20 Must Things to do in Greece

We have a list of the best things to do in Greece for your next trip. Located under the hot Mediterranean sun, Greece offers a variety of activities for all kinds of people. Whether you are a party-seeker, a peace-seeker, a history buff, or looking for adventurous activities, this beautiful country has something for you. 

If you are looking for archeological sites, Greece is full of them. You can find exhibitions from Ancient Greek civilizations up to the Byzantine era and modern Greece. In case you’re looking for parties, the Cycladic Islands during summertime is the perfect place. If you are an adventurous spirit, Greece offers activities throughout the year. You can pick a snowy mountain for climbing or hike on Samaria’s Gorge on Crete Island. Moreover, if you are looking for peace and calmness, Greece has plenty of villages and small islands for relaxation. 

Visit Acropolis

Visiting the Acropolis is one of the top things to do in Greece. Acropolis is a monumental 5th-century B.C. citadel, in the heart of Athens. While ascending on the Acropolis hill, a traveler encounters many historical structures and ruins. On your walk there you can see the historical Parthenon. Parthenon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ancient temple and symbol of Western civilization. Ensure you have a guide during your visit, to learn all the precious information needed. 

On your way down, you can visit the modern Acropolis Museum. The museum was built to house every artifact found on the rock and the surrounding slopes. The Acropolis Museum also lies over the ruins of a part of Roman and early Byzantine Athens. In addition, while you take a walk through Dionysiou Aeropagitou Street, the street outside of the museum, you can see the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. During summertime, plays and concerts take place in this beautiful ancient odeon.

If you plan to visit Athens, then this Athens travel guide is for you.

Explore Santorini Island

Santorini is considered amongst the most beautiful islands of Greece. Oia is the most well-known village in Santorini, and it is built on the steep slope of the caldera. There are narrow passageways and a central square. The idyllic surroundings of the town have a complex of white-washed, blue-domed churches and charming, traditional Cycladic houses and cave houses that are carved into the rock face on top of the cliff. It is set in a location that provides excellent sunset views over the caldera.

Besides Oia, travelers can take a walk from the caldera to the volcano of Santorini. You can also swim in the Black Sand Beach and the Red Beach. The first is a volcanic beach full of black sand. The latter is narrow, pebbly,  surrounded by high scarlet cliffs and scattered with large volcanic rocks. Moreover, you can take a boat trip to the small islands inside Santorini’s offshore caldera. 

Travel to Mykonos

Visiting Mykonos island is one of the most fun things to do in Greece if you want to endlessly party. The island, which is called “the windy island,” is full of whitewashed houses and churches lining a maze of narrow streets in Mykonos Town. This picturesque Cycladic town, built on a harbor in the middle of a wide bay, serves as the island’s commercial hub.

Situated in Chora Mykonos (aka Mykonos Town), the waterfront quarter of Little Venice is one of the island’s top sunset-viewing spots. Rows of whitewashed houses back onto the seafront, brightly painted red and blue balconies jutting out over the water. At the end of your walk, and on the highest point, you find the Church of Panagia Paraportiani. It was built between the 14th and 17th centuries, and it’s the island’s most photographed church.  This church is comprised of five whitewashed chapels across two floors that once guarded the entrance to the town’s castle.

Take a Trip to Meteora

Meteora are the towering vertical cliffs in the heart of mainland Greece. They are the second-largest monastic complex in Greece. The holy land of Meteora is ideal for hiking lovers! In the Western part, there is the Great Meteoro, the most imposing of all in size. It stands at a height of 613 m. It is impressive and very different from the smaller and more compact others. Nevertheless, the Great Meteoron has some very interesting exhibition spaces, such as the manuscript museum or an exhibition of various strange relics. 

The area of Meteora is ideal for walking. There is a series of low-difficulty passable routes, suitable for people with little experience. However, there are no markings. Therefore, you must have a map and GPS with you. Or even better to go with a guide. Nonetheless, those of you who are not familiar with hiking will get tired at some points. Therefore, make sure you are properly equipped with shoes, a walking stick, comfortable clothes, and water. However, there is no way you will not be compensated by the refreshing walk in the forest.

Take a look at the most unbelievable places in Greece.

Visit Mycenae

Mycenae, located in the Peloponnese, was the major settlement of the powerful Mycenaean civilization, during the Bronze Age. Nowadays it is recognized by UNESCO for its profound influence on Greek civilization. Travelers can explore the Lion Gate, the entrance to the site, adorned with two sculptures of lions. Afterward, one can wander through the Cyclopean walls, massive stone blocks that show the advanced engineering of the Mycenaeans.

