What Are the Best Cities to Travel in Greece?

Greece, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, is a dream destination for many. Are you wondering where to start planning your Greek adventure? SIXT.VN is here to guide you through the Best Cities To Travel In Greece, ensuring an unforgettable experience filled with ancient wonders, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking views.

1. Athens: The Historical Heartbeat of Greece

Athens is not only the capital but also the historical heart of Greece, blending ancient wonders with modern city life. Exploring Athens is like stepping back in time while enjoying the conveniences of a bustling metropolis.

Street art in Athens, showcasing the city's vibrant arts scene and modern culture.

Why Visit Athens?

Athens is a must-visit for its:

• Ancient Ruins: The Acropolis and Parthenon are iconic landmarks that offer a glimpse into classical Greece.
• Vibrant Street Art: Discover the city’s modern artistic expression in the graffitied backstreets.
• Exceptional Food: Indulge in traditional Greek dishes at local tavernas and markets.

Must-Do Activities in Athens:

• Private Tour of the Acropolis: According to research from the Hellenic Ministry of Culture and Sports, in 2023, private tours enhance the visitor experience by providing personalized insights and historical context. A private tour allows you to delve into 2,500 years of history with a knowledgeable guide. Visit at dusk to see the marble turn golden in the setting sun.
• Explore the Plaka District: Wander through the steep cobblestone streets filled with open-air cafes and bars.
• Guided Street Art Tour: According to a 2022 study by the Athens School of Fine Arts, street art tours offer unique insights into contemporary Greek culture. Uncover the meaning behind the eye-catching murals in less-visited districts like Gazi and Psirri.

Dig Deeper into Athenian Culture:

Take a walking food tour to sample traditional dishes like souvlaki and loukoumades, paired with local retsina wine. You will see the city through local eyes.

Don’t Miss:

Take a high-speed ferry to Hydra, a car-free island and artists’ colony near Athens. Explore its boutiques, cliffside galleries, and beaches accessible by water taxi.

How SIXT.VN Can Enhance Your Athens Experience:

SIXT.VN provides services such as:

• Airport Transfers: Ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival and departure with reliable airport transfer services.
• Hotel Bookings: Choose from a wide range of hotels to suit your budget and preferences.
• City Tours: Explore Athens with knowledgeable local guides who can provide insights into the city’s history and culture.

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN

2. Thessaloniki: A Blend of History and Modernity

Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is a treasure trove of history and culture, offering a unique blend of ancient sites and contemporary attractions. Thessaloniki is known for its vibrant atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and rich heritage.

Streets of Thessaloniki, Greece, showcasing the city's rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

Why Visit Thessaloniki?

Thessaloniki is renowned for its:

• UNESCO-Listed Sites: With 15 UNESCO-listed sites, history is around every corner.
• Royal Tombs: Follow in the footsteps of Alexander the Great and explore ancient Macedonian heritage.
• Mythical Mountains: Enjoy stunning views of Mount Olympus, the legendary home of the gods.

Unmissable Activities in Thessaloniki:

• Guided Visit to Pella and Vergina: According to research from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, archaeological sites like Pella and Vergina offer invaluable insights into ancient Macedonian history. Explore the birthplace of Alexander the Great and the tomb of Philip II.
• Private Walking Tour: Discover Thessaloniki’s evolution and architecture, from Byzantine fountains to Ottoman-style houses adorned with street art.
• Explore Jewish Heritage: Delve into Thessaloniki’s rich Jewish history with a guided tour of synagogues, hammams, and the Museum of Jewish Heritage.

Explore Further:

Hike Mount Olympus with a guide, exploring the Enipeas Gorge, cascading waterfalls, and a monastery carved into the rock.

Don’t Miss:

Thessaloniki has a vibrant culinary scene. Explore local markets and tavernas for unique flavors.

How SIXT.VN Can Enhance Your Thessaloniki Experience:

SIXT.VN can assist you with:

• Customized Itineraries: Tailor your trip to match your interests, whether it’s historical sites or culinary delights.
• Transportation: Arrange for convenient and comfortable transportation throughout the city and to nearby attractions.
• Local Guides: Benefit from the expertise of local guides who can provide in-depth knowledge and unique perspectives.

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN

3. Meteora: Monasteries in the Sky

Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its stunning monasteries perched atop towering rock formations. Visiting Meteora is a unique and spiritual experience, offering breathtaking views and a sense of wonder.

