cities to visit in mainland greece

Mainland Greece Travel Guide

Greece › Mainland Greece Best Places Updated: April 17, 2023 By Santorini Dave

• Where to Stay in Athens
• Where to Stay in Nafplio
• Where to Stay in Monemvasia
• Where to Stay in Thessaloniki
• Where to Stay in Delphi
• Where to Stay near the Meteora
• Best Greek Islands
• Where to Go in Peloponnese
• Where to Go in Halkidiki

The Meteora monasteries near the village of Kalambaka in central Greece.

The 12 Best Places to Visit in Mainland Greece Athens Greece’s capital and perhaps the most important mainland destination; any trip to mainland Greece requires a stopover for at least a day or two. Delphi One of Greece’s best must-see archaeological sites; located in southern Greece, just across the Gulf of Corinth from the Peloponnese. Ioannina A bustling, picturesque lake town that’s the gateway to northwest Greece and the key to Epirus – the Zagoria villages, Metsovo, the Epirus Riviera (Parga, Preveza, Syvota). Gytheio A small but important port in the South Peloponnese that’s growing in popularity as a destination. Weekly ferry link to Kythira and Crete. Kalambaka The main outpost for visiting the incredible (and must-see) Meteora Monasteries, built on immense rocky pillars. Kalambaka also serves as an important transit link to the mid-north (Grevena, Kastoria, Kozani). Kastoria A beautiful lakeside town similar in style to Ioannina. Great for nature, skiing, and transit connections to Greece’s mid-north and northern border regions. Monemvasia Charming stone village on a small island off the east coast of the Peloponnese (but linked to the mainland by a short causeway). A magnet for painters, writers and readers. Nafpaktos A pretty, breezy, and historically important seaside town on on the north coast of the Gulf of Corinth. Nafplio Classy Peloponnese seaport retreat with neo-classical buildings and many excellent hotels. Olympia Along with Athens and Delphi, Olympia is one of of Greece’s three must-see archaeological sites. A small destination, but well situated for touring the west Peloponnese. Thessaloniki A strategic tourist travel position and airport hub in the central north, gateway to Greece for land arrivals from the Balkans and gateway to the Halkidiki peninsula. Veria A central and sizable northern town close to the Vergina and Pella archaeological sites, as well as the popular escarpment towns of Naousa and Serres.

Athens Athens is the nation’s capital and heartland, and an essential stop on any trip to the Greek mainland. Though it is a sprawling city of well over half a million, the city center is surprisingly small; all attractions listed here can be visited on foot. It’s also remarkably safe and welcoming, though it may appear chaotic and edgy at first. Athens is a great destination year-round, with the best times to visit being the spring and fall. It’s chilly (but relatively dry) in the winter months; midsummer sees the city emptying itself of locals, and can get unbearably hot. Allow for at least three nights in Athens, and stay as centrally as you can afford. Things to Do in Athens There are many great things to do in Athens , but if you have only 2-3 days, here are some of the highlights. Acropolis and Acropolis Museum : Athens is chock-a-block full of museums and ancient sites. If you must choose, then at least visit the Acropolis and the Parthenon Temple and its accompanying Acropolis Museum. • Map Concert at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus : If you plan to attend a concert in Athens, do it here. The atmosphere is electric. Check the Why Athens website for details of events during your visit. • Map Dining in Plaka or Psyri : A night out dining on the street is a must in Athens. The Plaka is touristy but has the location – right under the Acropolis. Psyri offers a more authentic experience. • Map: Plaka , Psyri Mount Lycabettus : For the highest and most spectacular views of Athens and the surrounding area, ascend to the summit of Lycabettus (Lykavittos) Hill. Take the cable car from the Kolonaki district, have lunch or a drink at the top then walk down. • Map The Changing of the Guard : It’s touristy, it’s a show, and it’s a shame not to see it. The Parliament building on Syntagma Square has two permanent Evzone Guards keeping watch, every hour on the hour, they swap places with new guards. Go on Sunday at 11am for the full show with elaborate costumes and a marching band. • Map Monastiraki Flea Market : Anything and everything can be bought in this chaotic bric-a-brac market that runs from Monastiraki Square westwards. Swords, vinyl records, coffee pots, and a thousand other items can be found here. • Map Recommended Athens Hotels AthensWas Hotel – One of a growing number of small boutique hotels opening in Athens’ inner core. AthensWas combines style, finesse, and spacious comfort with the convenience of a central location. • +30 21 0924 9954 • Map New Hotel – A superbly renovated central downtown hotel two minutes’ walk from Syntagma Square. Great rooftop bar and restaurant. • +30 21 0327 3000 • Map Royal Olympic Hotel – Among the royalty of Athens’ classic luxury hotels, the ROH simply enjoys a stunning location. Panorama rooms are unparalleled for the views over the Temple of Olympian Zeus. • +30 21 0928 8400 • Map Getting To and From Athens As the capital of the country, Athens has the richest and widest choice of transport options in Greece. Offering air, rail, road, and sea links, travelers to Greece will almost inevitably pass through Athens at some stage of their itinerary. Be advised that most areas in Greece, including Athens, have public transportation strikes throughout the year. These strikes can affect all forms of transit, including, buses, trains, ferries, flights, and taxis. During strikes no buses, no ferries, and only a handful of trains and flights will depart on time (or at all); taxis tend to be the least affected mode of transport. Though strikes can occur any time, there is always a huge strike on May 1. Avoid booking any ferries, flights, trains, or buses that day . Ferry : The Piraeus ferry port is about 10 km south of the city center and has direct ferries to most Greek islands (with the exception of the Ionian islands on the west coast of Greece). The most popular routes to Mykonos , Naxos , Paros , Santorini , and Crete have several sailings per day in high season. Air : Athens’ Eleftherios Venizelos Airport is a modern well-run establishment, with connections to all continents. The airport’s 35 km distance from the city center makes for a potentially costly transfer; options to reach the city are the bus, the metro, or taxi. Bus to/from Airport : The cheapest way to get into city center is the dedicated bus service that links the airport with the Kifissos bus station, the port of Piraeus, and the center. A bus ticket from the airport to Athens city center costs €6. Metro to/from Airport : The Athens Metro runs services to city center, Piraeus, and to Kiato in the Peloponnese. A metro ticket from the airport to central Athens costs €10. Taxi to/from Airport : A taxi from the airport to Athens’ city center will cost between €40 and €50. Taxis can be found outside the arrivals area. A good alternative is the Welcome Athens chauffeur service, which can be scheduled in advance. Getting Around Athens Foot : Athens is not a large city to walk around if you stick to the city center. You can cover most of the major sites on foot – use your favorite maps app to guide you accordingly. Buses, Trolleys, Trams, and Metro : Athens’ urban transit service, while efficient, can be crowded and confusing to first-time users. Rechargeable, multi-use Athe.ena tickets can be purchased and recharged at all Athens transport ticket offices, as well as the automatic ticket issuing machines located at transit stops. They can be used to transfer from one mode of transport to another, and are chargeable for 90-minute, all-day, or 5-day increments. Specialized tourist tickets are available that include 1 round trip to/from the airport by Metro or Express Bus, and 3 days of unlimited travel on all other modes. Purchase these before boarding. As mentioned above, transportation strikes are commonly held on May 1 each year, so avoid booking major travel on that date. Taxi : Taxis are cheap here in comparison with the rest of Europe, but hailing one often involves stiff streetside competition with other ride seekers. Drivers will sometimes pick up multiple passengers who are heading in the same direction. A handy smartphone app called Beat is a neat way of getting the cab you want at a time you need one. Suburban train : A wider though still limited service that runs in parallel to some routes to the Metro. Its main difference is that it runs out as far as Corinth and Kiato on the north coast of the Peloponnese. Athe.ena tickets can be used for the urban section of this line. Train : Athens’ main rail hub, Larissa Station , is located 3 km from Syntagma Square, near the M2 line Metro station and reachable by the No 1 or No 790 bus. Another important station is the SKA ( Railways Center of Acharnes ), located near the Attiki Odos ring road and handy if you are taking the Airport Suburban Rail line to connect with a mainline train service. Car : while Athens may look undrivable, it is no worse than any other major city. With the use of a GPS device or Google Maps on your phone, navigating is not difficult. The easiest way to get out of Athens is to make for the toll road known as Attiki Odos and follow it: to the east for the airport, to the west for the Peloponnese and to the main north junction at Metamorfosi for the North. The freeway from Piraeus joins this same junction. Delphi Built next to a cleft in the mountains of Central Greece, with a stunning view to the sea far below, Delphi was thought by the ancients to be the center of the known world. Princes and paupers alike would journey to Delphi to seek counsel from the mystic Delphic Oracle; the ancient temples and adjacent (and enchanting) Greek village have drawn dreamers, philosophers, writers, and hopefuls ever since. Today’s Delphi consists of an extensive archaeological site and museum, along with a couple of smaller, though not unimportant, classical offerings. Delphi village is a busy thoroughfare of two parallel streets crammed with quality hotels , restaurants, cafés and tourist shops. The center is compact and can be easily traversed in an hour or so. Delphi is worth at least a two-night stay to allow for a slow exploration of the Oracle site, and to soak up the still-present mystical atmosphere while watching the sunset over a panoramic dinner. Things to Do in Delphi The Temple of Apollo : This sprawling hillside sanctuary is where the High Priestess (the Delphic Oracle) held court; visitors in antiquity came from far and wide to seek her prophesies. Today, it’s the prime reason visitors come to Delphi. Read up beforehand to understand what it was all about, and come early to avoid the heat and crowds. Entry is €12. • Map The Kastalian Spring and Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia : Of perhaps lesser interest, but interesting all the same, the former is the site of the spring where ritual purification took place. It is best enjoyed late at night or at sunrise. The latter is Delphi’s most famous landmark photo op site (the ruins with the columns in a circle); this would be the first stop by ancient visitors on their pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Apollo. Map: Kastalian Spring , Sanctuary of Athena Delphi Archaeological Museum : The museum complements the Sanctuary site with model reconstructions, helpful historical information, and important artifacts from the site. Visit the museum first to gain context (go early – or late afternoon – to avoid the crowds), and head to the Sanctuary afterward. Your €12 ticket covers both entry fees. • Map Recommended Delphi Hotels Kastalia Boutique Hotel – An airy and friendly establishment with exceptionally comfortable rooms and mind-blowing views. An in-house restaurant and panoramic terrace make for an all-inclusive package. • +30 22 6508 2205 • Map Amalia Hotel – A sprawling hotel set in the hillside just outside of town, with an on-site restaurant and large outdoor swimming pool. • +30 2265 082101 • Map Acropole Delphi Hotel – Cozy, folksy lodging just below the main street in a quieter part of the village. Unparalleled views out over the valley below. • +30 22 6508 2675 • Map Getting To and From Delphi The most common forms of visitor transport to and from Delphi are bus tours and private vehicles. The only other way in and out is by bus. Bus : The main bus route runs back and forth from Athens, leaving Athens from Bus Station B at Liosion. Buses are plentiful along this route, and details are easier to follow at the Fokida KTEL Bus Station website . Travelers wishing to travel from Delphi to Meteora or Olympia will have to make at least one transfer: For Olympia, take a Patra-bound bus (change in Itea on the same ticket). In Patra walk 550m northeast from the arrival bus terminal on the port (corner Gerokostopoulou and Othonos & Amalias) to the Pyrgos bus station. From Pyrgos take a local bus or train to Olympia (see Olympia entry). For Meteora, take a bus to Amfissa (via Itea) and swap for a bus to Lamia. From Lamia you can either train it (from Leianokladi) to Kalambaka, or bus it via Trikala. Taxis : Though the village center is easily traversed on foot, taxis can be helpful in getting to some Delphi’s more distant attraction. They congregate opposite the bus stop at the eastern edge of the village. • Tel: +32 22 6508 2752 Be advised that most areas in Greece, including Delphi, have public transportation strikes throughout the year. These strikes affect all forms of transit, including, buses, trains, ferries, flights, and taxis. Though strikes can occur any time, there is always a huge strike on May 1. Avoid booking any major bus, train, or ferry trips that day. Ioannina Ioannina is the bustling mountain capital of the northwest Greek region of Greece known as Epirus. Think of it as Greece’s Scotland – with soaring, stunning mountains, and a lake with its own inhabited island. Linger and relax with an ouzo on ice by the lakefront, or take a slow boat ride to the Island for a meal of eels, trout, or even frogs legs. Ioannina has had a checkered past, from its founding in the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century AD, through the Ottomans and a bloodthirsty dictator. Today it is an important university town with a lively student café scene. It features a Turkish-inspired Old Town and walled ‘Kastro’ and is the gateway to Epirus’ little known Zagorochoria villages that seem to be straight out of Grimm’s, with fairytale stone houses, stone bridges over rushing rivers, and the awe-inspiring Vikos Gorge (the deepest in the world). Things to Do in Ioannina The Island :The only lake-island in Greece where people live all year round. It consists of a compact village, a monastery, and a shaded walking path around the island. It is home to the Ali Pasha Museum , dedicated to Ioannina’s infamous Ottoman-Albanian despot who ruled with an iron and often vicious hand. A passenger ferry boat leaves from the waterfront by the Kastro every 20 minutes. • Map The Castle/Kastro : More a walled mini-city than a castle the ‘Kastro’ consists of a living community, some small hotels, a large Byzantine museum, and a former mosque. Cobbled streets meander at will, but you will never get lost. • Map The Lake : No tour boats explore the vast green expanse of Lake Pamvotis, but cyclists can circumnavigate the Lake in about an hour and a half (24 km) on quiet rural lanes, a lakeside road, and a dedicated cycle path near the town itself. • Map Zagori Villages and Vikos Gorge : A 45-minute drive to the northeast of Ioannina leads visitors to the stunning scenery and topography of these two chart-topping sights. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring sight of Vikos Gorge from Monodendri. Take in a sophisticated rural lunch in the villages of Papingo or Mikro Papingo. Map: Zagori , Vikos Gorge Recommended Ioannina Hotels Saz City Life Hotel – Re-purposed from tired inner-city office buildings, Saz offers trendy urban accommodation in the heart of Ioannina. • +30 26 5107 8888 • Map Guesthouse Politia – One of the forerunners of the boutique studios scene, this cozy space occupies choice real estate in the Old Town. • +30 26 5102 2235 • Map Villa Vilielmini – Less a hotel and more luxury apartments, Villa Vilielmini enjoys a location close to the lakefront and its café scene. • +30 26 5103 0515 • Map Getting To and From Ioannina Travel to and from Ioannina has been difficult in the past, with air connectivity only to Athens and road transport slowed down by tortuous access routes and the town’s mountain setting. Since the opening of the Ionian Way (south) and the Via Egnatia (east-west), however, road transport to Ioannina is super fast and in 2018 Ioannina opened up international air links with flights to Europe and the Middle East. Bus : Ioannina’s busy bus terminal is located by the lakeside at Georgiou Papandreou 45 ; the KTEL bus website is rather clunky and ageing, but is at least offered in English. Connections are pretty well spread across the country you can even take a bus to Chania in Crete. Air : Air links are mostly still with Athens, but charter companies from places such as Sweden and Israel have recently started flying into Ioannina. The King Pyrros Airport is 4.5 km northwest of the town. Taxi : Order a local taxi by calling +30 26 5104 6777. As with Athens and Delphi, Ioannina is subject to Greece’s public transportation strikes throughout the year, but especially on May 1. Avoid scheduling any flights or buses that day. Gytheio Gytheio is a pretty, laid-back port town with an enticing and genuine Greek atmosphere that’s rare among Greek tourist ports these days. Once the port of Ancient Sparta, Gytheio is now the de facto ‘capital’ of the Laconian Mani region of the Mani Peninsula and primarily makes its living from fishing. Cafés and restaurants line its waterfront where a recently established pedestrian walkway allows for ambling and chatting before dinner. A small islet offshore adds to the mix, while south of the village a long sandy beach provides for swimming and sun-baking. Gytheio also serves as a primary contact point between the Greek mainland and Crete, with options to visit the islands of Kythira and Antikythira in between. Gytheio’s friendly and sunny disposition makes it an excellent choice for a casual sojourn for two to four days while touring the area or while waiting for the boat to Crete. Things to Do in Gytheio Marathonisi Islet : Said to be the ancient Cranae where Helen and Paris of Troy consummated their affair, thus irresponsibly starting the Trojan War. Today called Marathonisi, which means ‘fennel island’, this long, cigar-shaped islet features a lighthouse and a small tower, and is linked to Gytheio by a narrow walkway – perfect for a sunset stroll. • Map The Mani Peninsula : The Mani is the central finger-like peninsula of the Peloponnese and wild both in topography and its people, who are known to be stubbornly and proudly independent. Travel writer Patrick Leigh Fermor was inspired by this region to write his ‘Travels in the Southern Peloponnese;’ he settled and lived in Kardamyli in Messinian Mani. Travel slowly and take in the textures and subtleties of the region. • Map Recommended Gytheio Hotels Olive Yard Boutique Hotel – This small guest hotel north of central Gytheio offers a graceful and relaxing rural space to unwind and watch the sun go down. • +30 27 3302 9210 • Map Saga Pension – Directly over the best restaurant in town, in central Gytheio, right next to the port. • +30 27 3302 3220 • Map Mareggio – Fresh and modern beachfront suites and residences (some with private pools), 5 minutes north of town. • +30 27 3302 1113 • Map Getting To and From Gytheio Gytheio is an outpost, end-of-line destination, linked indirectly by bus to most Peloponnese destinations – typically via Sparti. It also has a little known and useful car ferry to Kissamos in Crete. Bus : The bus stop and ticketing agency is near the junction of Ermou and Vasileos Georgiou, a 650 m hike to the waterfront. Ferry : The car ferry Ionis makes a weekly run to and from Kissamos in Crete, though booking tickets online is next to impossible. See Rozakis Shipping Agency ( Vasileos Pavlou 5 , tel: +30 27 3302 2207) on the waterfront for bookings. Taxi : To get around by taxi call English-speaking Canadian-Greek Angeliki (tel: +30 69 4543 8209) for all the local gossip and lore as well a good way to get to local attractions. As mentioned above, Gytheio is subject to the public transportation strikes held throughout the year, with the largest taking place every May 1. Avoid scheduling any buses or ferries that day. Meteora (Kalambaka) The bright and cheery rural town of Kalambaka is the jumping-off point for visits to the soaring, suspended monasteries of Meteora. These monasteries grew out of a desire for prayerful isloation and the necessity for self-preservation, used by late Byzantine monks and hermits as a refuge and hideout against Ottoman incursions. Over the years, the monastery buildings grew organically and are now quite impressive in their size and appearance. Travelers can spot the tall sandstone pinnacles from afar as they rise unexpectedly from the surrounding plain, and the effect only gets more startling as you draw closer. The smaller settlement of Kastraki – a 15-minute walk west – is actually the heart of the Meteora monasteries and a more charming area to stay, though you can easily access the monasteries via a foot trail from the northern end of Kalambaka itself. While the bulk of visitors come for the monasteries, more athletic visitors come to climb the pinnacles themselves. The Kalambaka-Kastraki combination is a pretty destination package in itself with enticing restaurants , rustic wood and stone hostelries, and a vibrant atmosphere worthy of a day or three of lingering. The area is also an important transit point for travelers to Epirus or Western Macedonia. A winding 36 km road north leads to the junction with the Via Egnatia, where travelers can turn west for Ioannina or East for Kozani and Kastoria. Things to Do in Kalambaka The Meteora Monasteries : There are six major monasteries worth visiting, but unless you are a walker, or really like monasteries, you are better advised to stick with just two or three. Ideally, you will need transport to get around. The Great Meteoron is the biggest and most well-known. Start with that and choose another one or two based on proximity, or love of hiking. A small charge is levied to visit each monastery, and a strict dress code is enforced. Rock Climbing : You will inevitably spot specks of red, yellow and other visible colors edging their way up the vertical rock walls. These are real people doing what they love: climbing. If you climb, Meteora offers some serious challenges, and ClimbGreece can help you out. Hiking : You can enjoy Meteora without the need to actually visit the monasteries by hiking along a pretty well-defined series of hiking trails. Visit Meteora offers some excellent hiking and sightseeing tours. Recommended Kalambaka Hotels Hotel Doupiani House – Beautiful old-world retreat in Kastraki with a classy bar and fireplace lounge, plus a stone garden terrace with amazing views. • +30 2432 077555 • Map Tsikeli Hotel – Eco-friendly and adults-only, this stylish hotel in Kastraki offers e-bike rental and rooms with hot tubs or saunas. • +30 2432 022438 • Map Divani Meteora Hotel – Kalambaka’s more upscale traditional hotel. It offers an airy, modern interior and two swimming pools – one indoors, one in a lovely garden. • +30 24 3202 3330 • Map Getting To and From Kalambaka Kalambaka is a popular entry point for the monasteries of Meteora and is linked by rail and bus. Car : Travelers with cars are advised that the access route from the Via Egnatia to the north is a slow and winding route with many turns and bends – it may not suit people prone to motion sickness. Bus : The centrally located Kalambaka bus station (a simple street corner affair) is a subsidiary to the larger and modern Trikala bus terminal , 23 km away. Most ongoing services will involve a change of bus at Trikala. Trikala is linked to the most important mainland destinations. It takes about 6 hours to get from Athens to Kalambaka by bus (including the bus change in Trikala). Train : Kalambaka also boasts a train station with most services terminating at Paleofarsalos, where travelers can change trains for Thessaloniki or Athens, though there is one daily direct to/from service between Kalambaka and Athens (which takes just under 5 hours). Taxi : Call a local taxi at +30 24 3202 2310. Like all major towns in Greece, Meteora (Kalambaka) holds annual public transportation strikes on May 1 and various dates througout the year. Avoid booking trains, buses, or any major travel on that day. Kastoria Kastoria is a pretty and picturesque town in western Macedonia that perhaps doesn’t receive as many international visitors as it deserves. Similar in many ways to its cousin Ioannina to the southwest, Kastoria features a large lake, as well as a prominent peninsula that juts out into the lake and upon which the Old Town is built. It is renowned for its serenity, beautiful nature, and skiing, with dappled mountain ranges and some of the best old mansion accommodation in the north. Very popular with domestic Greek travelers, Kastoria built its wealth on the fur trade and is still a major sale center for fur coats and fur products. Kastoria is not on any major thoroughfare but can be comfortably reached with an easy 40-minute drive off the cross-country Via Egnatia to the south. Things to Do in Kastoria Old Kastoria : Kastoria’s Old Town is focussed on the Doltso neighborhood, a labyrinthine collection of winding streets and imposing merchant mansions. Wandering this compact area, you will admire some very impressive old buildings, several of which have been turned into hotels for visitors. • Map Byzantine Museum : This impressive collection of Byzantine art and religious exhibits is worth an hour or two of study. Easy to find on Plateia Dexaminis in the center of the Old Town. • Map Cycling : The lake provides for a perfect circumnavigation on two wheels. O Podilatis hires out all kinds of bikes from serious to leisurely. The two and four seaters are great for fun with a group – and everyone gets to pedal. • Map Nestorio River Festival : Rock your socks off at this annual music fest by the river. Now into its 40th year, this five-day rockathon features contemporary and traditional Greek music. It takes place towards the end of July and you can camp. Buses take you there and back from Kastoria. • Map Arcturos Bear Sanctuary : Bears and other wild creatures have existed in this area for centuries, but have not always been appreciated. Located 37 km northeast of Kastoria, this wildlife sanctuary is worth a visit. Stop in the attractive nearby village of Nymfaio for lunch, or even to stay the night. • Map Recommended Kastoria Hotels Hotel Doltso – The best of Kastoria’s old town lodgings. Grandiose décor in a pleasing neutral palette. Cozy, comforting, and calming luxury dressed in stone. • +30 24 6702 2022 • Map Orologopoulos Mansion – This is another popular and spacious choice in old Kastoria. Tradition and luxury blend seamlessly in this striking looking building. • +30 24 6702 1604 • Map Vergoula’s Mansion – Traditional house offering old style comfort, lovingly renewed. Very convenient location in the Old Quarter. • +30 24 6702 3415 • Map Getting To and From Kastoria Car : Kastoria is a little bit ‘out on the edge’ and not on any major road routes, so it really lends itself to being visited by car – especially if you wish to see some of the surrounding countryside and make excursions to sights in western Macedonia. Bus : Nonetheless, it has a good intercity bus network and a centrally located bus station . Check the KTEL website for timetables. Kastoria is directly linked by bus to Thessaloniki, Athens, Volos, Kozani and Ioannina. Air : Kastoria is linked by air to Athens via Kozani with Astra Airlines . Taxi : Call a local taxi at +30 24 6702 1222. Avoid booking flights or buses on May 1, when the annual public transportation strike takes place. Monemvasia A Byzantine fortress town on the southeastern coast of Laconia. Dubbed Greece’s Gibraltar due to its location on the base of a large rock rising from the sea, Monemvasia is quite unique in Greece – a medeival village of picturesque cobbled streets and lovingly restored stone houses. In existence since the 6th Century AD, Monemvasia served as a refuge from mainland invasions (when it was still disconnected from the mainland) and later developed into an important trade and maritime center. Passed from the Franks to the Venetians and the Ottomans and finally to the Greek State after the War of Independence (1821), the village languished in relative obscurity in later years. Recently ‘discovered’ by curious travelers, Monemvasia is now a magnet for painters, writers, and readers – one of Monemvasia’s more famous sons is the Greek poet Yannis Ritsos who was born and lived in the village, and is now interred in the cemetery there. Things to Do in Monemvasia The Kastro : The best thing to do in Monemvasia is amble aimlessly along its Byzantine tangle of alleyways and back streets. The historic village is peppered with little churches, squares, and small restaurants and cafés. • Map Upper Town : From the heart of the village you can walk up to the ruins of Upper Town, now abandoned but once the site of the settlement’s grandest homes and churches – including beautiful Hagia Sophia. Picture-perfect views over the roofs of the houses out to sea make the strenuous climb worthwhile. • Map Yannis Ritsos’ Home : Of interest to poets and the literary-minded, Ritsos’ House is located at the beginning of the village just after the entry gate. Monemvasia’s most famous son, this iconoclastic left wing bard fought dictatorships with words. • Map Recommended Monemvasia Hotels Kinsterna Hotel – 5-star luxury estate with gardens, vineyards, olive groves, and stables. 10 minutes south of the castle. • +30 27 3206 6300 • Map Moni Emvasis Luxury Suites – The best of the romantic and historic castle properties, close to the gate and with excellent views. • +30 27 3206 2122 • Map Likinia Hotel – A newly-built but traditionally-styled hotel in the Old Town of Monemvasia. Rooms and suites have sea views and cooling sea breezes. • +30 27 3206 1939 • Map Getting To and From Monemvasia Because it is a somewhat remote outpost status, Monemvasia is not such an easy place to visit on public transport. Bus : There are buses from Athens, but a bus trip to Momenvasia will likely involve a change in Sparti or Molai. The KTEL Lakonia website goes some way to explaining the links. There are three daily services from Athens and four vice versa. Buses arrive at and leave from Gefyra across the causeway; hike from there to the entrance of Monemvasia, or take the shuttle bus that runs every 30 minutes from Gefyra to Monemvasia. Bus tickets can be obtained from Malvasia Travel in Gefyra. As with all other destinations mentioned, avoid taking public transportation to Monemvasia during the annual strike on May 1. Taxi : Arrivals from Kythira to the Peloponnese port of Neapoli are advised to seek a taxi (approx. €40) to Monemvasia. Call +30 69 3247 6486 (Minas Papoulis) or +30 69 7727 5414 (Ioannis Dertilis) or +30 69 7415 6097 (Georgios Minopetros) to arrange for a taxi to meet the incoming ferry. Nafpaktos Nafpaktos is a pretty, breezy, seaside town in the mostly overlooked mainland corner of Central Greece. A relaxing locale with a totally unpretentious Greek air, it’s worthy of a day or two of traveler time if heading out the little-known region of Greece known as Aitolo-Akarnania. A famous naval battle was once waged here between the Ottomans and a tri-part alliance of the Vatican, Spain, and Venice; today the town is a thriving and non-touristy seaside community with a postcard-pretty harbor full with restaurants and cafés. Nafpaktos is conveniently located halfway between Delphi and Olympia, making for a very convenient break between the two. Top class boutique accommodation rounds off the attraction. Things to Do in Nafpaktos The Harbor : Sitting at a café in this small and lovely harbor with its protective stone wall – sipping an iced frappé, or nursing an ouzo on ice – is a slow and unchallenging activity that nonetheless makes up a big part of the Nafpaktos scene. • Map Nafpaktos Castle : It is a bit of a strength-sapping hike up to the Kastro, but like all walks that involve an uphill climb for an hour or so, the view pays for the effort. The Kastro is in decent condition and its fortifications date back to Doric times. • Map Fethiye Mosque : Built by Sultan Bayezid II when he ruled the Ottoman Empire, this splendid mosque still stands and is open to the public. Exhibitions are held here in summer. • Map Botsaris Tower Museum : This gray-painted tower near the harbor, named after Souliot General Notis Botsaris, houses a small museum with paintings and engravings relating to the Battle of Lepanto. • Map The Nafpaktia Hinterland : Nafpaktos sits at the southern tip of a largely unknown and little-explored mountainous chunk of central Greece where a lot of outdoor activity takes place. A list of some of activities runs as follows: kayaking, climbing, hiking, rafting and paintballing. Driving north with a 4×4 to Karpenisi is a great eye-opener to another Greece. • Map Recommended Nafpaktos Hotels Apollon Library Suites – A modern concept hotel where the theme is artful reading. Twelve lovingly finished suites are fitted out in earthy textures and feature mini-libraries for guests. • +30 26 3403 8615 • Map Arhontiko Pepos – Occupying prime position in the pedestrian zone next to the harbour, Pepos is a sophisticated and elegant guesthouse with five tasteful element-themed rooms. • +30 26 3403 8185 • Map Hotel Akti – The exterior belies the interior in this affordable accommodation choice. Rich furnishing and lush lounges dominate while rooms are all tastefully appointed. • +30 26 3402 8464 • Map Getting To and From Nafpaktos Nafpaktos is on the main highway linking towns along the northern Gulf of the Peloponnese and is easily visited by travellers moving between Olympia and Delphi. (Travelers to Delphi will normally swap buses in the port of Itea.) Nafpaktos’ brand new KTEL bus station is unhelpfully located outside of the main town area , so you will need to take a cab (tel: +30 26 3402 5111) to/from the town center. Avoid bus travel on May 1, during the annual public transportation strike. Nafplio Nafplio is a classy weekend retreat or day trip from Athens for Greeks and travelers looking for a chic getaway close to the capital. Neo-classical and Venetian mansions, polished stone alleyways and thoroughfares, a couple of fortresses, beaches, quality hotels , and a picturesque harbor combine with fashion, gourmet food, and distinguished wines to create a winning destination in one of Greece’s most popular towns – all within easy driving distance to the significant archaeological attractions of the region such as Mycenae, Tiryns, and Epidaurus. Appointed Greek capital for one year after the liberation of Greece in 1821, Nafplio’s role as head city was passed over to Athens by Greece’s first King, Otto. That didn’t deter Nafplio from slowly developing into a swanky retreat for urbanites, artists, merchants and other posh people in later years. Today’s travelers are advised to make plans well in advance. Its gorgeous and sophisticated air ensures there are many visitors year-round – particularly in winter, though high summer sees a lot of northern Europeans drawn by its irresistible pull. Things to Do in Nafplio The Old Town : Nafplio’s primary attraction is the inimitable ambiance and taste of the streets of the traditional quarter. It invites strolling, browsing, shopping, eating, dining, seeing and being seen. Simple as that. • Map The Palamidi Fortress : Guarding the eastern flank of Nafplio town this enormous citadel can be approached by a steep climb, or a rather roundabout (but easier) drive. Go early if you plan to walk. It’s almost 1000 steps to the top. • Map The Bourtzi : Viewable from any part of Nafplio, this mini Venetian fortress sits asea and guards the harbour. Once a prison, it now accepts visitors by tour boat. • Map Archaeological Museum : This museum traces the history of the Argolis peninsula from its earliest days – well worth a pre-lunch, enlightening meander. • Map Akronafplia Fortress : Looming above the town is the unavoidable hulk of this immense natural bastion. Drive, walk or take the lift that’s located in the square near the “Five Brothers” cannons: it’s worth it for the views. • Map Komboloi Museum : Teeny tiny museum dedicated to komboloi ; the traditional worry beads that Nafplio is particularly known for creating. Located upstairs of a small storefront in Old Town – you can buy your own on your way out. • Map Recommended Nafplio Hotels Gambello Luxury Rooms – Utterly charming 11-room boutique hotel in a neoclassical mansion near the Nafplio harbor and waterfront promenade. Excellent views of Bourtzi fortress from some rooms. • +30 2752 023009 • Map 3Sixty Hotel & Suites – Cousin to the Ippoliti Hotel, the funky and elegant 3Sixty offers a modern twist on comfort and hosts a renowned gourmet restaurant. • +30 27 5250 0501 • Map Regno di Morea – Modern boutique hotel in the heart of Old Town Nafplio. • +30 27 5202 2232 • Map Getting To and From Nafplio Nafplio is connected to the rest of Greece by bus only, covered by the Argolis KTEL network . There are between 11 and 14 direct connections with Athens, as well as one or two services between other major Peloponnese towns such as Kalamata, Tripoli, and Patra. The bus terminal is on Andrea Syngrou on the eastern side of the Old Town where there is also a handy taxi stand. (Call +30 27 5202 6300 or get the app to arrange a taxi in advance.) Avoid taking public transportation on May 1, when most buses, trains, ferries, and flights are stopped. Olympia This pleasant, bucolic village in the northwestern Peloponnese is ancient birthplace of the Olympic Games, worth a day or two of traveling time in any trip to Mainland Greece. Olympia is a pleasant place to linger; there is a relaxed ambiance, fine dining, friendly cafés, and feeling that you are at one – if only for a day – with the principles of global harmony promoted by the games for centuries. Things to Do in Olympia Ancient Olympia : See where the Olympic movement started, including the spot where the Olympic flame is lit every two years. The site is enormous and requires some time to see. Start early to avoid the throngs of cruise ship travelers that arrive by bus and train by mid-morning, and read up (or visit the Archaeological Museum) in advance, so you know what’s what. • Map Archaeological Museum : Complementing the site itself is this impressive museum that features finds from the site of Ancient Olympia. It is advised to visit here on a separate day as the site itself, as there is a lot on display to absorb. • Map Museum of the History of the Olympic Games in Antiquity : A separate museum exhibition, this collection focuses on the Games themselves and is best combined on the day with the Archaeological Museum. Entry is on the same ticket as the Ancient Olympia site. • Map Recommended Olympia Hotels Hotel Europa – A grand resort style hotel with a pool and excellent outdoor restaurant. You’ll need a cab to get here as it’s a little outside Olympia village, but worth the effort. • +30 26 2402 2650 • Map Hotel Pelops – A more modest accommodation option for visitors to the village; a small family hotel with all the necessary comforts and a welcoming atmosphere. • +30 26 2402 2543 • Map Central Guest Room – Conveniently-located double rooms & apartments with balconies. • +30 69 3690 7066 • Map Getting To and From Olympia Olympia is not particularly well-connected by public transport to any major destinations, though there are a couple of options to choose from, traveling through Pyrgos. Bus : Olympia is accessible via local bus from the main Pyrgos bus station to Olympia. There are thirteen daily departures, and the trip takes about 45 minutes. Buses leave from platform 1. Train : There is a very good modern train service that links Olympia with the port of Katakolo, via Pyrgos. There are three departures daily from Pyrgos. Taxi : Taxis in Olympia depart from the train station. Avoid taking the bus or train on May 1, when the yearly public transportation strike takes place. Thessaloniki Thessaloniki’s maritime location makes the second-largest city in Greece seem less like a commercial center than a breezy seaside resort. A smoother sibling city to Athens down south, Thessaloniki is immediately likable; the pace is more relaxed and the air seems somehow brighter here. Many great hotels too. An ancient city by any standards (founded in 315 BC), Thessaloniki wears its checkered and multi-cultural past with panache and pride. It was the second-largest and wealthiest city in the Byzantine Empire, home to a large Jewish community under the Ottomans, and became part of the Greek State in 1912. It is now considered to be the cultural capital of Greece, and many would also say culinary capital too – some of the country’s finest dining can be enjoyed here. Fashionistas will find some of the trendiest items of apparel on its chic streets. Things to Do in Thessaloniki Like Athens, there is enough to see in Thessaloniki to keep you occupied for weeks. If you’ve only got two to three days at your disposal, here are some of the must-dos: the best and easiest Thessaloniki attractions and experiences. Archaeological Museum : History buffs will love to browse among this elegant collection of ancient Macedonian and Hellenistic finds from the area. The Vergina Tombs exhibits are located in Vergina (see Veria section). • Map Boat Cruise : Take a free evening boat ride around the waterfront bay and enjoy the lights of the city from the sea. Just buy a drink on board – that’s your ticket (or €3 if you don’t want to order anything). One of Thessaloniki’s best-kept tourist secrets. Look for the boats near the White Tower. • Map Ladadika Quarter : This once tumbled-down industrial district has been the home in recent years to some of the city’s best dining surprises. Buttressing the north-western flank of the waterside, Ladadika is a great place for a drink or for schmoozing around on foot for an hour or two. • Map Shopping : the eastern end of Tsimiski Street hosts a dazzling array of fashion outlets and shoe boutiques. Greece’s latest fashions are debuted here and prices are brilliant – especially during the sales season. • Map The Kastro : backing the modern city are the walls of the Kastro that today constitute the Ano Poli (Upper City). It’s cooler up here and walking its walled streets peppered with battlements and monasteries makes a nice escape from the city, as well as a great spot for a sunset dinner. • Map The White Tower : The ultimate symbol of Thessaloniki, all of the city revolves around this unmistakable landmark. Despite its somewhat gruesome past as a prison and torture house, it’s now a great historical landmark, regional museum, and viewpoint spot. • Map Recommended Thessaloniki Hotels Electra Palace Hotel – Sumptuous, classic 5-star hotel hospitality. The grand dame of the Thessaloniki hotel scene, the Electra Palace towers over Aristotelous Square in the heart of the city. • +30 23 1029 4000 • Map The Trilogy House – A great concept hotel with only seven different and artfully designed rooms, all housed in a turn of the century building. As central as you can get. • +30 23 1023 2305 • Map Blue Bottle Boutique Hotel – Arty, funky, very cool and very central, Blue Bottle offers hip, modernistic rooms at a good price. Coco-Mat beds and large family rooms. • +30 23 1052 0090 • Map Getting To and From Thessaloniki Thessaloniki is a major hub both for ground transport around northern Greece and for international and domestic air connections. Air : Thessaloniki Airport is 16.5 km east of the city center, connected by the No. 78 bus that also links the train station and the main bus station. Bus : Intercity buses leave from the large bus station that’s located 6.2 km west of the city center. Both domestic as well as international routes are serviced here. Buses to Halkidiki leave from a smaller terminal at the 9th km of the Ring Road. Train : The train station is closer to the city center, offering daily departures to Athens and destinations in between, as well as to Alexandroupolis in the east. International routes for Belgrade, Sofia, and Bucharest also pass through here. Car : Drivers planning to circumvent Thessaloniki are advised to the use the outer peripheral ring road to avoid traffic delays in the city center. Thessaloniki generally has great public transportation, but like the rest of Greece it is subject to strikes throughout the year. These strikes affect all forms of transit, including, buses, trains, ferries, flights, and taxis. During strikes no buses, no ferries, and only a handful of trains and flights will depart on time (or at all); taxis tend to be the least affected mode of transport. Though strikes can occur any time, there is always a huge strike on May 1. Avoid booking any ferries, flights, trains, or buses that day. Veria Perched on the south-eastern escarpment of Mt Vermio, Veria is breezy, bright, and very un-touristy. It is popular in winter for skiing on Mt. Vermio, as well as year-round for its amiable charm and as a good base to visit a clutch of important archaeological sites. Veria is an ancient city, first mentioned by Thucydides in 432 BC. St. Paul preached here, and today it is a very popular religious pilgrimage destination for Greeks. It was home to a large Jewish community until WWII and the old neighborhood has been revived. Veria is conveniently located on the Via Egnatia, an hour’s drive west of Thessaloniki. From Veria, travelers can easily drive to the other pretty escarpment towns of Naousa and Edessa. Things to Do in Veria Archaeological Sites : The Vergina Royal Tombs Museum is the star archaeological exhibit in this town. An unearthed burial ground revealed the gold and splendor of Phillip II’s tomb (father of Alexander the Great). The Pella Museum explains the significance of Pella (the ancient kingdom of Macedon) in the ancient world. • Map: Vergina Tombs , Pella Museums : In Veria itself are two museums worth a look-in: The Archaeological Museum with Neolithic figurines and findings from Vergina, and the Byzantine Museum , comprising three floors of excellent Byzantine artifacts. • Map: Archaeological Museum , Byzantine Museum The Old Jewish Quarter : Barbouta, by the river, is the Old Jewish Quarter. Once derelict, it now possesses a classy charm. Next to the Old Synagogue is a scattering of tastefully restored houses, now hosting boutique hotels. • Map Skiing : Pack your woollies and winter gear and take a skiing holiday at Veria’s Seli Ski Resort , or others in Macedonia. There are more options than most would imagine. • Map: Seli Recommended Veria Hotels Kokkino Spiti – The first of the renovated lodgings in the old Jewish Quarter, Kokkino Spiti offers comfort and a well-tailored finesse. • +30 23 3107 4440 • Map The House by the River – Another lovingly restored hotel house on the Tripotamos river, with thoughtfully designed rooms in soft pastel furnishings. Wood and iron feature in the restored architecture. • +30 69 3723 2809 • Map Veritas Boutique Hotel – Tradition and modernity meet in a jazzy, art-inspired hotel in the center of the new town. Dine at the in-house V-Bistro & Bar. • +30 23 3106 8100 • Map Getting To and From Veria Veria is well placed for visitor access on the Via Egnatia (Egnatia Odos) between Thessaloniki and Ioannina in the West. Bus : Buses operate out of the small main bus station in the center of town with regular services to Athens and Thessaloniki and destinations in Western Macedonia. Buses to Ioannina depart from outside the Veria Restaurant at Pierion 155 , 2.2 km on the south side of town. Train : Veria has a train station on the north-east side of town with connections to Florina and Thessaloniki, but it may not be operating due to the ongoing upgrading of the Greece railway system. Check the Hellenic Train website for current updates. Avoid relying on trains or buses to get around on May 1, when the largest public transportation strike is scheduled each year.

