With a diverse geography that includes thousands of islands combined with a unique cuisine and millennia of significant historical inventions and cultures, it can be hard to try and figure out what the top experiences in Greece are. I’ve been traveling the length of Greece for many years, and here is my top 15 experiences that Greece has to offer. From UNESCO sites to unbelievable beaches, and sailing itineraries, experience the very best of beautiful Greece.
1. Visit the Acropolis
You feel the super-power presence of ancient Greece everywhere you go in this fascinating country. At the top of the list of ancient history experiences is the Acropolis, a must-visit site in Athens.
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the iconic Parthenon.
The Acropolis Museum, just down the hill from the Acropolis, is almost as wonderful as the buildings of the Acropolis – put them on your very first itinerary to Greece.
- Everything You Need to Know About Visiting the Acropolis: Acropolis Entrance Fees, Hours and Tours
- The Essential Acropolis Self-Guided Walking Tour for 2024
- Best Athens Hotels Near the Acropolis
- Athens Ruins: Ancient Greek Sites of Athens
- Athens Travel Guide
2. Explore the Ruins of Delphi
Delphi was considered the center of the ancient world, the naval of the universe, and is home to the Temple of Apollo, the Athenian Treasury, the Theater, and the cave of the Oracle of Delphi.
Its mountain setting is a perfect introduction to the beauty of authenticity of mainland Greece and it’s even possible to do it from Athens on a day trip.
- The Oracle of Delphi: A Detailed Guide for Visitors
- Best Ancient Ruins in Greece – 25 Greece Ruins to Visit in 2024
3. Swim in the Blue Caves
The Blue Caves are located on the island of Zakynthos at Zante and are famous for their crystal-clear waters.
And if you’re on Zakynthos, take a boat trip to the equally spectacular Shipwreck Beach.
4. Party on the beaches of Mykonos
Mykonos is known for its beautiful beaches, and some of the most popular ones include Paradise Beach and Super Paradise Beach.
- 35 Best Mykonos Hotels with Private Pools [2024]
- How to Choose the Best Mykonos Sunset Cruise [2024]
- Mykonos to Tinos Ferry – Routes, Schedules, Tips, How to Plan and Book
- ATV Rental in Mykonos – Everything You Need to Know [2024]
- Mykonos to Santorini Ferries and Flights [2024]
5. Walk through the old town of Rhodes
The old town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes.
Walking these streets in the evening after the day trippers have gone is a magical experience.
- Ancient Lindos Rhodes: Incredible Things to See & Do
6. Take a boat tour of the Ionian Islands
The Ionian Islands are located off Greece’s western coast and include Corfu, Paxos, and Zakynthos.
They have a different, forested environment from other island chains in Greece, coupled with emerald and azure clear waters.
- Milos vs Paxos: Which Island is Better for Your Next Holiday?
- How to Get from Athens to Corfu by Car, Bus, Ferry, and Plane in 2024
- Scooter Rental Corfu: The Complete 2024 Guide
- Quad Rental Corfu: The Complete Guide [2024]
7. Visit the Island of Santorini
Santorini is possibly the most beautiful island in Greece, and it is famous for its stunning sunsets and white-washed buildings.
A romantic destination everyone should experience at least once. Take a lover with you if you can – just tell them to “take me to Greece.”
- The complete guide to the best things to do in Santorini [2024]
- The 25 Best Hotels in Santorini with Private Pool [2024]
- Where to Stay in Santorini in 2024
8. Explore the Palace of Knossos
The Minoan Palace of Knossos is located near Heraklion on the island of Crete and is the home of one of the world’s most famous myths – that of Daedalus’ labyrinth and the Minotaur.
- Visit Knossos Palace and the Minotaur Labyrinth
- Bus to Knossos from Heraklion – a complete guide
9. Visit the island of Corfu
Corfu is a beautiful island with a rich history and is home to the Achilleion Palace and the Old Fortress. Its beaches have people returning each year for decades.
- How to Get from Athens to Corfu by Car, Bus, Ferry, and Plane in 2024
- Quad Rental Corfu: The Complete Guide [2024]
- Scooter Rental Corfu: The Complete 2024 Guide
10. Hike through Samaria Gorge
The stunning Samaria Gorge is located on the island of Crete and is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Greece.
- 2 week Crete road trip for history and beach lovers
11. Explore the Ancient City of Olympia
Olympia was the site of the ancient Olympic Games and is home to the Temple of Zeus and the Temple of Hera.
Lying between two rivers with Mount Kronos behind it, this religious sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit in the Peloponnese, just 3.5 hours from Athens by road.
- Visiting the Ancient Stadium at Olympia, Greece
- Best Ancient Ruins in Greece – 25 Greece Ruins to Visit in 2024
12. Sail the Cyclades Islands
The Cyclades Islands are a group of islands located in the Aegean Sea and are known for their beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets.
They are perfect for island hopping and this is my favorite thing to do in Greece. Even if you can’t afford the time to sail the Greek islands, try and take advantage of the sunset cruises around the individual islands.
- How to Choose the Best Paros Boat Tour [2024]
- Sailing Around Santorini: Best Santorini Boat Tours
- How to Choose the Best Mykonos Sunset Cruise [2024]
13. Visit the Island of Naxos
Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades and is currently my favorite Greek island!
It has an old Kastro (castle) in the main town, laid-back beach villages, and mountain and fishing villages full of ancient ruins, museums, donkeys, colorful winding streets, and tavernas and cafes.
- Naxos Greece: Travel Guide 2024
- Halki Naxos (Chalkio) self-guided day trip
- Paros or Naxos – complete guide on how to choose between them
- ATV Rental Naxos Island [2024]
- Scooter Rental Naxos [2024]
14. Explore the island of Crete
Crete is the largest island in Greece and is home to the Samaria Gorge, the Palace of Knossos, the spectacular Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the charming Venetian Harbor in Chania.
It also has dozens of superb beaches, from spectacular Balos (above) to the pink sand beach of Elafonisis, and palm-fringed havens like Vai and Preveli Beach.
- Complete Rethymno Crete Travel Guide [2024]
- 2 week Crete road trip for history and beach lovers
- Visit Knossos Palace and the Minotaur Labyrinth
- Bus to Knossos from Heraklion – a complete guide
- How to Rent a Scooter in Crete [2024]
15. Go Island Hopping
Greece has over 6,000 islands, and each one is unique and beautiful in its own way.
Island hopping is a great way to explore the country and experience its beauty.
- Greek Island Hopping: A Guide for First-Timers
- 15 Best Greek Island Hopping Itineraries for 2024
- Greek Islands Travel Guide
Start planning an unforgettable journey to Greece now. Check out all of our How to Plan a Trip to Greece resources.
