12 Most Beautiful Places in Greece to Visit (Before Everyone Else!)

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Trust me on this: Greece hits you differently in person. Standing at the edge of Santorini’s caldera at sunset or floating in Milos’s crystal waters, you realize photos don’t come close. This country somehow manages to be even more beautiful than the postcards promise.

These are the most beautiful places to visit in Greece that make you forget to check your phone. From marble beaches to mountaintop monasteries, each spot feels like it’s trying to outdo the last.

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#1 tip to save money on your trip to Greece

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Greek adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last summer, I flew to Athens for just $370 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
• Food: Save by eating at local souvlaki shops and traditional tavernas away from tourist areas. A filling gyros pita costs around €3-4, while a proper taverna meal runs €8-12 if you avoid the tourist traps. Shop at local bakeries for breakfast – a cheese pie and coffee costs about €4.
• Transport: Get a rechargeable Athena Card for the metro and buses in Athens. For island hopping, book ferry tickets in advance through sites like FerryHopper, and look for off-season deals. The metro from the airport beats taxis, and using local transport instead of tourist buses has saved me hundreds of euros on each trip.

Greece can be surprisingly affordable outside the peak summer season and tourist hotspots. But if you follow the strategies above, you can explore this beautiful country for much less. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Greece:

The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece

Ready to explore all the most beautiful places in Greece? As you might expect, there’s something for everyone in this Mediterranean gem. So keep reading to discover the breathtaking scenery in Greece.

Are you in search of picturesque cities and rich cultural attractions? Or perhaps you’re after a tranquil retreat amidst nature? Whatever your plans, Greece can cater to your desires. Here is the list of pretty places in Greece you should know about:

1. Athens

• 📍 Location: Athens, Attica
• 🏆 Best For: 🏛️ History lovers, ☕ urban explorers, 📸 architecture fans
•  📸 Top Experiences: Acropolis visit, Plaka neighborhood strolls, Mount Lycabettus sunset
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June or September to October 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Ergon House – Chic hotel with an in-house food market near
• Syntagma

Athens is one of those cities where the past and present constantly bump into each other. One second you’re climbing up the Acropolis with views stretching across the city, and the next, you’re grabbing coffee in a modern café tucked into a street that’s been around for thousands of years.

The vibe in Plaka and Monastiraki feels both local and cinematic. You can walk from ancient ruins to flea markets, then chill at a taverna with live music and fresh souvlaki. It’s all super walkable, and the metro makes it easy to bounce between neighborhoods.

Don’t skip the National Archaeological Museum or the changing of the guard at Syntagma Square. For the best sunset view, hike or cable car your way up Mount Lycabettus. The city skyline turns golden, and the Parthenon lights up in the distance. It’s unreal.

2. Santorini

• 📍 Location: Santorini, Cyclades
• 🏆 Best For: 🌅 Iconic sunsets + volcanic beaches
• 📸 Top Experiences: Oia sunset views, Red Beach swim, Akrotiri ruins
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to early July or September 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Aethrio Hotel – Rooftop views in the heart of Oia

Santorini feels like it’s been designed to blow your mind. From the whitewashed cliffside homes of Oia to the dark volcanic beaches, everything here looks straight off a postcard. The island’s volcanic past created dramatic landscapes, and that caldera view never gets old.

You’ll want to explore Fira for its lively shops and cliffside cafes, then head out to places like Red Beach or Kamari for sun and sea. The hike from Fira to Oia is a top-tier activity. It’s scenic, not too difficult, and full of photo spots.

For something ancient, the Akrotiri archaeological site offers a glimpse of a Minoan city frozen in time. And yes, the sunset in Oia really does live up to the hype, just make sure you grab a good spot early. Santorini’s slower pace and natural beauty make it unforgettable.

3. Mykonos

• 📍 Location: Mykonos, Cyclades
• 🏆 Best For: 🎉 Beach parties + boutique vibes
• 📸 Top Experiences: Little Venice sunsets, Super Paradise Beach, Delos day tri
•  📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Rochari – Trendy stay with pool views over Chora

Mykonos gets the spotlight for its nightlife, but there’s more here than clubs and cocktails. The heart of the island is Mykonos Town (Chora), where narrow alleys wind between white buildings and splashy shops. It’s perfect for lazy strolls and casual café hopping.

