The 11 Best Holiday Destinations in Greece

Greece’s premier destinations offer distinctive experiences for every traveler. Santorini enthralls with blue domes and volcanic landscapes, while Crete blends ancient ruins with modern beaches. Rhodes boasts UNESCO-protected medieval architecture, and Zakynthos showcases the famous shipwreck beach. Don’t miss Corfu’s Venetian charm, Mykonos’ vibrant nightlife, or authentic experiences in Naxos, Kos, Lefkada, and Paros. These destinations reveal Greece’s perfect balance of history, natural beauty, and island culture.

Good To Know

• Santorini offers iconic blue domes and stunning sunsets, best visited during shoulder seasons for fewer crowds.
• Crete blends 5,000 years of history with beautiful beaches like pink-sanded Elafonisi and dual-colored Balos Lagoon.
• Rhodes features a UNESCO-protected Old Town with impressive medieval architecture and nearby Elli Beach for relaxation.
• Zakynthos is home to the famous Navagio Beach with its shipwreck, accessible only by boat tours.
• Athens combines ancient sites like the Acropolis with modern city life, integrating archaeology into everyday experiences.

Santorini: The Iconic Island of Blue Domes and Sunsets

While famous for its stunning caldera views and white-washed architecture, Santorini presents an unexpected opportunity for travelers in 2025. With bookings down over 20% and stabilizing seismic activity, you’ll enjoy this iconic destination without the crushing crowds that previously saw 17,000 daily cruise visitors.

Take advantage of reduced accommodation prices and the roughly 30% availability still open for Easter. The island’s blue-domed churches, volcanic beaches, and world-class Assyrtiko vineyards are best experienced during shoulder seasons (April-May/September-October). Unlike Tenerife or Cyprus, Santorini offers a distinctly Greek island experience with its unique volcanic landscape and Cycladic charm. Emergency response teams remain stationed on the island to ensure visitor safety.

For the most authentic experience, rent a vehicle to explore beyond tourist hotspots. Respect local customs in religious sites, and prioritize supporting local businesses still recovering from booking shortfalls.

This rare window offers the chance to experience Santorini’s magic without the usual overtourism concerns.

Crete: Ancient History Meets Modern Beach Resorts

As Greece’s largest island and the mythical birthplace of Zeus, Crete offers an unparalleled blend of 5,000 years of civilization alongside some of Europe’s most stunning beaches.

You’ll discover Europe’s first advanced society at Knossos Palace, where colorful restored frescoes bring Minoan culture to life.

While Knossos draws large crowds, consider visiting the less crowded Palace of Phaistos which offers unreconstructed ruins and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

For beach lovers, Elafonisi’s pink sands and Balos Lagoon’s dual-colored waters provide postcard-perfect settings. Visit during April-June or September-October to avoid crowds while enjoying comfortable temperatures.

Compared to other European destinations, Crete offers excellent value with affordable prices for accommodation, dining, and activities.

Don’t miss local culture at summer’s Cretan Diet Festival in Rethymnon or autumn wine harvest celebrations featuring traditional lyra music.

With international airports in Heraklion and Chania, you’ll find Crete easily accessible, though renting a car is recommended for exploring beyond the well-connected KTEL bus routes.

Rhodes: Medieval Charm on the Aegean Sea

Rhodes serves as a living monument where Europe’s medieval past meets the azure Aegean Sea. The UNESCO-protected Old Town surrounds you with 4km of intact walls housing over 6,000 residents in a functional historic community.

You’ll wander Europe’s best-preserved medieval street—the Street of the Knights—before exploring the 14th-century Palace of the Grand Masters. The city’s architecture tells its layered history: Gothic churches repurposed as Ottoman mosques, the Jewish Quarter with Greece’s oldest synagogue, and Italian neoclassical additions.

Don’t miss the Archaeological Museum housed in the Knights’ Great Hospital, displaying Hellenistic treasures. The Great Hospital was built between 1440 and 1489 as part of the Order of St John’s commitment to care for pilgrims and knights. While Rhodes offers historical richness, those seeking nightlife experiences might find Croatia’s coastal towns more suited for hedonistic adventures. Time your visit during the Medieval Rose Festival for jousting and reenactments, then retreat to nearby Elli Beach when you need a break from history.