• Athens Travel Guide
• Peloponnese Travel Guide
• Crete Travel Guide
• Halkidiki Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Paros Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide
• Greece – What to Know Before You Go
• Complete Greece Travel Guide
• Complete Italy Travel Guide

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The Perfect 7 to 10 Day Greece Mainland Itinerary

Last Updated on February 21, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

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The islands typically tend to be the star of the show when visiting the ancient country of Greece.  This comes with good reason, as the Greek islands are truly stunning locations for any kind of traveler. Albeit, the mainland of Greece is a knockout destination that’s typically off the beaten path for any mainstream traveler. In this 7 to 10-day Greece mainland itinerary, expect waterfalls, mighty mountain ranges, medieval towns, bustling and exciting cities, and the mystical home of the Greek Gods.

Table of Contents

Getting To & Around Mainland Greece

This route spans the majority of the mainland, from the southern Peloponnese to the northern city of Thessaloniki , so various modes of transport are possible as well as ideal. 

My recommendation is to hire a car and drive throughout your trip. The longest journey time is around 4 ½ hours making driving the easiest, most convenient, and most cost-efficient way to travel around the Greek mainland. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare options for hiring a car.

A mainland Greece road trip is one of the best ways to experience this relatively undiscovered part of the country by tourists.

If you’re planning on flying into Greece, I recommend flying into the Athens International Airport. The itinerary begins in the capital and it’s the main airport, making flights the most frequent and affordable in comparison to other airports in Greece. 

Another option for getting around on this mainland Greece itinerary is by bus. The KTEL bus system is essentially the national bus transport, connecting cities and towns throughout the country.

You can typically find routes for major cities or towns and sometimes smaller places if they’re frequently visited by tourists and locals.

Costs differ, so you can expect to pay between €5 and €25 depending on the route and although tickets can be affordable, if you choose to use the bus as a main means of transport throughout the country it can add up quickly.

Train transport is also another option, but the routes in Greece aren’t as extensive as in other countries in Europe. This means that there may be gaps in transportation, but those can be filled by bus.

The downside to taking bus or train transport is that if you’re hoping to visit more remote destinations in mainland Greece, it can be hard to make your way there from the main transport routes. These tickets can also easily add up to double the cost of a rental car, so keep this in mind if you’re torn between the two.

If you don’t like the idea of public transport or renting a car, you can also find tour groups that go to the majority of destinations, making it a seamless way to travel without the stress of driving or planning.

7 to 10-Day Greece Mainland Itinerary

The mainland of Greece is full of countless treasures. From the rustic mountains and quaint villages of central Greece and the Peloponnese to the hectic and exciting cities of Athens and Thessaloniki; you’re bound to discover countless new jewels in the most undiscovered part of Greece; the mainland.

While the islands are outstanding locations to visit on any dream itinerary, the best way to get to know the heart of Greece and everyday life is through the mainland. 

Day 1 – Athens

This mainland Greece itinerary begins with 2 days in the same place where modern democracy began as well as the capital city, Athens . You’ll likely be flying into the Athens International Airport, making the Greek capital a great and convenient starting point.

Athens is a great way to begin as you’ll have the opportunity to get your bearings in a new country, discover Greek foods, and see some of the most important ruins in ancient history.

Although the city is quite small, there’s an abundance of things to do. Because of this, you can decide to mold your time in different ways, from exploration of the Ancient Greek world to the cultural side of what makes modern-day Athens what it is today.

No matter how you choose to spend your time, make sure to not miss a visit to the Acropolis , a wander around the classic Greek neighborhood of Plaka , and a long wholesome meal at a classic Greek tavern.

Other ways to explore further into Athens are plentiful and unique; venture into the southern suburbs of Athens to explore Poseidon’s Temple in Cape Sounio or take a dip in the sea around an hour away from Athens at Schinias beach.

Where to Stay in Athens

Athens Ivy Suites – Located only 500 meters from Monastiraki Square, this hotel is an excellent central place to stay in the Greek capital. There are several rooms, a restaurant, a shared terrace, airport shuttle, breakfast and more to offer guests.

The Modernist Athens – A sleek and modern hotel in the Kolnaki neighborhood, this hotel has a range of cool rooms, private parking, a fitness centre and a superb buffet breakfast in the mornings.

101 Adrianou Apartments – These suites are excellent for those looking for a comfortable, central option. Situated within walking distance of Syntagma Square, there is daily housekeeping and incredible views of the city.

City Circus Athens – Boasting a terrace with an Acropolis view, this hostel is great for backpackers. There are great common areas for meeting other travellers and a range of dorms and privates to choose from.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Athens hotels!

Day 2 – Athens

Spend your second day in Athens getting to know the city a bit deeper. If you spent day one checking off all of the well-known highlights like the Acropolis and exploring some cool, central neighborhoods, consider taking in a museum or two on your second day – such as the Archaeological Museum or the Benaki Museum.

You could also opt to get a bit off the beaten path and explore some cool neighborhoods like Psyri and Monastiraki or even opt to go on a food tour , where you can learn about all of the Athenian specialities.

Day 3 – Nafplio and Epidaurus (Peloponnese) 

After getting acquainted with Greece in Athens, you’ll head south to the neighboring Peloponnese region.

The Peloponnese region is an alluring peninsula south of central Greece offering one of the most exciting and unique experiences in Greece. Although this itinerary only offers a taster of one day in the Peloponnese, I highly suggest exploring the region on a deeper level if you have the time.

With just one day in the Peloponnese, you’ll make your way first to the picturesque town of Nafplio. Nafplio is a coastal city in the Peloponnese offering idyllic views and architecture, wonderful food, and a pleasant place to experience the Peloponnese.

After, head about half an hour away to the ancient town of Epidaurus to explore the stunningly peaceful nature of the Peloponnese and the ancient ruins and theatre of the town of Epidaurus.

Where to Stay in Nafplio

Amymone and Adiandi – This quaint hotel in Nafplio is an excellent base for your first couple of days in the Peloponnese. They have a range of bright, clean and comfortable rooms on offer and a great location for exploring the town and the region.

Carpe Diem Boutique Hotel – For those looking for a hip place to stay in Naflplio, this boutique hotel is sure not to disappoint. They have a number of chic rooms on offer, breakfast available in the mornings and plenty of amenities to ensure your stay is fantastic.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Nafplio hotels!

Day 4 – Delphi

Day 4 of this road trip will bring you back through central Greece and to the legendary, and one of the most visited places on the mainland of Greece, the ancient site of Delphi.

Delphi is about 3 ½ hours away from Athens and on the way to Delphi, you’ll also pass through Ancient Corinth and the Corinth Canal connecting central Greece to the upper point of the Peloponnese. Alternatively, you could also visit the ancient site of Olympia, another incredible place in the Peloponnese.

If you have extra time and are particularly interested in ancient history, I recommend making a stop in Corinth to explore the ruins and the grand Corinth Canal and see the blue water of the Corinthian Gulf before heading to Delphi.

Delphi is the first stop in central Greece and once spending time there, you’ll quickly understand why it’s one of the most visited spots in Greece. Take time to explore the archaeological site and museum, witness the famous Temple of Apollo, and find yourself in awe of the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia.

Delphi is also an area of outstanding natural beauty, so even just spending a few hours in the area is a great chance to connect to nature. Afterwards, head to the nearby town of Arachova to enjoy a local meal for lunch. You could also visit the lovely village of Nafpaktos.

Where to Stay in Delphi

Arion Hotel – Located only about 200 metres from the archaeological site, this three-star guesthouse is a great choice. They have a number of cosy rooms on offer and an unbeatable location for exploring this area.

Amalia Hotel Delphi – This 4-star hotel is an excellent option for those looking for a bit more of a luxurious stay while visiting Delphi. They have several lovely, plush rooms on offer, a wonderful location and a great swimming pool to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Delphi hotels!

Day 5 – Meteora 

After leaving Arachova and Delphi, day 5 will take you about 3 ½ hours away to one of the best places to visit in all of Greece, Meteora. One of the highlights of taking the time to explore the Greek mainland is that you don’t have to make a choice between visiting Delphi or Meteora.

Meteora is easily one of the most outstanding places to visit in all of Greece, and with good reason. Located next to the small town of Kalambaka, the area is a striking formation of rocks sprawling from the earth with a collection of Byzantine Eastern Orthodox monasteries bravely sitting on top.

With the construction of these monasteries beginning in the 11th century, Meteora is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a gift for all who visit. During your stay, you can either hike to the monasteries or drive above to have easier access and saved time. 

Where to Stay near Meteora

Dellas Boutique Hotel – Mid-range travellers will love this 3-star boutique hotel when visiting Meteora. Located in the town of Kalambaka within easy reach of the monasteries, they have a number of lovely rooms to choose from that can suit all kinds of visitors.

Hotel Doupiani House – This is an excellent hotel for those looking for a comfortable and cosy mid-range option in Kalambaka. Well-poised for exploring the splendours of Meteora, they have many rooms to choose from and a great buffet breakfast available each morning.

Meteora Central Hostel – Budget and solo travellers will love this cosy hostel in Kalambaka. Well-located for exploring Meteora, they have a range of dorm beds and private rooms to choose from and good shared spaces and common areas to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Meteora hotels!

Day 6 – Zagori

Days 6 & 7 of this route will bring you closer to the northern Greek border and 3 hours from Meteora to the Pindus mountain range and region of Zagori.

The region of Zagori is a collection of around 40 villages cosily nestled in the Pindos mountains and full of tradition, rugged wilderness, and truly breathtaking scenery.

In Zagori, visit the striking Vikos Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world in the Vikos-Aoos National Park, enjoy one of the numerous hiking paths in the region and appreciate the unique Zagorian architecture spanning through the villages.

For accommodation, you’ll find all sorts of options from luxurious boutique hotels to affordable bed and breakfasts and mid-range hotel options.

Mainland Greece is truly a haven for nature lovers and Zagori is the prime destination for those looking for a stay off the beaten path.

Where to Stay in Zagori

Guesthouse Gouris – This cosy guesthouse is perfect for mid-range travellers visiting the beautiful Zagori region. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from that feature local rugs and handicrafts and there is also a wonderful breakfast available each morning.

Aberratio Boutique Hotel – Located in the village of Aristi, this boutique hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for a more upmarket place to stay in the Zagori region. They have a number of swanky rooms on offer and an incredibly beautiful location for guests to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Zagori hotels!

Day 7 – Zagori

On your second day in the Zagori, take a bit more time to explore some of the places you didn’t make it to on the first day. Enjoy the laid-back nature and stunning scenery of the area and get active on a few of the many hiking trails you can find.

If you’re following the 7-day itinerary rather than 10, this day will conclude your trip. Either head onward in Greece to your following destination or head back to Athens to fly onward. 

Day 8 – Mount Olympus

After spending time in the pristine Zagori region, you’ll head northwest to one of the most famous areas in Greece and one of the most famous mountains in the world, Mount Olympus.

Mount Olympus is about a 3-hour drive away from Zagori and although the hike to the top in its entirety is only recommended for well-experienced travelers, you can still enjoy the famous scenery with a nice hike and time in the nearby villages.

Although its fame is due to being the home of the Greek Gods, it is the first national park in Greece and one with some of the most diverse flora and fauna in the country.

The town of Litochoro is located at the foot of Mount Olympus and is a great spot to base yourself to explore the mountain and have a start on many of the trails.

