Exploring the incredible things to do in Greece changed my life from the moment I set foot on its sun-soaked shores. This breathtaking country captivates with ancient history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality that stays in your heart forever. I’ll guide you here through both iconic ruins that draw crowds and hidden gems off the beaten path that make a Greek adventure truly unforgettable.
Introduction: Why It Should Be Your Next Destination
The time I saw the golden pink shades of the sunset spread against the white-washed structures of Santorini, I knew Greece was incredible. This Mediterranean paradise marries ancient wonders and natural beauty, the likes of which few countries can replicate. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Santorini or things to do in Athens, this diverse country delivers unforgettable experiences.
Greece isn’t only about famous islands or ancient sites — it’s a nation with a myriad of experiences to uncover. From swimming in azure waters to lying on golden sands, from eating souvlaki to genuine moussaka in a family-run taverna, Greece leaves an impression that lasts a lifetime.
Planning Your Greek Adventure
Best Time to Visit Greece
Getting your timing right can be the key to your Greek experience:
|
Season |
Months | Pros |
Cons |
| Spring | April-May | Mild weather, fewer crowds, blooming landscapes, chances to cover most things to do | Some island services may not be fully operational |
| Summer | June-August | Warm sea, full tourist season, vibrant nightlife | Crowded attractions, highest prices, intense heat |
| Fall | September-October | Pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists, warm sea | Some facilities begin closing on smaller islands |
| Winter | November-March | Authentic local experiences, lowest prices | Many island businesses closed, cooler weather, limited ferries |
How to Reach Greece
Reaching Greece is easier than you might expect:
- Air: The main airport is the Athens international Airport, which connects directly with countless metropolitan world cities. These include popular islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, which have international connections during the summer.
- By Sea: Ferries are available if you are coming from Italy or Turkey. I sailed on a ferry from Kusadasi to Samos, which was also an adventure in itself. Click here to read my Turkey adventure.
Getting Around:
- Ferries: A key way to hop from island to island, especially on slow boats and fast services
- Domestic Flights: A time saver for long distances, particularly between Athens and remote islands
- Buses: KTEL buses link most destinations on the mainland and are surprisingly comfortable
- Rental Car: Perfect for exploring the mainland of Greece and larger islands on your own time
Accommodation at Greece: What You Need to Know
There are accommodations to suit every taste and budget in Greece, whether in a luxury resort or family-run guesthouse. Here’s my guide to the best accommodations:
Athens
The colorful capital has everything from boutique hotels in the Plaka district to apartments near the Acropolis.
My Pick: I stayed in Koukaki, a neighborhood a short stroll from the Acropolis but isolated from the throngs of tourists. It was great to have more local life experiences than some of the Greek attractions.
Santorini
Famous for its breathtaking caldera views, Santorini has some unique accommodations:
- Oia: Renowned for sunsets and high-end cave homes
- Fira: Cheaper places in a great location to cover most of the things to do in Greece, Santorini
- Kamari: Black-sand beaches and family-friendly resorts
Mykonos
Party lovers have plenty of choices on this cosmopolitan isle:
- Mykonos Town: Lively location for things to do in Mykonos Greece
- Platis Gialos: Beach resorts close to other beaches
- Ornos: Family-friendly area with excellent eateries
Create
The largest of the Greek islands, Crete has a wide range of accommodation:
- Chania: Venetian harbor and picturesque old town
- Heraklion: Good base for visiting Knossos
- Agios Nikolaos: The city with a “bottomless” lake
Top Things to Do in Greece
Historical Recommendations: Ancient Wonders
- Greece’s spectacular past unfolds at these impressive sites:
- The Acropolis (Athens): Stand at the top of this ancient citadel to watch the sunset over Athens.
- Ancient Olympia (Peloponnese): Stepping onto the fields where the ancient Olympic Games took place was like getting in a time machine.
- Delphi (Central Greece): The ancient Greeks believed this was the center of the world, and they were right that the mountain setting was as awe-inspiring as the ruins.
- Palace of Knossos (Crete): The labyrinthine ruins of Europe’s oldest city were high on our list of things to do in Crete, Greece.
- Ancient Corinth: The site features well-preserved ruins, including the Temple of Apollo and the chance to learn about life in ancient Greece.
Island Heaven: 15 Amazing Islands to Visit in Greece
With more than 200 inhabited islands, the choice can be overwhelming. Here are my favorites:
Santorini: The poster child of Greek islands lives up to the hype. The views of calderas, blue-domed churches and cliff sides make it memorable. Wine tasting, sunset cruises, and exploring ancient Akrotiri are all things to do in Santorini, Greece.
Mykonos: Aside from the world-renowned parties, I found adorable windmills, gorgeous beaches and the incredible archeological site of Delos. Water sports and navigating the winding streets of Mykonos Town are among the activities you can do on Mykonos Island, Greece. Try your Mykonos shore adventure here.
Crete: This massive island needs at least a week to explore its diverse landscapes, from the stunning Samaria Gorge to the pink sand beach of Elafonisi. Crete attractions range from historical sites such as Knossos to beaches and mountain villages.
