Top 9 Things to Do in Greece

As the cradle of Western civilization, Greece possesses a charm that transcends space and time. And it is here that the country's most authentic beauty lies: every corner, every street, and every square tells a story of triumph, tragedy, and eternal love. Embark on a journey to discover the vestiges of this glorious past and learn about the heroic deeds that made Greece one of the world's greatest empires by visiting some of the most outstanding archeological sites in the country.

Recommended sites:

• The Acropolis in Athens: Among the top things to do on your trip to Athens is certainly a tour of the Acropolis, an ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop dominating the city and featuring some of the most iconic masterpieces of classical Greek architecture, such as the Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike. Consider hiring a guide to unravel the intricate history embedded in these ancient stones.
• The Palace of Knossos in Crete: Step into the Minoan era and explore the labyrinthine corridors of the Palace of Knossos in Crete. Besides its intricate layout, the building boasts some vibrant frescos providing a glimpse into the opulence and rituals of Minoan royalty. Worth a visit is also the Queen's Megaron, featuring an alabaster throne and a lightwell, demonstrating the Minoans' mastery of combining functionality with aesthetic appeal.
• The Sanctuary of Delphi: This sacred place is located on the summit of Mount Parnassus, part of the Pindus mountain range. At the center of the sanctuary was once the Oracle of Delphi, where priestesses uttered cryptic prophecies inspired by the god Apollo, attracting pilgrims seeking guidance and insight into their future. This historic site still exudes an aura of mystery and sacrality that can capture even the most skeptical visitor.

Best time: Although these attractions are open year-round, plan your visit in the spring (April to early June) or fall (late September to early November) to avoid the excessive crowds and scorching heat of summer days.

Insider tip: Seek out the Tholos of Delphi, an often overlooked treasure. While exploring the Tholos, venture off the main path for a hidden vantage point that unveils a breathtaking panorama of the entire site.

Lace up your hiking boots and prepare to embark on an adventure through the diverse natural landscapes of Greece. From rugged mountain trails to coastal paths kissed by the Aegean breeze, the country offers hikers a wide range of trails suitable for all skills and fitness levels.

Recommended hiking trails in Greece:

• Samaria Gorge Trail: This path winds through Europe's longest gorge and is part of a World's Biosphere Reserve located southwest of the city of Crete. Surrounded by towering cliffs, the trail leads to the quaint village of Agia Roumeli, bathed by the azure waters of the Libyan Sea.
• Mount Olympus Trail: With a backdrop of ancient mythology, this trail winds through enchanting forests and alongside crystal-clear streams. Encounter cascading waterfalls and, if you're feeling ambitious, trek toward the mountain's summit, or venture down the Enipeas Gorge.
• Valley of the Butterflies: Suitable for beginners and less experienced hikers, the trail winds through green expanses home to a unique butterfly species, the panaxia quadripunctaria butterfly, and reaches the canyon of Pelekanos River. Along the way, you will find wooden bridges over pools and falls of water, paved footpaths, and little benches to enjoy the scenery!

Best time: Take advantage of early spring’s mild weather to admire nature’s awakening as you hike to some of the country’s most breathtaking scenic spots.

Insider tip: Many hiking trails in Greece are well-marked, but some remote areas, especially on less touristy islands, might not have clear signage. Consider downloading offline maps on your phone and bringing a physical map as a backup. Additionally, look for cairns or painted markers on rocks to stay on the right path.

Greece is much more than beautiful beaches and ancient ruins, it is also the land of moussaka, souvlaki, pita, and gyros, all traditional dishes that perfectly capture the most authentic essence of the country—warm, spicy, and vibrant. If you do not consume meat, Greek cuisine also features a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as arakaslatheros (Greek peas with tomato and dill) and kolokithokeftedes (a sort of zucchini fritters).

Recomended locations:

• Tamam Restaurant (Rhodes): Located in the medieval town of Rhodes, the restaurant offers a romantic setting with a menu that fuses Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. Try their lamb kleftiko and moussaka for an authentic Greek feast. Find a few trips to Rhodes here.
• Toumba Taverna (Thessaloniki): A family-run taverna in Ano Poli, Thessaloniki, known for its hearty portions of grilled meats, including juicy souvlaki, kebabs, and mezedes (appetizers).