Little Venice is the go-to spot for sunset drinks, while the nearby windmills give you that classic background for your Instagram posts. For beach days, Super Paradise and Paraga are buzzing, with loungers, DJs, and clear turquoise water.

Need a history fix? Hop on a boat to Delos, a sacred island filled with ruins and ancient temples that nobody should miss. It’s a quick ride but totally changes the pace. Mykonos is flashy but fun, and it somehow balances wild nights with low-key luxury in a way that works.

4. Meteora

• 📍 Location: Thessaly, Central Greece
• 🏆 Best For: 🧘 Spiritual escapes + 🥾 Epic hikes + 📷 Surreal landscapes
• 📸 Top Experiences: Tour Great Meteoron Monastery, hike the trails, watch sunset from Psaropetra
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring or early autumn 🌸🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Doupiani House Hotel – Quiet and scenic guesthouse near Kastraki

Meteora is one of the most dramatic landscapes in Greece. Picture towering sandstone pillars crowned with centuries-old monasteries that seem to float above the earth. Out of the original twenty-four, six are still active and open to visitors, with the Great Meteoron Monastery standing as the largest and most iconic.

You don’t have to be religious to appreciate the sights and vibes. The trails here lead through thick forest, rocky passes, and viewpoints that make you pause every few steps. Psaropetra Viewpoint is a favorite for catching the glow of sunset over the stone spires. It looks so perfect that it’s almost too good to be true.

The nearby town of Kalabaka is a great base, but staying in Kastraki puts you closer to the magic. Meteora’s blend of natural wonder and spiritual legacy gives it a timeless pull.

5. Crete

• 📍 Location: Southern Aegean Sea
• 🏆 Best For: 🏝️ Variety of beaches + 🏛️ Ancient ruins + ⛰️ Hiking and nature
•  📸 Top Experiences: Hike Samaria Gorge, explore Knossos Palace, swim in Balos Lagoon
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to early June or September 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Avli Lounge Apartments – Historic boutique hotel in Rethymno

Crete offers a bit of everything: beaches, ruins, mountains, and some of the best food in Greece. At Knossos Palace, you’ll walk through the heart of Europe’s oldest civilization. It’s where the legend of the Minotaur was born and where real history lives in the ruins.

If you want nature, the Samaria Gorge trail is a standout. It runs through rugged cliffs and pine forests before dropping you near the Libyan Sea. For something more relaxing, Elafonisi Beach has pink sand, and Balos Lagoon is perfect for a quiet float in shallow turquoise water.

Crete’s cities mix cultures and styles. Chania has a beautiful Venetian harbor, while Rethymno feels laid-back and romantic. Inland villages like Archanes offer great wine, fewer tourists, and a slower pace. You could easily spend weeks here and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface.

• Read next: Most Beautiful Greek Islands

6. Thessaloniki

• 📍 Location: Northern Greece, Central Macedonia
• 🏆 Best For: 🏛️ History lovers + 🎶 music heads + 🍽️ foodies
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visit the White Tower, explore Ano Poli, eat at Ladadika
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June or September 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Modernist Thessaloniki – Sleek boutique stay near Aristotelous Square

Thessaloniki brings together layers of Greek, Roman, and Ottoman influence in a way that feels surprisingly relaxed. The city opens up along the waterfront, where the White Tower and long seaside promenade set the tone for easy walks and sea views.

The real magic happens in the upper town. In Ano Poli, you’ll pass stone houses, quiet alleys, and lookout points that show off the city from above. Historical spots like the Rotunda, Arch of Galerius, and old Byzantine walls pop up while you’re just casually exploring.

Evenings are best spent in Ladadika, where tavernas spill out into cobbled streets and music fills the air. Thessaloniki mixes history with everyday life in a way that feels both lived-in and creative. It’s less polished than Athens, but that’s exactly what makes it memorable.

