Europe · 32 Places · Best July-August
Greece offers a captivating blend of ancient history, stunning islands, and Mediterranean culture. From the iconic Acropolis in Athens to the whitewashed villages of Santorini, this sun-soaked destination combines archaeological wonders with pristine beaches and world-class cuisine.
Greece offers a captivating blend of ancient history, stunning islands, and Mediterranean culture. From the iconic Acropolis in Athens to the whitewashed villages of Santorini, this sun-soaked destination combines archaeological wonders with pristine beaches and world-class cuisine.
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
The 32 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
The most iconic symbol of ancient Greece and Western civilization, this UNESCO World Heritage site crowns the Athens skyline. The Parthenon temple, built in 438 BC, dominates the hilltop complex alongside the Erechtheion, Temple of Athena Nike, and Propylaea.
This world-class museum houses over 4,000 artifacts from the Acropolis, including the stunning Parthenon Marbles and Caryatids. The modern glass building offers breathtaking views of the Acropolis itself.
The dramatic volcanic caldera offers some of the world's most photographed sunsets, with white-washed buildings perched on 300-meter cliffs. The crescent-shaped island formed after a massive volcanic eruption around 1600 BC.
Ancient Greeks considered Delphi the center of the world, home to the famous Oracle. The stunning mountainside sanctuary includes the Temple of Apollo, ancient theater, and stadium with panoramic valley views.
Six functioning Byzantine monasteries perch impossibly atop towering rock pillars, creating one of the most surreal landscapes in Europe. Monks began settling these natural sandstone pillars in the 14th century.
Europe's oldest city and the center of Minoan civilization, this 3,500-year-old palace complex features the legendary labyrinth of the Minotaur. The partially reconstructed ruins reveal sophisticated Bronze Age architecture.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Athens' most prestigious hotel since 1874, overlooking Syntagma Square and the Acropolis. Opulent rooms, rooftop restaurant, and legendary service make this the city's premier address.
Check rates on Booking.comModern four-star hotel at the foot of the Acropolis with rooftop terrace, contemporary rooms, and excellent location for sightseeing. Great value for central Athens.
Check rates on Booking.comSocial hostel in Psyrri neighborhood with rooftop bar, common areas, and organized activities. Clean dorms and private rooms at unbeatable prices.
Check rates on Booking.comIconic luxury property in Oia with dramatic caldera views, infinity pools, and cave suites carved into volcanic cliffs. Renowned for romantic ambiance and impeccable service.
Check rates on Booking.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Two Michelin-starred restaurant in Athens offering exquisite French-Mediterranean fusion in an elegant garden setting. Impeccable service and wine pairing elevate the tasting menu experience.
Authentic Athens taverna in Plaka serving classic Greek dishes in charming courtyard. Family recipes and warm hospitality without tourist-trap prices.
Legendary souvlaki joint in Monastiraki serving kebabs since 1964. Always packed with locals - cash only, minimal seating, maximum flavor.
Traditional sesame bread rings sold from carts throughout Athens. Perfect breakfast on-the-go, incredibly cheap, authentically Greek.
Instagram-famous themed cafe in Psyrri with over-the-top decorations changing seasonally. Elaborate desserts and hot chocolate in fairytale setting.
Michelin-starred chef Lefteris Lazarou's waterfront restaurant showcasing innovative Greek seafood. Stunning marina views and creative Mediterranean plates.
