Athens is the capital of Greece and one of the oldest cities in the world. It is renowned for its ancient landmarks, vibrant urban life, and rich cultural heritage. The city offers a unique blend of history and modernity.

Main Sights:

Acropolis & Parthenon

The Acropolis is Athens’ most iconic landmark—a hilltop citadel from antiquity. Its crown jewel, the Parthenon, is a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena and a pinnacle of classical Greek architecture. From the Acropolis, visitors enjoy panoramic views over the city and a journey into the roots of Western civilization.

Acropolis Museum

Situated at the foot of the Acropolis, this modern museum showcases artifacts and sculptures unearthed from the site. Glass floors reveal ancient ruins beneath, and the carefully curated exhibitions merge archaeology with contemporary design in a captivating way.

Ancient Agora

The Ancient Agora was the heart of classical Athens—a place for commerce, politics, and daily life. Today, visitors can walk among the ruins and explore sites such as the remarkably well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus.

Plaka

Plaka is the oldest neighborhood in Athens, enchanting visitors with its narrow alleys, flower-filled balconies, and traditional tavernas. Here, past and present intertwine, with layers of history visible in every stone and corner.

Panathenaic Stadium

Built entirely from white marble, the Panathenaic Stadium is steeped in the history of sports. It hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, with roots tracing back to ancient Panathenaic festivals.

Syntagma Square & Parliament

Syntagma Square, the political heart of Athens, is lively day and night. On its edge stands the Greek Parliament building, where you can witness the ceremonial changing of the guard by the Evzones in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Things to Do in the Area:

• Culture: Visit the Benaki Museum and the National Archaeological Museum.
• Views: Hike up Mount Lycabettus for sweeping panoramic views.
• Shopping: Explore Monastiraki Flea Market and the boutiques of Ermou Street.
• Food: Enjoy traditional Greek cuisine at local tavernas.

Practical Tips:

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is pleasant and crowds are moderate.
• Getting Around: The city has an efficient metro and bus network; many attractions are within walking distance.
• Airport: Athens International Airport (ATH).
• Day Trips: The Temple of Poseidon in Sounion and the ancient site of Delphi are popular excursions.

Santorini is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, whitewashed buildings, and blue-domed churches. A popular destination for weddings and holidays, the island offers breathtaking sunsets and a romantic atmosphere.

Main Sights:

Oia

Oia, located on the northern coast of Santorini, is known as one of the world’s most beautiful places to watch the sunset. Its white buildings, blue-domed churches, and cliffside terraces draw visitors year-round. At dusk, crowds gather to witness the sun dipping below the Aegean Sea.

Fira

Fira is the bustling capital of Santorini, blending traditional Cycladic architecture with modern tourist amenities. The town is full of restaurants, bars, boutiques, and museums. Narrow alleys open up to views of the caldera, and in the evenings, Fira offers lively nightlife and atmospheric sunsets.

Akotiri Archaeological Site

Akrotiri is one of the most important prehistoric sites in the Aegean. A volcanic eruption around 1600 BC buried this ancient Minoan city in ash, preserving its buildings, streets, and frescoes remarkably well. Visiting the covered excavation site offers a fascinating glimpse into Santorini’s distant past.

Red Beach

Located near Akrotiri, the Red Beach is one of Santorini’s most iconic natural landmarks. Its name comes from the reddish lava rocks and cliffs that contrast strikingly with the deep blue sea. Though small and pebbly, its dramatic scenery attracts photographers and nature lovers alike.

Black beach

Santorini’s Black Beaches, such as Perissa and Kamari, owe their dark sand and stones to volcanic activity. These long, wide beaches are popular for swimming and offer beach bars, water sports, and sunbeds. The sand gets hot quickly, so water shoes are often recommended.

Nea Kameni

Just off the coast of Santorini, the volcanic island of Nea Kameni makes for an exciting day trip by boat. Visitors can hike to the crater rim and admire the views of the active volcano. Tours often include a stop at the hot springs of Palea Kameni, where you can swim in warm, mineral-rich waters.

Things to Do in the Area:

• Hiking: Walk the scenic trail between Fira and Oia.
• Wine Tasting: Visit local wineries like Santo Wines.
• Cruising: Take a boat tour around the caldera and visit the hot springs.
• Beach Life: Relax on Perissa or Kamari Beach.

Practical Tips:

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is pleasant and crowds are manageable.
• Getting Around: Local buses serve most parts of the island; renting a car or ATV provides extra flexibility.
• Airport: Santorini International Airport (JTR).
• Accommodation: Popular areas include Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli.

Crete is the largest island in Greece, offering a diverse blend of history, nature, and culture. The island boasts stunning beaches, mountainous landscapes, and charming villages.

Main Sights:

Palace of Knossos

The Palace of Knossos is Crete’s most famous archaeological site and one of Europe’s oldest palace complexes. It served as the administrative center of the Minoan civilization from around 2000–1400 BC. The extensive site features a labyrinthine layout with frescoes, columns, and links to the legendary myth of the Minotaur. It is located near Heraklion.