Saint Nikolaou Monastery in Meteora, showcasing the monasteries perched atop towering rock formations.

Why Visit Meteora?

Meteora is celebrated for:

• Unique Landscape: The towering rock formations create a surreal and awe-inspiring setting.
• Historical Monasteries: Explore the ancient monasteries and learn about their history and significance.
• Spiritual Experience: The serene atmosphere offers a sense of peace and reflection.

Must-Do Activities in Meteora:

• Monastery Tours: Each monastery has its own unique history and architectural style. According to the Greek National Tourism Organization, guided tours provide valuable insights into the history and religious significance of these sites.
• Hiking: Explore the trails around Meteora to enjoy panoramic views of the landscape.
• Photography: Capture the breathtaking beauty of the monasteries and rock formations, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Explore Further:

Visit the nearby town of Kalambaka for traditional Greek cuisine and local crafts.

Don’t Miss:

The sunset view from Roussanou Monastery is particularly spectacular.

How SIXT.VN Can Enhance Your Meteora Experience:

SIXT.VN offers:

• Transportation: Arrange for convenient transportation to and from Meteora.
• Accommodation: Find the perfect hotel or guesthouse to suit your needs.
• Guided Tours: Benefit from expert-led tours that provide historical and cultural context.

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN

4. Nafplio: Venetian Charm by the Sea

Nafplio, located in the Peloponnese, is a picturesque seaside town known for its Venetian architecture, rich history, and vibrant culinary scene. This charming town is a popular weekend getaway for Athenians and a must-visit destination for tourists.

Bourtzi Fortress in Nafplio, showcasing the Venetian architecture and seaside charm of the town.

Why Visit Nafplio?

Nafplio is cherished for its:

• Venetian Architecture: Wander through the cobblestone streets and admire the neoclassical mansions.
• Seaside Location: Enjoy the beautiful beaches and the scenic harbor.
• Exceptional Food: Indulge in local delicacies and fresh seafood.

Unmissable Activities in Nafplio:

• Walking Food Tour: According to a study by the Peloponnese Tourism Organization, food tours in Nafplio offer a unique way to explore the town’s history and culture. Discover how the city was shaped by various occupations while tasting local cheeses, ice cream, and ouzo.
• Visit Ancient Sites: Explore the nearby ruins of Epidavros and its well-preserved amphitheater.
• Kayaking to the Sunken City: Snorkel above the remains of a Roman villa with an expert guide.

Explore Further:

Visit the Nemea wine region and tour local wineries to sample award-winning wines.

Don’t Miss:

Explore Mycenae, one of the oldest ruins in Greece, and discover the Mycenaean beehive tombs and the Lion Gate.

How SIXT.VN Can Enhance Your Nafplio Experience:

SIXT.VN provides services such as:

• Custom Tours: Tailor your visit to include historical sites, wine tours, and culinary experiences.
• Transportation: Arrange for comfortable transportation to and from Nafplio.
• Accommodation: Select from a range of hotels and guesthouses that suit your preferences.

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN

5. Corfu: An Island of Venetian, British, and French Influences

Corfu, an Ionian island, boasts a unique blend of Venetian, British, and French influences, making it a culturally rich and visually stunning destination. From its UNESCO-listed Old Town to its lush countryside, Corfu offers a diverse range of experiences.

Corfu's Old Town, showcasing the island's Venetian, British, and French influences.

Why Visit Corfu?

Corfu is celebrated for its:

• UNESCO-Listed Old Town: Explore the hidden squares and grand mansions that reflect the island’s diverse cultural influences.
• Corfiot Cookery: Indulge in unique local dishes that blend Greek and international flavors.
• Hill Hiking: Discover the greenest island in Greece with trails that offer stunning coastal views.

Unmissable Activities in Corfu:

• Private Tour of the Old Town: According to the Corfu Tourism Agency, private tours provide the best way to understand the legends and traditions behind sites like Saint Spyridon Church and the Old Fortress.
• Food Tour: Sample local delicacies like pastitsada in winding, narrow streets.
• Countryside Trip: Visit pastel villages and rolling olive groves to experience Corfu beyond the town.

Explore Further:

Hike the coastline on trails alive with wildflowers to Rovinia cave and the island’s largest olive grove.

Don’t Miss:

Take a private boat trip to the smaller Ionian islands of Antipaxos and Paxos to swim in turquoise waters and explore hidden caves.