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15-25 (hostel dorm) | $60-90 (mid-range hotel or Airbnb) | $200-400+ (luxury hotels, resorts) |
| Food (per day) | $15-20 (street food, self-catering, cheap tavernas) | $35-50 (mix of casual and mid-range restaurants) | $80-120 (fine dining, quality restaurants) |
| Transportation | $5-10 (public transport, walking) | $10-20 (taxis, ferries, some car rental) | $30-50 (private transfers, car rental) |
| Activities | $10-15 (free sites, occasional museum) | $15-20 (paid attractions, tours) | $40-80 (private tours, experiences, water sports) |
| Daily total | $45-65 | $120-180 | $350-600+ |
Register with your country's embassy upon arrival - the US Embassy in Athens is at 91 Vassilisis Sophias Avenue (+30 210 721 2951)
Watch for pickpockets and bag snatchers in crowded areas like Monastiraki Square, the Acropolis, and on Athens metro Line 1
Avoid large political demonstrations and strikes, which can turn confrontational - check local news before traveling
Be aware of seismic activity; Greece sits on active fault lines. Know your hotel's emergency procedures
Stay hydrated and use strong sunscreen in summer - temperatures regularly exceed 40 degrees C in July-August
Beware of taxi scams at Athens airport - only use metered taxis or the official Fixed Fare (38 euros from airport to center). Use the Beat app for transparent pricing
Watch for the friendship bracelet and dropped money scams targeting tourists near the Acropolis and Monastiraki
Never leave valuables on the beach or visible in rental cars - island beach theft is common in peak season
Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) when visiting Greek Orthodox churches and monasteries or entry will be denied
Carry comprehensive travel insurance - EHIC covers EU citizens at public hospitals but private facilities (faster service) require payment
Ocean swimming risks: jellyfish blooms occur in late summer; sea urchins on rocky beaches - wear water shoes
Emergency numbers: Police 100, Ambulance 166, Fire 199, Coast Guard 108, European Emergency 112
Greece is a safe country for tourists with low violent crime rates. The primary risks are opportunistic petty theft in crowded areas, taxi overcharging at Athens airport, and natural hazards including summer heat and seismic activity. The Greek islands are exceptionally safe destinations. Emergency services: police at 100, medical at 166.
The best time to visit Greece is July-August. Greece enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The country spans several climate zones: Athens and the Aegean islands have the archetypal dry summer (June-S
No visa required for stays up to 90 days. Passport must be valid for 3 months beyond departure. ETIAS required from 2026. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in Greece is the Euro (EUR) (EUR). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in Greece: Greek (official), English (widely spoken in tourist areas). In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The top attractions in Greece include Acropolis of Athens, Acropolis Museum, Santorini Caldera, Delphi Archaeological Site, and Meteora Monasteries. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
Each region has its own character — coastal, alpine, vineyard, capital. Pick a starting point.
Attica is the historical region of Greece that surrounds Athens, the country's capital, encompassing ancient monuments, stunning Mediterranean coastline, and verdant mountains. Home to some of the world's most iconic ancient sites including the Acropolis and Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, Attica blends millennia of history with a vibrant modern city culture.
Central Macedonia is Greece's largest administrative region, anchored by Thessaloniki, the country's vibrant second city and a crossroads of ancient, Byzantine, and Ottoman heritage. From the UNESCO-listed royal tombs of Vergina and Alexander the Great's birthplace at Pella to the three-fingered Halkidiki peninsula with its turquoise beaches and the monastic community of Mount Athos, the region offers an extraordinary concentration of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Crete is the largest island in Greece and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean Sea, an island of extraordinary diversity where ancient civilizations, rugged mountains, fertile plains, and some of Europe's finest beaches converge. Home to the Minoan civilization, Europe's oldest advanced culture, Crete offers millennia of history alongside world-class natural beauty.
The Ionian Islands are a group of seven main islands scattered along the western coast of Greece, known for their lush green landscapes, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and rich Venetian heritage. Unlike the arid Aegean islands, the Ionians enjoy a wetter climate that keeps them verdant year-round, creating a unique Mediterranean paradise. From the cosmopolitan charm of Corfu to the dramatic coastlines of Kefalonia and the famous shipwreck beach of Zakynthos, these islands offer an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.
South Aegean is Greece's island paradise, encompassing the stunning Cyclades and Dodecanese archipelagos in the heart of the Mediterranean. From the iconic whitewashed clifftop villages of Santorini and the glamorous shores of Mykonos to the medieval walled city of Rhodes and the archaeological wonders of Delos, this region offers an unparalleled blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and vibrant island culture.