The town itself dates back to the 14th century, has plenty of appetizing restaurants, and still has abundant Macedonian architecture throughout the town offering a unique glimpse into the region and its history.

Where to Stay near Mt Olympus

Kallisto Traditional Guesthouse – Located in the town of Litochoro, this rustic guesthouse is perfect for those looking for a comfortable and traditional place to stay near Mt Olympus. They have a number of cosy rooms on offer and a great location for exploring the region.

To Palio Litochoro – This lovely guesthouse located in Litochoro is an excellent choice for those looking for a great place to stay in the foothills of Mt Olympus. They have a number of great rooms on offer, a beautiful setting and a perfect location in the centre of the village.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Mt Olympus hotels!

Day 9 – Thessaloniki

While the majority of this trip is amongst nature and smaller Greek villages and towns, the last stop for those spending the full 10 days on this Greece mainland itinerary is the second biggest city in Greece, Thessaloniki .

The city itself is about a 2 1⁄2 hour drive away from Mount Olympus and within the city, you’ll find the wonder of the proud Greek mountainous treasure keeping watch over Thessaloniki. The city itself is typically quite overlooked on any Greek itinerary but is worth the visit in its own right.

From the gritty Balkan architecture, to what’s known as the best food scene in Greece, Thessaloniki is easily one of the most underrated destinations on the Greece mainland.

During your visit, make sure to have a fresh bougatsa from a local bakery (a specialty pastry originating in Thessaloniki), wander the seafront and port, stop by the White Tower, and wander through Ladadika, Thessaloniki’s old town as well as Morichovou Square.

Where to Stay in Thessaloniki

Blue Bottle Boutique Hotel – A funky mid0rang hotel in the center of Thessaloniki, there are plenty of bright rooms to choose from, a great breakfast and private parking available to guests.

Teight Hotel – A luxe and modern hotel within easy reach of the top Thessaloniki attractions, this place boasts an on-site bar, room service, great breakfast and a range of spacious rooms on offer.

Zeus is Loose Hostel – A very highly-rated hostel perfect for backpackers and budget travellers, there are lots of dorms (and private rooms) here, great common areas, kitchen facilities and an excellent atmosphere for guests.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Thessaloniki hotels!

Day 10 – Thessaloniki

Spend your final day in Thessaloniki (and the final day of this 10-day Mainland Greece itinerary) digging deeper and really getting to know Greece’s second city.

Take the time to explore some cool neighborhoods, take a lot of leisurely strolls along the waterfront or, perhaps, take a food tour to learn more about the gastronomic scene in this “foodie” city.

Thessaloniki also has one of the largest airports in Greece offering routes connecting to the rest of Europe, making it the perfect departure point at the end of this trip. You can also reach other Balkan destinations from the city, as it’s easy to get from Thessaloniki to Sofia, Bulgaria and other neighbouring countries.

Have More Time?

If you have more time to spend, there are plenty of other points of interest worth visiting.

If you’re keen on exploring deeper into the Peloponnese, you can easily tack on another few days or week and head further south into the region, discovering Ancient Sparta, the crystalline Mani Peninsula, and the Medieval island town of Monemvasia with its beautiful Venetian castle.

After visiting the towns of Zagori, head to Ioannina, the capital city of the Zagori region, to enjoy one of the oldest lakes in the world, Lake Pamvotis.

For those interested in exploring a different region of mainland Greece, I suggest making your way to Volos, a port city in the region of Thessaly full of history, culture, delicious cuisine and the gateway to the neighboring Northern Sporades islands, Skiathos and Skopelos.

Whether or not the mainland of Greece has already been on your dream travel list, it’s undoubtedly a destination that you’ll discover is full of abundance. You’ll explore deep parts of Ancient history, get lost in Greece’s wilderness, and experience what life is like in the country’s biggest cities and smallest towns.

Spending 7 days or more in this part of Greece before hopping over to the islands is a great way to discover Greek culture and Greece without hoards of tourists. 

Are you planning to explore mainland Greece? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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The Perfect 3, 4 or 5 Days in Rhodes Itinerary

The Perfect 5 to 7 Day Peloponnese Road Trip Itinerary

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Thessaloniki Itinerary

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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16 Best Greek Cities to Visit

Whether you enjoy sun-soaked sandy beaches, classical, ancient monuments, or modern nightlife and contemporary culture, there is undoubtedly somewhere in Greece for you to uncover and explore. From the crystal blue waters of Greece’s plethora of picturesque islands, all the way to the astonishing Athens, the country is full of breathtakingly unique cities.

This guide will help you decide which cities to visit during your trip to Greece as well as their highlights, from the larger, well-known cities, right down to the smaller, yet still incredible ones.

Table of Contents

Best Cities in Mainland Greece

One of the world’s most ancient cities, Athens is a city of elegance, history, and culture, as well as taking on many modern quirks. One of the most striking things about Athens is the Acropolis, which towers dominantly over the city, reminding locals and visitors of its past.

Another highlight of the city is Ancient Agora, the ancient city’s center of culture and commerce; make sure you dedicate a vast amount of time wandering around the grounds, learning about the incredible ruins and the history of Agora. Also, make sure you spend time discovering Athens at night, as it has some great bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Thessaloniki

One of Greece’s largest cities, and a hub of gastronomical, artistic, and cultural activity, Thessaloniki is one of the country’s most charming hidden gems. You will undoubtedly fall in love with the vibrant sense of life in the city, and the locals’ sense of resilience. Some of the top things to do and see include

The Museum of Byzantine Culture, where you can discover an immense collection of Byzantine treasures, including jewelry, pots, and other artifacts. Also make sure you check out the Arch of Galerius, a monumental landmark dating from 303AD, that continues to thrive in modern-day Thessaloniki; it reminds locals and visitors alike of the country’s ancient history.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Situated in central Greece lies Kalampaka, a modern city that is the ideal place to locate yourself if you wish to visit Meteora. Meteora is an immense rock formation, that is dominated by huge rock towers with monasteries gently resting on top. Now a World Heritage-listed site, the Meteora has one of the most unique landscapes, and is one of the most visited destinations in Greece; it feels as though it has jumped right out of a fairy-tale.

It is best to stay in Kalampaka and go on a number of excursions and guided tours around the area so that you can learn about the history and geography of the area; if you are a lover of hiking, there are also several incredible trails you can do.

Volos and Pelion Villages

The wonderful port city of Volos is one of Greece’s most popular destinations, as it has so much to offer its visitors; it is sheltered by magnificent mountain scenery and is perched right next to the beautiful blue waters. Volos is a great place to base yourself if you would like to explore the Pelion Villages, which are situated on the nearby Mount Pelion.

One of these villages is Portaria, which is a magical little village famous for its Byzantine architecture, cheese history, and beautiful surrounding scenery. Another Pelion Village is Zagora, which is famed for its breath-taking views of the sea, and its delicious red wines and scenic vineyards.

One of Greece’s lesser-known cities, but certainly one of the most beautiful is Kavala. This slow-paced city is a traditional port city, and has a great gastronomical charm, serving some of the most authentic and fresh Greek food in the whole country.

Today, Kavala is split between the Old City and the more modern city, which is full of Neoclassical mansions, quirky shops, bars, and restaurants, whereas the Old City is full of winding, narrow little alleyways that could lead anywhere, exuding a unique charm and character. One thing you will remember the most about Kavala is that the locals are incredibly friendly, charming, and welcoming, and will go out of their way to make your stay comfortable.

Perhaps one of the most charming seaside cities in the entirety of Greece, Nafplio offers visitors both gorgeous natural scenery, as well as a beautiful contemporary culture and gastronomical delights. One of the best things to do in Nafplio, particularly if you are visiting in the summer, is to wander around the city’s Old Town, gazing at the beautiful bright colored buildings and street-art, perhaps even stopping for a glass of local wine at one of the many authentic Greek-style bars. Nafplio is incredibly romantic and is the perfect place to escape to if you and your partner are looking for a weekend getaway trip.

The mesmerizing landscape of the glorious Kastoria is unlike anywhere else you will visit in Greece. One of the things that you will first when you arrive in Kastoria is its gorgeous, enormous deep blue lake, that the city is built around. One of the highlights of the city is to take a boat ride across the lake, a perfect place for snapping some postcard-like photos and relaxing in the luscious scenery.

Another highlight is because of the lakeside location, there are so many bars, cafes, and restaurants that all offer incredible views, which is made even better by tucking into some authentic Greek dishes.

As the capital of Epirus, Ioannina is a vibrant, bustling lakeside city. If you are someone that prefers a smaller, lesser well-known city when visiting a new country, Ioannina is a perfect size, with just the right amount of activities to do and things to see.

One of the city’s highlights is the Castle of Ioannina, which was constructed in the year 528 AD by Emperor Justinian to symbolize the power and importance of the Byzantine Empire; it is the oldest Byzantine fortress in the entire country and is fascinating to explore and discover its immense history. Also, make sure you spend lots of time doing lakeside walks, and dining in restaurants with lake views!

Despite being very un-touristy, Nafpaktos is the perfect place to visit if you love to get a feel for authentic, local life. It is magnificently picturesque, with its quaint Venetian port and local businesses, all resting on the crystal blue waters that glisten in the summer sunlight.

What you will notice about Nafpaktos is its Medieval style characteristics, which is what gives it its unique and historic charm. Many visitors stopover in Nafpaktos if they are en route to other destinations, such as Olympia, however, the town should be visited in its own right as well, as it offers a taste of quintessential mainland Greece.

Hailed as the second-biggest city in the Peloponnese, Kalamata is blessed with charm and natural beauty and has a plethora of exciting things to experience. One of the most enjoyable things about Kalamata is its abundance of exciting and easily-accessible museums, for instance, The Museum of

Traditional Greek Costumes, which recently opened in 2017; here, you can discover traditional Greek folk outfits, ranging all the way from the eighteenth-century until the twentieth. Another thing to explore is the Kastro, which is a thirteenth-century fort, which offers great views of Kalamata, and also has a vast amount of history just waiting to be uncovered.

Best cities to visit in the Greek islands

Rhodes town.

Rhodes Town offers visitors a large history and a combination of different architectural styles and various cultures, all in a unique and magical mixture. The Old Town is lined with cobblestones and Medieval architecture and various different features, giving off almost an Italian atmosphere rather than a typical Greek one.

The New Town is a lot more modernized and is packed with trendy bars and cafes which offer beautiful views of the neighboring scenery. One thing you will love about Rhodes Town is its unique mix of cultures, styles, as well as the old with the new; it is a colorful, charming, and incredibly welcoming place to visit.

You might be interested in: Things to do in Rhodes

What is charming about Corfu Town is its incredible mixture of artistic culture with the natural surrounding scenery, providing it with an irresistible atmosphere. Also known as Kerkyra, Corfu Town is an elegant destination, full of Venetian charm and poise.

Moreover, it is a gastronomical haven for any foodie lover, particularly those who favor authentic, traditional cuisine; there is something for everyone, however, as there are many modern, trendy restaurants, as well as more rustic ones. Corfu Town is also perfectly located if you are someone who enjoys taking day trips; for instance, a trip to Vidos Island, a simple island that is accessible by boat, and shows another layer of Corfu culture.

Chania, Crete

Combining Venetian and Turkish influence, Chania, also known as Hania, is a wonderful place to visit, which is like nowhere you’ll have experienced before. It offers a simple, slow-paced way of life, incredible food, and majestic architecture, particularly evident at its grand harbor.

Located at the Venetian Harbour is the Lighthouse, which is the perfect place to visit at sunset, where you can watch the sky turn to a stunning pink hue, whilst seeing the rest of Chania transform into its night-time state. There is also an array of museums to visit, such as the Maritime Museum of Crete, which exhibits Crete’s nautical heritage, and is absolutely fascinating.

Rethymno, Crete

Situated on the western side of Crete, Rethymno is a beautiful town, with its Medieval architecture and Venetian ports, it feels quintessentially Greek. It is nearby to some of the best beaches in the entire country, such as Preveli, which is the perfect place to spend the day catching some well-deserved sun rays and getting lost in a good book.

Rethymno is also a great place to base yourself if you would like to do some exploring of the surrounding area and nearby villages; a recommended village is Agia Galini, a gorgeous, simple village that offers a local experience, and is a hub of incredible food; it also has a great beach which is ideal for a relaxing sunny afternoon.

Heraklion, Crete

Famed as being one of the highlights of Crete, Heraklion has some of the clearest, most beautiful waters you will ever see. It is the largest city in Crete, as is the heart of the island’s culture and spirit. The city offers an abundance of ancient ruins (Archaeological site of Knossos), as well as more recent architecture and monuments, giving it a really charming and special character.

Like many larger cities and towns in Greece, there is a modern side and an older side, which means that whatever your interests are, they can more than likely be met; there is something for everyone!

Mytilene, Lesvos

One of the oldest cities in the entire world, Mytilene has been continuously inhabited since the tenth century BC. The city itself is sheltered by demanding mountains, whilst also providing it with a beautiful backdrop; many people go hiking through these mountains, and there are lots of incredible trails that provide hikers with jaw-dropping views of the surrounding natural beauty.

Around the city itself, you can expect to find a vast array of authentic Greek taverns to eat at, most of which provide fresh, local seafood, which you will find absolutely irresistible. Ensure that you spend a lot of your time allowing yourself to get lost, just wandering around the historic streets and taking it’s the unique beauty of Mytilene.

Whether you are someone who enjoys natural scenery, hiking, and taking boat trips, or someone who would rather dine at a modern lakeside restaurant and shop until you drop on large, designer-lined boulevards, there is undoubtedly somewhere in Greece that is perfect for your needs.

Greece is a country that has it all; it is one of the oldest civilizations in the world and has some of the most spectacular ruins that are lovingly preserved by locals and historians, as well as some of the astonishingly good gastronomy you will ever experience.

This list has given a run-down of some of the larger, well-known Greek cities, as well as some of the more unfamiliar ones, which hopefully encourages you to step out of your comfort zone and try something new and different!

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Incredible Destinations

Greece is a popular destination not only because of its amazing islands but also because the mainland offers plenty of options for a memorable Mediterranean holiday! Explore unspoilt fishing villages full of tranquil charm, tower towns, traditional stone built villages or try the exciting city breaks on offer. Visit archaeological sites, learn more about the country's fascinating culture, travel along the spectacular coastline and enjoy its picture-perfect scenery!

Attica, the land that gave birth to ideas and arts, has created and shaped what we call today the western civilisation. Today, a visit to Attica offers visitors a unique experience. A “journey” in its 6,000-year history, including the chance to see renowned monuments and masterpieces of art of antiquity and the Middle Ages, and the architectural heritage of the 19th and 20th centuries. Here lies Athens, the capital of Greece, the busiest city of the country with the most prominent archaeological site and symbol of the country, the world famous sacred rock of the Acropolis. Attica is home to some of the world’s most important and fascinating museums and archaeological sites, testimony to its long and prominent role in world history. Festivals featuring ancient Greek drama, as well as performances, sports or culinary events are organised throughout the year, spellbinding the audience.

Central Greece

Central Greece, known as Roumeli, is part of the Greek mainland that has been inhabited since antiquity. There are forested mountain ranges, rivers, lakes, rich fauna and flora and remarkable archaeological sites. Visit the archaeological site of Delphi and the Oracle of Apollo , picturesque seaside towns of Galaxidi and Itea , as well as beautiful Nafpaktos of great historical importance. The lagoon of Messolonghi , the largest Greek wetland, is a natural paradise that includes islets, dunes, forested banks and a rich flora and fauna that provide salt and fish to the locals. But the most precious gift of nature here is bottarga (Greek avgotaracho), one of the few seafood products with a PDO award, a delicacy coming from the eggs of the female grey mullet. Do you seek the kind of thrill that will pump up your adrenalin? Karpenisi is the ideal destination as there is a multitude of activities for you throughout the year. So, don’t waste time, take a trip to the heart of Greek nature and see ravines with impressive waterfalls, dense forested areas and rapid river waters! If skiing or snowboarding is your thing, make a point of visiting Mt. Parnassos and nearby picturesque Arachova Village , the most cosmopolitan winter destination in Greece. Don’t miss the well-known archaeological sites at Orchomenos Village, Thebes, Plataiaes, and Chaeronea.

Epirus lies in NW Greece, between the Pindos mountain range and the Ionian Sea. Its untouched mountainous mass of Pindos with its great virgin forests, the Dragon Lakes (the mythical mountain lakes) and the untamed slopes provide a plethora of activities (mountaineering, climbing, ski, hiking, mountain biking etc.) in a scenery of singular beauty, as well as the rivers of Epirus which offer other activities such as kayak, rafting, canoeing etc. Arachtos especially, is considered as one of the most beautiful and challenging rivers for kayaking, while Voidomatis runs through the impressive gorge of Vikos. All of this co-exists in harmony with the archaeological sites , castles , monasteries , churches and traditional villages. Pay a visit to Zagorochoria, a group of 46 villages located all over the slopes of the mountains. In close proximity, you can find Vikos Canyon, the second deepest in the world, with an ecosystem of 1.700 plants and 182 animals. Cross the historic stone bridges of Epirus, where legends and local traditions leave their mark on these architectural masterpieces of superb craftsmanship. Explore Dodoni, the place where the famous oracle used to be in ancient times, pay a visit at the famous Theater of Dodoni , the largest in antiquity and finally taste some of the most delicious feta, the cheese par excellence of Greece.

Visit Macedonia where you will encounter unique images. Explore this magnificent place in Greece where east meets west. The imposing – and almost perennial snowy – massifs of unique beauty boast Mt Olympus, the country's most famous and highest mountain, which is followed by the equally beautiful Pangaio , Kaimaktsalan (Voras) and Falakro mountains, where you can enjoy hiking, skiing or snowboarding during winter. The water element is significantly present with some of the most important rivers and lakes in Greece flowing through Macedonia. Visit the metropolis of the North, Thessaloniki , with an intriguing multi-ethnic history and arty counter culture. It is a lively modern place, bustling with energy and verve. Built amphitheatrically around the sea, facing Mount Olympus on the distant horizon, it has always been a centre of different civilizations, cultures, nations and religions. Discover breathtaking Halkidiki with its clear waters and golden sand beaches, bays, little islands and green landscapes that will make your dream vacation come true! Don’t miss the unique beauty of Serres nature; the picturesque cities of Drama, Kavala on the East; and Kastoria and Naousa on the West.

Peloponnese

Escape to the Peloponnese, where Myth meets history. Monuments from every period of the eventful history, great archeological sites; ancient Olympia, Epidaurus, Mycenae and Tiryns, the Temple of Apollo Epicurius, Byzantine churches and Monasteries. Enjoy sightseeing and sports; explore unique villages and alluring castles amidst stunning natural beauty, mountains and forests, rivers and caves. Not to mention that the Peloponnese is surrounded by the Greek sea, with lovely beaches, sandy and smooth coasts on the western part – rocky and lacy on its easternmost side.  It is no coincidences that the tour of the Peloponnese is very popular among travellers. Go ahead and plan your next adventure here!

Enjoy Thessaly, a region of sheer beauty with mountains, rivers, beaches, the popular Plastira Lake , Tempi valley , and last but not least the unique Meteora , the most photogenic spiritual site in Greece. Archeological areas, Byzantine monasteries and churches, traditional settlements and ski resorts complete the fascinating natural beauty of Thessaly and make it a popular holiday destination. Soaring like a sleepless guardian above the city of Volos , Mt Pelion is gorgeous throughout the year. Set against an idyllic backdrop of olive groves that shimmer in the sunlight, dense forests and lush fruit orchards, these 24 stone-built villages are the true gems of Pelion . Take the legendary “Mountzouris”, the traditional train of Pelion that connects Milies with Ano Lechona. It’s the perfect way to see part of the mountain and some other traditional villages. Visit Volos, the city of the Argonauts, where you will definitely pass by a tsipouro taverna as they are dispersed in every nook and cranny: almost 600 (!) of them bear the gastronomic stamp of the city and provide people with a favourite meeting point; that is the unrivalled landmark of Volos. Just a few kilometers to the West, lie the archaeological sites of Sesklo (the most ancient settlement of Europe, dating back to 6.000 BC) and Dimini , the most important prehistoric settlement in Greece and one of the most important ones of the New Stone Age worldwide.

Thrace is an area of amazing natural beauty, a land where Greek legend has placed the mythical home of Orpheus. It is famous for its pristine, beautiful countryside that makes it a paradise for outdoor recreation, adventure and exploration. This part of Greece has it all: the Rodopi mountain range and Mt. Saos on Samothrace Island in the Thracian Sea; the rivers Evros, Nestos and Ardas; Lakes Vistonida and Ismarida; Dadia forest and the Evros River Delta where internationally acclaimed wetlands are located; fertile valleys, dense forests and endless stretches of white sandy beaches.

© P. Merakos

© G. Filippini

The Best Places to Visit in Mainland Greece

This post is about the best places to visit in mainland Greece. Greece remains one of my favourite countries in Europe and one that I never get tired of.

I remember whole days spent at the beach, building sand castles and looking for shells. Every evening we went out for dinner, my body still feeling warm from the sun. I have fond childhood memories of my summer holidays spent in Greece.

Greece is not just a beach destination though. Most tourists will only visit one of its islands, but mainland Greece has just as much to offer, if not more.

In fact, if it comes to history, culture and culinary highlights mainland greece is where one should go and in this post will show you my favourite places to visit in mainland Greece.

The best places to visit in mainland Greece

The monasteries in meteora.

Meteora is among the most beautiful places to visit in mainland Greece. I visited Greece several times and it is Meteora that left its most impressive memories. Meteora is famous for having one of the most important Eastern orthodox monasteries in the world.

The name “Meteora” can be translated as “in the heavens above”, because of its unique setting. They are all built on top of rock pinnacles that dot the landscape. In fact, the area is full of volcanic rock formations that are weathered by water and wind over millions of years.

What I love most about Meteora is the combination of this beautiful setting and the possibility to look inside the monasteries to get an idea of how the monks used to live. The monasteries are now easy to reach by roads or stairs to allow tourists of all ages to visit.

This wasn’t always the case tough and most of them used to be quite isolated, built by monks choosing to live a solitary lifestyle. The website visit Meteora gives you the best information on what to see and do and how to get there.

How to get there: You can take a train from Athens to the town of Kalampaka (5 hours). Click here  for more information how to get from Athens to Meteora.

Where to stay : For cheap dormitory accomodation head to the Holy rock hostel . Cheap rivate rooms with good reviews are available at Spartacus house or Vavitsas guesthouse

The Oracle of Delphi

It’s been a long time ago that I visited Delphi, but I still remember the sight of the ruins. It was a clear day and we could see the Gulf of Corinth in the far distance. Delphi was revered throughout the Greek world to be the center of the universe and the oracle of the god Apollo.

The location is stunning and it used to be a hard long trek to get there. Pilgrims made their way up to seek guidance from the holy woman Pythia. Pythia was believed to reside in the oracle and speak on behalf of the gods. Her cryptic visions about the future attracted thousands of visitors. Now it is an easy bus ride from Athens, but Pythia remains silent.

How to get to Delphi:  From Athens it is an easy 3 hour bus journey to Delphi.

Where to stay : cheap rooms are available at Hotel Orfeas or Castri hotel

I love history and my taste for everything old was well catered to in Athens. It is the birthplace of western civilization and one of the oldest cities in Europe. The famous Acropolis was built-in the 5th century BC on a rocky outcrop above the city. It has been the center of Greece ever since.

Throughout the years the Greeks, the Romans and the Ottomans all left behind their influences. Old ruins are everywhere. Athens is now the capital of Greece, but it’s easy to imagine yourself a princess in Roman times when you visit the ancient Agora or the Roman Forum. Furthermore the neighborhoods of Plaka, Monastiraki and Thissio are full with nice restaurants.

For more information check out this excellent post about the best museums in Athens and how to spend one day in Athens .

Where to stay : centrally located dorms are the bedbox hostel and Athens Quinta . For cheap rooms near Monastiraki I can recommend the Dryades & Orion hotel

The Peloponnese

The Peloponnese was on the top of my list, because I wanted to see all the places I read about in my history books at school. Places such as the ancient Greek theatre in Epidaurus,  the location of the first olympic games in Olympia, the palace of Mycenae and the ruins of Sparta.

I volunteered in a Greek monastery near Athens and I was able to arrange a weekend tour. In a small van we crossed the bridge over the Gulf of Corinth that connects the Peloponnese peninsula with the mainland. It took us a full day to visit Epidaurus, Mycene and the Corinth canal.

Where to stay : There are not a lot of options in Mycene. Klitemnistra rooms offer good value for money.

In 2006 I spent another week in the Pelopennese in the small town of Chrani. Even tough I love the sea, I am actually not a person who enjoys spending day after day at the beach. The first days feel wonderful, but by the third day I get restless. The good thing about the Peloponnese is that there is enough to explore.

After two days we rented a car and drove through the mountains. We passed some old farmers on their tractors with piles of fresh vegetables in the back and drove by beautiful villages. Sometimes we stopped to watch the views, trying to capture it on our pictures, even tough we knew we couldn’t.

Where to stay : Chrani is very small and there are very few budget places. Lena Mare is a very good place, but if it’s out of your budget you can consider staying in Koroni.

The Peloponnese is a peninsula and has it’s own share of beaches with blue waters and sea port towns. One of such towns is Koroni with a Venetian fortress and excellent restaurants serving fresh seafood.

It’s difficult to recommend one seaport town over the other as they all have their own charm and I think none of them will disappoint you. Koroni happened to be on our route and we had grilled fish while looking at the blue waters of the sea. Other nice towns with a port are Nafplio, Monemvasia, Kiladia and Gythio.

Where to stay : One of the few budget places in Koroni is the centrally located Parthenon rooms .

Epirus & Parga  

Epirus is a mountainous region close to the border with Albania. The densely forested Pindos mountains are still the home of bears and wolves. The Vikos gorge is the deepest gorge in the world.

In addition, Parga has some crystal clear blue waters and is a charming town with its pastel coloured houses. I stayed in Parga for a week and it’s a wonderful place to relax at the beach and go hiking in the surrounding hills. Not convinced yet that Epirus is one of the best places to visit in mainland Greece, read more about Epirus in this article .

Where to stay : Avdikos house is a good budget option within Parga.

If you are in Athens and you are looking for a secluded quiet beach not too far away, you could head to Nea Makri. I spent three weeks in Nea Makri as part of a volunteer project at the Pammacaristos Children’s Foundation  with IBO-Nederland . There is honestly not too much to see in Nea Makri, but therefore there are very few tourists and the beach is nice.

Mainland Greece Travel tips

What and where to eat.

Greek food is delicious and there is absolutely no shortage of restaurants throughout Greece. For a cheap lunch or dinner you can eat a pita gyros . A flat bread with meat, tzatziki and french fries.

If you go out for dinner you can never go wrong with the fresh Greek salads and a Souvlaki . Other traditional Greek recipies to try are Mousaka or Stifado .