Rhodes: The medieval Old Town took me back to the time of the Knights of St. John, and the Valley of Butterflies was beautiful. Try the famous swim cruise here
Naxos: Less touristy than its nearby islands, Naxos won me over with its genuine villages, marble artisanship and the famed Portara (the doorway to Apollo). Take a Perivoli farm experience and wood-fire cooking class here.
Athens: City of Gods
The Greek capital deserves more than a layover en-route to the islands. Things to do in Athens, Greece: Some more activities-
- Visit the Acropolis: Besides the Parthenon, there’s the Erechtheion and its famed Caryatid statues. Book the highly demanded tour here in advance.
- Wander in Plaka: I wandered through Athens’ oldest neighborhood, getting lost and finding cute cafés and artisan shops.
- Acropolis Museum: This beautiful museum displays artifacts from the Acropolis in a well-conceived space.
- Experience Changing of the Guard: The ceremonial changing of the guard at Syntagma Square occurs every hour (the most elaborate takes place on Sundays at 11 a.m.).
- Hike up Lycabettus Hill: The highest point in Athens includes sweeping views that are particularly spectacular at sunset.
Top Mainland Greece Places to Visit
It’s not all about the islands—don’t miss mainland Greece! Some of my favorite finds were:
- Meteora: These soaring rock mountain–topped monasteries appear to defy gravity and logic.
- Nafplio: Greece’s first capital drips with charm in its narrow streets, Venetian fortress and seaside promenade.
- Thessaloniki: Greece’s cultural capital has excellent food, Byzantine churches and an easygoing vibe.
- Zagori: This mountainous region displays another side of Greece, with its stone villages and the Vikos Gorge.
Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path
Some of my favorite experiences emerged from journeys off the well-beaten tourist track:
- Folegandros: This wee Cycladic destination provides Santorini with gleaming blue-and-white pleasure without the masses.
- Pelion Peninsula: An area of mountains with villages, wooded slopes, and stunning beaches.
- Mani Peninsula: The bleak landscape, tower houses and Byzantine churches make this part of Greece feel utterly unique.
- Ikaria: A “Blue Zone” of the world — where people live far and beyond — the island is known for its hot springs, slow and steady culture and genuine experiences.
- Leros: This island in the Dodecanese has fascinating Italian architecture, lovely bays and few tourists.
Best Beaches in Greece
Greece has some of the Mediterranean’s best beaches:
- Navagio Beach (Zakynthos): The iconic “Shipwreck Beach,” with its dramatic cliff setting and crystal waters, did not disappoint.
- Elafonisi (Crete): The pink-hued sand and shallow, warm waters make this beach-lovers paradise.
- Sarakiniko (Milos): The smooth, ivory volcanic terrain underfoot made it feel like I was on the moon.
- Myrtos Beach (Kefalonia): The high cliffs and bright blue water make for an arresting setting.
- Porto Katsiki (Lefkada): Steep steps lead down to a turquoise sea backed by white cliffs.
Cultural Highlights: Things to Do in Greece
Experiencing Greek culture made my trip memorable:
- Take a Cooking Class: This was so much fun and delicious; I learned how to make authentic Greek dishes from a local chef in Crete.
- Witness Easter celebrations: Greece’s Easter celebrations, especially if you are in Greece near Greek Orthodox Easter, are unforgettable candlelit processions and traditions.
- Visit a family winery. Small-production family wineries on islands such as Santorini are happy to welcome guests for tours and tastings.
- Join a Traditional Festival: Villagers host “panigyria” in honor of their patron saints, with music, dancing and feasting.
- Visit the Local Markets: The central market in Athens was a feast for the senses, with vendors selling everything from olives to spices.
Best Family Things to Do in Greece with Kids
Surprisingly family-friendly, Greece is filled with family-focused activities. My favorite family things to do include:
- The Labyrinth Theme Park (Crete) — Centered on the legend of the Minotaur, this park features mazes and activities focused on Greek mythology.
- Hellenic Children’s Museum (Athens): Interactive exhibits stimulate young minds.
- Hit the Water Parks: Aquaplus, in Crete, and Waterland, near Thessaloniki, provide watery thrills.
- Go on a Mythology Tour: Several child-friendly tours have been designed to bring ancient myths to life.
- Beach Days: Many of Greece’s beaches feature shallow, calm waters ideal for budding swimmers.
Greek Culinary Journey
Greek cooking is about fresh ingredients and straightforward preparations:
- Traditional Tavernas: For the most authentic experience, eat in family-run eateries. Seek out places that are packed with locals. Believe me, this would be your best things to do in Greece.
- What to Try: Regional specialties beyond souvlaki and moussaka include Cretan dakos, tomato fritters from Santorini or bougatsa from Thessaloniki.
- Street Food Gyros, koulouri (sesame bread rings) and loukoumades (honey-soaked dough balls) are great quick meals.
- Cooking Classes: I took a class in Crete that included a stop at the market, and I learned techniques I still apply in my kitchen.
- Food Markets, such as Athens’ Central Market and neighborhood laiki (weekly markets), are a good way to learn about Greek ingredients.
