-range hotels here for around 60 to 120 euros per night, and thanks to the dense network of cycle paths you can reach the town centre in just a few minutes on a bike. The western resort of Mastichari, meanwhile, has a quieter, more village-like feel and is home to the impressive Neptune Luxury Resort, renowned for its exceptional gastronomic programme showcasing local cheeses and sweets.

If lively entertainment and proximity to the airport appeal to you, look for accommodation in Kardamena on the southern coast, where the popular Grand Blue Beach Hotel stands out. For absolute peace and romantic sunsets, choose the more remote Kefalos peninsula in the southwest — home to the prestigious Ikos Aria. You can browse and book all of these options easily on Booking.com, where you’ll also find detailed reviews from previous guests.

Lukáš and Lucie recommend

Where to Stay in Kos

6 accommodations — hotels, wellness hotels and other accommodation options

⭐ TOP CHOICE ⭐ Luxury

Astir Odysseus Kos Resort & Spa

Luxury five-star resort in Tigaki on the northern coast, offering huge pools and premium wellness facilities. Ideal for families with children thanks to long sandy beaches with shallow water.

★★★★★ Check prices

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Caravia Beach

Excellently rated family hotel in Marmari on the northern coast. One of the most popular family classics in the area with beautiful sandy beaches.

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Neptune Luxury Resort

Beautiful resort in the western resort of Mastichari with a quieter village atmosphere. Renowned for its fantastic gastronomic program full of local cheeses and sweets.

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Grand Blue Beach Hotel

Popular hotel in Kardamena in the south of the island. Ideal for those looking for vibrant entertainment and proximity to the airport.

★★★★ Check prices

Check availability ⭐ Luxury

Ikos Aria

Prestigious luxury resort on the more secluded Kefalos peninsula in the southwest of the island. Perfect for absolute peace and romantic sunsets.

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View all accommodation in Kos

Explore all available accommodation options in Kos and find the best one according to your preferences and budget.

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15 Best Things to See and Do in Kos

Let’s dive into the very best that this Greek island has to offer. I’ve put together a mix of ancient history, stunning beaches and brilliant day trips — there’s genuinely something here for every kind of traveller.

1. Kos Town and the Ancient Agora

The island’s main town is like one big, compact history textbook you can browse through in a leisurely afternoon. All the main sights are within a few minutes’ walk of each other, making it very easy to explore on foot. Right in the centre spreads the vast ancient agora, which once served as the commercial and social heart of the city. Today you can wander freely among the remains of Doric columns and sanctuaries that were unexpectedly uncovered by a powerful earthquake in 1933 — admission is completely free.

Just a short stroll away you’ll find the fascinating Casa Romana, a reconstructed Roman villa with an extraordinary thirty-six rooms and three inner atriums. The preserved mosaic floors and marble fountains give you a vivid sense of the luxury enjoyed here two thousand years ago. As you wander through the town you’ll also notice the Defterdar Mosque on Eleftherias Square — its minaret collapsed in another earthquake in 2017 and it’s still awaiting full restoration. If history really grips you, the local archaeological museum is well worth a look too.

2. The Hippocrates Plane Tree

Right in the town centre, not far from the harbour, stands a tree that draws virtually every visitor to the island. The famous Hippocrates Plane Tree is said, according to ancient legend, to be the very spot where the father of modern medicine taught his students in the shade of its spreading canopy. If that were true, this majestic tree would have to be over two and a half thousand years old — which, botanically speaking, simply isn’t possible.

The current trunk is around five hundred years old, though locals proudly claim it’s a direct descendant of the original. Its girth measures twelve metres, and the tree is now so ancient that it needs an elaborate frame of metal and wooden supports on all sides just to stay upright. Visiting is entirely free, and right beside it you’ll find an old Ottoman fountain and the Loggia Mosque, both of which add a wonderfully layered historical atmosphere to the spot — even if both also bear the scars of recent earthquakes.

3. Neratzia Castle

Strolling along the harbour in Kos Town, your eye will inevitably be drawn to the massive Neratzia fortress. This imposing structure was built in the fourteenth century by the Knights of St John to defend the island against raids from the nearby Ottoman Empire. The castle was sadly badly damaged in the devastating 2017 earthquake and was completely closed to visitors for eight years on safety grounds. The good news is that following an expensive restoration costing more than two and a half million euros in European funding — which reinforced the damaged walls — the castle finally reopened to the public in 2025.

Walk the newly secured battlements for breathtaking views over the harbour and its moored boats, then treat yourself to an iced coffee in town afterwards. Admission is around 5 euros and the visit takes roughly an hour. Do bear in mind that some peripheral areas may still be fenced off, and it’s worth arriving in the morning as the castle typically closes in the mid-afternoon.

4. The Asklepion: Ancient Hospital

About three and a half kilometres northwest of the town centre, set into a gentle hillside, lies the single most important ancient site on the entire island. The Asklepion functioned in antiquity as a vast healing centre and sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine. According to historians, this is where Hippocratic medical practices were applied, and patients travelled here from across the ancient world in search of a cure.

The complex is laid out across several terraces, and the higher you climb, the more the view opens up towards the Turkish coast — which looks close enough to touch from up here. Adult admission is around 8 euros, but check the current price on the official hhticket.gr website as it can change. EU citizens under 25 get in free. From Kos Town you can catch local bus number 3, or take the tourist train, but either way go early in the morning to beat the heat and the crowds.

5. Explore Kos by Bike

If there’s one thing that sets Kos apart from most other Greek islands — which tend to be mountainous and tricky to navigate by bike — it’s the island’s serious love affair with cycling. In 2022, Kos was awarded the prestigious Bike Friendly Destination certification, and it fully deserves the title. The northern and eastern coasts are almost perfectly flat and threaded with over 200 kilometres of well-maintained cycle paths, where you’ll encounter families with toddlers and active retirees alike.

Hire shops are on every corner, and a basic city bike will set you back just 3 to 5 euros a day. If you fancy heading further into the interior, e-bikes are available from around 15 euros a day. The most beautiful and safest route runs directly from Faros beach along the coast through Kos Town and on to the resort of Psalidi — it takes about an hour at a very relaxed pace, and you can stop at a café or take a dip in the sea whenever the mood takes you. Try friendly Nikos Bikes in Tigaki, where the staff are happy to help you plan your route.

6. Bros Therma Hot Springs

Fancy a bit of natural spa therapy? Then make the trip out to the eastern coast, about twelve kilometres from Kos Town. At Bros Therma beach, natural sulphurous springs at 42–50 °C bubble straight out of the rock and into the sea. Locals have used the stones to create a small natural pool roughly twenty-five square metres in size, where the hot mineral water mixes with the cooler Aegean waves — the result is an absolutely blissful place to relax.

Entry to the hot springs is completely free and open year-round. Do bring water shoes, though — the beach is covered in dark volcanic pebbles and the path to the springs is quite rocky. Also avoid wearing light-coloured swimwear or silver jewellery, as the high sulphur and mineral content in the water can permanently stain them yellow. Local buses run from Kos Town and the journey takes around twenty-five minutes, after which you’ll have a roughly fifteen-minute walk downhill to the water.

7. Sunsets in the Mountain Village of Zia

Perched high on the slopes of Mount Dikeos, the pretty village of Zia is known for its traditional blue-and-white architecture and sweeping views over the northern coast. It has become something of a legend thanks to the most spectacular sunsets on Kos. You’ll find plenty of souvenir shops and tavernas where you can try the local speciality: a refreshing cinnamon lemonade called kanelada.

💡 Tip: Zia suffers badly from overtourism during peak season. Around sunset, dozens of coaches pull in and thousands of people jostle for space on the viewpoints with their phones raised. If you’d rather avoid the chaos, visit early in the morning or late morning, when the village has a wonderfully calm and authentic feel. The natural park on the edge of the village also offers lovely views without the crowds. If you want to have dinner here, try the traditional taverna Oromedon — they do excellent wood-fired vegetarian dishes, a wonderful meat-free moussaka, and fried cheese with jam that’s absolutely worth the trip alone.

8. Kefalos Peninsula and Agios Stefanos

While the north of the island is dotted with large resort complexes, the southwestern Kefalos peninsula — about forty kilometres from Kos Town — still has a noticeably quieter, more rural character. Its coastline is fringed with beautiful coves just begging to be explored. The standout gem is Agios Stefanos beach, which offers something you’d be hard pressed to find anywhere else: swimming right alongside the ruins of a fifth-century early Christian basilica, whose columns rise just a few steps from the water’s edge.

Directly opposite the beach, roughly a hundred and fifty metres offshore, sits the photogenic little islet of Kastri — topped by an iconic white chapel with a blue dome dedicated to St Nicholas. Confident swimmers can easily paddle out to it and ring the bell at the entrance, though always check the current sea conditions before you set off. The water around this part of the island is a little cooler than in the north, but it makes up for it in clarity and transparency.

9. Paradise Beach and Camel Beach

While you’re on the Kefalos peninsula, you absolutely cannot skip the beaches that regularly feature in lists of the most beautiful in all of Greece. The most famous is Paradise Beach, and it lives up to its name completely. Its fine golden sand, turquoise water and wide range of water sports make it a genuine paradise for families with children. It’s often nicknamed “bubble beach” too, because tiny bubbles of volcanic gas constantly seep up from the seabed — a brilliant extra attraction for young swimmers.