7. Zakynthos

• 📍 Location: Ionian Islands, western Greece
• 🏆 Best For: 🏝️ Dramatic beaches + 🐢 nature lovers + ⛴️ boat day trips
• 📸 Top Experiences: Navagio Beach view, Blue Caves tour, visit Marathonisi Island
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Zante Maris Suites – Adults-only retreat close to Tsilivi Beach

Zakynthos is the kind of place that delivers on beach hype. Navagio Beach is its crown jewel with white sand, turquoise water, and a shipwreck stranded in the middle of it all. The cliff viewpoint is a must, but boat tours get you right into that electric blue water.

The island has more than just famous beaches. Blue Caves are perfect for kayaking or boat rides, with arched passages that glow in the morning sun. If you’re into wildlife, head to Marathonisi Island, a key nesting site for endangered loggerhead turtles.

Away from the coast, villages like Volimes and Kiliomenos slow things down with olive groves and traditional tavernas. Zakynthos knows how to impress quickly, but if you stay long enough, it shows you its quieter, more natural side too.

• Read next: Best Spots in Zakynthos

8. Delphi

• 📍 Location: Mount Parnassus, Central Greece
• 🏆 Best For: 🏛️ Ancient history fans + 🏔️ mountain views + 🌄 mythology lovers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visit the Temple of Apollo, hike around the ruins, see the Charioteer statue
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to early June or September 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kastalia Boutique Hotel – Comfy mountain lodge with views of the valley

Delphi feels like walking through a myth. Built into the slopes of Mount Parnassus, it overlooks a massive valley filled with olive groves and blue haze in the distance. In ancient times, this was considered the center of the world, and the vibe still feels important.

At the archaeological site, follow the Sacred Way to the Temple of Apollo, where the Oracle once gave prophecies to kings. The site includes a theater, a stadium, and crumbling treasuries from different city-states. It’s open-air and spread out, so bring good shoes for walking on uneven stone paths.

After the ruins, head to the Delphi Archaeological Museum, which holds impressive finds like the Charioteer of Delphi and statues from the temples. The mix of altitude, views, and ancient history makes Delphi a rare place where you can learn and just breathe.

9. Nafplio

• 📍 Location: Argolic Gulf, Peloponnese
• 🏆 Best For: 🏛️ Romantic getaways + 🏖️ relaxed history + 🧿 coastal strolls
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climb Palamidi Fortress, roam Old Town, explore Bourtzi Castle
•  📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June or September 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: 3Sixty Hotel & Suites – Elegant stay right in the heart of Old Town

Nafplio is the kind of town where you can walk everywhere, and you’ll actually want to. The Old Town is filled with neoclassical buildings, tiny boutiques, and shady squares perfect for people-watching. You’re always close to the sea, and the energy stays calm even in high season.

The hike up to Palamidi Fortress rewards you with sweeping views over the bay and rooftops below. You can walk the 999 steps or take a short drive up. Down at the harbor, Bourtzi Castle sits on a small islet and looks magical during golden hour.

Nafplio has history, but it doesn’t feel like a museum. Local tavernas serve grilled fish and wine from the nearby hills, and the stone streets light up in the evenings. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying longer, the charm here sticks with you.

10. Hydra

• 📍 Location: Saronic Gulf, near Athens
• 🏆 Best For: 🚶‍♀️ Slow travel + 🎨 artsy vibes + ⛵ day trips
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swim at Avlaki Beach, hike to Prophet Elias Monastery, explore the port
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to early July or September 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hydra Hotel – Restored mansion just steps from the harbor

Hydra is one of those rare places where time feels slower. With no cars allowed on the island, everything moves at walking or donkey pace. The harbor is the heart of it all, lined with stone houses, local tavernas, and boats bobbing in every direction.

A short walk brings you to quiet swimming spots like Avlaki Beach, where the water stays calm and clear. If you’re up for it, hiking to the Monastery of Prophet Elias gives you sweeping island views and a peaceful break from the port crowds.

Hydra has a long-standing creative vibe, once attracting artists like Leonard Cohen. It still feels like a hidden retreat close to Athens, especially on weekday visits. Grab a book, find a café by the water, and settle into a pace that’s refreshingly different from the mainland.