Practical Tips for Things to Do in Greece
Cost Budgeting for Greece Tour
Greece can be surprisingly cheap if you do your homework:
|
Expense Category |
Budget Option | Mid-Range |
Luxury |
| Accommodation | €25-€50 (hostels, budget rooms) | €50-€150 (mid-range hotels) | €150+ (luxury hotels, especially on popular islands) |
| Meals | €15-€25/day (street food, self-catering) | €25-€50/day (tavernas, cafes) | €50+/day (upscale restaurants) |
| Transportation | Public transport, slow ferries | Rental cars, faster ferries | Private transfers, flights between islands |
| Things to Do | Free beaches, hiking, public museums | Guided tours, boat trips | Private tours, yacht charters |
| Daily Total | €60-€100 | €125-€250 | €250+ |
Money-Saving Tips:
- Travel in the shoulder season (May/June or September/October)
- Avoid visiting the most popular islands or mainland destinations and try to avoid super expensive things to do
- Dine off the beaten path, where locals dine
- Take public transport rather than taxis
- If there is an option, consider living in apartments with kitchens and cook some of your meals.
Length of Trip to Greece —How Long Should You Spend in Greece?
You could spend months in Greece but here’s what I suggest:
- 1 Week: Athens (2 days) + a potential island group (5 days)
- 2WEEKS: Athens (3 days) + islands of the Cyclades (7 days) + mainland site (like Delphi or Meteora) (4 days)
- 3 Weeks: Athens and vicinity (5 … two different island groups (10) … northern Greece (6)
Two weeks felt like the sweet spot — long enough to cover the major highlights without feeling rushed.
Packing Tips for Things to Do in Greece
In my opinion, these things are mandatory:
- Wearable footwear for uneven ancient sites and things to do in Greece
- Some lightweight, breathable clothing (and one light layer for evenings)
- Swimwear and quick-dry towel
- Protective gear from the sun (hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen) during most things to do in Greece
- (Note: Modest clothing for visiting monasteries and churches)
- Pack a reusable water bottle. You’ll need it while covering many things to do in Greece
- First-aid kit and any prescription medications
- European power outlet adapter
- Seasickness medication for any extensive island-hopping
Some More Expert Tips for Things to Do in Greece
Little tips that helped immensely during my trip:
- Brush Up on Some Greek: Just a few words — like “kalimera” (good morning) and “efharisto” (thank you) — went a long way while covering most of the things to do in Greece.
- Take Siesta Time: During afternoons, many businesses close, especially outside of tourist zones. Plan accordingly to cover most of the things to do in Greece!
- Water: Tap water is safe on the mainland but not on most islands. Most hotels have bottled water available.
- Ferries: In peak season, reserve island ferries ahead of time, but be ready for schedule changes due to weather, which may spoil your most things to do in Greece.
- Cash is the King: Other than the most things to do in Greece (and the famous tourist spots), you will cash for smaller establishments and isolated places.
- Toilet Paper Etiquette: On numerous islands, plumbing systems are unable to handle paper — please use the bins provided.
- Be Aware: Greek drivers may speed, and mountain roads often lack guardrails. Drive defensively!
- Museum Passes: For multiple things to do in Greece, the combo pass is of great value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it safe to visit Greece as a tourist?
A: Overall, Greece is a very safe country with low crime levels. Exercise the usual caution with valuables, especially in crowded tourist sites and for things to do in Greece.
Q: Is English spoken in Greece?
A: Yes, particularly for all things to do in Greece. Most Greeks in hospitality speak decent English, less so in remote villages.
Q: What’s a good tip in Greece?
A: You don’t expect to tip as much as in the US. It is common for Americans to round up the bill or add 5-10% for most things to do in Greece, if the service has been excellent, though it is not required.
Q: Can I drive myself on a Greek island?
A: It really depends on your itinerary. You’ll need a car on the main island to cover, to cover al the things to do in Greece, but you won’t need one in Athens or on the smaller islands.
Q: How should I hop between island for things to do in Greece?
A: Most islands are connected by ferries, and there are faster versions for a premium to cover all the things to do in Greece at a faster pace.
Q: Is it safe to travel for things to do in Greece alone?
A: Absolutely! Greece felt very solo-friendly to me. The locals are very friendly and you would get numerous options for things to do in Greece.
Conclusion
Greece is more than a place—it’s a feeling that lingers long after you’ve left its shores. Whether standing in the shadow of the Parthenon or swimming in the turquoise waters of remote coves, the best things to do in Greece represent a perfect distillation of history, natural beauty and authentic culture.
Traveling through Greece taught me to slow down and savor moments of simple pleasure — fresh food with new friends, heart-stopping sunset vistas, and wisdom found in ancient stones.
From things to do in Athens to explore the hidden gems, this marvelous country is generous to those who arrive with hearts wide open and a sense of wonder.
Make your plans for things to do in Greece, but allow for spontaneity — often, the unplanned taverna meal or the detour to a tiny village is the highlight of your trip. Greece has a talent for delivering precisely what you need, even when you’re unaware that you are searching for it.