Zakynthos: Home to the Famous Shipwreck Beach

Nestled in the azure waters of the Ionian Sea, Zakynthos charms visitors with its crown jewel—Navagio Beach, commonly known as Shipwreck Beach. This iconic landmark features the rusty remains of MV Panagiotis, which ran aground in 1980 while allegedly smuggling cigarettes during a storm. The beach gained worldwide recognition after being featured prominently in the Korean drama “Descendants of the Sun.”

A paradise cove where azure waters meet limestone cliffs, guarding the smuggler’s ship that found its final resting place.

You’ll need to arrive by boat, as dramatic 200-meter limestone cliffs embrace this white-pebbled cove, making land access impossible. The crystal-clear waters surrounding Navagio provide excellent snorkeling opportunities similar to those found in Dubrovnik’s top spots.

When planning your visit:

• Take daily boat tours from Porto Vromi that include stops at the nearby Blue Caves
• Visit cliffside viewpoints for breathtaking aerial photographs
• Be cautious of strong undertows that make swimming potentially hazardous
• Check for closures, as occasional landslides have restricted access since 2018

Corfu: Venetian Architecture and Lush Landscapes

While Zakynthos engrosses with its dramatic shipwreck scene, Corfu offers an entirely different Greek island experience. You’ll discover a UNESCO-recognized town where Venetian, French, and British influences merge seamlessly across centuries of architecture.

Stroll through Spianada Square, Greece’s largest, framed by the Parisian-inspired Liston Arcade with its elegant colonnades. Don’t miss the impressive Old and New Fortresses that once secured this strategic Adriatic outpost. The island offers a tranquil alternative to the Nordic landscapes found in countries like Norway and Finland.

For culture, visit St. Spyridon Church with its distinctive red dome or explore the Asian Art Museum housed in the Palace of Saints Michael and George. The island’s rich trading history established it as a significant commercial hub attracting diverse foreign influences throughout the centuries.

Beyond architectural splendors, Corfu enchants with lush landscapes – from the Garden of the People with its rare subtropical plants to the olive-grove panoramas of Paleokastritsa with its Venetian-era monastery.

Mykonos: Greece’s Ultimate Party Island

When it comes to Mediterranean nightlife, Mykonos stands unrivaled as Greece’s premier party destination, expecting record-breaking tourist arrivals in 2025 that will surpass even this year’s impressive numbers. While the island hosts over 120,000 visitors during peak season, you’ll find it’s working to balance its cosmopolitan reputation with sustainable tourism through new cruise fees and capacity management. The island employs over 70,000 workers in its thriving tourism sector, creating a robust local economy. For those seeking to extend their Greek adventure, Mykonos can serve as a starting point before relocating to affordable regions in Sweden for a complete European experience.

Mykonos balances wild parties with sustainable growth as it prepares for unprecedented tourism while protecting its unique charm.

For the best Mykonos experience:

• Visit in May when hotels fully open but before July-August crowds overwhelm the narrow streets
• Explore Ano Mera village for authentic Easter celebrations and local traditions
• Enjoy the vibrant beach clubs and 24/7 hospitality that cater to luxury travelers
• Venture inland to discover areas prioritizing cultural heritage over commercial tourism

Athens: Where Ancient Ruins Meet Vibrant City Life

Standing majestically on a limestone hill above modern Athens, the Acropolis serves as the ultimate symbol of a city where ancient civilization and contemporary urban life blend seamlessly.

You’ll walk in the footsteps of history’s greatest minds at the Ancient Agora, where democracy was born and philosophers like Socrates debated.

Beyond the iconic Parthenon, explore the Temple of Olympian Zeus with its towering Corinthian columns that took six centuries to complete.

The Kerameikos Cemetery reveals burial practices dating back to the 12th century BC.

For evening entertainment, visit the Theatre of Herodes Atticus where performances under starlight offer exceptional acoustic capacity in this ancient venue.

Athens embodies the same historical depth that makes Sweden a worthwhile destination for travelers seeking cultural experiences.

Don’t miss how Athens integrates its archaeological treasures into daily life—cafés built around ruins in Plaka, Metro stations doubling as museums, and the stunning Acropolis Museum with glass floors revealing excavations below.

