By Briana Seftel
The cradle of Western civilization awaits! From turquoise waters of the most famous islands in the world to centuries old ruins, these top destinations in Greece will surely awe and inspire.
Discover ancient history, beautiful beaches, and delectable cuisine with our vacation packages to Greece with airfare.
Athens
Steeped in over 2,500 years of history, Athens certainly can claim its place as one of the best places to travel in Greece. Ancient Greek ruins mixed with modern innovative buildings makes this city one of incredible contrasts, while the sunny Mediterranean weather and mouthwatering cuisine make it a true paradise.
No Athens vacation would be complete without visiting the iconic Acropolis and the charming Plaka district. You'll also want to check out the Temple of Poseidon, marvel at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus Theatre, and indulge in local eats at the Varvakios Agora Market.
View our vacations to Athens.
You can also read our Athens Travel Guide or more about the Top Things to Do in Athens.
Mykonos
The cosmopolitan island of Mykonos truly has it all: whitewashed cubic houses, windmills, sandy beaches, shops, galleries and incredible nightlife, all of which combine to make it one of the best vacation spots in Greece.
Chora is the main village on Mykonos and the center of activity where you can visit iconic places like Panagia Paraportiani and admire the picturesque sunset in Little Venice. Be sure to also visit the Mykonos Windmills (Kato Myli), relax by the idyllic blue waters of Kalafatis Beach, and experience the island’s age-old wine traditions at a local winery.
View our trips to Mykonos.
You can also read our Mykonos Travel Guide or more about the Top Things to Do in Mykonos.
Santorini
Known as Greece's most romantic island, Santorini has one jaw dropping vista after another, from the picture-perfect village of Oia to breathtaking sunsets. As part of the Cyclades, Santorini sits between Athens and Crete in the shape of a crescent and is another of the best places to vacation in Greece.
Discover unique volcanic black sands and azure waters on Perissa Beach, wander around winding alleys in the charming village of Pyrgos, and marvel at other-worldly sunset views in Oia.
View our trips to Santorini.
You can also read our Santorini Travel Guide or more about the Best Things to Do in Santorini.
Crete
Crete is Greece's largest island and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean. Almost a separate country in its own right, Crete stuns with its rugged beauty and exciting culture, making it one of the best places in Greece to visit.
Enjoy some of the best things to do in Crete like visiting the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, exploring Hania Old Town, and marveling at the Palace of Malia. Be sure to also relax on the pink sand shores of Elafonissi beach, tour the Minoan Palace of Knossos, and indulge in Crete's famous Mediterranean cuisine.
View our trips to Crete.
You can also read more about the Best Things to Do in Crete or learn about some Food in Crete You Must Try.
Paros
Renowned for its crystalline beaches, charming villages, and rich history, this Cycladic gem beckons travelers seeking an authentic Greek experience. From the vibrant streets of Parikia to the enchanting shores of Naoussa, Paros weaves a tapestry of beauty, culture, and warmth, making it one of the best Greece vacation spots.
Parikia is the capital of Paros and definitely a must-visit, home to the famous Panagia Ekatontapiliani and the Archaeological Museum of Paros. On the northern part of the island you'll find Naoussa Old Port, a quaint fishing village filled with authentic restaurants, beautiful views of the Aegean Sea, and a vibrant nightlife.
View our trips to Paros.
You can also read more about the Best Things to Do in Paros.
Naxos
Located in the South Aegean, Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades islands and is one of the top places to visit in Greece. Offering a mix of striking mountains, gorgeous beaches, and green valleys, it’s a nature-lover’s paradise.
Discover Chora, or Naxos City, the island’s capital and most popular place to stay with its hilltop Kastro (castle) and authentic Greek vibe. Hike up Mount Zas for stunning views of the city, lounge on a number of white sandy beaches, wander around scenic Apiranthos, known as the “Plenty of Flowers Village”.
View our trips to Naxos.
Olympia
One of the most essential archaeological sites in Greece, Olympia hosted the very first Olympic Games way back in the 8th century B.C. Visitors can explore its vast ruins that include a stadium, athletic training zones, and temples devoted to Zeus and Hera.
You can also immerse yourself in history at the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, visit the Museum of the History of the Olympic Games, and indulge at the nearby Olympiagi winery.
View our trips to Olympia.
Kalambaka
Kalambaka is an ancient Greek town located at the foothills of Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and natural geological phenomenon of massive rock formations that's home to six monasteries. Standing between earth and sky atop monolithic rocks, the six monasteries date from the 14th to the 16th century and contain priceless historical and religious treasures, from painted wonders to sacred sculptures.
Along with this historical landmark, travelers also enjoy rafting on the scenic Aspropotamos River, visiting local wineries, and booking a truffle hunting tour!
View our trips to Kalambaka.
Delphi
On the slopes of Mt. Parnassus, ancient Greeks considered Delphi the center of the world! According to mythology, Zeus sent two eagles out from the ends of the universe where they met in Delphi. Set within a spectacular landscape, Delphi was, for many centuries, the cultural and religious center and symbol of unity for the Hellenic world.
Be sure to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Archaeological Site of Delphi, paired with a visit to the Archaeological Museum located below, then marvel at other historical landmarks like the Oracle or Apollo and the Temple of Pronoia Athena. For the adventurers, hike to the Corycian Cave found amongst a beautiful forest, once a place for worshipping the goat-like god Pan and the Nymphs with him.
View our trips to Delphi.
Rhodes
Known as "the island of the roses," Rhodes is the largest and most popular island of Dodecanese. It combines a rich historical past, marvelous beaches, and a variety of cultural offerings. Rhodes' Old Town is among the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, surrounded by fortified walls and home to the Street of the Knights.
Rhodes also has some of the best beaches in Greece, from the stunning St Paul’s Bay to the pebbled Kallithea Beach. You can explore the beautiful Valley of the Butterflies, learn about the area's wine-making traditions, and visit the Acropolis of Rhodes.
View our trips to Rhodes.
Kos
Kos, a Greek island in the Dodecanese, is a popular destination in Greece known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and relaxed atmosphere. Here you can explore ancient ruins, lounge on pristine beaches, or bike through charming villages. If you're looking for an enriched historical experience, visit the Asklepieion, where Hippocrates taught medicine. Then explore Nerantzia Castle's stunning architecture and museum, featuring altarpieces, sculptures, and inscriptions.
The island is a beach lover's paradise, offering a variety of stunning shores like Kefalos, Psalidi, and Agio Stefanos, each with its own unique charm and incredible sunset views. When your adventures finally tire you out and you're ready to relax with a good meal, try a dish with Barbounia (Red Mullet) - considered one of the most delicious fish in the Mediterranean!
View our trips to Kos.
Skiathos
Part of the Sporades archipelago, Skiathos is one of the most unique places to visit in Greece, famous for its Mamma Mia filming locations, stunning beaches, and lush green landscapes.
This small island has a type of beach for everyone. Want to relax with a book and a swim? Koukounaries Beach is your spot. For water sports and stunning scenery, head to Lalaria, with its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. For lively fun and beach bars, head to Banana Beach, or venture to Troulos Beach for a more lowkey atmosphere.
While in Skiathos, explore beyond the beaches and discover the island's charm. Mamma Mia fans will love visiting the Old Port (where the potential fathers arrive) and the Bell Tower at the Church of Agios Nikolas (where Sophie mails her invitations). Visitors can also enjoy some art and history on the island, like discovering the history of Alexandros Papadiamantis at his house or admiring the stunning frescoes in the Monastery of Evangelistria's museum.
View our trips to Skiathos.