If Paradise Beach feels too busy during high season, drive a little further to the more secluded cove of Camel Beach. It gets its name from a huge rock on the horizon that looks remarkably like a sitting camel. The access road is fairly steep and gravelly — worth noting because standard hire car insurance often doesn’t cover unmade roads. Your reward for the slightly more adventurous journey is a great deal more peace and quiet, noticeably cooler and more refreshing water, and fantastic snorkelling conditions along the rocky edges of the bay.

10. The Sandy Beaches of the North

If your ideal holiday day is blissfully simple — morning coffee, beach until sunset — then the northern coast is made for you. The resorts of Tigaki, Marmari and Mastichari all share one defining feature: vast stretches of wonderfully fine, pale sand. Tigaki’s beach alone stretches for ten kilometres, flies the Blue Flag for water quality, and is connected to Kos Town by a convenient flat cycle path. The entry into the sea here is so gradual that you can wade dozens of metres out and still only be knee-deep — perfect for young children.

While Tigaki and neighbouring Marmari — flanked by pretty sand dunes — are fairly tourist-oriented resort towns full of hotel complexes, Mastichari retains the pleasant character of a traditional fishing village. It’s also the departure point for regular ferries over to the neighbouring island of Kalymnos. The entire northern coast is very exposed to the wind, so when the meltemi blows from mid-May through September, windsurfers and kitesurfers flock here from all over Europe. The sky fills with colourful kites on those days, as the conditions are simply ideal — and there are plenty of schools and equipment hire shops along the shore if you fancy giving it a go.

11. Plaka Forest with Peacocks and Alykes Salt Lake

If you need a break from the salty sea and blazing sun, venture inland towards the village of Antimachia near the airport. Here you’ll find Plaka Forest, a pine woodland that acts as the green lung of the island. Entry is free, and the main attraction is the dozens of free-roaming peacocks that are remarkably tame and will eat right out of your hand. There are also freshwater turtles and plenty of shady picnic spots — the only catch is that no buses come here, so you’ll need a car or bike.

Another worthwhile natural stop on the northern part of the island is the Alykes salt lake, just outside Tigaki. In the summer heat it dries out to a glistening salt crust with mountains in the background, but if you visit in spring, autumn or winter you stand a very good chance of spotting flocks of wild flamingos that stop here during their migration. It’s a lovely cycle from Kos Town and makes for a perfect afternoon outing.

12. The Abandoned Castle of Palio Pyli

Love mysteries and abandoned places with a dark history? Then Palio Pyli is bound to captivate you. It’s a ruined medieval settlement hidden high in the island’s interior, hurriedly abandoned by its inhabitants in the nineteenth century during a devastating cholera epidemic. Rising above the crumbling stone houses are the imposing remains of a Byzantine castle and two historic small churches, reached by a roughly three-kilometre woodland trail from the modern village of Pyli. From the top, the panoramic views across the Aegean, the neighbouring islands and the nearby Turkish coast are absolutely breathtaking — which is why it’s also become a popular spot for watching the sunset.

Entry to the whole site is completely free, though travel forums regularly warn about fake monument guardians. These individuals sometimes hang around at the forest entrance and try to persuade unsuspecting tourists to make voluntary contributions towards a non-existent restoration fund. Don’t be taken in — feel free to walk straight past them with a clear conscience. The climb up is a bit demanding, so wear sturdy footwear, but you’ll be rewarded at the top by a charming little café with extraordinary views.

13. The Windmill in Antimachia

Most of us picture iconic white windmills the moment we think of Greek islands, and Kos happily delivers. In the village of Antimachia, right in the middle of the island not far from the international airport, you’ll find the only fully functioning windmill on the whole island. It’s over two hundred and fifty years old and, following careful restoration, now operates as a fascinating small museum. For an entrance fee of around 3 to 5 euros, you can step inside the mill and have the owners walk you through exactly how the ancient grain-milling mechanism works.

The visit also includes the adjacent traditional house, furnished with original period furniture, which shows precisely how a typical island miller’s family would have lived a hundred years ago. It’s a quick stop, but a surprisingly interesting and wonderfully photogenic one. While you’re in Antimachia, it’s also well worth swinging by the nearby thirteenth-century Crusader fortress of Kastell, inside whose walls two charming little chapels are tucked away.

14. Day Trip to the Volcanic Island of Nisyros

Being this close to an active sleeping volcano and not visiting it would be a real missed opportunity. The neighbouring island of Nisyros is a fascinating place, with volcanic activity still rumbling away beneath its surface. You can book a full-day organised tour for around 40 euros, easily arranged through platforms like GetYourGuide or directly through a local rep. The price typically includes a bus transfer from the port to the Stefanos crater, where you’ll walk across a yellow sulphurous crust and feel the heat radiating up from below.

If you prefer to explore independently, it’s perfectly straightforward and cheaper. Regular ferries run from Kardamena port, with a return ticket costing around 16 euros and the crossing taking about forty-five minutes. On the island itself you’ll pay 3 euros as an island fee and 5 euros for access to the crater. Don’t miss the picturesque harbour town of Mandraki with its Panagia Spiliani monastery, where you can try the wonderful local almond drink called soumada.

15. A Day Trip to Bodrum, Turkey

From the beaches in northern Kos, the Turkish mainland is so sharp and clear on the horizon that it almost feels within swimming distance — just seven nautical miles separate the two countries. It would be a real shame not to make the most of it and hop over for a day on an entirely different continent. Boats depart every morning from Kos Town to the Turkish resort of Bodrum, and the crossing takes just 30 to 60 minutes depending on the vessel. Return tickets are available from various operators for between 15 and 25 euros.

In Bodrum you’ll discover bustling bazaars where everything is up for negotiation — from spices to leather goods — as well as the imposing Castle of St Peter and the remains of the ancient Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. The latter is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: you’ve probably read about it at school, but nothing quite prepares you for seeing it in person. ⚠️ Important note: Turkey is not a member of the EU or the Schengen Area. This means that for this trip you must carry a valid passport — a UK driving licence or any other ID card will not be accepted. Passport and customs checks at the port before departure can take a while and queues do form, so arrive with plenty of time to spare.

Where to Eat in Kos

The food scene on Kos is far better than you might expect. This isn’t just about gyros and Greek salad: the island has its own PDO-protected cheeses, fried pastry parcels drizzled with honey, and a cinnamon lemonade you simply won’t find anywhere else. Kos has exceptionally fertile soil and a long tradition of local produce, which forms the backbone of most island specialities. If you love discovering new flavours, seek out the traditional family-run tavernas that cook from recipes passed down through the generations — there are great options for meat lovers and vegetarians alike.

The absolute must-try is the local cheese called krasotiri (also known as posa). This soft goat’s or sheep’s milk cheese carries a protected designation of origin and is unique in that it ripens in red grape pomace, giving it a distinctive reddish rind and a subtly spicy, wine-tinged flavour. Another vegetarian treat is katimeria — delicious fried pastry parcels stuffed with fresh cheese, then generously drizzled with honey and dusted with cinnamon. On hot summer days you’ll be very grateful for a glass of kanelada, the traditional cinnamon lemonade especially associated with the mountain village of Zia, or the popular local almond drink known as soumada.

For the best restaurants, the taverna Oromedon in Zia is well worth booking in advance. They serve outstanding mountain cuisine, a wonderful meat-free wood-fired moussaka, and a magnificent fried cheese with homemade jam. Back in Kos Town, the elegant restaurant Petrino — set in a beautiful garden courtyard — is a must for its excellent tasting boards loaded with local cheeses. Not far from the centre, the popular taverna Elia serves a near-perfect saganaki alongside a whole range of traditional vegetable meze dishes.

Meat eaters are also well catered for. A typical local speciality is pitaridia — homemade pasta similar to wide noodles, slow-cooked in a rich meat broth. Traditionally served with a generous portion of minced meat and pork fat, it’s a wonderfully hearty dish that locals particularly love on cooler evenings.

Where to Go Next from Kos

If you’re weighing up whether Kos is the right destination for your holiday, or you’d like to combine it with other places in Greece, do have a look at our other guides. We’ve put together a comprehensive overview of where to go on holiday in Greece, comparing different destinations. History lovers will find plenty to interest them on the neighbouring island of Rhodes, while for the ultimate in romance our article on a holiday in Santorini is essential reading. And if your flights are already booked, don’t forget to check our practical packing list of what to bring on a Greek island holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve put together answers to the most common questions about a holiday on Kos, so you can head off with everything sorted. Hopefully these practical tips will make planning a little easier. 😉

Where to go on holiday in Greece? There are so many beautiful destinations that you could go to Greece all your life and never explore every corner of it. Greece is a popular tourist destination thanks to its crystal clear beaches, historical monuments and great food. Let’s take a look at the most beautiful islands, places and cities in Greece to spend your summer holidays.

Holidays Greece: where to look for the best tours

After you choose your destination, think about whether you want to fly to Greece on your own or with a tour operator. If you fly on your own, be sure to check out our article, on how to get cheap flights.