11. Kefalonia

• 📍 Location: Ionian Islands, western Greece
• 🏆 Best For: 🌿 Nature lovers + 🚗 road trippers + 🏖️ low-key beach time
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visit Myrtos Beach, boat through Melissani Cave, explore Assos Village
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to early September ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Alley Boutique Hotel and Spa – Central Argostoli stay with easy beach access

Kefalonia is one of the biggest Ionian islands, but it still feels peaceful and wild. The beaches here are next-level, with Myrtos Beach having bright white cliffs and unreal blue water that’s perfect for photos and swimming. It’s a must-stop on any island road trip.

In the center of the island, take a boat ride through Melissani Cave, where sunlight lights up the water in deep blue and green tones. Small towns like Assos and Fiskardo offer pastel houses, quiet harbors, and local seafood that’s worth slowing down for.

Kefalonia rewards curious travelers. You’ll want to rent a car and explore hidden coves, mountain villages, and lookout points that aren’t in every guidebook. It’s less crowded than Santorini or Mykonos but just as beautiful, especially if you’re into nature and easygoing island life.

12. Rhodes

• 📍 Location: Dodecanese Islands, southeastern Aegean
• 🏆 Best For: 🏰 History buffs + 🏖️ sunseekers + ⛲ old town wanderers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Explore Rhodes Old Town, visit Lindos Acropolis, relax on Tsambika Beach
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to June or September 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: In Camera Art Boutique Hotel – Stylish stay tucked inside the medieval Old Town

Rhodes feels like a history museum with a beach attached. The Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval quarters in Europe, with stone streets that twist past crusader castles, Ottoman-era buildings, and tucked-away cafés. You can easily spend a full day wandering through its gates, climbing the ancient walls, or checking out the Palace of the Grand Master.

Take a bus or drive to Lindos, a whitewashed village beneath an ancient acropolis. Climbing to the top gives you epic coastal views, and the bay below is perfect for swimming. There’s also Tsambika Beach, where soft sand stretches out beside clear water.

Rhodes is easy to explore but full of variety. One day you’re walking medieval walls, the next you’re sunbathing or grabbing meze by the sea. Whether you’re into ruins or just want a beach with character, Rhodes brings together the best of both worlds.

• Read next: Top UNESCO Heritage Sites

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Greece

Looking to broaden your understanding of the most picturesque locations in Greece? Here are some frequently asked questions I receive about the best Greek attractions and activities:

Where is the prettiest place in Greece?

While the beauty of Greece is subjective and can vary depending on personal preferences, many travelers are particularly enchanted by Santorini. This island is famous for its iconic white and blue architecture, stunning sunset views, and the shimmering Aegean Sea. Its picturesque charm has earned Santorini the title of one of the most beautiful places in Greece.

However, the beauty of Greece extends beyond Santorini. From the towering rock formations of Meteora to the pristine beaches of Zakynthos and the Venetian charm of Nafplio, Greece is dotted with breathtaking sights that captivate travelers.

Where is the best place to go in Greece for the first time?

If you’re visiting Greece for the first time, Athens is a great place to start. As the capital city, it’s a hub of Greek history and culture. Offering attractions like the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, and the National Archaeological Museum.

For first-timers who want a taste of the famous Greek islands, Santorini and Crete are highly recommended. Both islands offer a good mix of history, natural beauty, beaches, and delightful local cuisine.

Remember, the best places in Greece can vary depending on your interests. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a beach enthusiast, Greece has something for everyone.

What is the best time to visit Greece?

The best time to visit Greece is during the spring (April to early June) and fall (September and October). During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. The summer months (July and August) can be crowded, especially on the islands, and temperatures can soar.

Which part of Greece is the nicest?