Close to Mycenae, lays the picturesque city of Nafplion. Due to its history, is a city that combines Eastern and Western influences. It has beautiful narrow pedestrian streets. You can walk up to Palamidi Fortress and see the surrounding areas from above. Besides Palamidi, you can visit Bourtzi Castle. This castle is located on a small island across Nafplion, and you can take a boat trip there. During nighttime, Bourtzi is lit, so it’s an idyllic scenery to watch from Nafplion’s port.

Swim at Elafonissi Beach

Located on the southern edge of Chania, in Crete, Elafonissi is a unique beach with shallow waters, pale pink-tinted sands, and sweeping dunes. Frequently, it is listed among Europe’s best beaches. Moreover, Elafonissi’s fame extends beyond its beautiful beach, as it shares a connection with a protected island nature reserve. This sanctuary, preserving flora and fauna, is home to a variety of rare plants and animals, including loggerhead sea turtles. 

Since you are in Chania area, don’t skip visiting Chania port. The Old Venetian Harbor is the beating heart of Chania Old Town, with restaurants, bars, and stores. Take a walk through the landmarks from the Firkas Fortress, Grand Arsenal, and Hassan Pasha Mosque, to the Venetian Lighthouse. One of the oldest lighthouses in the world, its spectacular architecture makes it one of the most photographed landmarks in the city. Swimming at Elafonissi beach and visiting Chania port, is one of the best things to do in Greece.

Take a Tour to Delphi and Arachova

If you want to combine antiquity and modernity, then one of the 5 top things to do in Greece is to visit Delphi and Arachova. Delphi is in Central Greece, and according to ancient Greeks, it was the center of the earth. There, you can explore the ancient ruins of the Oracle of Apollo, and the Treasury of the Athenians, and walk the path of the “sacred road”. Between Delphi and Arachova lies the Hosios Loukas Monastery. It is a Byzantine monastery, built in the 10th century A.D. Today, it is a museum. One of a trio of UNESCO-listed Greek monasteries, the Hosios Loukas Monastery is an exquisite example of Byzantine-era monastic architecture. 

Lastly, Arachova is a picturesque town, located on the slopes of Mt. Parnassus, and is full of cafes, restaurants, and bars. The ideal time to visit Arachova is during Winter because it’s full of people and events. For winter sports lovers, there is a ski center close to Arachova, where you can go for an adventure. If you are a winter sports enthusiast, then read more about skiing in Greece.

Hike the Samaria Gorge in Crete

Samaria Gorge, in southwestern Crete, is one of Europe’s longest canyons, and a popular hiking destination. Its rugged river valley trail runs 10 miles (16 kilometers) from Xyloskalo in the White Mountains to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli. The gorge is part of Samaria Gorge National Park, which enjoys a seat along the Libyan Sea coast. 

The journey through the gorge is for people in good physical condition and stamina. It takes approximately 8 hours to cross. Hikers navigate through rough terrain, wooden bridges over rivers, and narrow pathways carved into the cliffsides. Yet, there are plenty of rewards. First, you can see the Cretan biodiversity, from colorful wildflowers to aromatic herbs and beautiful birds. Moreover, hikers are rewarded with a stunning view of the surrounding mountains and the beauty of untouched nature. To avoid the excessive Summer heat, consider hiking the Samaria Gorge during Spring or Autumn.

Experience Corfu Island’s Easter

Corfu is a beautiful island in the North-Western part of Greece. It is an island known for its Venetian architecture and forestry scenery. If you’re planning to travel during Easter, then the best thing to do in Greece is visit Corfu. The island offers a unique and magnificent experience. During Good Friday, the 17 local philharmonic orchestras are playing morbid marches, while marching in the center of Corfu town. It is a thrilling experience, due to the music, the architecture, and the atmosphere of the city. Throughout the Good Week, all the city lamps emit a purple light. 

During Holy Saturday morning, at 11.00 a.m., takes place the custom of breaking the clay pots. From the imposing Venetian buildings, in Spianada Square, the central square of the town, and the biggest in the whole Balkans, locals throw huge clay pots from their balconies. Thousands of people are gathered to watch the show. Afterward, the local philharmonic orchestras, march again, but this time they play joyful marches. 

Explore more options for traveling in Greece during Easter.

Explore Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece and offers a blend of history, culture, and livelihood. Take a walk in the city center and see its emblem. The 15th-century White Tower (Lefkós Pýrgos) is one of the city’s most famous attractions and the star of sightseeing tours. Then, 10 minutes walk from there, is Rotunda, another UNESCO Site. Rotunda used to be a Roman mausoleum, and nowadays the area around it is full of cafes and restaurants, offering a unique view. If you want to learn more about Thessaloniki’s connection to the Roman Empire, then consider visiting the Archaeological Museum. 