It is best to search for tours on Invia, because there you can find a selection of tours from 150 Czech travel agencies that are verified by this portal and you can be sure that they are trustworthy. Thanks to this portal you can easily compare the prices of tours between different travel agencies.

Where to buy tours to Greece?

If you don’t want to stress, it is advisable to take advantage of the offer called. First Minute. These are discounts on tours if you buy them far enough in advance (in the winter months).

Those of you who don’t mind that a lot of the best tours may be sold out but want the best price can wait for Last Minute Discounts, that is, last minute discounts. Unfortunately, often the best destinations and hotels are already sold out, and sometimes you can catch a deal on an expensive hotel for a really great price.

Where to go on holiday in Greece: How to choose the ideal destination

Are you worried about where to go on holiday in Greece ? First, decide whether you want to go to the mainland or to the Greek islands in the Aegean or Ionian Sea. If you’re going to Greece for history, you might want to go to Athens or Metéora.

Are the Greek islands in the Ionian or the Aegean Sea more beautiful?

It’s impossible to say for sure, depending on what you desire, islands in the Aegean such as Santorini, Mykonos and Rhodes have rockier terrain and you will find typical Cycladic villages with white houses and blue roofs. However, the beaches are rougher as they tend to be on the rockier coastline, with the exception of some sandy beaches.

The Greek islands in the Ionian Sea, such as Corfu, Cephalonia and Zakynthos, have richer green vegetation and are often more heavily forested. You won’t find the iconic white houses with blue roofs, but the beaches are all the more welcoming. These are known for their finer sand and shallower entrance to the sea, and are therefore more suitable for families with children.

Greek islands in the Aegean Sea

Where to go on holiday in Greece? If you’re looking for the most beautiful islands in Greece, it’s going to be tricky, because each one has something special. We bring you the most beautiful islands in the Aegean Sea to visit in Greece. But which is the most beautiful of them all, we’ll leave that up to you.

Crete

Crete is the largest Greek island and offers beautiful beaches, high mountains and deep canyons. It is an ideal destination for lovers of sun, sea and nature. In Crete we can visit picturesque fishing villages, taste local cuisine in traditional tavernas and stay in comfortable hotels.

In Crete you will find Knossos, a large archaeological site that is associated with the legendary minotaur and labyrinth. Also visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.

Crete is surrounded by beautiful beaches that will satisfy any lover of the sea. Elafonissi is famous for its pink sand and crystal clear water, Balos and Falassarna or Vai are also very popular.

The local cuisine is known for its healthy Mediterranean diet, which includes fresh fish, olive oil, cheeses such as feta and mizithra, and of course fresh vegetables and fruit. A typical dish is dakos, a traditional salad, or moussaka, a layered meat dish.

Crete is graced not only by beautiful beaches, but also by impressive mountain scenery. The Samarian Gorge is one of the longest in Europe and is a popular place for hikers who enjoy nature walks. The island also offers beautiful caves and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Where to stay in Crete: The best hotels

One of the best hotels in Crete is the Stella Village Seaside Hotel, which also offers all-inclusive accommodation. If it’s full, check out the Arina Beach Resort.

Euboia

Euboia, also known as Evia, is the second largest Greek island and is located off the coast of Athens. Often overlooked in favour of more famous Greek destinations, this island offers a wonderful combination of beautiful beaches, thermal springs, picturesque villages and impressive mountain landscapes.

Euboia is the perfect destination for those looking for a more peaceful and authentic Greek experience.

In the north of the island you will find beaches like Agia Anna or Pefki, which are surrounded by green forests and offer clear and very calm water. In the south of the island, areas such as Karystos and Marmari boast turquoise seas and sandy beaches.

Visit archaeological sites and museums on Euboea, such as the Archaeological Museum of Chalkida.

Euboia is also famous for its thermal springs, especially in the Aidipsos area in the north of the island. These thermal springs are known for their healing effects.

For nature and hiking lovers, Euboia offers a variety of walking and hiking opportunities. The island is criss-crossed with a network of hiking trails that lead through mountainous areas, offering spectacular views and allowing you to discover the local flora and fauna.

Where to stay in Euboie

If you prefer all-inclusive, there is not so much choice, we recommend the Brown Beach Evia Island, All Inclusive in Eretria, a member of Brown Hotels.

Lesvos

Lesbos, the third largest Greek island in the northeastern Aegean Sea, is famous for its link to the ancient poet Sappho and is a popular destination for art, history and nature lovers.

If you love history, you should not miss the town of Mytilene, where you can visit an ancient theatre, a castle and several historical museums.

For nature lovers, there is the Petrified Forest at Sigri, a unique geological site where you can see fossilised trees dating back millions of years. The island also offers beautiful beaches such as Eressos and Molyvos, and is ideal for birdwatching, especially in wet areas such as Kalloni.

Lesvos is also famous for its thermal springs, which are located in various parts of the island, including the town of Eftalou. These springs are known for their healing properties.

The gastronomy of Lesvos is a typical example of Greek cuisine. OStrov is famous for its production of olive oil, cheese and ouzo, the traditional Greek aniseed liqueur. In the local tavernas you can taste fresh fish, seafood and a wide range of traditional Greek dishes.

Where to stay in Lesvos: The best hotel

One of the best hotels in Lesvos is definitely Galazio Asteri I., which is a short walk from the thermal baths.

Rhodes

Rhodes is one of the most popular islands in the Aegean Sea. Rhodes boasts many beautiful beaches that invite you to relax and enjoy water sports. Tsambika Beach, Prasonisi and Anthony Quinn Bay arejust some of the most famous and offer beautiful sandy shores and crystal clear water.

The capital of the island is the city of the same name, which is on the UNESCO list. Be sure to go and walk the city walls, visit thePalace of the Grand Masters and enjoy the atmosphere in the streets of the Old Town, which will take you back to the time of the knights and antiquity. Another important monument is the ancient Acropolis of Lindos with its breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.

For nature lovers, the Butterfly Valley is also attractive, where you can see thousands of butterflies in their natural habitat.

Rhodes is also known for its excellent cuisine – just like the other Greek islands. Local specialities include fresh fish and seafood, traditional Greek dishes such as moussaka and souvlaki, and local cheeses. Don’t forget to try the local wines, which are considered among the best in Greece.

Where to stay in Rhodes: a tip for a great hotel

There is quite a wide choice of accommodation in Rhodes, if you book early, the all-inclusive Atlantica Dreams Resort may still be available for your dates .

Chios

Chios, an island in the Aegean Sea, is one of the most interesting and least commercial Greek islands. It is mainly known for its production of mastic, a unique resin with medicinal properties, which is extracted from shrubs that grow only on this island.

Chios has a rich history that is evident in its many ancient monuments and architectural gems. Don’t miss a visit to Nea Moni, a UNESCO-listed Byzantine monastery known for its magnificent mosaics. Also worth mentioning are medieval villages such as Pyrgi with its typical facades and Mesta, a well-preserved medieval fortified town.

Chios boasts beautiful beaches and unspoiled nature. Among the most beautiful and interesting beaches are Mavra Volia with its black pebbles and Vroulidia. For nature lovers, the island also offers a number of hiking trails and natural attractions such as the Olympi Caves and medieval villages in the mountain areas.

If you’re thinking about where to go on holiday in Greece, where it will be quiet and peaceful, Chios is the right choice.

Tip for the best accommodation in Chios

There are absolutely great Sea Breeze Apartments Chios, if they don’t sell out on your dates, don’t hesitate!

Samos

Samos, a picturesque island in the Aegean Sea, is the birthplace of the famous mathematician Pythagoras. In addition to its interesting history and culture, it has beautiful beaches, the most popular being Kokkari, Tsamadou and Psili Ammos.

Visit Pythagorion, an ancient city named after the famous mathematician and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the Eupaline Tunnel, an ancient aqueduct that is a masterpiece of ancient engineering.

Samos is known for its high quality sweet wines, which are made from the local Muscat grape variety. We recommend visiting the local vineyards and tasting these unique wines directly from the source.

Where to stay in Samos?

You won’t find many all-inclusive hotels on Samos, but there are some great apartments, such as Erato by Samian Mare.

Naxos

Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades and is known for some of the best beaches in the Cyclades, including Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna and Plaka.

In terms of architecture, one of the most famous symbols of the island is the Portara Gate, a remnant of the ancient Temple of Apollo, which dominates the harbour. Naxos also has many Byzantine churches and Venetian towers that testify to its rich historical heritage.

For an authentic Greek experience, visit mountain villages like Apeiranthos or Filoti. These villages offer spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into traditional island life.

Where to stay in Naxos?

If you’re looking for great apartments at an unbeatable price, check out Annio studios.

Thasos

Thasos, also known as Thassos, is a Greek island in the northern Aegean Sea. On Thassos you will find some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, including Golden Beach, Paradise Beach and Alyki, which are known for their bright blue waters and picturesque scenery.

In terms of history, Thasos is full of ancient monuments. Among the most important is the ancient theatre in the island’s capital, which is still used for various cultural events. Other notable sites include the archaeological site of Alyki and the ancient city of Limenas, where you can admire the ruins of ancient temples and buildings.