Greece is a land of diverse beauty, so determining the “nicest” part is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, a few standout regions and islands include the following:

1. Santorini: Known for its iconic sunsets, caldera views, and picturesque white-washed buildings with blue domes.
2. Mykonos: Popular for its vibrant nightlife, sandy beaches, and charming old town.
3. Crete: The largest Greek island, boasting varied landscapes, historic sites like Knossos, and gorgeous beaches such as Elafonisi.
4. Athens: The capital city, where ancient history comes alive with sites like the Acropolis and Parthenon.
5. Meteora: Famous for its monasteries perched atop towering rock formations, offering breathtaking vistas.
6. Rhodes: A mix of beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and the historic old town.
7. Corfu: With its Venetian influence, lush landscapes, and lovely beaches.
8. Peloponnese: A region rich in history with ancient sites like Olympia, Mycenae, and Epidaurus, combined with beautiful landscapes and coasts.

Ultimately, the “nicest” part of Greece will depend on whether a traveler is seeking historical immersion, beach relaxation, nightlife, natural beauty, or a combination of these. Every corner of Greece has its unique charm, and each visitor might find their own piece of paradise.

Is Greece expensive to visit?

The cost of a trip to Greece can vary depending on the season, location, and your travel style. Generally, Greece is considered a reasonably affordable European destination. The accommodation, food, and attractions can be cheaper than in other Western European countries. Especially if you venture away from tourist hotspots or travel during the off-peak season.

What part of Greece has the most beautiful beaches?

Greece is renowned for its stunning beaches, and while beauty is subjective, several islands and regions are particularly famous for their breathtaking coastlines. Here are some of the top areas in Greece known for their beautiful beaches:

1. Crete: The largest of the Greek islands, Crete boasts a diverse range of beaches.
   • Elafonissi Beach: Known for its pinkish sand and turquoise waters.
   • Balos Lagoon: A unique spot with crystal-clear waters, accessible by boat or a hike.
   • Vai Beach: Famous for its palm forest.
2. Mykonos: Part of the Cyclades, Mykonos is famous for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches.
   • Paradise and Super Paradise Beach: Popular for parties and a lively atmosphere.
   • Elia and Kalo Livadi: More relaxed and family-friendly.
3. Santorini: While more famous for its caldera and sunsets, Santorini also has unique beaches due to its volcanic nature.
   • Red Beach: Named for its striking red cliffs and dark sand.
   • Perissa and Kamari: Black sand beaches with a backdrop of the Mesa Vouno Mountain.
4. Zakynthos (Zante): Part of the Ionian Islands, Zakynthos is home to one of the most photographed beaches in the world.
   • Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach: A secluded cove with a shipwreck, accessible only by boat.
5. Lefkada: Another Ionian island, Lefkada boasts some of the most turquoise waters in Greece.
   • Porto Katsiki and Egremni: Both are stunning beaches with white cliffs and azure waters.
6. Rhodes: Located in the Dodecanese, Rhodes offers a mix of sandy and pebble beaches.
   • Tsambika Beach: A long sandy beach with shallow waters.
   • Anthony Quinn Bay: A picturesque bay surrounded by rocky hills.
7. Milos: Part of the Cyclades, Milos is known for its diverse and unique coastal formations.
   • Sarakiniko: Famous for its moon-like white rock formations.
   • Kleftiko: Known for its caves and rock formations, accessible by boat.

Is Greece safe for travelers?

Yes, Greece is generally a very safe country for travelers. The crime rate is relatively low, and Greeks are known for their hospitality towards visitors. However, like anywhere, it’s always important to take precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas, and be aware of your surroundings.

Final Thoughts on Visiting the Beautiful Places in Greece

In the end, the most beautiful places in Greece are not just about the stunning vistas, the azure sea, or the historic ruins. They’re about the experiences they provide, the memories they help create, and the way they make you feel.

From Santorini’s Volcano to Meteora’s monasteries and Nafplio’s charming streets, beauty here transcends the physical, touching your soul.

Greece offers a captivating blend of natural wonders, ancient history, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. Each destination mentioned in this article brings a unique charm. Creating a mosaic of experiences that make Greece such a compelling country to explore.

So, when you’re planning your next adventure, remember these beautiful Greek destinations. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a seasoned traveler, Greece’s timeless beauty will always leave you longing for more.

Your Greek odyssey awaits!

Happy Travels! -Jon