How to get around

Greece has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trains, and ferries. Buses are the most common mode of public transportation in Greece, and they serve most major cities and tourist destinations. They connect Athens with most destinations in the Pelopenesse.

Trains are less common but offer a comfortable and scenic way to travel between cities like Atrhens and Thessaloniki. .From Thessaloniki it is also possible to travel onwards to Istanbul in Turkey .

Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore mainland Greece, especially if you want to visit remote areas and small villages. You can rent a car at the airport or in major cities, but be aware that some areas may have narrow, winding roads.

When to visit

The best time to visit mainland Greece largely depends on your travel preferences and what you want to do during your trip. Generally, the peak tourist season in Greece is from mid-June to mid-September, when the weather is hot and dry, and many tourists flock to the beaches and islands. However, with climate change, summers can become uncomfortably hot.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and high prices, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder season, which runs from April to mid-June and from mid-September to October. During this time, the weather is still pleasant, and you can enjoy sightseeing, hiking, and other outdoor activities without the crowds and the summer heat.

Disclaimer : This post about the best places to visit in mainland Greece contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

13 thoughts on “The Best Places to Visit in Mainland Greece”

I can’t believe I’ve STILL not been to Greece! As if I didn’t need even more reasons to visit (I study Ancient Greek at university), this list has just provided me with some! Those monasteries are just breathtaking!

Great post, you demonstrate well that there is FAR more to Greece than the islands and party destinations 🙂 i’ll definitely be checking out some of these recommendations when I head back one day!

I wish I could have seen every single one of these spots! We managed to visit Athens, Olympia, Meteora and Delphi in about 7 days but will definitely add your other recommendations to our list for the next trip!

Greece is such a historic place – I’d love to one day visit all of these sites!

I need to go to Greece! This looks amazing and definitely fuels my travel bug even more!!! Thanks for a great read.

So much history in Greece, the mainland is so underrated. Pictures look fab, thanks for sharing 🙂

I really hope to make it to Greece someday! This was a great post and I definitely will have to visit these places when I make it there.

Mainland Greece looks mesmerizing. If there is one European country that I haven’t been to but want to visit, it is Greece. I love history as well, and that monastery up on the cliff looks incredible!

Now I want to visit Greece! I love that you showcased some lesser known destinations! I’ve never heard of Meteora before but after seeing your pictures, I need to go! The monestaries look amazing!

wow this is so cool..that town of Parga is beckoning me..Oh my its so cute and quaint..this was so fun to learn of off the beaten path places there!

I spent a long time in Athens before heading to Santorini last fall but didn’t explore more of the mainland. I’ve had sites like Meteora, Olympia, and Delphi on my list before, but this definitely added some ideas to my list, like Parga.

Seriously stunning. I love the monasteries on the rocks and then that clear water. I love that you provided more than what I normally read about. This seemed a lot more cultural and immersing yourself. Great article.

I love Greece after living there for four long summers i completely fell in love. The Peloponnese is such an underrated area.

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Best Cities To Visit In Greece: 15 Top Vacation Places

Written by:

Tiina Wilen

The Mediterranean nation rich in history and natural beauty is home to some of the most beautiful cities in the world. From the turquoise waters of the Greek Islands to the rugged mountains of mainland Greece, this country offers plentiful experiences for every traveler. 

Here’s a guide to the best cities to visit in Greece , each a perfect place to explore Greek history, enjoy local cuisine, and soak in the stunning landscapes.

Best Cities To Visit In Greece

• Thessaloniki
• Rhodes Town

The Best Greek Cities and Towns in Mainland Greece

Athens: the capital of greece.

Athens, the capital city and also the largest city of Greece, is a bustling metropolis blending ancient history with modern vibes. Home to the Acropolis Museum and the ancient Greeks’ Parthenon , Athens is a historical treasure trove.

The old town of the Greek capital, with its narrow streets, is a great place to explore, offering panoramic views of ancient sites like the Temple of Zeus and the N ational Archaeological Museum . A visit to Athens is a journey through ancient times, making it one of the most unique places in Greece.

Best Beaches in Athens

Best shopping in athens, thessaloniki: the jewel of northern greece.

With its White Tower and vibrant waterfront, Thessaloniki stands as the cultural capital of northern Greece.

This port city, known for its Byzantine history and Ottoman architecture , offers a blend of historical sites and a large student population, creating a lively atmosphere.

The city’s old town is one of the best places for international tourists to experience the traditional architecture and local wine .

Meteora: Home to Ancient Monasteries

Meteora, in central Greece, is famous for its rock formations and ancient monasteries perched atop them. The area offers some of the most unique and spectacular places to visit in Greece, combining natural beauty with historical significance.

Read More About Things To Do In Meteora

Kalamata: The Heart of the Peloponnese

Kalamata, famous for its olives , is a lively city in the Peloponnese . It’s a great place to experience Greek culture, with its bustling central square, historic old town, and lively festivals.

Kalamata is also a gateway to the Mani peninsula , known for its rugged landscapes and traditional stone villages.

Volos: A Gateway to the Sporades

Volos, a port city in central Greece, serves as a gateway to the Sporades islands . The city is known for its waterfront promenade, local cuisine, and the nearby Pelion peninsula , which offers a mix of mountainous landscapes and stunning beaches.

Delphi: The Oracle’s Home

Delphi, located in central Greece, is an archaeological marvel. Known for the Oracle of Delphi and the Temple of Apollo , this ancient site dates back to the 16th century BC.

The nearby mountains and the ancient ruins make it one of Greece’s most impressive sites.

Nafplio, a small coastal town in the Peloponnese , is known for its Venetian castles, Ottoman architecture , and scenic waterfront. With its romantic old town and the nearby ancient sites like Mycenae , Nafplio is a lovely place for history enthusiasts and couples alike.

Patras: The Cultural Hub of Western Greece

​Patras, in western Greece, is known for its lively cultural scene, including the famous Patras Carnival . The city also boasts impressive historical sites like the Medieval Castle of Patras and the Roman Odeon .

The city is also a gateway to the Ionian Islands and offers a mix of urban and beach experiences.

Read: Your Guide To The Ionian Greece and Islands

Located in northern Greece , Kastoria is a picturesque city known for its lake, Byzantine churches , and traditional fur trade. The city’s natural setting and historical architecture make it one of the most beautiful places in Greece.

Nestled by a lovely lake in the region of Epirus , Ioannina is famed for its rich history, including its Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, and the nearby rugged mountains of the Pindus range.

The Best Cities and Towns in The Greek Islands

Let’s go to some of the best islands in the world! Here are some of the best Greek cities and towns in the islands of Greece. 

Corfu Town: Ionian Sea’s Charmer

​ On the Ionian Sea, Corfu Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Venetian architecture and picturesque cityscape.

This small coastal town boasts narrow streets lined with Venetian castles and Byzantine history. The old town is a popular destination for its rich city vibe and the nearby Ionian Islands’ natural beauty.

Rhodes Town: A Gateway to the Past

In the Dodecanese, on the island of Rhodes, lies Rhodes Town. This ancient city is a spectacle of historical monuments, including ancient monasteries and Venetian architecture.

The main town is famous for its spectacular places like the Palace of the Grand Master , making it a popular place among those fascinated by ancient Greece.

Oia, Santorini: The Picture-Perfect Village

With spectacular sunsets, white-washed buildings, and crystal-clear waters; Santorini is the most popular volcanic island in the famed islands of the Aegean Sea .

The town of Oia is especially popular for its picturesque views and is a perfect place for romantic getaways.

Chania, Crete

This picturesque city on the island of Crete boasts Venetian architecture , a lovely old town, and a bustling harbor. Chania is also a gateway to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece .

Rethymno, Crete

Rethymno, on the island of Crete, blends historical richness with natural beauty. The old town is a maze of Venetian architecture and Ottoman mosques, making it one of the most picturesque cities in Greece.

These cities, each with its unique charm, represent the best of Greek culture and history. Whether it’s exploring archaeological sites, enjoying Greek cuisine , or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Greece is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the world.

FAQ – Best Cities To Visit In Greece

What makes athens unique among greek cities.

Athens, the capital of Greece, is unique for its blend of ancient history and modern culture. It is home to the Acropolis Museum and the Parthenon, offering a deep dive into ancient Greek history. The old town provides panoramic views of historical sites, including the Temple of Zeus and the National Archaeological Museum.

Why is Thessaloniki Known as the Jewel of Northern Greece?

Thessaloniki is dubbed the Jewel of Northern Greece due to its vibrant waterfront, White Tower, and rich blend of Byzantine history and Ottoman architecture. The city’s large student population contributes to its lively atmosphere, making it a cultural hub in the region.

What are the Highlights of Meteora?

Meteora is renowned for its unique rock formations and ancient monasteries that sit atop these rocks. This area in central Greece is a spectacular blend of natural beauty and historical significance, offering visitors a unique experience.

What Culinary and Cultural Experiences Does Kalamata Offer?

Kalamata, in the Peloponnese, is famous for its olives and vibrant culture. Visitors can experience Greek culture through the city’s bustling central square, historic old town, and lively festivals. Kalamata also serves as a gateway to the Mani peninsula, known for its rugged landscapes and traditional stone villages.

What Makes Corfu Town a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Corfu Town, on the Ionian Sea, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its Venetian architecture and picturesque cityscape. The small coastal town is celebrated for its narrow streets, Venetian castles, and rich city vibe, along with the natural beauty of the nearby Ionian Islands.

Why is Rhodes Town a Popular Destination for History Enthusiasts?

Rhodes Town, on the island of Rhodes, is a treasure trove of historical monuments, including ancient monasteries and Venetian architecture. The town’s main attractions, like the Palace of the Grand Master, attract those interested in ancient Greece.

What Makes Santorini’s Town of Oia Special?

Oia, in Santorini, is famed for its spectacular sunsets, white-washed buildings, and crystal-clear waters. This volcanic island in the Aegean Sea is a popular destination for its picturesque views and romantic atmosphere.

How Does Chania Represent the Island of Crete?

Chania, on the island of Crete, showcases Venetian architecture, a charming old town, and a bustling harbor. It’s also a gateway to some of Greece’s most beautiful beaches, representing the diverse beauty and history of Crete.

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If you’re planning a trip to Greece in 2024, visit these 10 top destinations

Mar 4, 2024 • 6 min read

From iconic islands to major cities to the lesser-known, wild region of Epiros, our list of essential Greek destinations has a bit of everything © Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock

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.

Wherever you walk in Greece’s storied capital, the ancients have walked before – whether you see the evidence or not. From the Acropolis  (whose jewel in the crown is the fifth-century BCE Parthenon ) to the underground metro (where some stations feature archaic finds), Athens  is teeming with historical sites , monuments and museums. A combo card affords entry to the Acropolis and six more sites; the Acropolis Museum is also a must-see.

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.

A collection of over 70 beaches, sea caves hidden beneath limestone cliffs and technicolor traditional boat houses are just some of the reasons why mineral-rich Milos has won the hearts of many travelers. Evidence of its volcanic origins can be seen in the almost lunar landscape of Sarakiniko , where the more daring dive into a jade-colored Aegean. Arrive early at Gerondas beach to nab the generous shade of caves and enjoy floating silently in still waters.

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.

Rhodes has long been the Dodecanese ’s biggest draw thanks to its atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage–listed medieval old town . Transformed in the Middle Ages by the Knights of the Order of St John into a formidable fortified city, it fell to the Ottomans, who erected mosques, baths and houses, many of which have been restored. Youngsters might envision armored men on horseback thundering down the cobblestoned Street of the Knights .

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.

4. Santorini

Whether you’re coupled up or not, it’s hard not to fall for Santorini ’s charms. Whitewashed and pastel-hued, cube-shaped homes cling to steep cliffsides above a cobalt Aegean and the island’s famed caldera, formed by volcanic eruptions over millennia.

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.

In Greece’s west lies Epiros , a remote region of soaring mountain peaks, fast-flowing rivers and hidden rock canyons. Hike to the alpine heights of Mt Tymfi’s Dragon Lake, which freezes over in winter, or traverse the thick forests, inclines and descents of spectacular Vikos Gorge . Whitewater rafting thrills and spills await in the Voidomatis or Arachthos rivers, while canyoning enthusiasts can choose from routes of varying difficulty.

6. Kythnos and Serifos

If peaceful sandy shores, unassuming waterfront tavernas and sleepy villages are more your style, the low-key West Cyclades isles of Kythnos and Serifos are worth a stop. Kythnos has deep, sheltered bays and tamarisk-dotted silver-sand beaches, among them Lefkes and Naousa.

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.

7. Thessaloniki

At the crossroads of East and West, where the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have held sway over the centuries, Thessaloniki tempts serious foodies. Bougatsa , a phyllo pastry pie usually filled with semolina custard, spinach or mince meat, makes for a hearty breakfast. Pick up olives and spices at the olfactory-awakening open-air markets and Pontic cheeses from indoor food hub Modiano , which dates back to 1922. In the former oil merchant district of Ladadika, mezedopolia serve dishes revealing strong Anatolian and Middle Eastern influences, customarily with the fiery clear spirit tsipouro .

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.

Tranquil, turquoise seas, fir-studded hillsides and a regal capital make Corfu one of the most beautiful parts of the country to go sailing. The Ionian isle is the ideal starting point for novices who can take a sailing course and gain certification.

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.

Greece’s largest island, Crete  abounds in historical sites, well-preserved monuments and modern museums. A wander through the Minoan-era palaces of Knossos , Malia , Phaestos and Kato Zakros  won’t disappoint any fan of classical culture.

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.

10. Mykonos

In the 1960s and 70s, Mykonos hosted roving hippies, celebrities and moneyed jet-setters who flirted and danced till the sun came up. While new five-star hotels and swanky brand-name restaurants may have altered the landscape and driven up prices, the fabled Cycladic isle still reigns supreme when it comes to summer nightlife in the Mediterranean.

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.

This article was first published Jul 5, 2021 and updated Mar 4, 2024.

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Mainland Greece: The Ultimate Guide To Exploring Athens and Beyond

Key Takeaways

• The Acropolis in Athens, Delphi, Olympia, Mycenae, and Meteora are fascinating archaeological sites in mainland Greece that offer insights into Greece's rich heritage.
• From the majestic peaks of Mount Olympus to the dramatic gorges of Vikos and Samaria , outdoor enthusiasts can explore and appreciate the country's natural beauty.
• Mainland Greece offers an opportunity to connect with locals , experience Greek traditions, and immerse oneself in the country's rich cultural scene.
• From Athens, visitors can easily access popular island destinations like Santorini, Mykonos , Crete , and Rhodes via domestic flights, ferries, or catamarans.

Greece's natural beauty and millennia-old civilization give it a history as a tourist destination that dates back to the days of the Roman Empire.

The number of tourist arrivals to Greece increased 87% in 2022 , presenting an upswing in tourism. 

The success of films like  Percy Jackson  has renewed interest in Greek mythology and history, but tourism remains below pre-COVID levels.

As in much of the world, the Greek tourist industry is in the midst of a gradual recovery process. This gives travelers a chance to see ancient sites on mainland Greece without having to brave the usual crowds. 

Perusing a map of Greece reveals that Greece contains many islands in addition to the peninsulae on mainland Greece that connect to mainland Europe. The northernmost part of Greece borders the Balkan nations of Albania, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria.

If you are not in the mood for water travel or already have experience with the islands of Greece, try a tour of the mainland, which includes the historic capital city of Athens. 

Whether or not you visit Athens, mainland Greece has a lot to offer, from bustling seaside cities to mountain retreats .

Greece has  18 sites  on UNESCO's World Heritage List , including many on the mainland, such as the Acropolis, Mount Athos, Meteora , and Christian sites at Thessaloniki , the second largest city in Greece, known for its imposing White Tower , and old town. 

The ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus once said that you can never step into the same river twice. Now is your chance to see mainland Greece at a unique time in its history.

This guide will show you when to go, how to get there, and what to do to make the best use of your vacation time.   

The Best Times To Visit Mainland Greece

Mainland Greece is a gorgeous place to visit any time of year.  Each season has its advantages. Before your plan your travel schedule, find time for some of these seasonal activities.

Greek Independence Day Observances

March 25th celebrates the Greek Revolution against the Ottoman Empire in 1821 and is a time of festivities. The Feast of Annunciation is in the calendar of the Greek Orthodox Church, making the holiday doubly important to Greek history and culture.

Summer in Greece

As a country in the south of the Northern Hemisphere, Greece offers warm, sunny weather as early as April and as late as September. Summer is a fantastic time to sample the produce of mainland Greece, including many types of fruits and vegetables and the world-famous honey of the Halkidiki peninsula .

Winter Activities

Although the warmer seasons bring more tourist traffic, the winter months offer plenty to do on mainland Greece. Christmas festivities and religious ceremonies are a must-see, and the International Film Festival of Thessaloniki occurs in November.

Parts of Mainland Greece

Before you plan your itinerary, familiarize yourself with the main parts of mainland Greece and the unique attractions of each. 

Thrace in northeastern Greece (a small part of the classical Greek province and ancient Roman province) is a lesser-known tourist destination compared to other parts of Greece .

Historians believe that the famed Thracian gladiator Spartacus came from what is now Bulgaria, not modern Thrace. Thrace has breathtaking natural scenery, including picturesque seaside towns, forests, the Evros River, and historic buildings such as monasteries. 

Macedonia lies to the west of Thrace. There, you can visit Pella, the birthplace of Philip of Macedon and his illustrious son, Alexander the Great. Pella and other Macedonian sites feature the ruins of ancient temples, stores, bathhouses, and more. Winter travelers can enjoy skiing at Naousa, Katerini, and other popular destinations .

Travelers with an interest in the development of the early Christian church can see locations where Paul the Apostle and other members of the early church lived and spoke. Drink "Apostle Paul's Holy Water" at the Monastery at Vlatadon.

Epirus 

To the west of Macedonia, south of Albania, you can find Epirus (or Iperos). Nicopolis, the "city of victory," features prominently in ancient and recent history.

There, you can see Roman ruins, Byzantine monuments and architecture, and the site of battles that shaped the development of modern Greece.

Thessaly lies between Macedonia and Central Greece. Many people consider it the cultural center of Greece, but tourists often overlook it in favor of Central Greece and the Greek islands.

When you visit Thessaly, take in the natural scenery that inspired the ancient Greeks to come up with the tales of Greek mythology , enjoy local produce, and visit its many cultural and archaeological sites, including:

• Amphitheaters
• Byzantine Churches
• Orthodox Monasteries
• Stone-age ruins

The beautiful city of Volos stands out as a city in Thessaly with vibrant nightlife as well as deep historical roots.

The town also features a potent local brandy called Tsipouro. Other towns to consider are Trikala and Larissa.

Central Greece

Central Greece contains the mythic Mount Parnassus , nearby Delphi , with its famous ancient ruins, and towns such as Thebes and Lamia with roots going back to the Bronze Age . A visit to Central Greece offers a chance to reflect on Greece's ancient past, see museums, hike through ancient trails, and more. 

The region of Attica, which includes Athens, is the cornerstone of many trips to Greece and Eastern Europe in general.

In Athens, you will experience the grandeur of the Parthenon in the archaeological site of the Acropolis, the Temple of Hephaestus, the ancient Agora, or the Panathenaic Stadium .

If ancient science intrigues you, visit the Tower of the Winds, a recently restored weather station over two thousand years old.

The contemporary architecture of Athens draws upon its history and modern art trends to create a rich 21st-century landscape.

Visit the Onassis Stegi cultural center for performances and exhibitions or simply to take in the innovative use of marble.

The Benaki Museum is striking inside and out, and it houses exhibits from crucial periods in Greek history. Of course, the Acropolis Museum and the archaeological museum are also not to be missed, showcasing Greek history and heritage in style.

For more information about traveling to Athens, staying there, and seeing the sights, visit our  comprehensive guide to Athens .

Peloponnese

The Peloponnese peninsula is located in southern Greece to the southwest of Athens and has played an integral part in Greek history from its beginnings. 

The Mycenaeans belonged to a bronze-age civilization that lived in Greece over 3,000 years ago.

This civilization produced impressive cyclopean architecture, so named because the stones were so large that later Greeks believed that the mythical giants created the buildings. 

One of the highlights of the Peloponnesian peninsula is the sanctuary at ancient Olympia , the site of the original Olympic Games. 

While you won't be able to compete in the Olympic Games, it is easy to add events like sailing and wine tasting to your exploration of the Peloponnese .

These examples are only a taste of what mainland Greece has to offer. For more information about select cities on mainland Greece, you can also visit the Greek National Tourism Organization website. 

Traveling to Mainland Greece

Crossing borders can be more of a challenge than it used to be since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Check with the Greek  General Secretariat for Civil Protection  for the latest guidance on travel restrictions.

From the Balkan Countries

You can take toll roads south of Albania. To reach Greece from the country of Macedonia, you can take a train, a bus, or a combination of the two.

The main airports for international travel to mainland Greece are:

• Athens International Airport
• Thessaloniki International Airport
• Kalamata International Airport in Peloponnese 
• Alexandropouli Airport, serving East Macedonia and Thrace

High-speed ferries and conventional ferries run from Albania to Greece. Ports such as Alexandropoulis in Thrace offer ferry access to many Greek islands .

Plan Your Trip

Be sure to allow time to travel to and from different locations on your itinerary. Athens has a convenient rail system to help you get to important hotspots and cultural sites.

You can reach many cities by rail or car or join a bus tour to visit many sites on a single trip. Some cities, like Delphi, do not have train access, so check the rail lines and bus schedules in advance. If you are traveling by train, Hellenic Train has recently upgraded its food service and offers 100% Greek food products.

Places to Stay in Mainland Greece

Visitors to Greece have a wealth of lodging options, from stately traditional hotels to avant-garde boutique hotels and quaint bed and breakfasts.  The following are just a few of the unforgettable hotels in mainland Greece.

AthensWas  is 90 meters from the Parthenon and less than a kilometer away from many of Athens's most incredible sights. See the Acropolis through the window while dining on traditional Greek food.

The Hotel Grand Bretagne

Built in 1874, the Hotel Grand Bretagne is the oldest hotel in Athens. It has a complex history from its start under Ottoman rule through occupation during World War II to a luxurious haven for Hollywood's elite.

Agramada Treehouse

The Agramada Treehouse in Halkidiki lets you experience the height of luxury from the literal height of a treehouse.

Vaela Hotel Cultural Resort

A boutique hotel in Elatochori, Central Macedonia, the Vaela Hotel Cultural Resort is close to skiing and other outdoor activities. You can escape to Greek village life without having to leave luxury behind.

Where To Eat in Mainland Greece

Greece's warm climate and established position at a global crossroad make it a perfect place for exquisite fresh food , whether your tastes favor traditional Mediterranean cuisine, Middle Eastern delicacies, or something more adventurous.

The Old Tavern of the Psarras 

The oldest restaurant in existence in Athens stands mere kilometers from the Acropolis and offers a wide selection of outstanding salads, fish, and meat dishes.

For an unbeatable mountaintop view of Athens, dine on the top of Mount Lycabettus. From 900 feet above sea level, look out upon the cityscape of Athens and the surrounding hills.

Naoumidis is an exceptional restaurant near Lake Vegorritis in Macedonia, Greece. 

Sightseeing in Mainland Greece

A traveler could spend a year in mainland Greece and not exhaust the possibilities.  Greece has been at the forefront of world history since the days of the Mycenaeans.

Throughout central Greece, you will see traces of classical Greece, Greece under the Roman Empire, the development of the Greek Orthodox Church, the Byzantine Empire, the Ottoman Empire, and pivotal clashes in World War I and World War II. 

Ruins of Classical Greece

Despite millennia of warfare, religious changes, and political struggles, ancient structures survive, some in places you might not think to look.

While you visit the famous temples, don't forget less glamorous sites, such as quarries, walls, and remains of personal residences. 

Churches, Monasteries, and Ottoman Sites

Under the Christian Roman and Eastern Roman (Byzantine) empires, Greece's old religious practices gave way to Christianity, leaving the country with a wealth of historic buildings.

The Church of Panagia Kapnikarea in Athens, for example, is nearly one thousand years old and exists on the site of an older temple. 

Battlegrounds

One way to get a rich cultural experience and explore the more out-of-the-way parts of mainland Greece is to stay near the site of a historic battle. Consider a trip to:

• The Thessaly plains, where the gods and titans fought, according to legend.
• Visit the legendary battle site of Marathon, where you can enjoy resort accommodations close to the beach or make a day trip from Athens to the battle site. 
• Visit Thermopylae and see firsthand where the Spartans faced off against the Persians.

The battlefield might not look the same as it did thousands of years ago, but the scene still resonates.

Do I Need To Visit Athens During My Tour of Mainland Greece?

It is hard to imagine a trip to Greece without spending some time at the Greek capital. The city brings pollution, crowds, and other hassles that many travelers are trying to escape. As you can see from this post, mainland Greece has a lot to offer beyond Athens.  

Final Thoughts

Any trip to Greece has limitless potential and countless opportunities to escape the well-worn tourist paths. Going beyond Athens gives you a deeper insight into the life and culture of Greece.

Visiting the olive groves, orchards, waterways, and forests that sustained Greek civilization throughout the ages gives a complete travel experience. 

Start planning your trip to mainland Greece today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the major cities in mainland greece.

The major cities in mainland Greece include Athens, Thessaloniki in northern Greece, Patras, Larissa, Volos, and Ioannina. These cities offer a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities.

What are the must-visit historical sites in mainland Greece?

Mainland Greece is rich in historical sites from the ancient world. Some locations you must visit in mainland Greece include the Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens, the ancient city of Delphi, Meteora with its monasteries, Mycenae, Epidaurus with its ancient theater and beautiful modern city, and Olympia.

What is the best way to travel within mainland Greece?

Mainland Greece has a well-connected public transportation system. You can travel within the country using domestic flights, trains, long-distance buses, and rental cars.

Trains and buses are cost-effective options, while domestic flights are faster but more expensive.

What are the best natural attractions in mainland Greece?

Mainland Greece offers various natural attractions. Some popular ones include Mount Olympus, Vikos Gorge, Mount Parnassus, Mount Pelion, the Prespa Lakes, and the Vikos–Aoös National Park.

What is the best time to visit mainland Greece?

The best time to visit mainland Greece is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is generally pleasant.

However, the Greek mainland is a year-round destination and offers an excellent opportunity for experiencing Greece in winter in the most scenic way possible.

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15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece

From charming beach towns to idyllic islands, these places to visit in Greece are all the vacation inspiration you need.

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Let’s make one thing clear: No matter where you go in Greece , you’ll have a good time. The Mediterranean nation is filled with spectacular places to explore, from its historically rich cities to its charming inland towns, and, of course, across its famed islands . But if you need a little help narrowing down where to go next, here are 15 best places to visit in Greece. 