Elafonisi Beach

Elafonisi is one of Crete’s most beautiful beaches, renowned for its pink sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Its shallow lagoon and sandbars make it especially popular with families and photographers. This protected natural area is also home to rare plants and wildlife.

Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge is one of Europe’s longest gorges, located in the Lefká Óri mountain range within a national park. The 16-kilometer hike takes you through dramatic cliffs, forests, and mountain streams, ending at the village of Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea. It is a favorite among nature lovers and adventure travelers.

Chania

Chania is Crete’s second-largest city, known for its Venetian harbor, colorful buildings, and historical influences. The Old Town features a mix of Greek, Turkish, and Italian architecture. Chania is a vibrant cultural hub, with atmospheric restaurants, museums, and evening markets.

Rethymno Old Town

Rethymno’s Old Town is a well-preserved blend of Renaissance elegance and Ottoman architecture. Narrow alleyways, ornate doorways, and flower-filled balconies create a romantic setting. The area also features the impressive Fortezza fortress and a variety of quaint cafés and artisan shops.

Balos Lagoon

Balos Lagoon is one of Crete’s most iconic postcard landscapes, where white sand meets pale blue and turquoise waters. Located on the northwest coast, it can be reached by boat or via a hike. As a protected area, its serene, tropical-like setting makes it an unforgettable day-trip destination.

Things to Do in the Area:

• Hiking: Explore gorges like Imbros and Richtis.
• Culture: Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
• Beach Life: Enjoy the beaches of Balos and Vai.
• Food: Taste local delicacies such as dakos and Cretan olive oil.

Practical Tips:

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is pleasant and tourist crowds are manageable.
• Getting Around: Renting a car is recommended to explore different parts of the island.
• Airports: Heraklion (HER) and Chania (CHQ).
• Accommodation: Popular areas include Rethymno, Agios Nikolaos, and Elounda.

Rhodes is the largest island in the Dodecanese archipelago, blending rich history with stunning beaches. The island features an impressive medieval Old Town, ancient ruins, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Main Sights:

Rhodes Old Town

Rhodes is the largest island in the Dodecanese archipelago, blending rich history with stunning beaches. The island features an impressive medieval Old Town, ancient ruins, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Lindos

Lindos is a charming whitewashed village on the eastern coast of Rhodes, dominated by an ancient acropolis perched on a high cliff. A winding path leads up to the site, offering breathtaking views of turquoise bays below. In the village, you can wander through traditional houses, visit the ruins of a 9th-century temple, and dine in atmospheric restaurants.

Valley of the Butterflies

Located on the western coast of Rhodes, the Valley of the Butterflies is a lush natural reserve where thousands of colorful butterflies flutter about during July and August. Cool forest trails, streams, and wooden bridges make it a peaceful hiking destination and one of the island’s most popular summer nature spots.

Tsambika Beach

Tsambika is one of the most beautiful sandy beaches on Rhodes – a long golden stretch with clear waters that attract swimmers and sunbathers. The beach is backed by gentle hills and green surroundings, with the nearby Tsambika Monastery offering panoramic sea views. It’s especially suitable for families with children.

Palace of the Grand Master

Located in the Old Town, the Palace of the Grand Master is a striking medieval fortress that once served as the administrative center of the Knights Hospitaller. Today, the restored palace functions as a museum showcasing ancient artifacts, mosaics, and the history of the knights. It’s one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Ancient Kamiros

Kamiros is an ancient city ruin on the west coast of Rhodes that provides a fascinating glimpse into classical-era urban planning. Built on a hillside, the city’s layout includes streets, temples, and water systems. Overlooking the sea, the site exudes a peaceful, historical atmosphere.

Things to Do in the Area:

• History: Visit the Palace of the Grand Master and the Archaeological Museum.
• Cruises: Take a boat trip to Symi Island or Lindos.
• Food: Enjoy local specialties like meze and moussaka.
• Shopping: Explore local craft shops and markets.

Practical Tips:

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists.
• Getting Around: Renting a car is recommended to explore different parts of the island.
• Airport: Rhodes International Airport (RHO).
• Day Trips: Consider visiting Symi Island or the Prasonisi peninsula.

Meteora, located in central Greece, is a unique region where massive sandstone pillars rise dramatically into the sky, topped by Orthodox monasteries. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking landscapes and a profound sense of spiritual peace.

Main Sights:

Great Meteoron Monastery

The Great Meteoron is the oldest and largest of Meteora’s monasteries, founded in the 14th century. Perched on the highest rock pinnacle, it offers stunning views over Thessaly. Visitors can explore historical buildings, religious iconography, an old refectory, and a small museum. The serene atmosphere and impressive architecture make it the centerpiece of any visit to the area.

