Greece, its azure seas, sunbaked islands, historic ruins, and vibrant citizens of myth, is the world’s number one destination. No matter history, beaches, food, or adventure are your interests, Greece abounds with activities for a vacation to remember. From temple to temple, sailing around the Aegean Sea, here are the top things to do in Greece for a well-rounded, spellbinding holiday.
1. Explore the Acropolis of Athens
You haven’t truly visited Greece until you’ve been to the legendary Acropolis in Athens. Above the town stands the old fortress and it holds a few existing buildings, the main one being the Parthenon, a famous temple dedicated to the goddess Athena.
In the wake of its massive marble columns, you are led to the very center of ancient Greek existence. The panoramic views over modern Athens in the distance are a picture counterpoint. Visiting is a richly historic experience and is full of endless photography opportunities.
2. Sailing the Ionian Islands, on a Yacht Charter
Greece’s finest, most precious, and wealthiest experience is sailing between its stunning islands. With over 6,000 islands and islets scattered between the Aegean Sea and the Ionian Sea, your best time to find hidden coves, quaint villages, and unspoiled beaches is through a Greece yacht charter.
You can tailor your vacation to island-hopping between the Cyclades, snorkeling in Zakynthos, or gorging on seafood in Symi. It’s a hassle-free and thrilling vacation on your wishlist.
3. Visit the Amazing Meteora Monasteries
Located in the center of Greece, Meteora has one of the world’s most stunning monastic complexes to behold in the entire world. Enormously high rock pillars rise out of the ground like giants, with medieval monasteries cut into their sides, built by monks during the 14th century.
To stand in these zones of devotional refuge suspended mid-air is not lacking in awe-inspiring legend. Climb along serpentine trails connecting cliff-top monasteries, with hairpin views of the valley below. Meteora precariously holds together history, religion, and nature in an experience that will never fade.
4. Relax at Crete Beaches
Crete, the gem of the Greek islands, has some of Greece’s finest beaches. Starting from the pink sand beach of Elafonissi and the blue lagoon beach of Balos, every single beach is a paradise on earth. Aside from beaches, Crete has ancient ruins, old villages, and fresh local food. Don’t miss a trip to the Palace of Knossos, which is as old as Europe’s oldest city.
5. Oia’s Sunset, Santorini
Blue-domed churches, whitewashed houses, and beautiful sunsets make Santorini famous. No better spot than Oia to watch the sun kiss and tint the Aegean Sea sky with pink and orange. Walk through the cobblestone streets, grab a glass of Assyrtiko wine, and take photos that your friends will be licking their lips over.
6. Indulge in Greek Cuisine
Greek cuisine is the highlight of any holiday. Sample classic favorites such as moussaka, souvlaki, spanakopita, and octopus skewers. Greek cuisine revolves around olive oil, herbs, cheese, and fresh fruit. Eat at an old-fashioned taverna and drink ouzo or wine with your meal. Baklava or loukoumades for dessert.
7. Explore the Streets of Rhodes Old Town
Rhodes’ medieval town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Byzantine church labyrinth of cobbled streets and ancient walls, and palaces of Greece. Stroll through the Grand Master’s Palace and be awed by the fusion of Gothic and Ottoman. One of Europe’s finest-preserved medieval towns, and a charming stroll through history.
8. Hike the Samaria Gorge
For the nature enthusiast and the trekker, Crete’s Samaria Gorge is a must-see. It is a 16 km hike through a breathtaking canyon lined with cliffs as well as with great species diversity. The hike finishes on the Libyan Sea, and you can cool down with a swim. Put on good shoes and carry water—it is the longest gorge in Europe.
9. Unwind at the Thermal Springs of Edipsos
Island of Evia owns its spa-like therapeutic hot thermal baths, Edipsos, that have been frequented for centuries. Hot thermal springs of Edipsos are mineral waters and are known to heal stress, arthritis, and skin diseases. A splash into the natural hot springs is a soothing cool-off after tiring full-day sightseeing excursions and roaming about.
10. Visit the Ancient Site of Delphi
Having once been the navel of the world to the Greeks, Delphi housed Apollo’s oracle. Located on either side of Mount Parnassus, there is an extremely well-conserved theatre, temple, and stadium. The vistas over the valley floor are as stunning as the ruins.
Conclusion
With its storied past and prosperous history, Greece’s golden shores and lip-licking food, there’s only so much that welcomes in Greece. Sailing far out upon the sea aboard a Greek yacht rental or watching sunset on the edge of a precipice in Santorini, though, Greece’s sorcery and enchantment will somehow be able to wrap its hold around your heart. Then, drain it and book a trip that is just the right mix of relaxation, adventure, and timelessness.