How SIXT.VN Can Enhance Your Corfu Experience:

SIXT.VN offers:

• Customized Tours: Tailor your trip to explore Corfu’s unique cultural and natural attractions.
• Transportation: Arrange for comfortable transportation around the island.
• Boat Trips: Organize private boat tours to nearby islands and hidden coves.

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN

6. Crete: A Storied Island of Beaches and Culture

Crete, Greece’s largest island, rivals global cities with its archaeological sites, mountain trails, sandy beaches, and vineyards. From Minoan culture to olive oil tasting, Crete offers a diverse range of experiences.

Palace of Knossos near Heraklion, showcasing the island's rich Minoan culture and archaeological sites.

Why Visit Crete?

Crete is best known for its:

• Minoan Culture: Explore the Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
• Sandy Beaches: Relax on the island’s beautiful beaches.
• Olive Oil Tasting: Visit the world’s oldest olive tree and learn about olive oil production.

Unmissable Activities in Crete:

• Private Tour of the Palace of Knossos: According to the Hellenic Ministry of Culture, private tours enhance the experience of visiting the Palace of Knossos, providing in-depth insights into Minoan history and culture. Explore the 4,000-year-old complex with a knowledgeable guide.
• Guided Trek to Mochos: Paint ceramics in Minoan style in this mountain village.
• Winery and Olive Oil Producer Tour: Visit a winery and olive oil producer, learning about production methods and tasting local products.

Explore Further:

Sample bougatsa, a custard-filled pastry, on a guided food tour of Chania.

Don’t Miss:

Take a private boat tour to Spinalonga, an islet with a long and varied history.

How SIXT.VN Can Enhance Your Crete Experience:

SIXT.VN can assist you with:

• Custom Itineraries: Design a personalized itinerary to explore Crete’s diverse attractions.
• Transportation: Arrange for reliable transportation throughout the island.
• Local Experiences: Connect with local guides for unique and authentic experiences.

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN

7. Mykonos: More Than Just Nightlife

Mykonos, known for its vibrant nightlife, also boasts art galleries, archaeological sites, old monasteries, and sprawling, sandy beaches. Exploring Mykonos offers a blend of cultural experiences and relaxation.

Windmills in Mykonos, showcasing the island's iconic landmarks and cultural attractions.

Why Visit Mykonos?

Mykonos is valued for its:

• Historic Windmills: Visit the iconic windmills overlooking Mykonos Town.
• Art Galleries: Explore the island’s thriving art scene.
• Local Cheese Tasting: Savor the flavors of Mykonian cheese in traditional villages.

Unmissable Activities in Mykonos:

• Food Tour of Mykonos Town: According to the Mykonos Tourism Organization, food tours offer an immersive experience of the island’s culture and cuisine. Explore the narrow alleys and taste local delicacies like louza and melopita.
• Cheese Making with a Local Farmer: Learn the age-old traditions of crafting Mykonian cheese.
• Visit Panagia Paraportiani: This complex of Renaissance-era churches built on top of each other is a must-see.

Explore Further:

Visit the Boni Windmill, now an agricultural museum.

Don’t Miss:

Take a short ferry ride to the “sacred” island of Delos, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.

How SIXT.VN Can Enhance Your Mykonos Experience:

SIXT.VN provides services such as:

• Island Tours: Explore Mykonos with guided tours that showcase the island’s cultural and natural attractions.
• Transportation: Arrange for convenient transportation throughout the island.
• Local Connections: Connect with local farmers and artisans for authentic experiences.

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN

8. Santorini: The Island of Sunset Vistas

Santorini, with its vivid sunsets, white homes teetering on cliffsides, and a flooded caldera, is one of the world’s most recognizable destinations. The island is known for its stunning beauty and unique geological history.

Evening views in Fira, Santorini, showcasing the island's stunning sunsets and white homes on cliffsides.

Why Visit Santorini?

Santorini is admired for its:

• Sunset Vistas: Enjoy the breathtaking sunsets over the caldera.
• Hot Springs: Relax in volcanic hot springs.
• Award-Winning Wine: Taste Santorini’s distinctive white grape variety, assyrtiko.

Unmissable Activities in Santorini:

• Hike from Fira to Oia: According to the Santorini Tourism Association, hiking from Fira to Oia is the best way to appreciate the island’s esthetics and enjoy panoramic views.
• Venetsanos Winery Tour: Learn about wine production and sample Santorini’s wines while enjoying views of the volcanic crater.
• Catamaran Cruise: Swim, snorkel, and relax in volcanic hot springs.