Best time: Indulging in delicious traditional food is never the wrong time!

Insider tip:Food sharing is commonplace in Greece so offer your dining partner a taste of your meal!

Imagine sailing on the azure waters of the Aegean, with a gentle breeze caressing your face and a fresh drink in your hand as you hop from one enchanting island to another. This is not a pipe dream, but what you can expect from a cruise tour in Greece. Whether you prefer to relish in the glamorous vibes of the Cyclades, explore the ancient marvels of the Peloponnese, or enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Dodecanese, every archipelago caters to different needs and expectations.

Best boat tours:

• Santorini sailing and sunset cruise: Admiring the mesmerizing beauty of the island from the deck of a sailboat or catamaran is surely one of the best things to do in Santorini. Boat tours often include stops at iconic sites such as the Red Beach, White Beach, and volcanic hot springs that would otherwise be very difficult to reach by other means of transportation. Snorkeling opportunities and delicious Greek barbecues on board are often part of the experience. However, the highlight is undoubtedly the chance to witness Santorini's legendary sunset from the water, a truly magical moment.
• Delos and Mykonos day trip: Another very popular option is to go on a cruise on your Mykonos tour to the nearby island of Delos, an archaeological wonder and UNESCO World Heritage Site, formerly known for being the birthplace of the Greek gods Apollo and Artemis. After exploring Delos, return to Mykonos to wander through its charming streets and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.

Best time: The optimal time for a cruise through the Greek Islands is in the late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months the weather is pleasantly warm, crowds are smaller and prices are lower, which allows for a quieter, but no less exciting, tour.

Insider Tip:Experience the magic of the islands early in the morning or during the evening. Many cruise passengers tend to explore the islands during the day, but their true essence comes alive when the sun sets or rises.

With its crystal-clear waters and rich marine biodiversity, the Aegean Sea invites adventure seekers to explore the hidden treasures that lie beneath its (apparently) tranquil surface, from underwater caves to ancient shipwrecks, and kaleidoscopic seahorse population. If this is your first experience, don't worry—several local dive operators organize daily individual and group sessions and will teach you the fundamentals and best practices to approach this exciting water sport safely and responsibly.

Recommend destinations:

• Chios: Venture off the beaten path to Chios, mostly known for its mastic villages (mastihohória) and the Tampakika windmills. However, perhaps the best part of the island appears when you dive beneath the waves, you will be able to unveil a world of sea caves, arches, and seagrass meadows. inhabited by octopuses, seahorses, and a variety of colorful nudibranchs.
• Zakynthos: Another incredibly popular scuba diving hotspot is off the coast of Zakynthos, specifically near the port of Keri, which offers as many as 12 sites for both novice and experienced divers. They range from wall dives rich in marine life to dark and gloomy cave dives that force you to navigate cracks and crevices with the help of a flashlight.

Best time: The diving season in Greece typically runs from May to October. During this period, the weather is warm, and the water temperature is comfortable for diving. However, consider that dive sites can be more crowded in the summer months, so plan accordingly.

Insider tip: If you're a night diving enthusiast, don't miss the enchanting experience waiting for you off the shores of Mikri Vigla in Naxos!

In Greece, the spirit of celebration is woven into the very fabric of the nation. Festivals are not simply events, but vibrant expressions of tradition, music, dance, and a deep sense of community. That's why attending a Greek festival is often the best way to understand and witness the authentic essence of the country, much more than relaxing on its beautiful beaches or eating seafood at a fine seaside restaurant.

Best locations:

• Athens: The capital city of Greece pulsates with a myriad of festivals throughout the year. The Athens Epidaurus Festival, held in ancient theaters, showcases classical performances, while the Athens Festival in summer transforms the city into an artistic spectacle.
• Crete: This legendary island hosts the Heraklion Summer Arts Festival, featuring contemporary performances against ancient backdrops, as well as the Rethymnon Wine Festival in July, a celebration of local viticulture. For a more intimate experience, the Agios Nikolaos Folklore Festival unveils Cretan traditions on a Crete tour.