Varlaam Monastery

Varlaam is the second-largest monastery in Meteora and is known for its striking architecture. Established in the 16th century, it features several churches, Byzantine art, and a museum displaying religious artifacts and frescoes. The monastery is accessed via steep stairs, but the views from the top make the climb worthwhile.

St. Stephen’s Monastery

St. Stephen’s is the most accessible monastery in Meteora, reached via a footbridge. Now an active nunnery, it is known for its beautiful church and preserved traditions. Visitors can admire the ornate interiors and enjoy panoramic views down to the town of Kalambaka.

Roussanou Monastery

Roussanou is a charming, mid-sized nunnery dramatically situated on a narrow rock. Its courtyard is lush and tranquil, and the decorative church draws attention with its intricate details. Roussanou is particularly popular for its romantic and intimate ambiance.

Monastery Trails and Viewpoints

The monasteries of Meteora are connected by numerous well-marked hiking trails. Along the way, several viewpoints offer breathtaking vistas over the rock formations. These trails allow visitors to experience Meteora up close—immersed in nature, history, and silence.

Holy Trinity Monastery

The Holy Trinity Monastery is one of Meteora’s most famous, even featured in the James Bond film For Your Eyes Only. Perched atop a solitary rock tower, it offers dramatic views of the surrounding landscape. Reaching it requires a stair climb, but the reward lies in the peace and power of the scenery.

Things to Do in the Area:

• Hiking: Explore the trails and enjoy spectacular views.
• Photography: Capture stunning sunrises and sunsets.
• Culture: Join guided tours and learn about the monasteries’ history.
• Nature: Enjoy the tranquility and uniqueness of the natural surroundings.

Practical Tips:

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
• Getting Around: Traveling by car or joining guided tours is recommended.
• Accommodation: Kalambaka and Kastraki offer a variety of lodging options.
• Dress Code: Proper attire is required in monasteries; shoulders and knees must be covered.

Zakynthos and Corfu are gems of the Ionian Islands, offering stunning beaches, lush nature, and a rich cultural heritage. Zakynthos is especially known for Navagio Beach and its Blue Caves, while Corfu captivates with its historic Old Town and diverse landscapes.

Main Sights:

Navagio beach

Navagio Beach is one of Greece’s most iconic landscapes and a must-see in Zakynthos. This secluded cove of white sand is famous for the shipwreck of a freight vessel that washed ashore in 1980. The rusting hull lies in the center of the beach, surrounded by steep limestone cliffs. The beach is accessible only by boat, but a viewing platform above offers breathtaking views of the turquoise sea.

Blue Caves

Located on the northern coast of Zakynthos, the Blue Caves are a natural wonder where sunlight and water reflections create dazzling blue hues on the limestone walls. These unique formations and the crystal-clear sea attract visitors especially in the morning when the light is at its best. The caves are best explored by boat, often in combination with a visit to Navagio Beach.

Gerakas Beach

Gerakas is one of the most important nesting sites for the endangered Caretta caretta sea turtle. The beach is part of Zakynthos National Marine Park and is closed at night during nesting season. Visitors can witness conservation efforts on-site and enjoy the soft sand and shallow waters. Movement on the beach is regulated to protect the fragile nests.

Corfu Old Town

Corfu’s Old Town is one of the finest examples of Venetian architecture in Greece and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The heart of the city is full of narrow alleys, colorful buildings, churches, and historic fortresses. A blend of Italian, French, and British influences can be seen in the architecture, public squares, and cafés. The Old Town is also a lively area for shopping and nightlife.

Achilleon Palace

Achilleion is a neoclassical palace built in the 1890s by Empress Elisabeth of Austria (“Sisi”). Located in the village of Gastouri on Corfu, it stands on a hillside in a lush setting. The palace’s ornate interiors and gardens reflect the empress’s admiration for Greek culture. Notable features include famous statues like the “Dying Achilles” and a spectacular view over the Ionian Sea.

Paleokastritsa and Monastery

On the west coast of Corfu, Paleokastritsa is famous for its crystal-clear bays and verdant scenery. Above the village stands the Theotokos Monastery, founded in the 13th century and still active today. The monastery houses a small museum showcasing religious art and icons. The area is especially popular with visitors seeking spiritual calm and natural beauty.

Things to Do in the Area:

• Culture: Visit museums and historical sites.
• Boat Trips: Explore beaches and caves by boat.
• Beach Life: Enjoy the island’s diverse beaches and water sports.
• Diving and Snorkeling: Experience the island’s clear waters and marine life.
• Hiking: Discover nature trails and landscapes; explore the Corfu Trail
• Local Delicacies: Try the island’s olive oil and wines.

Practical Tips:

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists.
• Getting Around: Renting a car is recommended for exploring different parts of the islands.
• Airports: Zakynthos (ZTH) and Corfu (CFU).
• Accommodation: Popular areas in Zakynthos include Laganas and Tsilivi; in Corfu, Gouvia and Paleokastritsa.