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

As both Greece’s capital and the nation’s largest city, Athens deserves at least a day or two of exploration. Visitors can head to popular attractions like the  Acropolis and Parthenon, but more modern neighborhoods like Exarchia, known for its bohemian flair, are worth checking out, too.

happytrip/Getty Images

There are hundreds of Greek islands to choose from, but one gaining more attention by the minute is the positively quaint Milos . Accessible via direct flights from Athens, this island is the place to go for total rest and relaxation. Come to explore desolate beaches tucked in between craggy cliffs, dine on octopus in cafes that are sprinkled across the island, and enjoy quiet evenings sipping local wine while watching the sun dip into the azure waters.

Jomerci/Getty Images

Looking for a more lively atmosphere? Head to Mykonos, an island known for always being a good time. Also accessible via direct flights from Athens, Mykonos is the place to be during the summer for beachside parties that stretch long into the night (and often into the next day, too). Of course, there’s more to the island than just parties. It's home to its fair share of gorgeous beaches and historical sites, including Kato Mili, a row of four massive windmills built by the Venetians in the 16th century.

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History buffs will love the town of Delphi, located about a 2.5-hour drive northwest of Athens. The community was home to the Oracle of Delphi , which people from all over the Mediterranean traveled to see. Here, visitors can still explore the Temple of Apollo's remains, along with several ancient theaters and stadiums preserved through the millennia.

Admire waters a shade of blue you never knew existed in the Halkidiki region, located in northern Greece. This area is best known for its gorgeous beaches, which come with equally alluring soft sand, so you can lounge about all day.

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Find even more historical delights, visit Epidaurus, at the northeastern end of the Peloponnese. It’s beloved by archeology buffs for its Ancient Theatre , built in the fourth century B.C. to honor the god of medicine, Asclepius. And its still a place where visitors can watch live performances in the summer.

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The seaside community of Gythio is admittedly quiet, but it's by far one of the best places to visit when you need to get away from it all. Filled with colorful homes and golden-sand beaches, Gythio is also favored for its sea turtles that come and lay their eggs.

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For unbelievable views, pay a visit to Meteora, located in Thessaly. The area is made up of massive rock formations reaching toward the sky. Inside the gorgeous formations sit several monasteries , which made their way onto the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.

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Sifnos, a small island reachable by ferry from Athens, is another spot known for its relaxing atmosphere. Plus, it's filled with so many beaches, you can find a large patch of sandy shoreline all for yourself, even in the height of summer.

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Mix in island time with a quick geology lesson on Kefalonia. The island, located west of the mainland, is home to the Drogarati Cave , which comes with awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites hanging off the ceiling and jutting out from the sea floor, respectively.

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Want to get a taste of Italy and Greece all in one go? Make your way to the stunning, romantic island of Corfu. Thanks to its proximity to its neighboring European nation, the island comes with plenty of Italian influence, reflected in its architecture, food, and way of life.

Thessaloniki

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Find an urban escape in northern Greece with a visit to Thessaloniki. This port city is filled with historic sites like the White Tower of Thessaloniki and Arch of Galerius, along with world-class restaurants and contemporary art museums that will leave you inspired.

Messolonghi

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Get a different sea view in Messolonghi, located on the western coast of Greece. This town sits on a serene sea lake, with many who live here still making a living off fishing in the area. And though the town has great historical significance (especially around the Greek Revolution), it’s still an under-the-radar gem for international tourists.

Make one more historic stop at Olympia , this time for a lesson in sports history. Located on the western side of the Peloponnese, Olympia was the site of the very first Olympic Games. Visitors can visit the ancient stadium and the temples of Zeus and Hera all in one trip.

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Head to the eastern Peloponnese to the beautiful city of Nafplio. As Visit Greece explains, the myth behind the town is that it was founded by Nafplios, the son of Poseidon. Today, it's filled with ancient sites, including monuments and castles galore, all worthy of exploring on your next Greek vacation. Get packing !

Related Articles

10 Great Things to Do in Greece

The top 10 things to do on the greek mainland will give you a comprehensive overview of what makes greece so special. make the trek to the oracle at delphi. watch the sunset behind the temple of poseidon at cape sounion. check out the birthplace of the modern-day olympics. here are the greek mainland highlights to hit before heading off to the islands..

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The 13 best places to visit in Greece

From sprawling cosmopolitan cities to breathtaking beaches, here's where to add to your Greece bucket list

There are many beautiful countries in Europe, but there is nowhere like Greece . The white and blue houses. The mountain views. The glistening blue waters and the secret hidden coves. It’s sometimes barely believable that Greece exists, but it does! And the best part? It’s absolutely massive, and there’s so much to explore. 

Different Greek islands do different things, so if you’re making the trip, you should first figure out what kind of holiday you’re after. Are you looking for something beachy, nature-y or a bit more cosmopolitan? Lemon trees, sunset cocktails or pure, unadulterated clubbing? Whatever you're looking for, our local writer has picked the best islands, cities and towns to visit. 

RECOMMENDED: 🏝️  The most  beautiful Greek islands 🏨 The best  hotels in Greece 🏛 The best things to do in Athens 🧿 The best things to do in Mykonos

Demetrios Ioannou  is a writer and photographer from Athens.  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .  This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

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Where to visit in Greece

1.  Athens

Obviously, if you’ve heard anything about Greece, you know about its beautiful capital Athens. Athens is that perfect mix of traditional but trendy, ancient but modern, full of nature but cosmopolitan at the very same time. Here you’ll find huge, open roads covered in restaurants and bars, but coming off them are tiny little cobbled side streets to explore. Old buildings give way to fascinating galleries. You can grab an ouzo and pitch up at a beautiful outdoor cinema, looking up at the stars. Plus you’ve simply got to see the Parthenon at least once in your life. Athens is a sprawling, incomparable beauty that is like no other. Add it to your bucket list. 

Why go?  Europe’s oldest capital and the birthplace of democracy, Athens is crammed with several thousands of years of history and is as unmissable as any great Euro city. 

Discover Athens: 🧿  How to spend a weekend in Athens 📍  The best  things to do in Athens 🥙  Really good  restaurants in Athens 😎  Explore  Kypseli, Athens’s coolest neighbourhood

2.  Aegina

A little over an hour away from the port of Piraeus, the island of Aegina is the closest to the Greek capital and a popular destination for tourists and locals. In 1827, after the Greek Independence War had ended, it served as the first capital of the newly founded Greek state for a while. Today, the island is mostly famous for pistachios, chock-a-block full of pistachio trees, and thought to be the best in the world for the stuff. It’s worth visiting the famous Aphea Temple, dedicated to goddess Athena, the Saint Nektarios Monastery and the nearby uninhabited Islet of Moni, where wild peacocks and deer stroll uninterrupted. 

3.  Crete

You’ll need a car to explore Greece’s biggest island, but if you’re after golden beaches, crumbly old towns, world-class museums and UNESCO Heritage sites,  Crete  ticks every box. Chania in the west is the liveliest part of the island, while Sitia in the east is famed for its pristine coves and sandy beaches – a perfect rural and picturesque escape. Nature seekers could hike Samaria, Europe’s longest gorge, culture hunters should track down the Minoan palaces, and kids are guaranteed a good time at the island’s countless waterparks.

Why go?  Much more than just an all-inclusive beach holiday hotspot, Crete is a mish-mash of fabulous stuff to see, do, eat and drink. 

Discover Crete:

📍  The best things to do in Crete

4.  Santorini

The scenery in  Santorini , one of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea, seems crafted by the Greek gods: whitewashed villages crown the island with views over its majestic coastlines, rural vineyards span huge stretches inland and the beaches are black, red, and out of this world. There’s a ridiculous amount for explorers, foodies and culture vultures to discover, from archaeological sites to swimming spots and brilliant wine and food. And trust us: this place is  even  more beautiful IRL than it looks on the ’gram.

Discover Santorini:

📍  The best things to do in Santorini 🏨  Amazing hotels in Santorini 🏖️  Where to stay in Santorini  

5.  Zakynthos

Better known as Zante, Zakynthos draws a party-ready crowd to its notorious Laganas nightlife strip, but this sunstruck Ionian isle – known by the Venetians as ‘the flower of the East’ – is also blessed with some of the Med’s most beautiful scenery. This includes the spectacular Shipwreck Beach, whose bright-blue waters hemmed in by sheer white cliffs can only be reached by boat, and Zakynthos Marine Park, home to slippery seals and savvy turtles. It’s truly wild – in multiple senses of the word.

6.  Tinos

Famous for its carved marble-fronted buildings – and, increasingly, its burgeoning food scene – Tinos is yet another jewel in the Cyclades archipelago. To get there, you’ll need to fly to Mykonos and catch a ferry. It’s worth the journey: some of the best Greek wines are produced here, and chefs from all over Europe have opened restaurants among its sage-scented hills. Most are situated in the main town of Chora – we recommend the traditional Greek menu at Thalassaki.

7.  Naxos

The largest of the Cyclades islands, Naxos is also one of the least explored – which means you can expect secluded sandy beaches and a low-key, laidback atmosphere that’ll make the pressures of everyday life feel worlds away. Packing an incredible amount of variety into an incredibly small space, this is a place where you can venture up into tiny high-flung mountain villages or laze on an endless chain of silky sand beaches away from the madding tourist crowds.

8.  Corfu

Italianate villages, ornate palaces and romantic beaches are on the cards if you visit the lush island where the Durrell family once lived. With its sundry influences left by past invaders,  Corfu  is a place where you can drink ginger ale with your Greek salad, stroll streets packed with Byzantine and Venetian architecture and meet modern-day monks in Paleokastritsa’s spectacular medieval monastery. And after a hard day’s sightseeing and stuffing your face, you’ll obviously want to jump straight into the Ionian Sea – never not a stunning shade of turquoise blue.

Discover Corfu:

📍  The best things to do on Corfu

9.  Rhodes

Way back when – and we’re talking way, way back –  Rhodes  was home to the Colossus, one of the world’s Seven Wonders. An earthquake may have destroyed that ol’ thing in 226BBC, but the island’s Unesco world heritage-classed old town is still steeped in charm and history – thanks to a series of dazzling topsy-turvy medieval inns and fourteenth-century knight’s houses that stand to this day. Head outside the city, and the mountain villages and cliff-top towns you’ll come across are just as magical as any fairytale location. And with plenty of chic shops, decent restaurants and lively bars, you’re guaranteed some modern magic, too.

Discover Rhodes:

📍  The best things to do in Rhodes 🏨  Amazing hotels in Rhodes

10.  Kastellorizo

At the edge of Greece, right opposite the Turkish coastal town of Kaş, you'll find Kastellorizo (aka Megisti), the island furthest from the Greek capital. It's a flight or a boat ride away from the island of Rhodes in Dodecanese, and though it's a bit of a journey to the island, it's absolutely worth it. This is a remote paradise with colourful buildings, seafood for days and seriously chilled out vibes. Plus, it has a fascinating history – make sure to visit the castle of the Knights Hospitaller overlooking the Aegean Sea, and the glorious 4 th century BC Lycian tomb below it. The fort-monastery of Agios Georgios of the Mountain also boasts one of the best views on the island (you just need to get up 315 steps first).

11.  Thessaloniki

Once the second city of the Byzantine Empire – and later a thriving Ottoman port city connecting east and west – Thessaloniki has only been part of Greece since 1912. And that really shows. This place doesn’t feel like Greece you see in tourist brochures: its central market, Kapani, has all the colour and chaos of an Istanbul bazaar, and much Ottoman architecture remains throughout the city centre – you can even visit the house where Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the father of modern Turkey, was born. The harbourside Ladadika area hums with some of the wildest, most fun nightlife in the Balkan peninsula, with most bars and clubs open until 6am and beyond. The old town is perfect for the aimless morning-after mooch – and the ouzo and  bougatsa  breakfast pastries in these parts are unrivalled.

12.  Kalamata

The city of Kalamata in the Peloponnese is home to the ancient ruins of Messenia, the picturesque Navarino Lagoon beach, and also those very famous olives you may recognise the name from. Few tourists venture to these parts, which is great news for you. To explore the wider region, base yourself at the Ant Farm – a beautiful farmhouse just outside the city, where you can stay in one of ten treehouses nestled within the olive trees.

13.  Mykonos

Dubbed the ‘Greek Ibiza’,  Mykonos  is where you’ll find world-famous DJs headlining superclubs while a jet-set crowd mingle on yachts and private jets. But this Cyclades island is not just for the uber-privileged: there are plenty of cute hotels, affordable gourmet restaurants and quiet corners still relatively untouched by the tourism industry. So when you’re done hanging out at the beach clubs and traditional tavernas, just follow the tangled web of dirt-smattered backroads – chances are, there’ll be a heavenly beach waiting at the end.

Discover Mykonos: 📍  The best things to do in Mykonos 🏨 Amazing hotels in Mykonos

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10 places to visit in mainland Greece

Posted: August 10, 2023 | Last updated: August 10, 2023

The Greek islands and the capital, Athens, are easily the best-known part of the country. And while they’re full of amazing beaches perfect for relaxing and post-card-ready views, Greece’s mainland has plenty waiting to be discovered. Here are my top 10 recommendations.

The Peloponnese Peninsula

This very special part of Greece is one of my absolute favorites. Just a couple of hours from Athens, the peninsula is full of adorable towns like Nafplio, Kalamata, and Pilos. Additionally, many of the beaches rival those of the islands — and don’t tell the Italians, but some of the best gelatos in Europe can be found here!

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Up north in the mountains is a movie-like part of the country, Meteora. This region is home to 24 monasteries that date back to the 1920s. Carved into the rocks of the mountainside, you can hike from the nearby villages of Kalambaka and Kastraki or drive up and walk between them. Make sure to bring a scarf and long skirt, or be prepared to borrow one before entering!

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Thessaloniki

Greece’s second city is totally worth a visit! In the northeastern corner lies this beautiful city full of history. There are numerous archeological sites, particularly of the Byzantine era, and plenty of museums. Additionally, it’s better situated along the Aegean than Athens, a sunset stroll along the promenade is a must!

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Most of us have heard of Sparta; yes, it is a real place you can visit! This city is full of history and archeological remains just south of the Peloponnese! There’s even a quirky olive oil museum! And just a few miles away, enjoy the UNESCO site, Mystras — some of the best-preserved ruins in the country.

One of the most popular (and easiest) day trips from Athens, Delphi is just a couple of hours by car or bus but feels a world away. The ride will take you through Greek farmland before entering the mountains just before entering the ancient city ruins. Make sure to plan for a full day here, or better yet, stay the night!

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In the lesser-visited northwest corner of Greece lies beautiful Ioannina and the surrounding area. Unlike other places on this list, there aren’t many sites or activities in the city, but it’s nice just to stroll and relax and enjoy a slower pace of life. It also makes a nice stop between Albania and Greece if you’re traveling between the two.

On the Peloponnese Peninsula lies another must-visit, Olympia, the location of the original Olympics. You can tour the Ancient Stadium, temples, and an amazing museum. Next to the site is an adorable village with many amenities, making for a great day!

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Popular with Greeks, Nafpaktos is still relatively unknown to international tourists. This means fewer crowds and a new kind of experience. The relaxed, former Venetian town is similar to Nafplio on the Peloponnese but with a less hectic vibe. Above the town, there’s also an incredible castle you can’t miss!

Mani Peninsula

On the southernmost tip of Greece lies the Mani Peninsula, home to undiscovered beaches and mostly empty villages that cling to the cliff sides. Rent a car to follow the meandering roads and enjoy the rugged landscape.

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Corinth Canal

On the way to both the Peloponnese and Mani Peninsulas from Athens, you’ll drive by the canal that links the Ionian and the Aegean Seas. An important accomplishment when it first opened 130 years ago, it forever changed maritime navigation in the area. Today, you can pull over, watch boats pass through the narrow passage, and marvel at the centuries-old formation that still holds up.

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M ainland Greece is a collection of ancient treasures and pleasant surprises, just waiting to be uncovered. The sad thing is that people often bypass the mainland and go straight to the Greek islands. While an island itinerary is a great way to enjoy a Greek holiday in summer , the islands are only half of a whole. If you are to see the real authentic Greece, your trip should encompass just a little of the mainland! Before you choose which island is best for you, have a look at the mainland destinations in Greece that deserve your attention.

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This waterfront city in the North is one of the top places to see on the mainland in Greece. To wander the streets of Thessalonki is to take a step back in time. Amongst modern houses are the remains of Byzantium, preserved and cherished all throughout the heart of the city.

You can relive the past and visit some of the most important churches or merely admire them as you wander the streets. For anyone that visits you will quickly realise the waterfront is the place to be to grab a coffee and take in the view. But remember some of the most amazing traditional tavernas lie hidden in quiet alleys!

Thessaloniki is student city, which gives it a vibrant energy so there are plenty of quirky bars to sit at and enjoy a cocktail. If you’d prefer a more leisurely Greek holiday take a walk along the waterfront and catch one of the cities famous fiery orange sunsets.

☞ Related: What To Do In Thessaloniki For 2 Days: An Itinerary By A Local

View our FREE master guide for Thessaloniki here !

It includes an interactive map!

When you see pictures of Halkidiki you could be forgiven for thinking they were taken on one of the Greek islands many beautiful beaches. But you would be wrong. These golden shores and rich turquoise waters belong to mainland Greece.

The wonderful thing about the region of Halkidiki is that it is only an hours drive from Thessaloniki. The peninsula consists of three ‘legs’ Kassandra, Sithonia, and Athos. Together they resemble the trident of Greek god Poseidon in mythology. There is no shortage of places to go in Halkidiki, like the quaint village of Afytos or Diaporos island just off the peninsula.

☞ Related: 5 Olympian ‘Gods’ And Their Greek Island

Epirus is one of the better kept secrets of mainland Greece. This region is renowned for its dense forests, mountainous terrain, fairy tale villages, crystal-clear lakes and rivers and low-key seaside resorts. Perhaps one of the reasons why this area is largely untouched by tourism is its rugged landscape, which leaves it comparatively inaccessible.

A major attraction of Epirus is that this is where you will find the sparsely populated villages that make up the community of Zagori better known as Zagorochoria .

☞ Related: The Most Enchanting Villages in Mainland Greece You Need To Visit

In the region of Epirus you will find one of the most exquisite National Parks on mainland Greece, Vikos-Aoos National Park . You may have heard of this special place before as it is home to the world’s deepest gorge. The park is every nature lovers dream as there are copious walking tracks to explore, many with exquisite views of the deep chasm and beyond. Soak in the vibrant beauty of the quiet moments in this untouched destination that enhances the illusion that you are alone in the world.

Of course, we cannot miss one of the most important cities on mainland Greece, the capital! Everyone should visit Athens at least once as the city is the perfect introduction to Greece. The many museums in the city are there to enrich you with a wealth of knowledge. They help you piece together Greece’s long and complex past.

In Athens, there is an endless list of things to do. You might begin by climbing the slopes of the Acropolis , visiting the Ancient Agora or some of the other important archaeological sites that are scattered around, many within walking distance. Stop for a bite to eat, grab a coffee or sweet dessert, something the city does so well. The blend of good food, ancient history and eclectic modernism is a wonderful way to delve into Greece before seeing the islands.

You have probably never heard of this destination in mainland Greece. Quietly unassuming, this lush green town in Central Greece is for those looking for unexpected wonders. Only a few hours drive from Athens, Livadeia is the perfect stop on a road trip north to Delphi and the famous Sanctuary of Apollo.

Because the river Herkyna runs directly through the town you are immediately immersed in nature. Make sure you wander the cobbled paths under the shade of the plane trees and admire the waterfalls and watermills. You also can’t visit Livadeia without trying the famous souvlaki!

This small quaint seaside settlement has a surprisingly deceptive history. The town of Galaxidi was once a leading maritime power and it played an instrumental part in the Greek War of Independence in the 1800s. Throughout its history, the settlement has also experienced horrific losses.

Despite this, the magic of Galaxidi lives on, perhaps made more special by everything it has endured. This is one of the most underrated spots in mainland Greece, so make sure you take time to see the neoclassical houses along the waterfront, explore the harbour and be refreshed by a cool sea breeze.

☞ Related: 20 Unknown Destinations In Greece That Are Not On Your Radar

While you may not be able to point out Kalamata on the map, the name might be familiar. This is because this city is renowned for its olives. Kalamata olives! But this isn’t the only reason you should take the time to explore Kalamata. Just a 3-hour drive from Athens the seaside town is very accessible if you are interested in exploring more of mainland Greece.

Rather than simply passing through on route to the Peloponnese , make it a priority to explore. Kalamata is nestled in the foothills of Mount Taygetos and is enveloped by the Gulf of Messinia in southern Greece. You get both the mountains, the sea and beautiful beaches along with authentic shops and cafes.

☞ Related: A Brief History Of The Olive Tree

As well as Kalamata, the Peloponnese offers some extraordinary seaside routes to some magical places. One of them is the Mani peninsula . This harsh land stands out due to its unique architecture and breathtaking combination of sea and rock, making it the perfect place to explore if you are taking a road trip of mainland Greece.

Mani is famous for the stone towers that cover the area. Each is a representation of its historic past. Many castle-like houses date back to the 15th century, the times of the Byzantine Empire. You can stay in one for yourself and experience this history come to life!

☞ Related: The Most Amazing Road Trip In The Mani Peninsula

Another castle city of mainland Greece is Nafplion . With a rich history and a beautifully preserved historical centre, Nafplion is perfect for walking and exploring on foot. What you might not know is that Nafplion was the first capital of the newly established Greek state, between 1823 and 1834.

Nafplios, was the son of the Greek god Poseidon in mythology and is who the city is named after. Translating to “seafarer” or “navigator”, it is a name that leaves no doubt as to the connection of the people to the sea and marine occupation. In Nafplion you will be enchanted by its picturesque cafes and shops, the friendly and relaxing atmosphere and historical richness.

☞ Related: 10 Castles Around The Peloponnese You Need To See

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Home > Places > Greece > Best Places to Visit in Mainland Greece

August 22, 2023

Best places to visit in mainland greece, culture , guide , history , mythology.

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About Mainland Greece

I have no doubts that anyone who ever considered traveling somewhere at all, must have had Greece on their list of potential candidates for the trip. Be it one of the islands in the Mediterranean flooded with perfect beaches, or some of the popular archaeological sites found across the region, all of it is world-famous. Some say that mainland Greece is not worth it but I dare to disagree. It might not be as picturesque as the islands, though there are some widely known exceptions like Athens Acropolis , Meteora , or Vikos Gorge , but the strength of the heartland of Greece lies in its rich and plentiful historical or mythological sites found across Hellenic territories like Delphi , Olympia and much more. The key to enjoying them is understanding them. So, I invite you to do some research before doing your trip to this beautiful country because it will greatly increase the quality of your time during the magical visit to Greece.

In this article, I’ll try to provide some general information about the most popular tourist and road trip destinations on mainland Greece by introducing some of the rich historical sites in this mythical land of ancient Greeks. Hopefully, this will unlock these locations and will help you to kick-start your understanding of the geography and history of the country.

Greece Details

• Location: Mediterranean
• Coordinates: 39°00′N 22°00′E
• First mentioned: Ancient texts often reference mainland Greece, one of the earliest is Homer’s “Iliad” (around the 8th century BC).
• Population: 10,482,48 (2021)
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Delphi, Meteora, Ancient Olympia, Archaeological Site of Mycenae and Tiryns, Archaeological Sites of Thessaloniki among others.
• Area: 131,957 km² / 50,949 mi²
• Time zone: Greece is in the Eastern European Time (GMT +2)
• Currency: Euro
• Driving side: Right
• Weather: Mainland Greece weather
• Best time to visit: Spring (April to early June) and Autumn (September and October)

Map of Mainland Greece

Mount olympus.

Many people from all corners of the world seek Mount Olympus to experience bits of its majestic legend. Though entangled with its mythical romanticism, the home of 12 Greek Gods is not for everyone. Be aware that if you dare to brace it, be ready for long hikes, winter-cold streams, and hordes of clueless tourists. Even given that it is possible to reach 1,000 m / 3,280 ft by car, it is not your typical mountain – you´ll have to work hard for some kind of reward. If you are afraid that you’ll fail to capture the majesty of the highest mountain in Greece, consider hiring a guide to Mount Olympus .

The main base to challenge Mount Olympus is the town of Litochoro, situated just 16 km / 10 mi from the Aegean Sea on the border between Thessaly and Macedonia. It hosts all the infrastructure required for climbing, hiking, or residing by Mount Olympus.

Key Features

• Springs & waterfalls

Mount Olympus has been the base of the Greek Gods since the times when Zeus and his siblings waged war against his father, Cronus. It is told that the Greek pantheon of 12 Gods lives on the mountain and that its peaks reach the divine aether that only immortals could breathe. The 12 main Gods of Greek mythology are: Zeus, Poseidon, Demeter, Hera, Athena, Aphrodite, Apollo, Ares, Hephaestus, Hermes, and either Hestia or Dionysus. There is no consistent list of the Olympians as different writers mention different names of Gods living on Mount Olympus. One thing was consistent – number 12 of deities. This number could refer to some of the peaks of Mount Olympus, but today modern people count as many as 52 peaks with Mytikas being the tallest of them at 2,917 m / 9,570 ft.

Mount Olympus has seen a lot of war waged by mortals as well, but if there is one great thing about mountains, in general, is that they withstand time. No wonder, various cultures thought them to represent Gods or their habitat. As we know, Mount Olympus is a perfect example of it.

During the rule of the Ottoman Empire, some people refused to surrender and moved to the mountains to continue their resistance. These people were known as klepths and the militia recruited to oppose them were known as armatoloi. Both parties had a refuge in Mount Olympus at some time. The holy mountain was the stronghold for the resistance between 1941-1944 during the Nazi occupation, and most recently, it was Litochoro where the Greek Civil War started in 1946. Despite it, the mountain of Greek Gods has calmy outlived it all. Without any hustle, Mount Olympus humbly reminds us that it is the place meant for Gods as the actions of mortals haven’t impacted its great stature.

This breathtaking sacred area is probably the most picturesque spot in mainland Greece, making it a growingly more popular destination in modern-day tourism. Meteora is known for its monasteries atop tall finger-shaped mountains, which have been slowly sculpted out of rocks by natural erosion forces, wind, and rainfall. Though these monasteries were built between 400-600 years ago, the human appreciation of Meteora dates back much further into history. In fact, in terms of share size, it is the largest archaeological site in Greece. The area has been inhabited by humans at least for 50,000 years, possibly as long as 130,000 bridging it to the times of Neandertals. The most famous archaeological site in the area is Theopetra Cave, which hosts the oldest known man-made structure in the world, a stone wall, built probably to protect people from the winter cold.

Key features

• Monasteries
• Geological rock formations
• Archaeological findings

Situated on about 300 m / 1000 ft tall cliffs, about 300 m / 1000 ft above the sea level, the pillars of Meteora rise as high as 630 m / 2,066 ft above the sea level (Aghia). It was the 9th century when the first orthodox hermit monks decided that these unique geological formations are a perfect spot to embrace a life closer to the divine. They lived an ascetic life in natural caves carved out in the rocks, and depended on the support of the local people from the surrounding villages. The locals saw them as spiritual dwellers of the mountains and it was a good omen to assist them.