For those looking for an authentic Greek experience, mountain villages such as Theologos and Panagia are worth a visit . These villages offer spectacular views of the island, the chance to sample local cuisine in traditional tavernas and a glimpse into traditional Thasos life.

Where to stay in Thasos?

Beautiful and cheap accommodation on Thasos are the Giola aparments and studios 2. Unfortunately, they are often sold out.

Lemnos

Lemnos, an island in the northern Aegean Sea, is known for its unique landscape, rich history and traditional villages. This lesser-known Greek island offers an authentic experience away from the crowded tourist destinations.

The beaches of Lemnos are diverse and offer something for everyone. From vast sandy beaches such as Plati and Thanos to picturesque coves, the island provides an ideal setting for relaxing and swimming in the clear sea.

The historical and cultural attractions at Lemnos are equally impressive. An important historical site is the ancient city of Poliochni, which is considered one of the oldest inhabited cities in Europe. Also worth a visit is the medieval castle in the capital Myrina, which provides spectacular views of the city and the coast.

For visitors looking for an authentic Greek experience, traditional villages such as Moudros and Kondias are ideal places to explore on Lemnos. In these villages you can taste the local gastronomy, see traditional Greek architecture and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the island.

Lemnos is therefore an ideal destination for those looking for a quieter holiday with a rich history, beautiful beaches and authentic Greek charm.

Where to stay in Lemnos?

On Lemnos you won’t find as much choice of accommodation as on the other more famous islands, but you can try to see if Thalassa is available.

Mykonos

One of the most famous Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, Mykonos is popular for its lively nightlife, beautiful beaches and typical Cycladic architecture. This island is the perfect choice for those looking for a combination of relaxation on the beach and nightlife.

The beaches of Mykonos are world famous, you can find everything here: From lively beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise, which are known for their beach parties and club life, to quieter and more family-friendly beaches like Ornos and Psarou.

Apart from the beaches, Mykonos is famous for its picturesque main town, known as Chora. Chora is full of narrow, winding streets, white houses with blue windows and doors, colourful flowers and small churches that create a typical Cycladic atmosphere. The windmills, which tower over the town and are one of the symbols of the island, are also an important monument.

For culture lovers, Mykonos offers several interesting museums and historical sites. The Archaeological Museum of Mykonos offers a glimpse of the island’s ancient artefacts and heritage, while a visit to Delos Island, near Mykonos, is a journey to one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.

Mykonos is therefore an ideal destination for those looking for a combination of beautiful beaches, rich nightlife and traditional Greek culture in the unique environment of the Cyclades.

Tips for the best hotels in Mykonos

Mykonos is home to a number of iconic and luxurious hotels, one of the most beautiful being the Palladium Hotel. Another great but cheaper option is the Poseidon Hotel Suites.

Santorini

Santorini, one of the most famous and photogenic Greek islands, is known for its dramatic views, single volcanic landscape and picturesque villages with white houses and blue domes.

Santorini’s main attractions are its charming villages, such as Oia and Fira, which boast breathtaking views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea. Oia is famous for its amazing sunsets, which attract tourists from all over the world.

Santorini also has beautiful beaches such as Red Beach and Black Beach, which offer a unique combination of volcanic sand and rocks.

For lovers of history and archaeology, Santorini offers interesting places such as the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, a well-preserved Minoan city that was buried under volcanic ash during the eruption in the 2nd. millennium BC. n. l.

Gastronomy on Santorini is also worth a look, with many excellent restaurants and tavernas offering traditional Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. Don’t forget to try the local wines, which are considered some of the best in Greece, thanks to the island’s unique volcanic territory.

Where to stay in Santorini: The best hotels

Among the best hotels in Santorini (and no wonder) is the AVAL All Suite Hotel. If you’re on a budget, I would definitely check out the Olvos Luxury Suites.

Paros

Paros, one of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades, is popular for its beautiful beaches, picturesque villages with white houses and rich history. This island combines natural beauty with traditional Greek character, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a relaxing holiday with an element of authenticity.

The beaches on Paros are extremely impressive and diverse. From lively and popular beaches like Golden Beach, which is a popular windsurfing spot, to quieter and more secluded beaches like Kolymbithres.

In the capital of Parikia you will find the famous church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani, one of the most important Byzantine monuments in Greece.

Villages like Lefkes, located in the interior of the island, give you a glimpse into traditional Cycladic life. This village offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and is home to several charming cafés and tavernas.

Paros is also known for its local wineries, which produce some of the best wines in the region.

Where to stay in Paros

On Paros we have a clear choice in accommodation and that is Blue Waves Suites & Apartments – To Kyma. Some of the most beautiful apartments that have a great location and also an unbeatable price for what you are getting.

Kos

Kos, one of the main islands in the Dodecanese, is known for its beautiful beaches, historical monuments and relaxed atmosphere.

Kos has some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. The best ones are the busier beaches of Tigaki and Kardamena and the quieter bay of Agios Stefanos.

The island also has important archaeological sites that reflect its rich heritage. The most famous is Asklépion, an ancient healing complex and one of the most important sites associated with Hippocrates, the father of medicine. Kos, the island’s capital, is home to many historical sites, including a medieval castle and the ancient Agora.

For an authentic Greek experience, visit mountain villages like Zia, where you can enjoy traditional cuisine and breathtaking views of the island.

Where to stay in Kos: The best hotel

There are plenty of beautiful hotels on Kos, but we think the best is the Diamond Boutique Hotel.

Skyros

Skyros, often overlooked when deciding where to go on holiday in Greece, is one of the islands in the Northern Sporades archipelago.

The beaches of Skyros are quiet andunspoilt, ideal for those looking for a relaxing holiday in Greece, away from the crowds. Popular beaches such as Molos and Magazia offer beautiful sandy shores and clear waters, while smaller coves and secluded beaches provide privacy and tranquillity.

Skyros is also known for its traditional villages and Byzantine monasteries. The island’s capital, Chora, is built on a hillside and is characterised by its narrow streets, whitewashed houses and impressive Byzantine fortress. The village of Skyros is also home to unique crafts, including woodcarving and pottery.

For those planning a holiday in Greece who want to experience the local culture, Skyros offers unique cultural traditions, including the famous Carnival and traditional Greek dancing. The island is also home to a small breed of Skyrian horses, which can be seen during walks around the island.

Skyros is therefore a great choice for those looking for a quieter and more authentic destination in Greece, with a rich history, beautiful beaches and preserved traditional culture. Its unique atmosphere and beauty make this island an ideal place for a relaxing and enriching holiday.

Where to stay on Skyros: Tip for the best hotel

There is a very nice hotel on Skyros called Perigiali, it’s just often booked out in high season, so if it’s available I wouldn’t hesitate.

Karpathos

Karpathos, often overlooked when choosing where to holiday in Greece, is a beautiful island located near Crete in the Dodecanese. This island is ideal for those looking for a combination of unspoilt nature, traditional villages and beautiful beaches, offering an authentic Greek experience away from the main tourist routes.

The beaches of Karpathos are varied and stunning. From isolated coves like Kyra Panagia and Apella, which offer crystal clear water and picturesque scenery, to busier beaches like Amoopi.

Karpathos is known for its well-preserved culture, especially in mountain villages like Olympos, where the traditional way of life remains almost untouched by modern civilization. Here you can taste authentic Greek dishes, admire traditional clothing and listen to local music.

Where to stay in Karpathos

If we were choosing our accommodation, we would definitely go to B&N Melas Studios.

Patmos

Often overlooked when planning a holiday in Greece, Patmos is a small island in the Aegean Sea known for its peaceful atmosphere, spiritual heritage and beautiful beaches.

Patmos is best known as the place, where St. John the Theologian wrote the book of Revelation. Monastery of St. John the Theologianwhich dominates the island, is not only a spiritual centre but also an impressive architectural monument. The village of Chora, with its narrow streets and traditional white houses, is absolutely perfect for a day trip.

The beaches of Patmos are diverse and offer something for everyone. From the busier beaches like Skala, which is close to the main port, to the secluded and quiet beaches like Psili Ammos.

On the island you will also find a number of historical and archaeological sitest. In addition to the monastery and the Cave of the Apocalypse, where Revelation was written, there are other Byzantine churches and chapels worth visiting.

Patmos is therefore an ideal choice for travellers looking for a holiday in Greece that offers a quieter atmosphere, rich spiritual heritage and beautiful natural scenery.

Where to stay in Patmos?

On Patmos you will find a number of great apartments and villas, we were most interested in Latmos 1860.

Greek islands in the Ionian Sea

The Ionian Sea is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches and turquoise water. The most popular islands in the Ionian Sea are Corfu, Kefalonia and Zakynthos. But if you’re looking for somewhere quiet to go on holiday in Greece , you might want to try Lefkada.

Kefalonia (Kefalonia)

Kefalonia, one of the largest Ionian islands, is a great choice for those looking for a holiday in Greece with children or as a couple. This picturesque island offers stunning beaches, breathtaking mountain landscapes and a rich history, making it an ideal destination for both family and romantic holidays.