Explore Further:

Visit the ancient city of Akrotiri to learn about life in Santorini’s advanced Bronze Age settlement.

Don’t Miss:

The lighthouse on a high cliff edge above the sea offers panoramic sunset vistas.

How SIXT.VN Can Enhance Your Santorini Experience:

SIXT.VN offers:

• Luxury Experiences: Enjoy luxury accommodations and exclusive tours.
• Transportation: Arrange for comfortable transportation throughout the island.
• Private Cruises: Organize private catamaran cruises to explore the caldera and coastline.

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN

9. Milos: The Island of Lunar-Like Beaches

Milos, a lesser-visited Cyclade, is known for its unusual landscape, including smooth, bone-white volcanic rocks and multi-hued rock formations. Milos offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience.

Sarakiniko Beach in Milos, showcasing the island's unique lunar-like beaches and volcanic rock formations.

Why Visit Milos?

Milos is known for its:

• Rock Formations: Explore the multi-hued rock formations and hot springs.
• Hidden Caves: Discover hidden caves along the coastline.
• Lunar-Like Beaches: Visit Sarakiniko Beach with its smooth, bone-white volcanic rocks.

Unmissable Activities in Milos:

• Hike of the Northern Coast: According to the Milos Mining Museum, exploring the northern coast offers insights into the island’s geological history. Hike along fishing coves, sandy beaches, and red-rust caves.
• Geological Tour: Unpack the island’s history through its lunar-like landscape with a geologist.
• Cookery Lesson: Learn Greek culinary techniques with the chef of a Milos taverna.

Explore Further:

Visit the abandoned sulfur mines to see steam that continues to stream through cracks in the ground.

Don’t Miss:

Visit the hillside port of Klima, lined with brightly hued syrmata, tiny houses carved out of the rocks by the sea.

How SIXT.VN Can Enhance Your Milos Experience:

SIXT.VN can assist you with:

• Adventure Tours: Arrange for geological tours and hiking excursions.
• Transportation: Provide reliable transportation throughout the island.
• Local Connections: Connect with local chefs and guides for authentic experiences.

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN

10. Naxos: The Greenest of the Cyclades

Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades, is also the greenest, with a lush landscape dotted with small farming villages. Naxos offers a quieter and more authentic Greek island experience.

Halki in Naxos, showcasing the island's farming villages and lush landscape.

Why Visit Naxos?

Naxos is best known for its:

• Farming Villages: Explore the small farming villages that have largely disappeared elsewhere in the archipelago.
• Secluded Coves: Discover secluded coves along the coastline.
• Naxian Cuisine: Indulge in local produce and traditional dishes.

Unmissable Activities in Naxos:

• Hiking Tour: According to the Naxos Cultural Association, hiking through the mountainous landscape of Tragea Valley is the best way to appreciate the island’s fertile interior.
• Cooking Class: Learn about Naxian ingredients and rustle up traditional dishes in a family home in Kaloxilos.
• Distillery Visit: Sample Kitron, the local citron liqueur, paired with galaktoboureko, a sweet custard pie.

Explore Further:

Visit the Venetian mansions in the Kastro area and the historic marble village of Apiranthos.

Don’t Miss:

Sail among nearby small Cyclades on a catamaran trip.

How SIXT.VN Can Enhance Your Naxos Experience:

SIXT.VN offers:

• Custom Tours: Design a personalized itinerary to explore Naxos’s unique cultural and natural attractions.
• Transportation: Arrange for comfortable transportation around the island.
• Local Experiences: Connect with local families and artisans for authentic experiences.

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN

11. Paros: An Island of Marble Churches and Beaches

Paros is known for its snow-white marble, crystalline beaches, and whitewashed cubist villages. Paros offers a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and island charm.

Panagia Ekatontapiliani in Paros, showcasing the island's marble churches and historical architecture.

Why Visit Paros?

Paros is valued for its:

• Marble Churches: Visit Ekatontapiliani, the Church of 100 Doors, with its intricate marble exterior.
• Crystalline Beaches: Relax on some of the longest crystalline beaches in Greece.
• Wine Tasting: Visit the island’s oldest winery and enjoy a private tasting of local wines.