Thessaloniki, has a fame across the Greeks, that it offers the best food, and not without a reason. So if you are looking for a culinary experience, then this place is for you. Besides the typical Greek foods, Thessaloniki has some local delicacies too, such as bougatsa, a pastry filled with custard, cheese, or minced meat. At night, the city is bustling with life, with options for all tastes. From traditional kafeneia to lounge rooftop bars, this city offers a unique experience.

Thinking of spending some days in Thessaloniki? Read what you can do!

Wine Tasting in the Peloponnese

Peloponnese is a large region in southern Greece, with plenty of cities, towns, villages, forests, mountains, and beaches. However, this area is known for its vineyards. It has a history of winemaking tradition. Due to its diverse terrain, rises a wide array of grape varietals, that offer different flavors and aromas. The most famous are the Agiorgitiko of Nemea and the Moschofilero of Mantinia. 

Besides just wine tasting, travelers can find historic wineries and family-owned estates. There, they can take a tour of the vineyards, the cellar halls, and the production facilities, taking a closer look into the winemaking process from grape to glass. These guided tours allow visitors to taste a diverse selection of wines, paired with local delicacies.

If you enjoy hiking, read for hiking options in Peloponnese.

Hike in the Dragon Lakes

The “Dragon lakes” or “Drakolimnes”, as they are pronounced in Greek, are small lakes on mountaintops of alpine altitude and they are the sharpest contrast to the image of typical Greek scenery. Located on the cold top of some of the highest Greek mountains, they are the exact opposite of the warm Greek beaches. The most famous dragon lakes are those of Tymfi, Smolikas, Gistova, Flenga, and Verlinga.

Tymfi Dragon Lake is located 2,050 meters up Mt. Tymfi, between the Aoos River and the Voidomatis, in the reserve area of the North Pindus Range of the Gamila crest (Tymfi’s highest peak). Smolikas Dragon Lake is 2,200 meters up Greece’s second-highest mountain, Smolikas. It is 2,000-4,000 square meters in size and is very deep. The heart-shaped lake has a deep blue color. Gistova Dragon Lake is Greece’s largest alpine lake, at 2,350 meters altitude, and is near the border with Albania. Flenga Dragon Lakes are twin lakes, located at Mt. Mavrovouni’s subalpine zone at a height of around 1,940-1,960 meters. Spring waters at a higher level flow into the lakes. Verlinga Dragon Lake is at an altitude of 2,050 meters and covers an area of 10,000 square meters. It is formed by the ten serpentine waterways that are the sources of the Acheloos River. Learn the myths about the formation of dragon lakes.

Visit the Palace of Knossos in Crete

Once the glorious capital of Minoan Crete and one of the most powerful cities in the eastern Mediterranean, ancient Knossos is a place of legend. Today, it’s Crete’s largest and most important archaeological site. Built around 2,000 BC, the hilltop Palace of Knossos reveals a fascinating history that goes back to the earliest European civilizations.

With artifacts covering some 5,000 years, from the Neolithic era (c. 7000 BC) through to Roman times (c. 300 AD), the Heraklion Archaeological Museum in Crete is second only in size and importance to Athens’ National Archaeological Museum. It’s also widely regarded as one of the most important historical museums in Europe, and surely one of the best things to do in Greece, if you are interested in history.

Take a Cruise in the Cyclades

The Cyclades are an island complex in the Aegean Sea. The locals consider them the “prototypical Greek islands”. Their main characteristics are the white-washed homes with blue entrances and windowsills and the rocky and rugged scenery. Also, you may know them for their charming beaches and the vintage white windmills crowned with shreds of grass. Besides Santorini and Mykonos, the most popular islands among them are Paros, Naxos, Tinos, and Syros

You can either book a package for a cruise in the Cyclades or due to the many ferries you can island-hopping on your own. The prices vary depending on how much money you want to spend.  Cruise prices usually start from 200 euros. There are prices on every island for every budget. Generally, it will be around 150-200 euros per day for your accommodation, food,  transportation, and other activities. If you want to travel on a budget, remember that most tourist destinations are cheaper during the off-season.

See this complete guide for island-hopping in Greece, besides the Cyclades.

Experience the Medieval Town of Rhodes

Rhodes is famous for its beautiful beaches. However, in the heart of its town, lies the well-preserved walled old town. The historic core of Rhodes is the oldest continuously inhabited medieval city in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The medieval center is still encircled by its original fourteenth-century fortification walls, which took more than 200 years to construct.