Kefalonia’s beaches are extremely impressive and varied. Myrtos, one of the most famous beaches on the island, is known for its stunning white cliffs and azure blue waters. Other popular beaches such as Antisamos and Skala offer beautiful scenery and good conditions for popular water sports.

Kefalonia is also home to several historical and cultural sites. Melissani, a beautiful underground cave with a lake, is one of the most important natural attractions of the island. Also visit St. George’s Castle and the ancient ruins of Sami.

Where to stay in Kefalonia: Best tips for hotels

If you’re lucky, try to hunt down the super cheap but gorgeous sea view accommodation of Medusa Apartments.

Corfu

Corfu , a green island in the Ionian Sea, is one of the most beautiful and popular destinations in Greece. We go back there regularly every few years.

Kerkyra, the capital of Corfu, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its ancient architecture, including impressive fortresses and outdoor markets. A walk through the historic streets of the city reveals its Venetian, French and British influences.

Corfu is surrounded by crystal clear sea and offers a wide range of beaches, from busy and popular ones to quiet and isolated coves. The most popular and unknown beaches include Paleokastritsa, Sidari and Glyfada.

Traditional Corfu cuisine includes specialities such as pastitsada (beef or rooster meat cooked with tomatoes and served with pasta) and sofrito (slices of beef cooked in a white wine sauce with garlic and parsley).

For families with children there are Aqualand or Hydropolis water parks.

Where to stay in Corfu

We were quite unlucky that we booked our accommodation at the last minute and almost everything was sold out. If you book early, check availability at Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa.

Tip: Read on for 22 great tips on what to see in Corfu.

Zakynthos

Zakynthos is a popular destination for tourists looking for beautiful beaches and turquoise sea. It is famous for its stunning Navagio beach, which is surrounded by cliffs. There are also blue caves on the island, which you can see during one of the boat trips. These are organised by travel agents or can be booked through GetYourGuide.

Besides Navagio, Zakynthos offers many other beautiful beaches such as Laganas, Gerakas and Vasilikos, which are ideal for swimming, sunbathing and water sports. The island is also home to the protected Caretta-caretta sea turtle, which can be seen on some beaches, especially in the Zakynthos National Marine Park.

Zakynthos is also rich in history and culture. In the capital of Zakynthos you can visit several historic churches, Byzantine museums and stroll around the picturesque harbour. Villages on the island, such as Bochali, offer spectacular views of the town and the sea, as well as the opportunity to sample the local cuisine in traditional tavernas.

Where to stay in Zakynthos

Zakynthos has a number of beautiful hotels, apartments and villas for rent, among the best are Viatzo Villas, so check if they still have availability.

Lefkada

Lefkada is connected to mainland Greece by a bridge. It is famous for its breathtaking beaches, emerald green sea and picturesque mountain villages –

Porto Katsiki beach, famous for its white cliffs and crystal clear water, is one of the most iconic on the island.

Lefkada is also known for its picturesque mountain villages, such as Agios Nikitas and Karya, where you can taste the local cuisine and see traditional crafts.

For lovers of outdoor activities, Lefkada offers opportunities for mountain biking, hiking and water sports, including windsurfing and kitesurfing, especially in areas such as Vasiliki, which is known as a paradise for windsurfers.

Lefkada is also home to several historical monuments and monasteries, including the Faneromeni Monastery, which offers beautiful views of the capital. Visiting these sites provides an insight into the rich history and culture of the island.

Where to stay in Lefkada

Lefkada is generally considered expensive, but if you’re lucky, there will be free rooms at Papatsas Center Houses.

Lukáš and Lucie recommend

Where to stay in Greece

6 accommodations — resorts, hotels and other lodging options

⭐ TOP CHOICE 🏨 Hotel

Stella Village Seaside Hotel

One of the best hotels in Crete with all-inclusive option. Ideal for families with children in the Rethymno area.

★★★★ Check prices

Check availability 🌲 Resort

Arina Beach Resort

Family resort in Crete as an alternative to Stella Village. Located in an area with kids’ clubs.

★★★★ Check prices

Check availability 🌲 Resort

Atlantica Dreams Resort

All-inclusive hotel in Rhodes. One of the best hotels on the island, recommended to book early.

★★★★ Check prices

Check availability 🌲 Resort

Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa

Quality resort in Corfu with wellness. Recommended to book early as it sells out quickly.

★★★★ Check prices

Check availability 🏡 Villas

Viatzo Villas

A collection of beautiful villas in Zakynthos, among the best accommodations on the island.

★★★★ Check prices

Check availability 🏨 Hotel

AVAL All Suite Hotel

One of the best hotels in Santorini, ideal for couples and romantic getaways.

★★★★ Check prices

Check availability

Where to go on holiday in Greece on the mainland

Greece is not just about islands and beaches. If you want a little more cultural experience, we recommend heading to the mainland. Here are tips on where to go on holiday in Greece on the mainland.

Athens

Athens probably needs little introduction. This city is world-renowned for its historical monuments, rich culture and vibrant urban life, making it the ideal place for those who want to explore the rich heritage of ancient Greece while enjoying a modern metropolis.

Athens’ main attraction is the Acropolis, an ancient complex on a hill that dominates the city and is home to several important monuments, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion and the Temple of Nike. This site is not only iconic to Athens, but also symbolizes the importance of ancient Greece to Western civilization.

Other important historical sites include the Agora, an ancient public assembly and political centre, and the Olympic Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games were held. The Archaeological Museum of Athens is one of the best in the world and offers an extensive collection of art and artefacts from all over Greece.

Athens is not just about ancient history. The city offers a lively nightlife, excellent gastronomy and a rich art and cultural scene. Neighbourhoods such as Plaka, Monastiraki and Psyri offer cosy taverns, modern bars and craft shops.

Where to stay in Athens?

One of the best accommodations right in Athens is definitely Mythodea Athens Suites.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece. The city is famous for its Byzantine churches and fortress. The Waterland water park is also a very popular place to visit with children.

One of the main attractions of Thessaloniki is the White Tower, a historical fortress and symbol of the city, which offers a magnificent view of the city and the sea. Other important historical sites are the Rotunda, a majestic building from Roman times, and the Arch of Galerius.

The Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is one of the most important in Greece and offers an extensive collection of artworks and artefacts from ancient Macedonia.

For lovers of gastronomy, Thessaloniki is a paradise. The city is famous for its culinary scene, which includes traditional Greek taverns, stylish restaurants and lively markets such as Modiano, where you can sample local specialities and fresh produce.

Moreover, thanks to its location on the Aegean coast, Thessaloniki offers beautiful coastal promenades and beaches.

Best hotel in Thessaloniki

The best – or at least one of the best – hotel in Thessaloniki is
Noa Hotel, if she’s free, I wouldn’t hesitate.

Peloponnese

The Peloponnese is a peninsula in the southwest of Greece that offers a great holiday for those who love nature, history and culture. Here they can visit the ruins of the Olympic Games in Olympia, the UNESCO monument of Mycenae or the ruins of the ancient city of Epidaurus.

History is omnipresent in the Peloponnese. Places like the ancient city of Mycenae, with its famous Lion’s Gate and royal tombs, or Epidauros, famous for its well-preserved ancient theatre, are examples of Greece’s rich past.

But the Peloponnese is also home to breathtaking natural beauty. The Mani region, with its rugged mountain landscapes and traditional stone villages, is ideal for hiking and exploring. Nafplio, the first capital of modern Greece, offers picturesque streets, elegant architecture and spectacular sea views.

Where to stay in the Peloponnese

We recommend one of the most desirable hotels in the area, which is The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino.

Metéora

Metheora, one of the most spectacular and unique holiday destinations in Greece, is famous for its majestic rock formations and the Orthodox monasteries built on them.

The monasteries of Metéora, built on top of high rock formations, are masterpieces of medieval architecture and engineering. Originally there were 24 monasteries, but today only six remain open, each offering visitors the opportunity to explore the rich history and magnificent frescoes.

Where to stay near Metéora

Less than one kilometre from Metéora is a super hotel directly overlooking the monasteries: the Hotel Doupiani House.

Chalkidiki

Where to go in Greece outside the islands? How about Halkidiki, a peninsula in the northeast of the country, known for its idyllic beaches, crystal clear waters and picturesque villages. The area consists of three “fingers” – Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos, each offering unique experiences and beauty.

Kassandra, the southernmost and busiest “finger”, is popular for its lively resorts, bars and beaches such as Kallithea and Hanioti. This area is ideal for visitors looking for a combination of relaxation on the beach and lively nightlife.

Sithonia, the middle “finger”, is much quieter, with beautiful beaches such as Kriaritsi and Karidi, and is ideal for those who want a more relaxing holiday without the busy nightlife. Sithonia is also great for lovers of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling and water sports.

Athos, the northernmost “finger” and home of the sacred Mount Athos, is an autonomous monastic state and only accessible to men with permission.

Where to stay in Halkidiki

If you also prefer to be right on the beach, there is an absolutely amazing resort in Halkidiki called Georgalas Sun Beach Resort.

Delphi

Ancient Delphi was considered the “center of the world” in ancient Greece. Today, visitors can admire the remains of the impressive temples, theatre and stadium, which stand as a testament to the rich history and culture of the place. The most important remains are the Temple of Apollo, once home to Pythia, the famous oracle, and the ancient theatre with its magnificent view of the valley.

