As its mythical Sirens were reputed to do, Greece has long lured travelers to its scintillating shores.
Across an expansive island archipelago, traditional whitewashed villages, azure seas and waterfront tavernas enchant visitors. Greece’s mountainous mainland, rich in UNESCO World Heritage–listed ancient sites, treasure-filled museums and spirited cities, is no less fascinating. As you contemplate your dream Greece itinerary, consider these 10 favorite places to add to it.
Easy to tackle on foot, Athens is also one of Europe’s liveliest metropolises – and strolls through neighborhoods like old-town Plaka, flea market–famous Monastiraki and hip Pangrati are highlights. By night, catch a live band in gritty Gazi, catch a movie at an outdoor cinema in Thission or go bar-hopping off the main commercial street Ermou.
Local tip: Book tickets online for a reinvented Greek tragedy or dance troupe performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus amphitheater as part of the Epidaurus Festival, which takes place each summer.
Planning tip: Save a couple of days to spend on Kimolos, a small island northeast of Milos reachable by ferry. One of its most impressive beaches is Prassa, where coarse, blindingly white sand shows off shallow, aquamarine waters to full effect.
Make sure you visit the Palace of the Grand Master, which features stunning Roman and Early Christian floor mosaics, and the Church of Our Lady of the Castle.
Planning tip: Book a state-licensed tour guide to show you around the old town for a full picture of its long and fascinating history.
Weave your way through the narrow alleyways of the postcard-perfect village of Oia amid blue-domed churches. Bathe in thermal springs warmed by an active volcano, splay out on black-sand beaches and don’t miss the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri, which features an advanced drainage system.
Planning tip: Book a private tour of Santorini’s smaller wine estates, whose new generation of vintners is breathing new life into traditional wines like mezzo and Nychteri.
Wallet-friendly tavernas line the laid-back fishing settlements of Loutro and Meriha, while wind-whipped Serifos, a two-hour ferry ride from Piraeus, features sweeping sandy beaches, sheltered bays, ghostly mining relics and a jewel-like hilltop capital whose neoclassical town hall stands sentinel over the buzzy main square.
Planning tip: Thessaloniki is also renowned for its fish and seafood, served with fervor and pride whether it’s a backstreet taverna or an upscale restaurant. Bookings are recommended for the latter.
Afterward, join a flotilla for a leisurely cruise around Corfu, dropping anchor at Kalami Bay (of The Durrells fame) and lush Paleokastritsa. In Corfu Town, admire Venetian fortresses, the French-designed Liston Arcade and The Palace of St Michael and St George, built during the island’s British administration.
Planning tip: Few venture to Erikousa island, northwest of Corfu, which is blessed with pristine beaches and shallow cerulean seas.
Stroll along the Venetian Harbour in Hania, lined with Ottoman monuments such as the Kioutsouk Hasan Mosque. Trek up to Byzantine and Venetian fortresses such as the Fortezza in Rethymno and Kastelli in Hania. In the east, the 16th-century Venetian fortress on Spinalonga islet reveals a harrowing, more recent past as a leper colony.
Among noteworthy museums are the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Chania’s Maritime Museum of Crete, and the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna in Rethymno.
Revelers can choose from the thumping bars lining Little Venice in Hora, as well as beach bars, cabaret restaurants and iconic clubs like seaside Cavo Paradiso, where illustrious music DJs fire up the crowd.
Planning tip: August is Mykonos’ busiest month. It’s also when you can witness the hottest DJs and surprise appearances by music artists, including prominent hip-hop names.