Only in the 14th century, the monks decided to organize themselves to create a more structured Orthodox sanctuary to continue their devotion to the higher powers. The following two centuries were the Golden Age for the Meteora complex as more and more monasteries were constructed atop different stone pillars. Unfortunately, an era of decline followed the Ottoman rule. If you want to learn more about this fascinating sacred site, I highly recommend taking a guided tour to Meteora monasteries .

Today, it is the second most important site of Easter Orthodox Monasticism, falling just behind Mount Athos. Out of the peak 24 monasteries only 6 remain in service and open to the public. Each of them costs 3eur to enter and is constantly flooded by tourists. Nevertheless, these sacred ancient lands are a real treat to one’s eyes and soul, one step closer to the divine.

Zagori, Epirus

Due to its green scenery and generally rich flora, Zagori feels like a misfit in Greece and that could be applied to the whole region of Epirus . We joked with our friends that nobody of us would have guessed the country if we saw picture before our visit to mainland Greece. Zagori is mostly known for Vikos Gorge – one of the deepest canyons in the world, but once you dig deeper, the region has much more to offer. Even the famous canyon hides many of its secrets hidden from regular visitors. If you can spare some extra time, you might want to consider a guided hike to Vikos Gorge to unearth as much as possible given probably your very limited time.

Key features:

• Vikos gorge
• Zagorochoria stone villages
• Rock formations

The name of the region derives from a Slavic language, meaning “beyond mountains”. This makes sense, given that Slavic nations were constantly attacking the region from beyond the mountains during the Byzantine era. Many other place names are of Slavic origins like one of the Zagorochoria Villages, Kapesovo, which means “garden”.

During Ottoman rule, the Zagori people managed to negotiate some level of autonomy, forbidding the entrance of the Empire’s soldiers, but it was the classical Greek times when Epirus experienced its genesis and the Godel Age. Pyrrhus, the Hellenic King of the Molossian tribe in Epirus, and a second cousin to Alexander the Great, whose mother, Olimpias, was from Epirus. At some point, he expanded his domains through large parts of Greece including Macedonia, and won a few battles against Romans in Magna Graecia and Carthaginians in Sicily. Some historians, and Pyrrhus himself, thought that he prepared the battleground for the First Punic War. These skirmishes of the great general of Epirus didn’t affect the Zagori region directly but it was the original land of the Molossian people.

To me, this region is a straightforward dark horse of mainland Greece and I’m sure it would surprise many first-timers. To sum things up, Zagori is a perfect place in the country to stimulate one’s soul in the face of picturesque green mountains, rich flora, and authentic old stone villages reminiscent of ageless life.

River Acheron and Hades Gates

In ancient Greek mythology, River Acheron is one of the five rivers connecting the world with the underworld. By most classical poets, River Acheron is considered the principal river where the ferryman Charon transported the souls of the dead to Hades for judgment. According to the mythology, those who lived neutrally in life remained on the banks of the river. Later, Roman poets located Charon at the mythical River Styx, another of the five underworld rivers.

• River hiking
• Rafting & other watersports

River Acheron is situated in the northwestern part of current-day Greece, not far from the Capital of Epirus, Ioannina. Another branch of the river is thought to be located in current-day Turkey, in Acherusian Cape, and, famously, was seen by the Argonauts on their journey, according to Apollonius of Rhodes. Both branches were thought to be connected through the underworld, Plato thought River Acheron to be the second largest river after Oceanus.

It is not that difficult to understand why ancient Greeks have seen this exceptionally beautiful river in these colors. At the location, Acheron Springs, numerous springs could be seen hurling out of the underground and cliffs. I’m confident that walking upstream of River Acheron is, and would animate your imagination just as it did mine. It is truly a remarkable place to visit despite the fact of being affected by over-tourism – I guess many souls are wondering what lies in the future for them.

Pro tip: Acheron River with Nekromanteion, Kiana, and Souli makes a good day trip.

Peleponeses Peninsula

Though Athens is the most important Greek city throughout the times, Peleponeses Peninsula is undoubtedly the heartland of the classical Greek times and Mycrneans from the Bronze Age. It includes famous city-states like Sparta, Corinth, Mycenae, Argos, Pilos, and Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games.

Without a doubt, most of the people who know a thing or a few about history, in general, will know at least a few names from the peninsula. In fact, we all know the Olympic games and Sparta, thanks to popular culture. People who have read the Christian Bible are probably aware of Corinth, from Paul’s letters or Sisyphus’s myth. Despite being completely demolished by Romans in 146 BC in Carthaginian style, the city contains relatively well-preserved ruins of the temple of Apollo and Temple E. If you want to learn more, I would recommend taking a one-day tour to Corinth from Athens as it is situated very close to the Capital city.

From a historical perspective, Mycenae might be the second most important historical city on the mainland of Greece, next to Athens. After winning out over Knossos in Crete , it dominated the Greek culture in the Bronze Age even more than Athens did in the Classical times. Despite that, today’s modern Mykenes is town of just over 300 inhabitants. Nevertheless, the village is not shy of visitors because it hosts an archaeological Site from the Bronze Age and a very probable tomb of the legendary King Agamemnon, the Greek leader of the Trojan War. The same people shared the land in a neighboring Argos city, which is one of the longest inhabited settlements in mainland Europe with more than 7,000 consecutive years. Together with the nearby archeological sites, Mycenae makes a good day-trip destination from Athens .

For a long time, Olympia was a Hellenic center of religious importance but in 776 BC, the King of Elis traveled to the oracle of Delphi with a question of how to detain the wars between Greek city-states. The oracle suggested making permanent games during which a truce must be declared between all warring Greeks. The Olympic truce was at first a month long but later on extended to three months so all the Greeks could travel safely back to their homelands. The Olympic games were held every four years ever since.

Pro tip: If you manage to get early to the site, the queues to buy the ticket should be short but after midday, it is highly recommended to buy a skip-the-line ticket to Olympia .

Without any doubt, Athens has been the most important and influential center since Classical Greek times. The Capital of Greece is known worldwide as the birthplace of democracy and its various schools of philosophers. Athens had a huge influence on Roman culture, through which it affected the whole Western world. Despite, being ravaged and sacked many times by various barbarians and empires, some monuments still stand vigilantly after about 2,500 challenging years.

• Architecture

Based on archeology Acropolis Hill has been inhabited for at least the 4th millennium BC. Parts of the wall fortifications visible beneath the Parthenon survive from the Bronze Age, during the times of Mycenaean Greeks, but only during the times of the famous Athenian general and politician, Pericles (495 – 429 BC), when Acropolis gained its current grandiose shape. He rebuilt this sacred hill after the Persian army sacked Athens in 480 BC during their second invasion of Greece. This skirmish ended after the decisive battle that took place in the same year on the nearby island and is known as the Battle of Salamis.

The Golden Age of the city ended when Sparta dared to challenge the hegemony of Athens and managed to achieve a military victory in what is now known as the Peloponnesian War. Despite that, everyone included in the conflict suffered heavy losses. Athens were forced to dismantle their defensive walls, which they tried to erect again preparing for the siege by Alexander the Great and his father Phillip II in 338 BC. Macedonians took the city, but opposite to the local’s expectations, Alexander the Great embraced and respected the beauty of Athens.

It was not the case with the Roman Commander Sulla, who sacked Athens in 86 BC after the Greek states sided with the King of Pontus Mithradates IV. The siege of Athens was long and demanding, given the coup d’etat in Rome by Gaius Marius and Cinna, and the influx of refugees from Rome including Sulla’s family, made the Roman Commander desperate and brutal. Athens were punished severely for siding with Mithradates IV. Sulla not only managed to capture Athens, but defeated all of his enemies in Greece and Rome, including much older Gaius Marius. Both men are considered to be at the top of the list of great Roman Commanders of the Republic.

Future Roman Emperos like Hadrian and Marcus Aurelius showed much more respect for Athens and its sacred history and initiated the further development of the city. Further on, the city was sacked by the barbarian Germanic tribe led by Heruli in 267 AD, but the most damage was done during the Moorean War in 1687 when the Ottoman’s gunpowder stored in the Parthenon was hit by the Venetian bombardment and exploded.

Today, Athens is sought by tourists from across the world to embrace its audacious stature. There are many ways to experience the bliss of this ancient Capital of democracy. The most famous is, of course, Acropolis. Due to the crazy popularity of this historical monument, long queues often line up in front of the cash desks. Given the crazy heat during the summer, it is highly recommended to book skip-the-line tickets to Acropolis . This will not only save you some time for other attractions or for bracing the monument but will be better for your health if you’re not used to 40C. If you want to learn more about the history of the site and see artifacts found in the area, I highly recommend visiting Acropolis Museum as well. It has AC, making it a perfect activity during the hottest hours of the day.

Other interesting historical sites you might consider visiting in Athens include the Temple of Zeus, Agora, the Amphitheater of Dionysos and much much more making Athens a perfect tourist destination for any history enthusiast or somebody who simply wants to embrace the location, where democracy was born.

Other Things to do in Mainland Greece

Athens to delphi: guided day trip & museum with pickup.

Experience Ancient Greece in a day from Athens to Delphi. Explore hilltop ruins, the Temple of Apollo, and more in a carbon-neutral tour.

Athens Bus Tour: Mycenae, Epidaurus & Nafplio

Dive into UNESCO-listed Mycenae, witness Epidaurus' ancient theater, and pause at Nafplio's coastal charm.

Athens: Sounion & Poseidon Temple Half-Day Journey

Traverse Attica's scenic south coast, pausing at Cape Sounion. Marvel at the Temple of Poseidon and savor sunset vistas over the Aegean.

Personal Experience

All things considered, thanks to its high-quality variety the mainland of Greece makes a very good tourist or road trip destination. Every region of the country has its own flavor to make every destination special. From beautiful dreamlike beaches to picturesque villages, from important historical sites to the mythical landmarks that animated human fantasy for thousands of years. I’m sure that foodies will also find enough delicacies among countless traditional Greek and Ottoman dishes. Once you put all cards on the table, it becomes clear why Greece is so popular among tourists.

On the same hand, tourism makes up about 25% of the country’s total GDP, which to my mind are insane numbers. Other popular Mediterranean destinations account only for half the number. This creates a huge dependency on foreigners for many households, which at some point might get annoying but generally, that was not an issue and I found Greeks to be great hosts. What surprised me the most is the respect for their own craftsmen as it was not that difficult to find authentic handmade souvenirs across the country.

The richness of the country’s historical and mythological background is enough for me to come back and explore the beautiful homeland of one of the most interesting cultures the world has seen. Greece is highly recommended for any type of trip for any type of traveler.

You May Be Also Interested in

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16 Stunning Places In Greece That Prove The Mainland Is Better Than The Islands

Skip the ferry and explore these underrated gems.

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Set on a hill, the city of Kavala looks imposing from the sea, with houses rising up to a huge fortress overlooking everything. It's a busy port town, so if you get bored after one day on a quiet beach, don't fret. There's plenty to do, but the beaches themselves are pretty spectacular, with crystal clear water and clean sand.

Meteora is one of the most breathtaking places in the world, let alone Greece. Hundreds of years ago, small monasteries were built upon tall rock formations, and they're still perched there today. You can visit them all, and watch the sun set up on the rocks. The surrounding terrain is also perfect for hiking if you're into it!

A resort town on the Ionian coastline, Parga is a slice of Santorini without having to leave the mainland. The town is surrounded by thick forest, with houses clustered up the hill overlooking the harbour, and a couple of gorgeous beaches to choose from. It comes alive at night with restaurants and bars galore.

Sure, it's not a hidden gem, but you can't skip the capital on a trip to Greece. Obviously it's packed with history, and you could spend all your time visiting incredible ruins and museums. But leave yourself time to explore the city and its neighborhoods. You'll find picturesque side streets, and cute local cafés that are prime spots for people watching. Also get ready to eat some of the best Greek food of your life.

5. Thessaloniki

If you love spending time in cities but find that Athens can be a bit much, then Thessaloniki is the place for you. A port city in the north-east of Greece, its young and vibrant residents give it a super cool vibe. The nightlife here is excellent, as are the restaurants and cafés. Watching a sunset down on the waterfront is a must-do, plus there are tons of ruins and museums for history buffs.

6. Halkidiki

Halkidiki is a three-pronged peninsula just south of Thessaloniki. The area has some of Greece's best beaches, surrounded by forestland and pure nature. The left-most prong, Kassandra, is the place to go when you want to party. It's got great beach clubs that rival those in Mykonos. Sithonia, the middle prong, is more laidback and a great place to soak up the natural beauty while camping. It's got great coves and bays to explore, and way fewer people. The last prong, Athos, is home to a monastic community and can only be visited with preapproval.

7. Neda Waterfalls

When you think water in Greece, your mind automatically goes to the coast, right? But the country actually has some pretty epic waterfalls in canyons that are well worth a visit. Neda is perhaps the most spectacular, at the end of a hike along the river. Bring your swimsuit but be warned — it's freezing cold!

8. Drakolimni

If you're somehow sick of beaches and the coast, maybe a trip to an alpine lake is on the cards. Drakolimni is two lakes nestled in the mountains in the north of Greece, and can be reached by a four-hour hike. The hills are stunning year-round, but are especially awesome in the colder months when there's some snow on the ground.

This peninsula , on the east coast of the country, is a real lesser-known gem. Think deserted beaches, small welcoming villages, and rolling mountains. It's an ideal spot for a road trip, where you can hop along the coast to get some amazing views.

10. Ioannina

Popular with travelers who use the town as a stopover before heading to Corfu or up north, Ioannina is a quaint lakeside city that's a great place to chill for a bit. Catch a boat out to the island in the middle of the lake to explore its monasteries, or stay in town and spend your days sipping coffee or swimming.

Sometimes called the “Caribbean of Greece”, Syvota is an absolute oasis with lush green trees, small islands just off the coast, and incredible blue-green water that belongs on a postcard. One of the best beaches, Bella Vraka, is on a small islet that can be reached on foot via a sandbank. It's the kind of place that's perfect for Instagram.

Most tourists visit Delphi as a day trip from Athens, but it definitely deserves more of your time than that. It's well known for its UNESCO-listed ancient site , with arguably the most impressive ruins in the whole of Greece. Located right at the base of Mount Parnassus, there's plenty of hiking, biking, and adventure sports on offer once you're done soaking up the history. Also there's some great wine produced in the area, so it'd be rude not to do a tasting or two!

13. Mount Olympus

It's not an easy climb, but the tallest peak in Greece is one of those bucket-list things for people who love hiking. You can power through it all in one day, or spend the night atop the mountain in the surprisingly comfortable refuge near the peak. The town of Litochoro at the base of Olympus makes a good starting point and is near the beach if you need to relax afterwards.

14. Nafplio

An absolutely stunning seaside town in the eastern Peloponnese, Nafplio is romantic as hell with its terracotta roofs, charming old streets, and sparkling blue water. But it's not just a relaxing swim stop — hike up to the castle overlooking the town for amazing views, then check out the small island fortress in the harbour.

15. Vikos Gorge

This absolutely gorge ous spot in the mountains of northern Greece should be a must-see for every visitor. Hiking is obviously a main drawcard, but it's also a hotspot for canyoneering and rafting. Even just sitting around and soaking up the incredible views is a great way to spend the day.

16. Lake Kerkini

It might just look like any old lake, but Kerkini is an amazing place to spot wildlife. Water buffalo and flamingos hang out by the banks, and keep your eyes on the skies to see some rare birds. Rent canoes and spend your days on the lake, or stay on land and explore the towns around the shore.

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Best places to visit in mainland Greece

• Jun 17, 2020

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When it comes to travelling to Greece , most people plan to go to the iconic Greek islands . I can’t blame them since the islands are dreamy, but this doesn’t mean mainland Greece has less to offer.

Let’s not forget that some of the most magical and exotic places are hidden on the mainland where you can enjoy the raw natural beauty, admire ancient ruins with buzzing contemporary life and try some delicious traditional Greek food.

In this post, my fellow travel bloggers and I share the list of the best places to visit in mainland Greece when planing a Mediterranean break while avoiding the crowds.

This post contains affiliate links and if you click one I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Recommended by Mansoureh from Travel with Mansoureh

Meteora in Greek means “place suspended in the air”, it is a must-see in mainland Greece. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most magical places I have been to in this world.

When planning a trip to Meteora , be prepared to be amazed by a magnificent complex of enormous rock formations. But what is going to astonish you the most is the groups of Eastern Orthodox monasteries built on top of these rising rocks.

There is no accurate information about how these giant rock pillars were formed, but it is estimated that the age of the rocks is more than 50 million years old, which means older than human existence on our planet.

Taking a sunset tour , going on a guided mountain biking tour and hiking in the rock forest to find great spots for photography are the best things to do in Meteora.

One of the best ways to get to Meteora is to fly to Thessaloniki and rent a car and drive 200 km to Meteora or if you are in Athens, you can take a 5-hour train ride.

Recommended by Ania from The Travelling Twins

Fact about Greece : Greece has over 6000 Islands, but only two are connected by bridge to the mainland. One of them is Lefkada which is famous for its stunning beaches and is known as the Caribbean of Greece.

The most famous beaches are Porto Katsiki, Egremni and Kathisma. All of them have smooth, soft sands and light blue water. And they are perfect for diving, surfing and other water sports.

Because we visited Lefkada in January, we were mostly exploring towns and inland mountain villages. We discovered on a hill above Lefkada Town a monastery of Panagia Faneromeni from the 17th century. The monastery is small and charming with majestic views. It has a tiny rescue Zoo with good selections of birds and other animals, which was a high point for our kids.

Another less known but worth hiking place to visit on Island is Nydri waterfall. In the summer the waterfall is almost dry, but in winter it was quite impressive. Here is where you can stay in some of the amazing hotels and resorts with amazing views over the sea.

The Tzoumerka mountains with its 47 unique villages are Greece mainland’s best-kept secret. If you haven’t heard of Tzoumerka before, don’t worry, many Greeks also don’t know much about this part of the country.

If you are searching for some unique experiences, natural beauty and adventure, this is your place. You can visit Tzoumerka, unlike Greek islands, any time of the year. During the summers you can go swimming in the natural Papingo Rock Pools or rafting in River Voidomatis , a river with one of the cleanest waters in Europe. During winters, you can go hiking or sometimes even skiing.

The most convenient way to go around Tzoumerka is by car. Most of the hotels provide free parking. If you want to have a better understanding of village life while enjoying the view of the mountains, you can stay in the beautiful Rouista Tzoumerka Resort in central Tzoumerka, but if you prefer to go to the north you can stay in Hotel Xenion tou Georgiou Merantza or Lakmos .

While in Tzoumerka, make sure to go for a hike in Rema Marks and Souda Waterfalls, visit Kipinna's Monastery which is built inside a rock, and eat at Napoleon's Traditional Restaurant, one of the oldest restaurants in Greece.

Recommended by Amber from Provocolate

Most travellers from abroad know Pella in northern Greece (just west of Thessaloniki) as the heartland of Ancient Macedonia. It’s true, there are many treasures here from the kingdom we know best from Alexander the Great. But to Greeks, this region centred around beautiful Edessa is also famous for being a great destination for nature and adventure, in all seasons.

Mt. Kaimaktsalan - Greece’s 3rd highest peak at 2,528 meters - is an extremely popular ski destination. Its enchanting name comes from Kaimak - the Turkish word for “cream” (= snow!). You can lodge in traditional cosy style in the stone lodge Rouga , in the charming village of Agios Athanasios.

In the other three seasons, this is, of course, prime hiking territory. There are hiking trails to suit all levels of skill and stamina. Panagitsa, at the base of Mt. Kaimaktsalan is one spot, and another is along the Thermopotamos river.

Bird watchers will enjoy going to Lake Vritta. This glassy lake is a protected wetland and habitat that’s home to over 250 species of birds throughout the course of the year. You can visit them discretely with organised rafting and bird watching excursions.

There’s more water still at Greece’s most impressive waterfall. In Edessa, the Karanos waterfall cascades from a height of 70 meters onto the fertile plain below. The sound is wonderful, and the air is charged with energy.

And saving the best for last - Pozar Springs. Summer and winter, 365 days a year, you can visit these therapeutic hot springs. There are indoor facilities and even private bathing facilities, but the outdoor natural pools are the most spectacular, under the trees, with the cool waterfall of the Thermopotamos beside you.

When it comes to travel to mainland Greece, having a stopover in Athens is sometimes unavoidable. Some tourists will skip exploring the capital of Greece and head directly to other Greek destinations, but they don’t know they are missing the best part of the country.

Athen is surprisingly modern with so much history. By walking around the city you might think that you are in a historical theme park full of life and positive vibe. Not far from the main historical attractions you will be able to find contemporary street arts.

Athens has a lot to offer for any type of travellers. Here you can go for sightseeing and visit some of the most amazing archaeological sites in the world or just go next to the beaches and relax. This Greek city is a paradise for food lovers. While you are in Athens, make sure to sign up for a food tour , where you can try some traditional Greek style dishes and feta cheese.

Make your trip even more magical by going to the Temple of Poseidon where you can watch the sun setting down over the Aegean Sea.

Recommended by Monique from TripAnthropologist

Corinth is a town in central Greece, located on the Isthmus of Corinth, the narrow neck of land that joins central Greece to the Peloponnese. No one cared much about Corinth until 657 BCE, when Cylepsu the tyrant seized power, turning Corinth into the greatest city-state in Greece. Ancient Corinth had its own currency, a mighty trading empire and majestic temples built to the Greeks gods. The Temple of Apollo is the main building still standing in Ancient Corinth.

A map is included with the entrance fee to the site and you can wander around the ruined city without a guide as there are display posts explaining the main buildings and streets.

A museum is located at the centre of the site that contains the treasures found in Corinth and you can climb the mount above Ancient Corinth to arrive at the Acrocorinth – there are a ruined castle and wonderful views out to sea and of the surrounding countryside. The Corinth Canal is also worth visiting and is a short walk from Ancient Corinth.

There is a train from Athens to Corinth and it is possible to do a day trip but there are also many hotels, guest houses and resorts located on the beach close to the ruins of Ancient Corinth.

Thessaloniki

Recommended by Nisha from Nerdy Footsteps

Thessaloniki, the underrated gem, is one of my favourite destinations in mainland Greece. While most of the tourists flock Santorini and Mykonos, we loved spending our epic weekend in Thessaloniki .

A long promenade along the sea offers a calm walk with the beautiful sunset views. No wonder it is lined up with pretty cafes, restaurants, and stores to offer this view with good food and drinks.

Yes, food! I love greek food and what better place to enjoy it in this beautiful seaside city. Ladadika, the area famous for great food and nightlife is definitely a favourite for locals and tourists alike.

Thessaloniki is a convenient size city to walk around and keep exploring the historical monuments at every corner. Some of the highlights are Orthodox churches, Archaeology museum, Byzantine museum, and the ruins from different eras.

Must-know tips: If you are a student, I recommend bringing your student ID as most of the attractions have reduced prices for students.

Vikos Gorge

Recommended by Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Vikos Gorge is officially the deepest gorge in relative to its width in the world. And yet, it sees only a tiny fraction of the tourists that visit Samariá Gorge on Crete. This is probably because it's in a pretty remote part of Greece, up near the border with Albania. Getting here by public transport is possible, but buses from Ioannina are infrequent, so be sure to check the schedule carefully.

For outdoor sports enthusiasts, the best way to experience Vikos Gorge is by hiking all the way through it. In one day, you'll be able to hike from the picturesque village of Monodendri to the even more beautiful village of Mikro Papigko. Accommodation is available in both villages; I recommend Archontiko Zarkada in Monodendri and the Dias Guesthouse and Restaurant in Mikro Papigko.

This is a fairly strenuous hike, but there are several other easier options. Alternatively, if you rent a car you'll be able to visit the various lookout points to see the gorge from different angles without even breaking a sweat.

Recommended by Nina from Lemons and Luggage

Too often travellers to Greece overlook the mainland for the islands. But there are so many fantastic places to visit in mainland Greece. That includes Nafplio which was the capital of Greece between 1821 and 1834.

Nafplio is located on the Peloponnese peninsula in the south of Greece. The best way to get there from Athens is to rent a car. This will also give you the flexibility to visit the archaeological sites in the surrounding area. Nafplio is one of the most popular day trips from Athens for locals, but you could stay even longer.

Nafplio is a great town to explore if you like to combine history and hiking. The best place to experience the beauty of Nafplio is by climbing atop the Palamidi fortress. From there, you have the most amazing view of the Mediterranean Sea and Nafplio town. But don't worry, if you're not up for climbing up the hundreds of steps, you can always go by car.

Other significant fortresses in Nafplio are Bourtzi and Akronafplia. But don't miss out on a stroll through the quaint alleys of the town itself.

With all the hiking and walking you will do, note that the tap water in Nafplio is not safe to drink so make sure to keep a bottle of water on you.

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Delphi is one of the most amazing archaeological sites in Greece mainland, both for its historical importance and stunning setting. It is also an easy day trip from Athens so if you are visiting the Greek capital you cannot miss Delphi.

Delphi is located on the southwestern slope of Mount Parnassus, at 185 km north of Athens. This is a 2-hour drive by private car or a 3-hour ride on a local bus.

In ancient times Delphi was the sanctuary dedicated to the God Apollo, the Sun God, and one of the most important gods in Greek mythology. It was also the seat of Pythia, the oracle who was consulted about important decisions throughout the ancient classical world. The Delphi sanctuary was so important that the Greeks considered it the centre of the world.

Today visitors will find a very rich archaeological site, consisting of the temple of Apollo, some altars and secondary temples, and other structures to support the activity of this sanctuary. Near the site, there is the Delphi Archaeological Museum that displays interesting objects found during the excavations of the site.

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Volos is one of the most special destinations in Central Greece. Situated 330km north of Athens, Volos is a unique city which combines a marvellous beachfront location with easy access to one of the most gorgeous Greek mountains, Pelion. You can get to Volos by bus from Athens or by plane from many European cities.

Unlike other Greek cities, Volos has managed to retain its old-fashioned charm. A walk along its lovely promenade is enough to feel the city's vintage ambience while a stop at Minerva Cafe for a scrumptious Chicago ice-cream will make you feel as though you've taken a trip back to the 80s. Another amazing way to spend your time in Volos is to walk around Palia, which is the oldest district in Volos.

No trip to Volos is complete without a taste of the city's traditional Tsipouradika. The latter are no-frills restaurants where the only thing you order is your drink of choice (either wine or local tsipouro) and food comes along in meze dishes. This is the best value-for-money way to enjoy a fun night out and have dinner at the same time in Volos.

Volos is a really diverse destination so choosing where to stay is a matter of personal priorities. If you're dreaming of an urban getaway, then you should definitely choose one of the city's central hotels . For a stay in the mountains, go for either Portaria or Makrinitsa villages while the best choice for a beach holiday is the quaint town of Kato Gatzea .

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Greece is the birthplace of a lot of important things such as democracy, philosophy, feta cheese, and the world’s greatest sports competition: the Olympics.