The Archaeological Museum of Delphi is one of the best in Greece and preserves many finds from the archaeological site, including the famous bronze chariot and the statue of Auriga.

The surrounding landscape of Delphi is also breathtaking. Mount Parnassus is a popular hiking spot and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. In the winter months it becomes a popular skiing resort.

Where to stay near Delphi

The Fedriades Delphi Hotel is extremely popular among travellers because of its super location.

Zagori

Zagori, a lesser-known but extremely scenic region in northwestern Greece, is a great choice for those looking for somewhere to go on a cycling or hiking holiday in Greece. This mountainous region in Epirus is known for its breathtaking scenery, traditional stone villages and impressive stone bridges.

One of Zagori’s main attractions is Vikos-Aoos National Park and Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world. The area offers wonderful opportunities for hiking, with trails that lead through stunning forests, rivers and mountain peaks, providing visitors with unforgettable views.

Traditional villages in Zagori, such as Megalo Papingo, Mikro Papingo and Monodendri, are known for their characteristic stone houses and narrow streets. These villages offer visitors the opportunity to explore traditional Greek country life and sample local cuisine in cosy tavernas.

Where to stay in Zagori

There are a number of excellent and highly rated resorts in Zagori, with Aristi Mountain Resort being one of the best.

Pelion

Pelion, a peninsula located in central Greece, offers a fascinating combination of mountain and coastal scenery, making it an ideal place to discover both the beautiful countryside and traditional Greek culture.

Pelion is known for its picturesque villages with traditional stone houses, narrow streets and magnificent views of the Aegean Sea. Villages such as Makrinitsa, Portaria and Tsagarada are particularly popular with visitors who want to enjoy the authentic atmosphere and excellent local cuisine.

The peninsula is also home to several beautiful beaches, such as Mylopotamos and Agios Ioannis, which offer clear water and picturesque landscapes, ideal for relaxing and swimming. For nature and hiking lovers, Pelion offers a rich network of hiking trails that pass through dense forests, lead past springs and offer breathtaking views.

The winter months on Pelion bring a different kind of magic, with skiing and winter sports opportunities in the mountain resort of Agriolefkes. This aspect makes Pelion an attractive destination all year round.

Pelion is also known for its traditional products such as olives, honey and fruit brandies.

Where to stay on the Pelion peninsula

A great accommodation with a pool on the Pelion peninsula is for example Hotel Zagora, see if there will be availability.

Olympus

Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in the country and known as the home of the gods in Greek mythology. This majestic mountain range, located in northern Greece near the town of Litochoro, is ideal for those who want to combine a cultural experience with hiking.

With a number of hiking trails leading to various peaks, including the highest peak Mytikas, Olymp offers options for everyone, from easy walks to challenging climbs. The roads to Olympus lead through dense forests, mountain meadows and rocky cliffs, offering breathtaking views and the opportunity to encounter rich flora and fauna.

Frequently Asked Questions

For many travellers, Athens, Greece has long been little more than a quick stopover on the way to the islands — a dash to photograph ancient columns before catching the first ferry from Piraeus. But that reputation is well out of date. The city has transformed into a confident destination in its own right, easily filling a long weekend and then some. Today you’ll find a wild mix of ancient grandeur and raw street culture: three-thousand-year-old marble monuments sitting just a stone’s throw from world-class street art, and traditional coffee houses buzzing alongside trendy cocktail bars. To truly get under Athens’ skin, you need to embrace its contradictions.

In this guide you’ll find exactly 21 tips covering the most fascinating places the city has to offer — from the iconic Parthenon to hidden Cycladic alleyways and the best spots to watch the sun go down. We’ll also warn you about the sneaky restaurant traps lurking in the historic centre, share advice on keeping your wallet safe on the metro, and explain the new ticketing rules that have changed quite dramatically in recent years. Get ready: the Greek capital is about to completely win you over.

TL;DR

• Acropolis entry: Tickets cost €30 year-round and you must book a specific time slot online in advance.
• Combined tickets scrapped: The state combined ticket covering seven sites was abolished in 2025 — you’ll need to use commercial bundle packages or buy tickets separately.
• Getting from the airport: The blue Metro Line 3 takes you to the centre for €9, but watch out for pickpockets.
• Restaurant scams: In tourist areas, watch out for the so-called bread scam, where you’re charged for bread placed on your table uninvited.
• Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are ideal; summers bring extreme heat exceeding 40 °C and sites close at midday.
• Where to stay: The charming neighbourhood of Plaka or the quieter but very trendy Koukaki district beneath the hill are both excellent bases.
• Day trips: Athens is a brilliant base for visiting the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion or the nearby car-free island of Hydra.

Best Time to Visit Athens

Timing your trip right makes an enormous difference to how much you actually enjoy it — nobody wants to melt in a concrete oven. The sweet spots are April to mid-June and then September and October. Temperatures sit at a pleasant 20–25 °C, the air is easy to breathe, and the soft light is simply gorgeous for photographing ancient monuments. Crowds are manageable during these months too, so you won’t be queueing in the blazing sun for what feels like forever. Athens weather in spring and autumn is genuinely one of the city’s biggest selling points. Flights from the UK are very affordable — easyJet, British Airways and Ryanair all serve Athens from London and several regional airports, and if you book ahead you can often grab a return for well under £100.

As tempting as a Greek summer sounds, the city itself becomes mercilessly brutal in July and August. During the summer of 2025, temperatures climbed as high as 42 °C, which is frankly no fun at all. Authorities were forced to close historic sites repeatedly during afternoon hours (roughly noon to 5 pm) because visitors were collapsing on scorching marble, and the government introduced a ban on outdoor work over the midday period. If you do visit in the height of summer, you’ll need to fully adopt the local southern rhythm: head out to sites early in the morning, take a proper siesta in an air-conditioned room or visit the cool museums at midday, and only venture back out after sunset. Winter, on the other hand, is wonderful for history lovers who want the city almost to themselves — just don’t count on the winter ticket discounts that used to exist, as those are now gone. For the city centre itself, two to three full days is the right amount of time; add extra days if you want to swim or do day trips.

Where to Stay in Athens

💡 Accommodation & experiences tip: We always search for accommodation on Booking.com, which has the best cancellation policies. For tickets, tours and activities, it’s worth comparing and booking through GetYourGuide.

Choosing the right neighbourhood is one of the most important decisions you’ll make before your trip, because Athens doesn’t function as one compact whole. It’s more like a patchwork of connected villages, each with its own atmosphere and character. For a first visit, we recommend staying as close to the historic centre as possible so you can walk to most of the ancient sites without constantly wrestling with a crowded metro.

If you’re after classic charm and want the most famous monuments literally on your doorstep, stay in the picturesque Plaka neighbourhood. You’ll find beautiful neoclassical houses, cosy alleyways and cascades of bougainvillaea. A hugely popular option is the welcoming Hotel Byron, which offers excellent value for money, or the slightly more upscale Phaedra Hotel, where rooms start from around €120 per night. If budget is no object and you want full luxury, take a look at the new boutique The Dolli, which has a rooftop infinity pool with a breathtaking direct view of the Parthenon. We always recommend booking well in advance through Booking.com, as the best rooms disappear months before peak season.

For a quieter stay with a more local feel, the trendy residential neighbourhood of Koukaki is a brilliant choice. It sits right below the new Acropolis Museum, has far fewer tourists, and is home to some of the best independent cafés and bakeries in the city. A great option here is the modern CITYLUXE Suites & Rooms. If nightlife is your priority, the area around Monastiraki Square is a lively base, and the popular Plaka Hotel with its fantastic rooftop terrace is right in the thick of it. We’d strongly recommend avoiding the area around Omonia Square, Larissa station and the Vathi neighbourhood, which can feel unsafe after dark and are best given a wide berth at night.

21 Best Things to See and Do in Athens, Greece

Let’s dive into the very best Athens has to offer. We’ve put together a comprehensive list of places ranging from ancient ruins to modern culinary experiences, so you can build your itinerary exactly the way you like it.

1. The Acropolis and the Iconic Parthenon

The city’s great landmark — visible from virtually every rooftop in Athens — is an absolute must for every visitor. But this is also where the realities of modern mass tourism hit hardest, and you really do need to prepare properly. The days of simply walking up to the ticket window are gone for good: Greece’s Ministry of Culture has introduced a strict daily cap of 20,000 visitors and mandatory timed entry slots.

You must buy your ticket online in advance at the official website hhticket.gr and select a specific entry window — you only get a fifteen-minute grace period. Miss your slot and you won’t be admitted, and there’s no refund. Admission costs a flat €30 per adult year-round, with all winter discounts having been permanently removed in 2026. The reward at the top, of course, is the Parthenon itself — the perfect temple dedicated to the goddess of wisdom, still breathtaking after centuries of looting and explosive damage. The Acropolis in Athens, Greece truly is one of the world’s great sights.

💡 Local tip: Book the very first entry slot at 8:00 am and buy tickets at least five days ahead. The air is still bearable in the morning, the light is perfect for photos, and — crucially — you’ll avoid the enormous crowds that pour in from the big cruise ships from around 10 am onwards, accounting for nearly half of all daily visitors.