Naxos: a Hidden Gem With Pristine Beaches

Among the Cyclades islands, Naxos stands out as Greece’s best-kept secret with coastlines that rival its more famous neighbors. You’ll find an impressive variety of beaches suited to every preference, from family-friendly shores to wind-sport havens. Unlike Santorini and Mykonos, Naxos maintains its authentic charm as it welcomes no cruise ships, preserving the island’s genuine character. Many travelers consider Naxos a must-visit destination for those seeking authentic Greek island experiences without overwhelming crowds.

For the perfect Naxos beach experience:

• Visit Agios Prokopios for Blue Flag-certified waters, volleyball courts, and windsurfing rentals just 10 minutes from town
• Explore Agia Anna’s sheltered coves with natural cedar shade—ideal for families and snorkeling enthusiasts
• Head to Mikri Vigla where the north side attracts kitesurfers while the south remains calm for swimming
• Discover secluded Hawaii Beach (Aliko) with its pristine sand and cedar forest hiking trails

Visit between May and October for full amenities, with June-September offering the warmest waters.

Kos: Family-Friendly Island Paradise

While Naxos offers secluded beaches for those seeking tranquility, Kos emerges as the perfect destination for families looking to create lasting memories together. This Dodecanese gem combines ancient heritage with modern amenities tailored for visitors of all ages.

You’ll find plenty to keep the whole family entertained—from splashing around at Lido Water Park to exploring kid-friendly beaches with gentle shores. The island’s well-maintained cycling paths and nature trails offer active adventures. According to tourism data, Kos is experiencing a 10% increase in bookings from the German market for 2025. September is an especially ideal time to visit as the summer crowds have thinned while temperatures remain pleasantly warm.

Plaka Forest provides shade and wildlife spotting opportunities. After a day of adventure, you can choose from accommodations ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts with dedicated kids’ clubs.

With its affluent history as the birthplace of Hippocrates, Kos also offers educational opportunities at ancient sites like the Asklepieion healing temple.

Lefkada: Turquoise Waters and Dramatic Cliffs

Unlike its crowded Cycladic counterparts, Lefkada offers accessible natural beauty that doesn’t require a ferry journey. Connected to mainland Greece by a 20-meter causeway, you’ll discover dramatic white limestone cliffs and some of Greece’s most stunning beaches. American travelers have been increasingly drawn to Lefkada with +189% rise in searches for 2025.

Head to these must-visit spots:

• Porto Katsiki – Descend the stairs to reach this beach nestled beneath towering cliffs
• Egremni Beach – Marvel at the famous turquoise waters that define Lefkada’s coastline
• Athani Village – Explore traditional mountain architecture and local crafts
• Cape Lefkatas – Stand atop the 60-meter cliff with breathtaking panoramic views

For authentic experiences, time your visit with the August 15th religious festivals featuring local music and traditional pastitsada. After a day of exploring, start your mornings right with delicious breakfast spots that rival those found on other Greek islands.

Accommodation ranges from €50/night budget rooms to €150/night mid-range hotels.

Paros: Traditional Greek Island Experience

Nestled in the heart of the Cyclades archipelago, Paros offers you the quintessential Greek island experience without the overwhelming crowds of Santorini or Mykonos. This 165 sq. km gem has been inhabited since 4000 BC and was once famous for its exquisite marble that adorned ancient sculptures.

Today, you’ll discover a perfect blend of pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters and charming villages like Parikia, the main port, and vibrant Naoussa. Wander through streets showcasing traditional Greek architecture, sample fresh seafood at local tavernas, and browse handcrafted items from skilled artisans. You can also explore the ancient marble tunnels on Mount Marpessa that have survived from antiquity and offer a glimpse into the island’s rich quarrying history.

With a modest population of 12,000, Paros maintains an authentic atmosphere while providing modern amenities. Whether you’re hiking to the 771-meter Profítis Ilías peak or relaxing on golden shores, you’ll experience Greece’s timeless appeal.

The Sum Up

Greece’s 11 best destinations invite you to experience sun-soaked islands, embrace timeless history, and savor authentic Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you’re seeking romantic sunsets in Santorini, family adventures in Kos, or culture in Rhodes, you’ll find your perfect Greek escape. Go for the beaches, stay for the hospitality, return for the memories that only Greece can create.