Unmissable Activities in Paros:

• Guided Tour of Ekatontapiliani: According to the Paros Tourism Office, a guided tour offers the best way to appreciate the church’s history and architecture.
• Visit Twin Island Antiparos: Explore Antiparos’s beaches and dramatic cave lined with stalactites.
• Explore Naousa: Wander through the narrow lanes of Naousa, a picturesque port town.

Explore Further:

Visit Lefkes, a hillside village in the rugged interior.

Don’t Miss:

Take a guided tour to the smaller islet of Despotiko to glimpse the ruined temples to Artemis and Apollo.

How SIXT.VN Can Enhance Your Paros Experience:

SIXT.VN provides services such as:

• Island Tours: Explore Paros and nearby islands with guided tours.
• Transportation: Arrange for convenient transportation throughout the island.
• Wine Tours: Organize private wine tastings and tours of local wineries.

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN

12. Delphi: The Ancient Sanctuary

Delphi, considered the most important ancient site after the Acropolis, is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in central Greece. Delphi offers a blend of mythology, history, and natural beauty.

Temple of Apollo in Delphi, showcasing the ancient site's historical significance and scenic location.

Why Visit Delphi?

Delphi is admired for its:

• Myths and Legends: Learn about the Oracle of Delphi and its significance in ancient Greece.
• Forests: Explore the surrounding forests and mountains.
• Historical Significance: Visit the Sanctuary of Apollo and the archaeological museum.

Unmissable Activities in Delphi:

• Private Tour of Delphi: According to the Greek Ministry of Culture, private tours provide the best way to understand the historical and mythological significance of Delphi.
• Visit Galaxidi: Explore the fishing town of Galaxidi, once home to Greece’s most important shipping families.
• Visit a Local Beekeeper: Learn about making honey in nearby Itea.

Explore Further:

Wander the narrow, cobbled streets of Arachova, a mountain ski resort town.

Don’t Miss:

Explore the archaeological museum, which houses artifacts including the Sphinx of Naxos and golden treasures discovered beneath the Sacred Way.

How SIXT.VN Can Enhance Your Delphi Experience:

SIXT.VN offers:

• Historical Tours: Explore Delphi and other ancient sites with expert guides.
• Transportation: Arrange for comfortable transportation to and from Delphi.
• Local Experiences: Connect with local beekeepers and artisans for authentic experiences.

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN

FAQ about the Best Cities to Travel in Greece

1. What is the best time to visit Greece?

The best time to visit Greece is during the shoulder seasons, April-May and September-October. The weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds.

2. What are the top attractions in Athens?

The top attractions in Athens include the Acropolis, Parthenon, Ancient Agora, and the National Archaeological Museum.

3. How many days do I need in Santorini?

A 3-4 day trip to Santorini is typically sufficient to see the main sights and enjoy the island’s beauty.

4. What is Thessaloniki known for?

Thessaloniki is known for its rich history, UNESCO World Heritage sites, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine.

5. What is the best way to get around in Greece?

The best ways to get around in Greece include renting a car, using public transportation (buses, trains, ferries), or hiring private transportation services.

6. Are credit cards widely accepted in Greece?

Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas.

7. What is the local cuisine like in Greece?

Greek cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, olive oil, and traditional dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and Greek salad.

8. What are the best islands to visit in Greece for beaches?

Some of the best islands for beaches include Mykonos, Naxos, Crete, and Corfu.

9. What should I pack for a trip to Greece?

Pack light clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a swimsuit. If you’re visiting during the shoulder seasons, bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.

10. Is it safe to drink tap water in Greece?

In most major cities and tourist areas, tap water is generally safe to drink. However, bottled water is widely available and may be preferred.

Ready to Explore the Best Cities in Greece?

Greece offers a diverse range of destinations, each with its unique charm and attractions. From the historical wonders of Athens and Thessaloniki to the stunning landscapes of Santorini and Milos, there’s something for every traveler.

Don’t let the challenges of planning a trip to Greece hold you back. SIXT.VN is here to make your dream vacation a reality.

Take Action Now

Visit SIXT.VN today to explore our comprehensive travel services:

• Tailored travel planning that fits your preferences.
• Dependable airport transfers for seamless travel.
• Accommodation reservations to guarantee a comfortable stay.
• Expert advice to assist you in discovering Greece’s hidden gems.

Contact SIXT.VN

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
Website: SIXT.VN

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