2. The Modern Acropolis Museum

Even if you’re not usually a museum person, this stunning piece of modern architecture is absolutely not to be missed. The Acropolis Museum building — all glass and concrete — is built directly beneath the sacred hill, creating a thrilling contrast with the ancient ruins above. From the moment you step inside it’s an experience in itself, because you literally walk across a glass floor above carefully excavated remains of an ancient neighbourhood.

On the top floor, cleverly aligned parallel to the Parthenon itself, you can see the original friezes in natural daylight, which is genuinely awe-inspiring. The undisputed highlights of the collection, however, are the original Caryatids — the sculpted maidens who once held up the roof of the Erechtheion. Five of the original six are here; the sixth, sadly, remains in the British Museum in London. Admission is €15 in summer and €10 in winter.

💡 Local tip: If you want a view of the sacred hill without the crowds, head up to the museum’s rooftop café. You get a superb view of the Parthenon from up there — and you can visit without buying a ticket to the main galleries.

3. Plaka Athens — and the Restaurant Traps to Avoid

Plaka is the oldest and undeniably most photogenic neighbourhood in Athens, spreading across the slopes right at the foot of the sacred hill. Its narrow cobbled lanes, gorgeous neoclassical facades and cascades of pink bougainvillaea make it an irresistible backdrop for photos. It’s also a massive tourist magnet, which inevitably comes with some pitfalls you need to know about before you accidentally hand over more money than you intended.

Steer clear of any place where a tout is standing outside trying to hustle you through the door — genuinely good tavernas don’t need to do that. A very common trick is the so-called bread scam, where a waiter places a basket of bread and a bottle of water on your table without you ordering either, then adds up to €3 per person to the bill. Charging for unsolicited bread is actually illegal under Greek law (since 2013), so don’t be afraid to politely but firmly send the basket back. Always check that the restaurant has a menu with clear prices displayed outside before you sit down.

4. The Hidden Village of Anafiotika

Clinging to the northern slopes of the hill just above touristy Plaka is a tiny architectural miracle that most casual visitors never discover. In the nineteenth century, workers from the island of Anafi built their homes here in the traditional Cycladic style as a way of staying connected to their faraway home while they came to work on the construction of the royal palace in the capital.

What awaits you is dazzling whitewashed walls, vivid blue doors and narrow passages where two people can barely pass. Lazily sunbathing cats complete the perfect island atmosphere. In this pocket of the city, it’s astonishingly easy to forget you’re standing in the middle of a metropolis of four million people — it feels far more like Mykonos.

💡 Local tip: Come early in the morning for the best photos without the crowds. Please do remember to respect the privacy of the people who actually live here — the noise from the street is often right beneath their bedroom windows.

5. The Ancient Agora and Temple of Hephaestus

Once you’ve come down from the main hill, head towards this sprawling area at its base. This was once the political, commercial and social heart of the ancient city — the place where Socrates preached and the first democrats walked and debated. Today it’s a surprisingly green park full of fascinating ruins, where you can escape the busy streets and find shade under the trees.

The undisputed star of the site is the Temple of Hephaestus, which is one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in the entire country and is criminally underrated compared to the more famous Parthenon. Separate admission costs €10.

💡 Local tip: The old state combined ticket (which used to cover multiple sites for €30) was abolished by the Ministry in April 2025. If you want to see several sites in one go without queueing repeatedly, look for commercial combo packages on platforms like GetYourGuide, which will deliver e-tickets straight to your phone for multiple days ahead.

6. Monastiraki Square and the Flea Market

The beating heart of commerce and street bustle in Athens is right here. Monastiraki Square is the perfect spot to grab a seat and simply watch the incredible flow of humanity swirling around you. It also offers one of the finest views of the floodlit Acropolis in the city, particularly as dusk falls and the whole monument glows against the night sky.

The area is famous above all for its flea market, which runs mainly on Sunday mornings. You can find absolutely everything here, from old coins and leather sandals to the most wonderfully kitsch fridge magnets. In the surrounding streets — especially the famous Mitropoleos Street — you’ll find dozens of stalls where locals love to grab traditional street food. The smell of freshly baked pastries and fried snacks fills the air, so make sure you stop in at Krinos for loukoumades: honey-drenched doughnuts dusted with cinnamon that are absolutely addictive.

7. The Alternative Neighbourhood of Psyri

The neighbouring district of Psyri has undergone an enormous and fascinating transformation in recent years. What was once a run-down, rough-edged area of workshops and artisan trades has become a vibrant hub of alternative culture and nightlife where the local young crowd gravitates. Old workshops have made way for independent cafés and specialty coffee shops, and the walls of the buildings are covered in elaborate, colourful street art.

The place really comes alive in the evenings, and after 10 pm it changes beyond recognition. Streets fill with little outdoor tables, live music drifts out from every direction, and plates of mezedes arrive at the table. These are small portions of traditional sharing food, washed down generously with a carafe of house wine or a glass of fiery anise-flavoured ouzo. Don’t miss Pittaki Street, which is famous for its fairy-light decorations — a total Instagram hit and a wonderful backdrop for an evening stroll.

8. The Majestic Temple of Olympian Zeus

A short walk from the busy centre, you’ll come across the remains of what was meant to be the largest temple in the entire ancient world — and even today its scale is genuinely staggering. Construction of this colossus took an extraordinary seven centuries and was only completed by the Roman Emperor Hadrian. It’s a beautiful and relatively peaceful spot compared to the main tourist trail, making it a great place for some unhurried photographs.

Of the original 104 enormous Corinthian columns, only fifteen still stand — but that’s more than enough for them to radiate an absolutely extraordinary sense of monumentality and power. One column lies toppled on the ground after a severe storm in the nineteenth century, giving you a rare chance to examine its massive marble drums and intricate decorative details up close. Admission is €8, with a half-price discount available off season.

9. The Historic Theatre of Dionysus

As you descend the southern slope of the main hill, don’t miss this hugely significant site tucked right below the rock face. These stone seats are, quite literally, the birthplace of European drama and the place where the history of theatre as we know it began to be written. The plays of Aeschylus, Sophocles and Euripides all had their world premieres on this very stage.

The theatre once held an astonishing seventeen thousand spectators, and the beautiful marble thrones in the front row survive to this day — reserved in ancient times for the most important priests and senior dignitaries. Sit here for a moment, close your eyes, and you can almost hear the applause of the ancient Athenians. We recommend visiting either early in the morning or in the late afternoon, when the shadows cast across the stone create a truly magical atmosphere.

Lukáš and Lucie recommend

Where to Stay in Athens

6 accommodations — hotels, wellness hotels and other lodging options

⭐ TOP CHOICE 🏨 Hotel

Hotel Byron

Pleasant family hotel in the picturesque Plaka district, offering excellent value for money. Located in a romantic area with neoclassical houses and cozy streets.

★★★★ Check prices

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Phaedra Hotel

A slightly more luxurious hotel in Plaka, where you can get a room from around three thousand crowns per night. Located in a beautiful historic district close to major attractions.

★★★★ from €120/night

Check availability ⭐ Luxury

The Dolli

New boutique luxury hotel with a rooftop infinity pool offering breathtaking views directly of the Parthenon. Ideal for those who want to enjoy absolute luxury.

★★★★ Check prices

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CITYLUXE Suites & Rooms

Modern accommodation in the trendy residential Koukaki district, located just below the new museum. Great choice for a quieter stay with a touch of local life and the best independent cafes nearby.

★★★★ Check prices

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Plaka Hotel

Popular hotel near Monastiraki Square with a fantastic rooftop terrace. Ideal for those seeking vibrant nightlife.

★★★★ Check prices

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View all accommodation in Athens

Explore all available accommodation options in Athens and find the best one according to your preferences and budget.

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10. The National Archaeological Museum

Although the building is a bit further from the main historic centre, skipping it would be a serious mistake for anyone with even a passing interest in history. The grand neoclassical building may look a little old-fashioned from the outside, but inside it holds the greatest treasures ever discovered anywhere in Greece. Set aside at least two to three hours for your visit — the collection is enormous — and admission in summer is €12.

The undisputed centrepiece of the collection is the famous golden death mask that the German archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann famously — and mistakenly — believed belonged to the legendary Mycenaean king Agamemnon, when it actually dates several centuries earlier. You’ll also find the extraordinary Antikythera Mechanism, often described as the world’s first analogue computer.

💡 Local tip: The Ministry has approved a major renovation of the entire museum, which will see the building close for up to five years. Before you visit, always check the official website to confirm it’s still open to the public.

11. Views from Lycabettus Hill

For the very best panoramic view over the city, make your way to this prominent hill rising 277 metres above the rooftops. You can tackle the fairly steep walk up through a pine grove — which will definitely get you sweating — or save your energy and take the underground funicular for €7 one way. It runs roughly every half hour and whisks you to the top in just a few minutes.

At the top, a small whitewashed chapel of St George greets you, along with a view that is genuinely jaw-dropping. The panorama stretches across an endless sea of white buildings all the way to the port of Piraeus and the glittering Aegean. Sunset from up here is simply magical — just be prepared to share that idea with a fair number of other travellers.