Best time: While festivals abound year-round, the summer months, from June to September, offer a spectacular array of events across the country, such as the Athens Epidaurus Festival taking place in July, and the Festival of Flowers (Protomayia) in May.

Insider tip: Engage with locals to discover smaller, neighborhood Panigiri events for an authentic experience.

Leave aside the bustling cities and ancient ruins and discover the quieter side of this Mediterranean country, passing through picturesque landscapes and rural villages where time never seems to pass. This is where you will be able to make the most meaningful encounters and learn how to look at life with a fresh, more relaxed perspective: after all, the beauty is in little things!

Best destinations:

• Mani Peninsula: Stone towers dotting the landscape, olive trees expanses, and a rich historical heritage dating back to the ancient Spartans; what better place to experience the true essence of traditional Greek lifestyle? Start your exploration in Areopoli, the capital of the region, and then move to the village of Limeni, perched on the edge of the sea, to encounter a different “face” of the country, far from the mundanity and glamor of more popular destinations.
• Zagori: Located right in the heart of the country, this mountainous village is a treat for those looking for a relaxing and heart-warming vacation. A stone’s throw from Zagori are the stone bridges of Kokkoros and Kipoi, and the traditional villages of Papigo and Vikos.

Best time: Anytime is good, but be aware that winters might be quite harsh in the countryside.

With over 13,000 km of coastline, a scenic road trip is a must for any Greek adventure! From the historic harbors of Athens and Thessaloniki to the hidden beaches of Lindos and Ipsos and the rural villages of Oia and Amo Symi, driving is an alternative— exciting—way to discover the country.

Best routes:

• Crete's Northern Coast: Start your drive in the picturesque town of Chania and travel eastward along Crete's northern coast. Pass through Rethymnon and Heraklion, culminating in the charming town of Agios Nikolaos.
• Eastern Pelion Peninsula: From Volos, a city embraced by the Pagasetic Gulf, this route stretches along the eastern coast of the Pelion Peninsula until the village of Trikeri, where the road meets the Aegean. Expect to admire some of the best sunsets of your life while hitting the road!

Best time: Spring is an excellent time for a road trip in Greece. The weather is mild, and the landscapes are lush and green after the winter rains. The same goes for early fall, with the exception that you will be able to witness the vibrant colors of fall foliage.

Insider tip: Remember to check the specific driving and licensing requirements before your trip.

Olive oil is a quintessential part of the Mediterranean diet, and the Greeks know it well! With its temperate and mild climate, the country is such a haven for the production of this "liquid gold" that it is now inextricably linked to its rich cultural heritage. Make sure to book a visit to local olive mills and participate in guided tours that will take you through olive oil production the next time you come to the country.

Best locations:

• Athens surroundings: Even in the vicinity of the capital city, Athens, you can find olive groves and mills offering tasting experiences. Consider taking a day trip to nearby regions like Marathon or Attica to visit some of the best olive oil producers in the country.
• Lesvos: This north Aegean island is known for its high-quality olive oil, produced mainly from the distinctive Kolovi olive variety. Consider visiting local cooperatives or family-owned estates to support the local economy and delight your taste buds!

Best time: Participate in the olive harvest, which usually takes place from late October to mid-November, a unique experience that will allow you to truly connect with the locals and learn about the country from a privileged perspective.

Insider tip: When sampling the olive oils, pay attention to the peppery kick at the back of your throat, it's a sign of high-quality oil.

Culture, history, nature, and good food: these are the four pillars of any vacation in Greece worth its name! Discover the legacy of ancient civilizations, hike along scenic trails, cruise Mediterranean island gems, and sample authentic baklava for a real-life Mamma Mia experience.

What are you waiting for? Book your next Greek adventure now and experience these 9 things to do in Greek. Check out our travel guides to find valuable insights on the best time to visit Greece. If inspiration strikes talk to our local experts and book your perfect customized trip to Greece.