Located about 3 hours from Athens, the site of Ancient Olympia is a fascinating stop for any visitor to mainland Greece . It was here in the 8th century BC that the first-ever Olympic Games were held. The original games were held in honour of Zeus, and the site was once home to a massive temple to the king of Greek gods.

Visitors can walk through the temple’s ruins. Another must-visit is the remains of the Temple of Hera, where the torch is lit every four years for the modem Olympic games.

The archaeological museum at Ancient Olympia is also worth visiting, as it holds some of Greece’s most famous statues, such as Hermes of Praxiteles and Nike of Paionios.

The easiest way to get to Olympia is to drive, but there are also regular buses from Athens. If you want something more organised, there are many day tour options to Olympia from Athens as well.

Ancient Olympia is the actual archaeological site of the original games, but the town of Olympia is modern and has plenty of restaurants and hotels to stay in you’re doing more than just a day trip.

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Famous tourist attractions such as the sacred Mount Athos (that women can not visit, only appreciate from a distance jumping on one of the boat tours that daily approach their coasts), the dwarf population of Stagira (where Aristoteles, the classic Greek philosopher was born) and the beaches of the Kassandra and Sithonia peninsulas bathed by the warm waters of the Aegean Sea; the Halkidiki region is historically and culturally relevant from ancient Greece.

It offers a balance to the wildness and exorbitant summer prices of some of the Greek islands and the same - if not more - the quality of landscapes with crystal clear waters and beaches for days. Without forgetting the Greek cuisine - after all, Greece is one of the best countries in the world for foodies , the friendly locals, and the unique laid-back feel of the Mediterranean nations.

To visit it, it is best to travel to Thessalonika, one of the most important cities in the country.

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Greece is renowned for its famous archaeological sites and Mycenae in north-east of the Peloponnese is one such site that is well worth a visit.

In the second millennium BC, Mycenae was at the heart of Ancient Greek civilisation, so much so that the whole period from 1600 to 1100BC was called the Mycenaean Age. This region was home to the military stronghold that controlled the Greek islands and beyond and was a dominant hub of trade and commerce.

This fortified Bronze Age city featured a grand acropolis, Lion Gate, the Treasury of Atreus and many ancient burial chambers. Today there is also a museum on site which tells you all about this UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a good place to start your visit.

The history of Mycenae is a mix of myth, legend and fact, the lines of which are somewhat blurry due to the tales in Homer’s Iliad in comparison to archaeological records. Some of these tales match up to historical records while others are still unknown.

Located around 75 miles south-west of Athens, 30 miles south of Corinth, Mycenae could be visited on a day trip from Athens (around a 2-hour drive) or as part of a visit to the lovely town of Nafplio on the Peloponnese coast. I recommend visiting while staying on the Peloponnese as this allows you the freedom to arrive earlier than the tour buses from Athens and then you can enjoy an evening on the coast too!

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The city of Parga, built in the shape of an amphitheatre, is a picturesque resort located between the coastal areas of Preveza and Igoumenitsa. Parga uniquely combines picturesque mountains and crystal clear sea.

The city is located 65 km from away from Aktion Preveza Airport, and in the summer months, ferries connect Parga with the nearby islands of Paxos, Antipaxos, and Corfu.

The city has preserved many attractions and monuments. For example, the castle built with the help of the Normans on a small hill in the 14th century, and the Ali Pasha Palace, built on a high hill with a breathtaking view. While climbing the narrow streets, you feel like you are transported to another time, to a different era. Upon reaching the highest point on the hill, you can enjoy stunning views of the city and its surroundings, as well as the Ionian Sea.

Most of Parga’s beaches are well organised and have everything you need to have a great time on the water: jet skiing, water skiing, windsurfing, parasailing, scuba diving (diving near the Castle and Agios Sostis Caves is especially interesting). The seashore of Parga is perhaps the best part of the Ionian Sea coastline.

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Ioannina is not the most obvious choice when planning a trip to mainland Greece yet the place is full of attractions. This mid-size city is located in the north-west part of the country, near the border with Albania (and with good connections to the neighbouring country).

For the Greek standards, Ioannina is a fairly new city, founded in the 9th century. One of the main attractions of the city is the castle from the 6th century, the oldest Byzantine fortress in Greece that is still inhabited today. Besides old houses, you can find there the Its Kale Acropolis with Fetiche Mosque.

Ioannina is located at the shore of Lake Pamvotis and that's where you will find many of the cafes, a perfect place to relax and enjoy the city's vibrant life. You can also use Ioannina as a base for some day trips in the Epirus region, such as Nisi island with 13th-century monasteries or Pindus National Park with breathtaking views.

you can stay in the Kamares Boutique Hotel & Spa which is a renovated 18th-century mansion with a traditional architecture offering modern comfort.

Mount Olympus National Park

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Mount Olympus is best known as the mythological seat of the ancient Greek gods. But it is a paradise for mountaineers, hikers, and nature lovers as well. It is home to Greece's highest peak, Mytikas (2.917 meters), and was the first area in Greece established as a national park.

The most popular base for exploring Mount Olympus National Park is a village called Litochoro on the eastern foothills of the mountain. It offers plenty of accommodation, cafes, taverns, shops and a small information centre. Litochoro can be reached by bus or train from Athens or Thessaloniki as well as by car. This makes Mount Olympus one of the easiest Greek mountains to visit.

Hiking is by far the best way to experience the varied nature of Mount Olympus National Park. There are many well-marked hiking trails leading to the summits of Mount Olympus or through the shady gorges of the park. Some require a great level of fitness and at least a bit of mountaineering experience others will take you to hidden pools and waterfalls in just a few minutes.

Enipeas Gorge, stretching between Litochoro and Prionia on the eastern side of the mountain, is one of the most popular destinations in the park. You'll find many amazing waterfalls through the gorge as well as historic monasteries and the charming Agio Spilaio chapel hiding in a cave deep in the canyon. But no matter if you decide to conquer one of Olympus' rugged peaks or just relax next to a bubbling stream you are guaranteed to see a side of Greece you never even knew about.

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Karpenisi is a charming town set on the slopes of Mount Timfristos in Evritania, Central Greece. Young Athenians flock here during the winter months to enjoy romantic getaways in cosy wooden lodges and sip warm honey wine (Oinomelo) by the fireplaces of local tavernas.

The town's resident ski resort of Velouchiou is widely regarded as being one of the very best places for skiing in all of Greece. However, Karpenisi is so much more than just a place to brush up on your ski skills. This area is often referred to as being the “Switzerland of Greece” on account of its breathtaking beauty and mountain scenery.

There are KTEL buses that run frequently between Athens and Karpenisi. You can also consider renting a car and driving here so that you have more freedom and flexibility to explore the surrounding towns. Many hiking trails lead through the woodlands that surround the town and take you to the roaring rivers and hidden caves and waterfalls.

A short drive or taxi ride out of the centre of Karpenisi takes you to Proussos Monastery. This dramatic structure is perched on the edge of a cliff face and is considered one of the most important monasteries in Greece.

If you happen to be in Karpenisi on the 15th of August, you will catch devout pilgrims completing their annual trek to the monastery in honour of Ascension Day.

Hosios Loukas

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Hosios Loukas is one of the 3 Byzantine churches that is listed together under UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Greece . Its located in Distomo, a bit before Arachova. Ideally, it is a perfect stop-over on your day-trip from Athens to Delphi or a skiing weekend in Arachova!

The setting of Hosios Loukas is mesmerising, located in the west slope of Mt.Helikon. It’s a complex of two churches, one monastery, a crypt and more. Today, the monastery is defunct and a museum exists there that gives an insight about the lives of the monks who lived there! The churches and crypt are so ornate and a stunning example of later Byzantine art!

The crypt is filled with frescoes of 11th C CE and the churches are filled with unbelievable mosaic work including ‘Jesus of Navi’! The whole place glistens with golden sparkle!

There is a small olive-oil press cum museum that makes oil from the local olive trees in the traditional way just like how the monks would have made it! Today, it is possible to buy a couple of bottles as authentic souvenirs! The holy offering given to visitors is the Loukoumi (the Greek version of Turkish Delight). That’s also cooked in the traditional way without the gelatin!

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One place in Greece that absolutely takes my breath away is Epidaurus. Protected today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient city was a centre of healing for millennia. For the ancient Greeks, it was a shrine to Asclepius, the Greek god of Medicine. However, it was actually connected with health and wellness even before the ancient Greeks, and the Romans would carry this tradition on after.

While in Epidaurus, you will want to visit the shrine, the museum, and the stunning preserved ancient Greek theatre. Epidaurus is a popular day trip from Athens , but if you want to experience the theatre in all its glory then try to get performance tickets and stay in the area overnight. That's right! Performances are still held at this theatre that's been in existence for over two thousand years.

Another great thing to do in Epidaurus if you're in the area for more than an afternoon is to head to the closest beach. Called Gialasi, this beach is just a kilometre from the city centre. The views are protected by pine trees, and you'll find this beach much less crowded than island beaches.

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The region of Mani in the Peloponnese on Greece's mainland is an underrated destination among tourists but it's definitely one that I would suggest putting on your bucket list.

The area known as Mani is the middle of the three peninsulas (or finger-like stretches of land) located in the Peloponnese, and starts from Kalamata in the north and continues down as far as the Tenaro Lighthouse in the south.

Mani is a wonderful destination for a road trip, weekend break, or full vacation as you can stop off at different beaches, towns, and other sites such as the Diros Cave and The Church of St. Spyridon in Kardamyli along the way.

Mani is a fascinating destination for many reasons, not least because it placed an important role in the Greek fight for independence against the Ottoman Empire (despite the area and the Maniot people never having been fully occupied by the Ottomans). There are therefore a number of cultural monuments and sites that hark back to this era that is worth a visit.

Mani is also famed for its rugged natural landscape and beautiful coastal towns, so your trip to this peninsula should include Gythio Town, the Dimitrios shipwreck on Valtaki Beach, the Chalikia Vatta Beach en route to Porto Kagio and Cape Tainaron, the southernmost point of mainland Greece.

Travellers can visit Mani by driving from Athens to Gytheio (approx. 3.5hrs) or by driving to Kalamata (approx. 2h40) or can travel to one of these destinations by public transport and hire a car from there.

As Mani is not a very busy spot with tourists there aren’t that many accommodation options away from the main towns, but one of the best places to stay during your trip to the region is Pyrgos 1869 a renovated stone tower that is now a self-catered, two-bedroom house!

Pelion Mountains

I did not know about the beautiful Pelion mountains and Tsagkarada village before my Greek friend recommended me to go there. I could not even imagine these beautiful Greek mountain villages far away from the tourist beaches and crowds existed.

Located near Volos, these beautiful tiny villages are a must-visit in mainland Greece. You can go for trekking between different villages and of course the beaches near the mountain feet.

Here are some tips. Beware of the mountain dogs, they can be scary, and if possible, have a local guide. We booked our guide after reaching Tsagkarada and it was the best decision we made. Public transport is not very frequent, so, if you are planning to use the bus, make sure you check the bus timetable before heading to the bus stop.

We stayed at a small Airbnb in Volos and took a couple of day trips to the Kala Nera beach and the Tsagkarada village.

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The Must-Visit Travel Destinations On Greece’s Mainland

When planning a trip to Greece , most travelers focus on its mythical islands that are home to some of the most stunning beaches and awe-inspiring scenery. The Greek Islands are so beautiful that they are said to have been the preferred vacation spot of the mighty Zeus himself. However, when visiting Greece, it would be a grave mistake to overlook the less talked about yet equally exotic places hidden on the mainland.

Located in the southeastern part of Thessaly in the center of Greece, this mountain is considered the most beautiful in Greece and is known as the home of the centaurs in ancient Greek mythology. The mountain is also an adventurer’s paradise. The heavily forested mountain shields hikers from the sun as they explore the various trails and stone paths leading to the mountain’s various springs, coves, and sandy beaches. In the cooler months, travelers can play in the snow at the peak of the mountain and swim in the waters of the Aegean Sea in the same day. While hiking, keep a look out for the remains of ancient villages and enjoy the refreshing plums that grow naturally on the mountain.

Pelion, Zagora, Greece

Panta Vrexi

Just a three-hour drive from Athens, this canyon is the perfect trip for hikers and nature lovers with a passion for exploring unique environments. You can wade through the shallow waters of the canyon while enjoying the stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and unique plant life along the way. As the water levels rise in the winter months, visitors opt to raft through the canyon, which connects to the greater Krikelliotis River . While the trek through the canyon is relatively short, you can continue exploring the endless forests and rock formations that surround the canyon.

2. Voidokilia Beach

Voidokilia beach.

Often considered the ‘most beautiful beach in the Mediterranean’, Voidokilia is a must-visit destination with plenty to see and do. Due to its relatively remote location, most visitors pitch a tent and camp out on the beach while soaking up the sun, scenery, and warm waters of the Ionian Sea. For the adventurous spirits, common activities include parachuting, cliff diving, hang gliding, and surfing. The beach also borders the mystical Gialova Lagoon – an important stop for 74 endangered species of migratory birds who feed off of the aquatic habitat. Plan this trip in July or September to avoid large crowds.

Voidokilia, Paralia Voidokilias, Greece

3. Lousios River

Lousios river.

It is said that Zeus himself bathed in this 15 km-long river that flows through the Lousios Gorge located in the southeast of mainland Greece. Unlike the tame shallow waters of Panta Vrexi, the waters of the Lousios are rough and treacherous, making it ideal for kayaking and whitewater rafting. For a unique hiking experience, climb down through the adjoining Neda River/Gorge to the waterfalls and through the grotto which opens up into the Ionian Sea.

Lousios River, Lousios, Greece

4. Kalo Nero

Situated on the the Gulf of Kyparissia, Kalo Nero (meaning ‘good water’) is an iconic Greek coastal village and home to the largest beach on the mainland. During the summer months, tourists from Greece and around Europe flock to the beach in their camper vans. The beachfront has various hotels, taverns, and restaurants rumored to have some of the best food in Greece. During the summer, the beach becomes home to over 100 loggerhead sea turtle nests. They hatch between July and October and it is truly a fascinating event to experience.

Kale Nero, Greece

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10 Must-See Places on Mainland Greece

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Acropolis in Athens, Greece

Greece is more than sunkissed islands, with the 10 must-see places on mainland Greece immediately demonstrating the variety of experiences and settings you can admire during your Greece trip.

From historical Athens to quaint Nafplio, an exploration of mainland Greece will have you marveling at incredible architecture, dining at authentic tavernas, and taking in breathtaking views, as scenes of ancient civilization blend with modern-day lifestyle.

This article plants the seed on what and how to discover the mostly mountainous mainland of Greece. Experience the Peloponnese peninsula, the Isthmus of Corinth, and the sacred precinct of Delphi as you travel to these must-see places in Greece.

6. Epidaurus

9. monemvasia, 10. zagorohoria, explore the must-see places on mainland greece.

Columns of Hadrian's Library in Athens, Greece

Discover one of the world’s oldest cities as you roam the ancient neighborhoods of Athens and grasp the city’s fascinating history at every turn.

Enjoy local tavernas, take part in rich Greek traditions, and visit famous sites such as the architectural marvel that is the Acropolis. Athens is a bustling European city that invites all to explore at a leisurely pace. It’s easy to get around by foot or car.

Serving as the gateway to the numerous breathtaking islands, among them Santorini, Athens is usually the first stop on a Greek itinerary and it is worth spending time there to appreciate the Top 6 Things to Do in Athens & Santorini .

Highlights: The Acropolis and Parthenon • Plaka • Syntagma Square • Areopagus Rock • Byzantine and Christian Museum

Recommended length of stay: 3-4 days

Learn more: Athens and Santorini Vacation Packages & Tours

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Temple of Athena in Delphi, Greece

This sacred highlight of mainland Greece stands out as a must-see on any Greek itinerary, boasting ruins and temples that intrigue visitors.

A sanctuary dedicated to the Greek god Apollo, it was the Oracle of Delphi who gained the most fame, predicting future events and being consulted often by great leaders, such as Alexander the Great and the renowned dramatist, Sophocles.

Just a short transfer and day trip from Athens, Delphi will, in some way, transport you back in time as you trace history in the ruins and landmarks of Ancient Greece.

Highlights: Temple of Apollo • Delphi Museum • Mount Parnassus • Great Views of Gulf of Corinth • Athena Pronea Sanctuary

Recommended length of stay: 1 day

Monastary in Meteora, Greece

A natural mega rock formation located in central Greece, where six orthodox monasteries teeter on the edge of boulders, Meteora is a superb mainland place to see in Greece.

The Pineios River flows below and pathways on the majestic mountains allow hikers to traverse this wonderland, passing ruins and witnessing nature intertwine with spirituality in a unique part of the world. Marvel at the sheer cliffs of Meteora, discover caves, and spend some time in silence as you take it all in.

Exploring Meteora is one of the Top 8 Things to Do in the Peloponnese with Family , an exciting and inspiring addition to your custom, family-friendly Greece trip.

Highlights: Monasteries of Meteora • Stone Bridges near Trikala • Cave of Theopetra • Magical kikes from Kastraki • Pinios River trails

Recommended length of stay: 1-2 days

Castle of Bourtzi in Nafplio, Greece

The first capital city of modern Greece, Nafplio is a quaint beach town located on the coast in the Peloponnese.

Its main town square buzzes with restaurants and bars, and narrow alleyways offer a walk through history as you discover shops and treasures that tell the tale of this beautiful city. Over the years, it became an important seaport, with the Castle of Bourtzi standing guard at the entrance of the harbor, a medieval fortress that is a highlight of the region.

As one of the 10 Most Romantic Places in Greece for Couples , Nafplio is a must-see on mainland Greece to visit with your partner.

Highlights: Castle of Bourtzi • Climb the Palamidi Castle • Archeological Museum • Karathona Beach • Sail the Nafplio Coastline

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Temple of Zeus at Olympia, Greece

Olympia is one of the most important archeological sites in Greece and is the place of the ancient Olympic games, said to have been created as a festival in honor of the god Zeus. Serene surroundings make way for ruins that date back to the Bronze Age and of course, a highlight of any visit is the ancient Olympic stadium.

Visit the Olympia Museum to see artifacts that have been uncovered in the area and experience the pleasure of unraveling Greek myths, one of the Top 7 Things to Do in Greece .

Highlights: Ruins of the Temple of Zeus • Ancient Olympic Stadium • Museum of Olympia • Doric Temple of Hera

The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus in Epidaurus, Greece

Cited to be the birthplace of Asklepios, the Greek god of healing, in the ancient world, Epidaurus was said to be the most important center for curing ailments of all kinds and was visited by many who came from far and wide.

One of the best-preserved ancient Greek structures has to be the Epidaurus Amphitheater. This limestone masterpiece has the most incredible acoustics and if you stand in the center, sound will be carried up to the very back row.

Highlights: Epidaurus Amphitheater • Asklepieion (Sanctuary of Asclepius) • The Abaton • The Tholos (Circular Building)

The Palace of Despots in Mystras, Greece

Mystras is a fortified city, a breathtaking settlement set within castle walls, located close to the famed city of Sparta. In Byzantine times, it once served as the capital of the Despotate Morea and was noted to be the second-most famous city after Constantinople.

Surrounded by small rivers and lakes, and a spectacle of cypress and pine trees, medieval Mystras is simply stunning, lying fixed in place upon Taygetos Mountain, above a modern-day village.

Highlights: Palace of Despots • Archaeological Museum • Monastery of Panagia Perivleptos • Caves of Keadas

Lions Gate of Mycenae in Greece

Located in northeast Peloponnese is one of ancient Greece’s most historical sites, Mycenae. According to Greek legends, Perseus instructed Cyclops to build walls out of blocks that no human could lift, creating a fortified citadel upon the fertile plains of Argolis.

The main entrance is guarded by the Lion’s Gate and visitors are encouraged to spend time discovering excavated Grave Circle A, one of the key archaeological sites in Mycenae.

Highlights: Ruins of the Cult Center • Palace of Mycenae • Grave Circle A • Lion’s Gate • Marvel at the Citadel Walls

Church of Christ Elkomenos in Monemvasia, Greece

Accessed by boat only, connected to the mainland by a small strip of land, and visible only from the sea, Monemvasia is a fascinating castle-like town standing peacefully on an island off the east coast of the Peloponnese.

Views from the top across the vast sea are breathtaking and a feeling of romance abounds around every corner. Walk cobbled streets and relish the feeling of being transported back in time in one of Greece’s most captivating locations.

As one of 11 Hidden Gems in Greece to Visit , Monemvasia is a must-visit part of the mainland that inspires travelers far from the beaten path and crowded parts of Greece.

Highlights: Elegant mansions • Byzantine Church of Agia Sofia • Church of Christ Elkomenos • Walk the medieval castle walls

The Gorge of Vikos in Zagorohoria, Greece

Comprising 46 villages taken straight out of a fairytale, its name translated to mean “area behind the mountain”, Zagorohoria is one of the most scenic and breathtaking places to visit in mainland Greece.

It can be found in the mountains of Epirus and fascinates with fantastical monasteries, stone houses, and bridges, with the village of Papigo one of the most beautiful and popular. Rivers and gorges complete this dreamy scenery, with monuments and museums rounding off the spectacular destination.

Highlights: The Bridge of Klidonia • The Gorge of Vikos • The Village of Papigo • Lake of Drakolimni • Monastery of Agia Paraskevi

Nafplion, Greece

Hidden gems in the shape of beach towns, mountainous medieval monasteries, fortified cities, and ancient Grecian finds, it’s worth spending time exploring mainland Greece on Greece Vacations & Tours. Combine history with relaxing as you take a step back in time, before hitting one of the country’s many idyllic beaches.

For more insight on travel in Greece and ideas to help you plan your trip, explore our Greece Travel Guide .

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37 OF THE BEST MAINLAND GREECE BEACHES

When people think of the Greek Islands they think of beautiful beaches and crytal clear, azure water but what many people don’t realise is that some of the best locations are actually on the Mainland. There are literally thousands of amazing spots ranging from fully serviced beach clubs to remote, isolated places that you could have completely to yourself. These are our pick of the best mainland Greece beaches to visit.

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40Forty Day Night Bar, Astir

Athens and the Riviera

Just 30 minutes from the ancient center of Athens you will find the beginning of a long stretch of coastline known affectionately as the Athenian ‘Riviera’. Here you will find beach clubs, bars and restaurants to rival any you will find on the islands and a lot more on offer too. It’s a great spot to spend a few days especially on your way home, as it is only 20-30 minutes from the airport too.

Further reading: Top Athens Beach Clubs  

Mpati is one of the easiest beaches to get to from Athens, so it is mainly visited by locals.

Mpati Beach is a very nice sandy beach with shallow waters that make it suitable for families with smaller children.

The beach is only partially organized as it has lifeguards, showers, and dressing cabins, but you cannot rent sunbeds and parasols. At Mpati Beach, you will find a fenced kids’ playground, a tennis court, and a beach volleyball field. There are taverns on the far-left side of the beach where you can enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner.

There is no parking available at Mpati Beach.

Kalamaki Beach is located in Alimos, only eight kilometers from Athens. It’s a tiny beach with yellow-brown sand visited by different locals and travelers, which is why it gets crowded during the high season.

Kalamaki Beach has many amenities: a rental service of loungers and parasols, changing rooms, toilets, a lifeguard service, and beach restaurants. Around the beach, there are also great hotels you can stay in.

Kalamaki Beach is easily accessible, and a large parking spot is located directly on the beach side.

Glyfada Beach is located along the coast southeast of Athens and tends to be very busy during the summer season. The beach is pebbly, and the clear waters are perfect for a refreshing swim.

Glyfada Beach is free to enter, and it is partially organized. You will find showers, changing rooms, toilets, a lifeguard service, and some parasols. However, remember that parasols are rented out quickly in the early morning. There are no restaurants and bars on Glyfada Beach, but you can find places to eat nearby.

Glyfada Beach is easily accessible by local bus and by car, but there are no parking lots available in the beach’s proximity.

Kavouri is another wonderful beach near Athens. Popular with locals and guests from nearby hotels, Kavouri beach is well-kept and organized with sunbeds, parasols, changing rooms, toilets, and a lifeguard service.

The crystal-clear waters and the soft golden sand make Kavouri beach ideal for families with children and groups of travelers who want to relax at the beach or do activities such as paddleboarding.

There are lots of traditional restaurants at Kavouri beach, which is also easily accessible and has a parking lot located less than 100 meters away.

Situated along the Athenian Riviera, 30 minutes from Athens, Astir Beach is an exclusive beach club in Greece open to the public for a significant entry fee.

Surrounded by pines, Astir Beach is a 400 meters long sandy beach with incredible high-level facilities: besides lounges and parasols, there are restaurants and bars, boutiques, spa treatments, and free Wi-Fi.

At Astir Beach, you will also find the Astir Ski Club, the Beach Volley Courts, and the Beach Racquets Area.

Make sure to book a sunbed online in advance if you would like to stay at Astir Beach. A big plus? Sunbeds come with towels and a bottle of water!

Less than an hour away from the center of Athens, Voula Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the Riviera.

This sandy beach has pebbles on the periphery of the shore and in some spots into the water. However, the clear waters allow you to avoid the harder seabed.

Voula Beach offers several amenities: sunbeds and parasols to rent, a snack bar and restaurants, tennis and volleyball courts, water slides, and a children’s play area. You will also find toilets, changing rooms, and shower stalls. Voula Beach is public, so it’s free to enter.

You can easily get to Voula Beach by public bus, tram, or car, which you can park nearby.

Yabanaki Beach is famous for its soft sand and shallow waters. The beach is located in a wide bay, protecting it from strong winds and large waves, which makes it perfect for families with kids. In summer this is one of the most popular places for Athenian families to come after work and on weekends.

Yabanaki Beach is incredibly well-organized. Sunbeds and parasols are available for rent, and on the beach, you will also find toilets, showers, and changing rooms.

Sunbathing and swimming are only two of the countless activities you can do at Yabanaki Beach: play beach sports, such as volley, or water sports, like water skiing and windsurfing, to spend some fun time with your friends or family. There is also a kid playground with a train and a bouncy castle.

Yabanaki Beach is also full of food options, as you can decide among Greek, Italian, and fish restaurants.

Get to Yabanaki Beach by public bus or car (parking is available on-site).

Vravrona is a sandy beach located near Artemis town. Part of the beach has big rocks and is only organized with a limited number of parasols and sun loungers.

Vravrona Beach gets incredibly crowded in July and August, given its proximity to Athens and Artemis’s center.

Artemida is a nice sandy beach near Athens. It’s easily accessible by car and public bus.

The clear and shallow waters make Artemida Beach ideal for families with children. However, it is windy at times, and the sea gets rough.

Artemida Beach is organized with showers, toilets, beach cafès and restaurants from which you can rent parasols and sun loungers. There is plenty of parking available.

Marathona  

Marathona is a big beach close to Athens. The clear waters have usually waved as the area is quite windy.

Marathona Beach has sand and fine pebbles, and it’s only partially organized. A part of the beach is without amenities, and there is no natural shade. Another side is organized with sunbeds and parasols that you can rent from the nearby shop. There are also changing rooms and showers.