💡 Local tip: If you don’t fancy paying for the funicular — which runs through a dark tunnel with no view anyway — order an Uber or a regular taxi. They’ll take you all the way up to the car park for around €5, which is definitely the best value if there are two or more of you.

12. Free Views from Filopappos Hill

Looking for a quieter alternative with equally stunning views, minus the crowds? Head to this expansive public park. The hill sits at almost the same height as the Acropolis directly across the valley, giving you a completely unobstructed, face-on view of the Parthenon that really does look like you could reach out and touch it. Better still, entry is entirely free and the park is open around the clock.

At sunset, you can watch the ancient marble slowly change colour from gold to soft pink to deep amber — it’s one of those views that stays with you. The walk up to the monument at the very top takes a pleasant fifteen to twenty minutes along paved paths.

💡 Local tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water — there are no vendors or kiosks up top. Also make sure to head back down while it’s still light; the paths are poorly lit at night and it can feel a little uncomfortable after dark.

13. The Marble Panathenaic Stadium

This is a genuine world first, and the sight of it will make your jaw drop. It is the only full-size stadium on the planet built entirely from white marble, and on a sunny day it genuinely glows. Originally constructed for the ancient games, it was completely restored at the end of the nineteenth century to host the very first modern Olympic Games in 1896.

You’re free to jog along the same athletics track as those ancient champions, or climb the steep steps up to the highest marble terraces for a beautiful view over the whole arena and a slice of the city beyond. Inside the tunnels beneath the stands, you’ll also find a fascinating exhibition of all the Olympic torches from the modern era — a great experience even if you’re not a sports fan. Admission is €12, purchased on the day at the ticket desk; queues are generally short.

14. Syntagma Square and the Changing of the Guard

The central square functions as the main transport and political hub of the entire Greek capital. Here you’ll find the majestic Greek Parliament building and, directly in front of it, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The main attraction, though, is the traditional changing of the presidential guard — the Evzones — which takes place with clockwork precision every hour on the hour.

The soldiers wear highly distinctive historical uniforms featuring hand-stitched kilts and heavy wooden clogs with large pom-poms, and the full outfit weighs an impressive twenty kilograms. The grandest and most ceremonial changing of the guard takes place every Sunday at 11 am, accompanied by a military band. Right next to parliament, you can also escape the urban buzz entirely by ducking into the beautiful and free National Garden, where you can rest in the shade of subtropical trees and spot tortoises basking beside the ponds.

15. Where the Locals Live: Koukaki and Exarchia

More interested in everyday Athenian life than ticking off ancient monuments? Head south of the centre to the beloved neighbourhood of Koukaki. Don’t expect famous ruins here — instead you’ll find tree-lined pedestrian streets, brilliant bakeries and celebrated coffee shops along Drakou Street. This is where you’ll see Athenians doing what they do best: nursing a single iced freddo espresso for a good three hours while having an animated conversation with whoever happens to be around.

At the other end of the social spectrum sits Exarchia — traditionally the stronghold of students, artists and the occasional fierce anarchist. The walls are covered in political slogans and you’ll find the best independent bookshops and underground music scene in the city. If you visit on a Sunday, don’t miss the famous farmers’ market on Kallidromiou Street, where you can pick up excellent olives and fresh-pressed juices. Exarchia won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but it has a raw and completely unfiltered energy that’s unlike anywhere else in Athens.

16. Koulouri Street Food and the Varvakios Market

Street food in this city deserves a chapter all of its own — Athenians absolutely love eating on the move. Every morning, on seemingly every corner, you’ll spot glass-fronted carts selling koulouri: a simple ring of dough generously coated in sesame seeds. Crispy on the outside, soft in the middle, and costing around fifty pence, it’s the perfect start to the day alongside a morning coffee.

For a proper culinary adventure, head to the Varvakios central market. The best and loudest atmosphere is between 8 and 11 am, when vendors are loudly calling out the prices of fresh cheeses, olives and fragrant spices. Around the market you’ll also find plenty of small, cheap bistros where locals actually eat. Close to nearby Omonia Square, you’ll find the legendary dairy bar Stani, where you can get an extraordinary Greek yogurt with walnuts and honey — a recipe they’ve been perfecting for over eighty years.

17. Where to Eat (A Vegetarian’s Paradise)

Greek cuisine is remarkably vegetarian-friendly, and you absolutely won’t go hungry. We can wholeheartedly recommend the excellent restaurant Avocado, one of the pioneers of meat-free dining in the city, located just a short walk from Syntagma Square. If you fancy modern healthy street food, try Mama Tierra, where they make outstanding veggie wraps and falafel.

In Koukaki, we love popping into the popular restaurant Peas, which focuses on fresh salads and wholesome bowls. In any standard local taverna, you can always order a classic Greek salad, dolmades (vine leaves stuffed with rice), saganaki cheese or a delicious fava bean dip with complete confidence. While you watch the locals on Mitropoleos Street tucking into gyros and souvlaki, treat yourself to a spanakopita — a traditional pastry filled with spinach and feta that is genuinely divine.

18. Rooftop Bars with a View

An evening drink with a view of the floodlit Acropolis is one of the absolute highlights of any trip to Athens. The most famous and most photographed option is the A for Athens bar right on Monastiraki Square. The view from there is genuinely iconic, but be prepared for cocktails priced around €15 and a bit of a scramble for a spot by the railing.

If you want something a bit more authentic, seek out a discreet side entrance and take an old lift up to the spacious Couleur Locale bar. Prices are friendlier, the vibe is more relaxed, and you’ll hear far more Greek being spoken than English. A drink here will set you back a very reasonable €8–12, and the view over the city at night is fantastic. Another great, more laid-back option is the Retirè bar on the roof of the Ergon House hotel, with comfortable sun loungers and beautiful fairy lights strung overhead.

19. Open-Air Summer Cinemas

Watching films under a starry sky is a much-loved summer tradition for Athenians, and it’s one you simply shouldn’t miss. These outdoor cinemas operate from roughly May to the end of September, offering an atmosphere that’s genuinely romantic and one-of-a-kind. The most famous is the historic Cine Thision, which has been running continuously since 1935 and oozes old-world charm.

As a bonus, beyond the screen you have a completely unobstructed view of the majestically lit Acropolis, looming large just behind it. The programme includes both classic films and the latest Hollywood releases, all shown in the original language with Greek subtitles — so no unwanted dubbing to worry about. During the screening, you can grab a cold beer or a traditional cheese pie from a small hatch and settle in for a perfect warm Athenian evening. Another lovely option is the recently renovated Cine Paris, right in the heart of Plaka.

20. The Athens Riviera and Lake Vouliagmeni

Not many people realise just how close you are to brilliant swimming from the sweltering city centre. The so-called Athens Riviera stretches directly south of the city and is easily reached by public transport — trams 5 or 6 run directly from Syntagma Square. An absolutely unmissable highlight is the unique Lake Vouliagmeni, a natural thermal lake nestled inside a sunken limestone cave surrounded by dramatic cliffs.

The water is fed by underground thermal springs and the nearby sea, maintaining a very pleasant temperature of around 24 °C all year round — meaning a dip is perfectly enjoyable even in January. As an added bonus, tiny Garra rufa fish give you a complimentary natural pedicure, gently nibbling away at your feet. Entry to the complex costs around €19 and includes well-maintained facilities, comfortable sun loungers and a restaurant for a full day of relaxation.

21. Day Trips from Athens: Sounion and the Islands

Athens is an ideal base for brilliant day trips into the surrounding area. If you hire a car or book an organised tour, head for Cape Sounion, where a stunning Temple of Poseidon perches dramatically on a sheer cliff above the sea — about an hour and a half’s drive from the city centre. We recommend arriving roughly an hour before sunset, because the sight of the sun dropping through the columns into the sea is genuinely unforgettable. 💡 Local tip: To avoid the really enormous crowds that gather at sunset, set your alarm and come for sunrise instead — you’ll practically have the whole place to yourself.

Thanks to excellent ferry connections from the nearby port of Piraeus, a quick day trip to the Saronic Islands is also very tempting. A particularly wonderful choice is Hydra, where a strict ban on all motor vehicles is in force. Time moves at a completely different pace here, and the alleyways full of donkeys will win you over immediately. For something more historically focused, you can also take a bus to the famous ancient oracle site at Delphi in the mountains, about three hours away.

Where to Go Next from Athens

Once you’ve explored the monuments and soaked up the city’s energy to your heart’s content, Greece offers endless options for your next stop. If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear water and white sandy beaches, have a read of our guide to Where to Go on Holiday in Greece, packed with practical tips.

For lovers of island life, we’ve put together an overview of the Most Beautiful Greek Islands. From Athens you can seamlessly fly on to the world-famous volcanic caldera, which we cover in our article on a Santorini Holiday. If you prefer variety and mountains, explore our tips on a Crete Holiday. Athens airport connects you cheaply to many other great destinations too, whether you fancy the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos or the historic streets of Thessaloniki. And before you leave home, make sure you check our packing list article on What to Pack for a Holiday in Greece.

Frequently Asked Questions