Though originally constructed in the 14th century by the Knights of St. John, the current Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes is a Mussolini-era reconstruction built after the original was destroyed by a 19th-century explosion. The palace now serves as a museum displaying furniture, statues, and ancient mosaics. You can combine this trip with an exploration of the whole island, which offers unique landscapes and beaches. 

Take a look at more medieval destinations in Greece.

Take a Tour in the Blue Caves of Zakynthos

Touring the blue caves of Zakynthos is one of the best things to do in Greece. Zakynthos is located in the Ionian Islands. The Blue Caves were formed by the erosion of the rocks by the sea. There are boat trips that stop in the caves. You will admire the unique beauty and swim in the emerald waters. The light rays of the sunbeams are reflected in the water. You will often see loggerhead turtles next to you.

Also, make sure you visit Navagio Beach. With white sand and marble cliffs, Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach) makes a great setting for swimming and sunbathing. The beach’s centerpiece is a long-abandoned ship — the remains of a smuggler’s shipwreck — that still lies on the sands, and make it one of the most photographed destinations in Greece. 

Watch a Play in the Ancient Epidaurus

Epidaurus is a small town in Eastern Peloponnese. Its most famous landmark is the Theatre of Epidaurus. It is a well-preserved 4th-century BC theater built on a hillside that overlooks the Sanctuary of Asclepius. It is well-known due to its extraordinary acoustics. All 14,000 spectators could hear the performances perfectly. 

During the Summer months, ancient Greek tragic plays, take place in that theater. Keep in mind, though, that these plays are very famous, so if you want to book a ticket, do it well in advance.

Hike to Olympus Mountain

Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece, known worldwide mainly for its mythological context, as at its top (Mytikas-2918 m.) lived the Twelve “Olympian” gods, according to the religion of the ancient Greeks. In 1938 Mount Olympus became the first National Park of Greece to protect its unique heritage. Consequently, every year thousands of nature lovers visit Mount Olympus, to admire up close the charm of its nature and enjoy the tour of its slopes. 

Additionally, some climbers flock from every corner of the globe to conquer its peaks. Furthermore, organized mountain shelters with a variety of mountaineering and climbing routes are at the disposal of visitors who want to explore its beauties. Finally, the classic starting point is Litochoro, at the eastern foot of the mountain,100 km from Thessaloniki, where at the beginning of every summer takes place the world-famous Olympus Mountaineering Marathon. 

Take a Trip to Zagorochoria

Besides the beautiful Greek islands and towns, there are many extraordinary villages to explore. Zagorochoria is one of the top village complexes in Greece. They are located in the Pindos Mountains, in North-Western Greece. 46 picturesque villages built across the Zagori region, offer a retreat for peace-seekers and nature lovers. There, visitors can find stone-built houses, cobblestone pathways, and ancient bridges. The most famous villages are Papigo, Monodendri, and Aristi.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Zagorochoria offers many activities. Travelers can hike along trails that pass through forests, meadows, and rugged peaks. Adventure seekers can cross the Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world, ideal for trekking or rafting along the Voidomatis River. In winter, the region is covered by snow, inviting visitors to ski, snowboard, and other winter sports. 

Interested in more Greek villages? Read here: Exploring the Enchanting Greek Villages

Explore the Archaeological island of Delos

Discover archaeological ruins and ancient Greek history during a trip to Delos, an island in the Cyclades, near Mykonos. Known as the mythological birthplace of Apollo, Delos was an important religious and cultural center in Ancient Greece. Visit to see the ruins, including a theater, temples, monuments, private homes, and markets.

Delos is an inhabited island, and you can only visit it during daylight hours. At night people are not allowed to stay there. So, it’s a great opportunity to combine visiting Delos while staying at the Cyclades. You can combine that trip with island hopping, or you can visit it to admire its beauty and take a day off the crowded Cycladic islands during summer. 

There are countless things to do in Greece. Within our article, we provided you with some once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Greece, to add to your bucket list. You can experience unique landscapes in Meteora, Santorini, and Mykonos. You can participate in Easter festivities in Corfu, wine-tasting in Peloponnese, and relax in Zagorochoria. If you are interested in ancient history, visit the Acropolis, Delos, Mycenae, or Knossos Palace in Crete. In case you seek adventure you can hike in Samaria’s Gorge, climb Mt. Olympus, practice winter sports near Arachova, or rafting near Zagorochoria. For all the things you want to do, you can do it in Greece. Discover the best places and islands in Greece to visit and begin your journey!