Around Marathona Beach, you will find many beach bars and seafood restaurants.

Schinias is a wonderful beach located in the bay of Marathon. The long strip of sand lined up by pine trees has a great reputation for crystal clear waters. The beach has a slight slope for safe entry into the water, which, paired with a few waves, makes it ideal for families with smaller children.

Schinias is a public beach, so it’s free to enter. You won’t find any facilities here: no sunbeds, parasols, toilets, or restaurants.

Karavi is a beach located near the historical city of Marathon. It covers 100 square meters, and this clean, sandy beach offers an incredible range of services.

You can rent sunbeds and parasols, but also play a wide variety of water sports and beach sports, besides relaxing in the sun. In Karavi Beach you will find four beach volleyball courts, a windsurfing school, and SUP boards to rent. It also has a lifeguard station, dressing rooms, showers, and Wi-Fi.

Karavi Beach is also awarded the Blue Flag, is free to enter, and has a beach bar and a restaurant on site.

There is private parking with a capacity for 1500 cars (under the shade).

Charakas and Cape  

Charakas is one of the most beautiful and clean beaches in Athen’s region. Well organized with sun loungers and parasols, toilets, changing rooms, and showers, Charakas Beach also offers two beach bars.

With only a 10-minute walk, you can reach Cape Beach: surrounded by cliffs, there are stairs to get to the sea. Cape Beach consists of many small coves enclosed by rocks. The long beach has diverse characteristics: sandy parts, pebbled sections, and rocky spots.

The entire beach is unorganized and completely unspoiled.

The Peloponnese

The Peloponnese is a large peninsula west of Athens that is considered by many to be where you will find the ‘real Greece’. It is heaving with history and archeology as well as an abundance of natural beauty, from waterfalls and olive groves to caves and mounuments. Add to that a vast coastline that is lined with amazing beaches , some of the best and most interesting in Greece.

Exploring the Peloponnese is a holiday all on it’s own and a couple of weeks will still see you wanting more. If pressed for time spend a few days in beautiful Nafplio to explore the wonders of the Argoli which is one of the highlights of the region and the closest to Athens.

Further reading: Peloponnese Holidays

Tolo is located just east of Nafplio and is a newer town that is more geared towards the beach.

As a result, there are numerous seasonal hotels and summer accommodation choices on offer. It is very popular with families are the water is very calm and clear and shallow.

Valtaki Beach (sometimes called Selinitsa)

In the south of the Peloponnese on the eastern shore of the Mani peninusla is this beautiful beach, one of the most photographed in the region.  A lovely, Blue Flag beach with a pretty cool quirk – a massive shipwreck just a stone’s throw from the sand.

While some might argue the rusting tanker is a blight on the otherwise beautiful beach, it certainly adds a unique element to this Peloponnese beach. Not only does the shipwreck make for a very dramatic and somewhat eerie addition to the beach, but it’s also a favourite of mystery lovers.

There are many theories about why the Dimitrios was run aground and abandoned on Valtaki Beach, from escaping smugglers to eerie ghost ships to (the decidedly less fun) financial problems.

Whatever the truth behind the shipwreck, Valtaki Beach is a great place to explore, and you can also take a peek at the wreck.

The beach is located just one kilometre north of Gythio, a charming little port town where you’ll find plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Mavrovouni Beach

Just south of Gythios and spanning more than seven kilometres, Mavrovouni Beach is one of the largest beaches in the Peloponnese. Its sheer size is pretty spectacular, and the mountains and rolling hills off in the distance only add to its dramatic flair.

Most of the beach is more on the rocky side, with long stretches with coarse sand. In the summer months, you’ll find umbrellas dotted along long sections of the beach, offering some respite from the sun.

You’ll also find quite a few tavernas, cafes and bars along the beach and prices are quite good.

One unique feature of Mavrovouni Beach is that during turtle season, sea turtles (Caretta caretta) use the beach to lay eggs. Local volunteers do a great job protecting the turtles, and it’s certainly a thrill to spot a mother or her hatchlings.

Mavrovouni Beach can be windy, especially in the afternoon. While this can make it a bit less ideal for nervous swimmers, it’s great for windsurfers and kitesurfers who are sure to love the adrenaline rush of gliding over the sea here.

Skoutari Beach

Loacated about 20 minutes south of Mavrovouni this beach is pretty small (especially when the tide is in), and in many parts, it is a little more rocky than sandy. Nonetheless, it sits proudly on this list of beautiful beaches in the Peloponnese.

What makes Skoutari Beach oh-so-charming is the collection of adorable historic buildings that flank it.

There’s a couple of fishermen’s cottages as well as a beautiful but modest church. These buildings add to the charisma of Skoutari Beach and make it a favourite amongst photographers.

Thanks to its modest size, Skoutari Beach doesn’t get quite the foot traffic of some of the others on this list, although it’s still quite popular.

Just a stone’s throw from the water’s edge you’ll find a lovely taverna – it may look humble, but the views and food are exquisite.  

Limeni is one of the prettiest seaside villages in all of Greece and is much photographed for good reason. It is located on the western side of the Mani peninsula just below the lovely medieval town of Aeropolis.

It’s quite small and consists of a bunch of converted stone houses and mansions wrapped around a small bay with crystal clear azure waters. There are only a handful of cafes and tavernas and they are all excellent.

Whilst not a ‘beach’ per se there are various swimming platforms, some with ladders, to help you access the water and it really is a magical spot. This would be in our Top10 of places to return to in Greece very soon!

Located about ten kilometres away from the city of Pylos, Romanos Beach is one of the most popular in the Peloponnese.

Due to its popularity (and the large hotel nearby), this beach is not ideal if you’re seeking peace and quiet – but if you prefer your beaches bustling and lively, it’s a great choice.

Thanks to its popularity, the beach has a buzzing atmosphere with lots of amenities nearby.

At one end of the beach, summer sees plenty of umbrellas set up in neat rows – perfect for a day of sunbathing. Continue a little further on and you’ll find more families playing on the sand away from the umbrellas and cocktails crowd.

A beautiful horseshoe-shaped beach, one highlight of Romanos Beach is the soft sand and relatively calm conditions of the water. If you’re lucky, you might also spot some sea turtles who come ashore to lay their eggs.

It is impossible to have a list of the best Peloponnese beaches without including Voidokilia Beach. In fact, many visitors to this little stretch of heaven report it’s the best in Greece, and maybe even further afar.

  So, what is all the fuss about? One look at the pictures of this dazzling beach certainly give you an idea.

A perfect crescent shape, in fact it is the shape of the Greek letter Omega. Perfect white sand surrounds the central water, which is a variety of shades of dazzling blue.

It ranges from a deep navy in the centre to a brilliant cyan on the fringes, making it an absolutely spectacular sight.

  It’s no surprise that the reputation of beautiful Voidokilia has spread throughout Europe and beyond.

Although its fairly remote location keeps some of the crowds away, you certainly won’t be lonely here – especially in August, which is peak tourist season. However, having to share is a small price to pay to enjoy this beautiful beach.

Further reading: The Beach of the Peloponnese

western mainland – other

Kineta is a beach town in West Attica, 55 km from Athens. Kineta Beach is one of the largest in the Saronic Gulf. With a length of six kilometers, it has fine pebbles and clear waters, perfect for swimming and having fun. The entrance to the water is quite sharp, so be careful if you are visiting it with children.

Kineta Beach is partially organized: you can rent sunbeds and parasols (but only a limited number are available) and grab a bite in the beachside snack bars and restaurants. 

Agioi Theodoroi 

Agioi Theodoroi Beach is located on a spacious coastline with fine gray pebbles and turquoise waters that are quite deep since you enter the sea. The beach doesn’t have a wave-protected swimming area, but there are usually no strong waves. Plus, there are only few boats in the area, so you will be perfectly safe while swimming. 

Agioi Theodoroi Beach is partially equipped as it has sun loungers and parasols, a beachside bar and a restaurant. It is free to enter, and you will find a parking lot nearby. 

Alkyonidos 

Alkyonidos is a quiet and picturesque beach with sand. The seabed has pebbles and rocks, and it’s better to wear special shoes, especially because there are several sea urchins in the water. The area is protected from winds and waves, so it’s ideal for swimming. 

Alkyonidos Beach is not organized, so you will need to bring your own parasol and sun chairs. The beach is served by one seafood tavern. 

The road to the beach is walkable, and there is a wide parking area nearby. 

Flampouro Beach is in a stunning natural landscape, surrounded by rocky cliffs. On a short coastline with crystal turquoise waters, Flampouro Beach has black sand and pebbles. 

The beach has some amenities, including sun loungers, parasols, and a beach restaurant. It is easily accessible and has parking on site. 

Close to Skaloma town, Flampouro Beach is usually not crowded and is free. 

Prosili is one of the beaches of Porto Germeno, in the Gulf of Corinth, which makes it very popular among tourists.

Prosili Beach has super clean and warm waters, so it’s perfect for swimming and practicing water activities. It is surrounded by tree pines under which you can find some shade since there are no parasols available to rent. The beautiful cliffs of the bay and the crystal-clear waters make Prosili Beach incredibly picturesque. 

The seabed has small pebbles, and you won’t need special shoes to walk or enter the sea. Around Prosili Beach you will find several taverns where you can stop for a delicious local meal. 

Located in a beautiful cove, Saranti Beach has perfect crystal-clear waters and it’s just an hour away from Athens. 

A pebbled beach with trees offering natural shade, Saranti Beach is nestled among cliffs that protect it from the winds, so it’s ideal for families with children. Besides relaxing and sunbathing, Saranti Beach is a paradise for snorkeling and diving. 

Saranti Beach is mainly a free beach, but you can find a limited number of parasols and sunbeds to rent. There are also bars and tavernas on the beach where you can enjoy delicious meals. 

You can get to Saranti Beach by car and parking in the free parking space available. 

Monolithi is a special beach in the Prefecture of Preveza, in western Greece. It is the longest beach in the European Union, stretching for 22 kilometers. 

It has blue-green waters and very fine pebbles. The beach is perfect for everyone, as the waters are shallow, and there are no sharp objects on the seabed. 

Monolithi Beach is perfect for relaxation as it’s almost deserted even during the high season. It’s organized with sun loungers and parasols, toilets, showers, and beach restaurants and bars. 

There is a campsite located nearby, and many parking spots. 

Located on a sheltered bay, Kerentza Beach is a sandy and free beach mainly frequented by camper owners. The beach has incredible crystal blue and green waters, perfect for a relaxing day of swimming. 

Kerentza Beach is surrounded by trees that offer natural shade. Bring along chairs and parasols, as the beach has no amenities. 

Given that in the area nearby is suitable for wild camping, Kerentza Beach gets very crowded in high season. 

Agios Giannakis 

Agios Giannakis is a beautiful and wild beach on the shores of the Ionian Sea. Located in a small bay, Agios Giannakis Beach is the perfect choice if you are looking for total relaxation.

The beach is surrounded by pristine nature and is covered with sand mixed with white pebbles. The crystal blue waters and the rocky seabed make Agios Giannakis suitable for snorkeling. Given the gravel on the bottom, it’s better to use special sandals for swimming. 

Agios Giannakis is not equipped: the only infrastructure you will find is a small canteen for a meal break. 

You can get to Agios Giannakis Beach by car and then park along the winding stone-paved road that leads to the beach.

Northern Greece

Bora Bora Beach is located in the seaside town of Alykes Drosia. The beach is fully organized with sunbeds and parasols (expensive to rent), a playground area for children, and a beachside bar with music entertainment. The bar is great for a coffee or meal break. A part of Bora Bora Beach has grass and some trees for natural shade.

The beach has a large parking lot right next door.

Kalamia Arkitsa

In central Greece, you will find Kalamia Arkitsa, a wild beach that is usually uncrowded.

Free to enter, Kalamia Arkitsa Beach is narrow and has fine pebbles. It’s surrounded by tall reeds that offer natural shade. The beach is unorganized, so you won’t find facilities (like restaurants) or amenities (such as parasols, sunchairs, and toilets) there.

The shallow brown and green waters are perfect for swimming and for spending time having fun sup-surfing.

Kalamia Arkitsa beach is close to the road and easily accessible. You can park along the main road.

Located right on the Malian Gulf, Seraphim Beach is one of the best beaches in the area.

It’s covered in black-ish sand and pebbles, so you should wear special shoes to walk and enter the sea. The waters at Seraphim Beach are incredible with their turquoise color, and the many trees along the beach are perfect for hiding from the sun. Seraphim Beach offers basic amenities, so you can rent parasols and use the free showers and toilet.

There are a couple of traditional taverns 10 minutes away by foot, and on Seraphim Beach there is a windsurfing school where you can take windsurfing or kiteboarding lessons.

The beach gets pretty busy during the high season.

Pelasgia is a beautiful beach in Central Greece. Small and sandy, Pelasgia Beach has crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. Some parts of the beach are protected from waves, and the water depth increases rapidly.

Pelasgia Beach is surrounded by lush vegetation. It is partially covered by trees, where you can find shelter from the sun, which is great given that there aren’t parasols (and sunbeds) to rent. However, the beach has free showers and changing rooms.

Pelasgia Beach is frequented by many people – both locals and tourists. It’s free to enter; a parking lot is 500 meters away from the beach, near a picturesque tiny church.

On the road that connects the towns of Larissa and Volo, there is the wonderful Kamari Beach.

Lying in the area of Mount Pelion, Kamari Beach is surrounded by green, tall trees and the blue waters of the Aegean Sea. The stunning cliffs around it render Kamari Beach a true paradise if you are looking for total relaxation!

The coast where Kamari Beach is located is small but quite spacious. Made of sand mixed with fine pebbles, Kamari Beach is sheltered from strong winds, and the total absence of waves creates the perfect environment for swimming.

The beach offers some amenities, such as parasols and sun loungers, and you will find a beach bar and tavern for a delicious meal break.

Nei Pori   

Nei Pori is one of the best beaches in the Central Macedonia region.

The beach is located in the town of Nei Pori, so it’s easily accessible by foot, public transport, or car, depending on how far you are from the town’s center. Given its central location, Nei Pori Beach is usually crowded in the high season due to the large influx of tourists.

Nei Pori Beach is a big sandy beach with fine pebbles to enter the water. The sea in the area is incredibly clear, and it’s perfect for swimming and doing water activities. In particular, Nei Pori Beach is ideal for those who love to snorkel and dive. Along the coast, several companies offer diving excursions and classes.

The beach is very well organized and has the following amenities: sun loungers and parasols, changing rooms, showers, toilets, a lifeguard service, and a beach restaurant. Nei Pori Beach also has a water park area with various inflatable toys.

The parking lot is located within 300 meters of the beach.

Ammolofoi  

Ammolofoi is one of the beaches of Agios Athanasios settlement, just one minute from its center.

Ammolofoi Beach is located among gorgeous mountains, which create an idyllic environment with golden sand and turquoise waters. However, the coast is occupied by many resorts, which makes it crowded in the high season. Ammolofoi Beach is partially free to access, while the other part is reserved for hotel visitors.

The private beach is fully organized with sun loungers and parasols, changing rooms, showers, and toilets, and a lifeguard supervises it.

Besides beach restaurants and bars, at Ammolofoi Beach you will also find a volleyball court and rental services for water activities such as catamarans and jet skis.

Parking is located directly on the beach.

Ammoglossa  

Ammoglossa Beach is located just outside Keramoti town, so it’s easy to reach. By car, it’s only seven minutes away, and you can park alongside the beach.

Ammoglossa Beach is on the westernmost tip of the coast, and it’s exclusively surrounded by nature. It’s the perfect place to enjoy quietness and relaxation. It has golden sand, smooth turquoise waters, and picturesque views.

The beach is free to enter and offers only basic amenities (toilet, showers, and a beach restaurant). The area is popular among camper owners, as wild camping is allowed.

Monolithi Beach

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A ship carrying the Olympic torch arrives in Marseille amid fanfare and high security

MARSEILLE, France — Huge crowds gathered Wednesday in the southern French city of Marseille, where a majestic three-mast ship carrying the  Olympic torch  arrived from Greece ahead of a welcoming ceremony at sunset.

Paris Games  organizers have promised “fantastic” celebrations in the city, where the Old Port has been placed under high security.

The torch was  lit in Greece  last month before it was officially  handed to France . It left Athens aboard a ship named Belem, which was first used in 1896, and spent twelve days at sea.

President Emmanuel Macron met with the French Olympic athletes who have sailed on Belem with the Olympic torch upon his arrival to Marseille.

“With the arrival of the flame, the country enters the games,” Macron said at the city’s Olympic Marina.

More than a thousand boats will accompany the Belem’s parade around the Bay of Marseille. The ship will dock on a pontoon that looks like an athletics track in the Old Port.

The welcoming ceremony at dusk on Wednesday will include a demonstration by the jets of the Patrouille de France, the acrobatic team of the French air force.

“The return of the Games to our country will be a fantastic celebration,” said Paris 2024 Olympics Organizing Committee President Tony Estanguet.

“As a former athlete, I know how important the start of a competition is. That is why we chose Marseille, because it’s definitely one of the cities most in love with sports,” added Estanguet, a former Olympic canoeing star with gold medals from the 2000, 2004 and 2012 Games.

Safety of visitors and residents has been a top priority for authorities in Marseille, France’s second largest city with nearly a million inhabitants. About 8,000 police officers have been deployed around in the harbour where 50,000 people gathered in the afternoon, according to City Hall officials. Tens of thousands more were expected to attend the evening festivities that will include a flyover by the French Air Force.

Thousands of firefighters and bomb disposal squads have been positioned around the city along with maritime police and anti-drone teams patrolling the city’s waters and its airspace.“It’s a monumental day and we have been working hard for visitors and residents of Marseille to enjoy this historical moment,” said Yannick Ohanessian, the city’s deputy mayor.

The torch relay will start on Thursday in Marseille, before heading to Paris through iconic places across the country, from the world-famous Mont Saint-Michel to D-Day landing beaches in Normandy and the Versailles Palace.

Many people and families were strolling along the boardwalk on the Mediterranean, beaming with excitement and curiosity. A band of musicians, wearing T-shirts with the slogan “Marseille, proud to welcome the Olympics Flame,” entertained tourists and residents as well as workers who were setting up the Olympic stage and the ponton bridge over which the Olympic flame is expected to be carried from the boat to France’s mainland.

“I wanted to see how things are going and maybe come back later with the kids, if it’s not too crowded, to see the flame arrive,” said Paul Vuarambon, a Marseille resident, on a walk along the Old Port with his son. Despite high security and the overhaul of the entire city for Wednesday’s ceremony, Vaurambon said, “People here are pretty happy with the Olympics.”

France’s Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera stressed the symbolic and practical importance of the event after years of preparations for the Paris Games.

“We really want to make sure that the beginning of the torch relay here will drive enthusiasm and a sense of pride for French people. That will give us a a big moment of celebration and joy,” Oudea-Castera said in an interview with The Associated Press.

“Sport can bring up these type of emotions and Olympism is much more than sport,” she added. “It conveys a message to the world and the torch relay is a symbol of peace.”

Olympic swimmer  Florent Manaudou  has been chosen to be the first carrier of the flame in France. Manaudou, who won four Olympic medals, is the brother of swimmer Laure Manaudou, who won three Olympic medals at Athens in 2004.

“We are extremely proud,” Marseille mayor Benoît Payan said. “This is where it all begins.”The show will “dazzle the world,” said Payan, adding that up to 150,000 spectators are expected in the Old Port.

Marseille people “have a sense of celebration, a sense of the game, sport and Olympism in their guts,” he said, recalling that the city was founded by Greek colonists some 2,600 years ago.

Heavy police and military presence was seen patrolling Marseille’s city center Tuesday, as a military helicopter flew over the Old Port, where a range of barriers have been set up.

French Interior Ministry spokesperson Camille Chaize said officials were prepared for security threats including terrorism.

“We’re employing various measures, notably the elite National Gendarmerie Intervention Group unit, which will be present in the torch relay from beginning to end,” she said.

The Olympic cauldron will be lit after the Games’ opening ceremony that will take place  on the River Seine  on July 26.

The cauldron will be lit at a location in Paris that is being kept top-secret until the day itself. Among reported options are such iconic spots as the Eiffel Tower and the Tuileries Gardens outside the Louvre Museum.

The Associated Press

Olympic swimmer Florent Manaudou becomes first torch carrier in France as relay heads to Paris

The flame sailed into marseille's old port on a ship as the french national anthem played, by sylvie corbet and barbara surk | associated press • published may 8, 2024.

French Olympic swimmer Florent Manaudou became the first Olympic torch carrier in France after the Olympic flame arrived in Marseille’s Old Port Wednesday on a majestic three-mast ship from Greece for the welcoming ceremony at sunset in the city’s Old Port.

The ship sailed into Marseille's old port with the French national anthem, La Marseillaise, echoing from the embankment and a French Air force flyover with planes first drawing the five Olympic rings and then the red-blue-white colors of the nation's flag.

The ship docked on the pontoon that reflects an athletics track and Manaudou carried the torch to mainland France as tens of thousands cheered and thousands of others waved from balconies and windows overlooking the festivities.

“We can be proud,” said President Emmanuel Macron, who attended the ceremony to welcome the torch.

We're making it easier for you to find stories that matter with our new newsletter — The 4Front. Sign up here and get news that is important for you to your inbox.

“The flame is on French soil,” Macron said. “The games are coming to France and are entering the lives of the French people."

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The torch was lit in Greece last month before it was officially handed to France. It left Athens aboard a ship named Belem, which was first used in 1896, and spent twelve days at sea.

Paris 2024 Olympics Organizing Committee President Tony Estanguet said the return of the Olympic Games to France was cause for a “fantastic celebration.”

“As a former athlete, I know how important the start of a competition is. That is why we chose Marseille, because it's definitely one of the cities most in love with sports,” added Estanguet, a former Olympic canoeing star with gold medals from the 2000, 2004 and 2012 Games.

Safety of visitors and residents has been a top priority for authorities in Marseille, France's second largest city with nearly a million inhabitants. About 8,000 police officers have been deployed around the harbor.

Thousands of firefighters and bomb disposal squads have been positioned around the city along with maritime police and anti-drone teams patrolling the city's waters and its airspace.

“It's a monumental day and we have been working hard for visitors and residents of Marseille to enjoy this historical moment,” said Yannick Ohanessian, the city's deputy mayor.

The torch relay will start on Thursday in Marseille, before heading to Paris through iconic places across the country, from the world-famous Mont Saint-Michel to D-Day landing beaches in Normandy and the Versailles Palace.

Heavy police and military presence was seen patrolling Marseille's city center Tuesday, as a military helicopter flew over the Old Port, where a range of barriers have been set up.

French Interior Ministry spokesperson Camille Chaize said officials were prepared for security threats including terrorism.

“We're employing various measures, notably the elite National Gendarmerie Intervention Group unit, which will be present in the torch relay from beginning to end,” she said.

The Olympic cauldron will be lit after the Games’ opening ceremony that will take place on the River Seine on July 26.

The cauldron will be lit at a location in Paris that is being kept top-secret until the day itself. Among reported options are such iconic spots as the Eiffel Tower and the Tuileries Gardens outside the Louvre Museum.

Barbara Surk contributed from Nice, France. AP journalists Jeffrey Schaeffer, Oleg Cetinic, Nicolas Garriga and Daniel Cole contributed to this story.

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Olympic torch begins journey across France after festive welcome in port city of Marseille

Tens of thousands of people welcomed the Olympic torch Wednesday in the southern French city of Marseille, marking another milestone in the lead-up to the Summer Games in Paris.

What You Need To Know

Tens of thousands welcomed the olympic torch in the southern french city of marseille, marking another milestone in the lead-up to the summer games in paris a majestic three-mast ship carried the olympic torch from greece for the welcoming ceremony at sunset wednesday in the french city’s old port the ship docked on a pontoon resembling an athletics track and french olympic swimmer florent manaudou carried the torch to mainland france french president emmanuel macron attended the ceremony with the arrival of the olympic torch, “the games are entering the lives of the french people,” macron said. the torch was lit in greece last month before it was officially handed to france.

French Olympic swimmer Florent Manaudou became the first torch carrier in France after the Olympic flame arrived in Marseille’s Old Port on a majestic three-mast ship from Greece for the welcoming ceremony amid tight security.

The ship sailed into Marseille's old port with the French national anthem “La Marseillaise” echoing from the embankment and a French Air force flyover with planes first drawing the five Olympic rings and then the red-blue-white colors of the nation's flag.

The ship docked on a pontoon resembling an athletics track and Manaudou carried the torch to mainland France. He handed it to French Paralympic sprinter Nantenin Keïta, who won a gold medal at the 2016 Olympics in Rio, to carry it to rapper Jul, a Marseille native, who lit a cauldron as tens of thousands cheered on the shore and thousands of others waved from balconies and windows.

“We can be proud,” said  President Emmanuel Macron , who attended the ceremony to welcome the torch.

“The flame is on French soil,” Macron said. “The games are coming to France and are entering the lives of the French people."

Marseille’s Mayor Benoît Payan said that more than 230,000 people attended Wednesday's ceremony.

“Tonight, the people of Marseille won the first gold medal of these Olympic Games,” Payan said, beaming with pride.

The torch was  lit in Greece  last month before it was officially  handed to France . It left Athens aboard a ship named Belem, which was first used in 1896, and spent twelve days at sea.

Paris 2024 Olympics Organizing Committee President Tony Estanguet said the return of the Olympic Games to France was cause for a “fantastic celebration.”

“As a former athlete, I know how important the start of a competition is. That is why we chose Marseille, because it's definitely one of the cities most in love with sports,” added Estanguet, a former Olympic canoeing star with gold medals from the 2000, 2004 and 2012 Games.

Safety of visitors and residents has been a top priority for authorities in Marseille, France's second largest city with nearly a million inhabitants. About 8,000 police officers have been deployed around the harbor.

Thousands of firefighters and bomb disposal squads have been positioned around the city along with maritime police and anti-drone teams patrolling the city's waters and its airspace.

“It's a monumental day and we have been working hard for visitors and residents of Marseille to enjoy this historical moment,” said Yannick Ohanessian, the city's deputy mayor.

The torch relay will start on Thursday in Marseille, before heading to Paris through iconic places across the country, from the world-famous Mont Saint-Michel to D-Day landing beaches in Normandy and the Versailles Palace.

Heavy police and military presence was seen patrolling Marseille's city center Tuesday, as a military helicopter flew over the Old Port, where a range of barriers have been set up.

French Interior Ministry spokesperson Camille Chaize said officials were prepared for security threats including terrorism.

“We're employing various measures, notably the elite National Gendarmerie Intervention Group unit, which will be present in the torch relay from beginning to end,” she said.

The Olympic cauldron will be lit after the Games’ opening ceremony that will take place  on the River Seine  on July 26.

The cauldron will be lit at a location in Paris that is being kept top-secret until the day itself. Among reported options are such iconic spots as the Eiffel Tower and the Tuileries Gardens outside the Louvre Museum.