Panoramic view of small boats in a natural harbor in Greece with a temple by the water

Top things to do in Greece

Greece is full of magical experiences; exploring historic sights, relaxing on the beach, and enjoying fantastic food. Here are our best things to do in Greece.

The Acropolis and ancient Parthenon building on a hill overlooking Athens at night

Top things to do in Greece

Greece is a beautiful country that boasts rich historical treasures, breathtaking landscapes, and an abundance of cultural delights. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or a foodie, there is something in Greece to satisfy every traveler’s sense of wanderlust. In this article, we’ll take a trip through some of our top things to do in Greece, from the majestic ruins of Athens to the hidden gems of the Cyclades islands.

Top things to do in Athens, Greece

Greece’s sprawling, ancient capital has got a history stretching back thousands of years, and the city is home to some of the most famous ruins in the world, from crumbling temples and libraries to the unmistakable sight of the mighty Parthenon towering above the streets. But Athens doesn’t just look backward, it is also a vibrant and modern city that buzzes with the clamor of a 21st-century metropolis. Whether you’re looking to step back through history or explore the bustling streets and nightlife, here are our top things to do in Athens.

The Acropolis

If there is one thing that you must see while in Athens, it is the Acropolis. Instantly recognizable from the cover of any book about ancient Greece, this imposing citadel has stood sentinel over the city since the 13th century BC. The Acropolis is the name of the collection of buildings on top of a rocky outcrop (appropriately named Acropolis Hill), the most famous of which is undoubtedly the Parthenon. Also on the hilltop are the Erechtheion and the Propylaea. Acropolis Hill is easily climbable, although our best tip here would be to plan your visit as early as possible, both the avoid the crowds and the at times stifling heat of the late morning and afternoon. At the top, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape, as well as being able to explore parts of the ancient buildings.

Hadrian’s Library

An ancient library complex in the heart of Athens, Hadrian’s Library was built during the 2nd century AD by Emperor Hadrian of Rome as a center of culture and learning. Today, the ruins of the library remain as a glimpse into a hugely important part of ancient Greek culture, with remains of reading rooms, lecture halls, and courtyards. Hadrian’s Library is located in the Plaka district at the foot of the Acropolis and is easily accessible by foot or metro from anywhere in Athens. A top tip for visiting ancient Athesn sites, including Hadrian’s Library and the Acropolis, is to purchase a combined ticket for around 30 euros. This gives you entry to multiple sites across Athens and can save you money if you want to visit lots of attractions. Otherwise, entry to Hadrian’s Library alone costs 6 euros.

Benaki Museum

One of the top museums in Athens, the Benaki Museum is an incredible place to explore to get further insight into the culture and history of the city. It is also a great option to hide from the intense sunshine that is often a feature of Athenian summers. The museum is centrally located near Syntagma Square, and is open throughout the week, excluding Tuesdays and public holidays. It’s 12 euros for adults to enter, while children under 18 get in free. On Thursdays, entry is free for everyone. The museum has several floors, with the first floor being a permanent exhibit about Greek culture and art. The upper floor houses rotating exhibitions and special collections.

The Plaka District

A historic neighborhood at the foot of Acropolis Hill, Plaka is one of the oldest continuously inhabited districts in the world, having been the beating heart of the city since it was the residential area of the aristocracy and elite in ancient Greece. Today, Plaka is a popular tourist area, with winding alleyways jam-packed with tavernas, shops, and cafes. If you can spare a glance upwards, you’ll be bowled over by the incredible mix of architectural styles on display in Plaka, ranging from Ottoman to Byzantine and Neoclassical. It also has fair few historic sites, including the Agora, and several museums. Once the sun goes down, Plaka is the place to be in Athens, whether you want a traditional Greek dinner, or the dance the night away at one of the amny bars and nightclubs in the area.

The Changing of the Guard

The Changing Of The Guard ceremony is a symbolic display of traditional and military honor. It takes place in Syntagma Square in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and is a popular spectacle for tourists and locals alike. In the short ceremony, which takes place every hour, Evones, the elite Greek presidential guards, perform an intricate and synchronozied sequence of movements accompanied by a military band. Every Sunday at 11am, the guards are dressed in traditional uniform when the ceremony takes place.

Lycabettus Hill

Lycabettus Hill (also spelled Lykavittos or Lykanettos) is prominent hill in central Athens. It is the highest point in the city, and therefore offers incredible views of the buildings and ruins, including panoramic vistas of the Parthenon and the Aegean Sea in the distance. There are a few ways to reach the top of Lycabettus Hill. There is a meandering pathway that leads to the summit, beginning at the end of Ploutarchou Street in the Kolonaki neighborhood. Alternatively, there is funicular railway that goes all the way to the top, which departs from Aristippou Street. Lycabettus Hill is a very popular spot, particularly at sunset when the views are particularly breathtaking. It is frequented by photographers, hikers, and is the site of an amphitheater that hosts concerts and events on long summer evenings.

Sunset view of the small town of Hydra with ferries and fishing vessels in the harbor and small cube shaped buildings along the waterfront

Day trip to Hydra

Tiny Hydra is a beautiful island located about an hour and a half away from Athens, making it the perfect place for a day trip when you want a break from the hustle and bustle of the big city. There are several ferries a day from the Port of Piraeus, which lies 12km to the southwest of Athens. Tickets for the ferries can be purchased at the port, but as this is a populr trip and a busy route, it’s a good idea to get your tickets online in advance. Hydra itself is a car free town, and plays all the hits of a quintessential Greek island escape, with winding cobblestone streets, white-painted houses, and beautiful, tiny churches on every corner. It is easy to explore the town of Hydra by foot, browsing its upmarket shops and stopping off in charming tavernas. Outside the main town, Hydra is known for having a few beautiful beaches and for being a bit of a paradise for hikers. However you choose to spend your day on Hydra, this delightful day trip from Athens is the easiest way to experience a traditional Greek island while on your city vacation.

The Temple of Poseidon

About 69km southeast of Athens lies Cape Sounion, the home of the mighty Temple of Poseidon. Dedicated to the god of the sea, the temple was built in the 5th century BCE during Athens’ Golden Age. Styled with traditional Doric accents, the temple is made from dazzling white marble locally quarried from nearby Agrileza, has 34 columns each about 6 feet tall. The Temple of Poseidon is a popular day trip from Athens, with the impressive construction offering stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Ocean. As with most places in Greece, sunset is a particularly mafgical time to visit, when the pale stone of the temples columns are bathed in the final rays of ethereal golden light before the night comes. Getting to the temple is pretty straightforward. It is accessible by road from Athens, so you can self drive, hop on a KETL bus from the central bus station to Sounion, or join an organized tour group.

Things to do in Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a diamond amongst the collection of jewels that is the Greek islands. It is famous a romantic destination, popular for honeymooners and couples, with dramatic cliffs, staggering sunsets, and endless views of the glittering Aegean Sea. There is plenty to do on a Santorini vacation, whether you want to fill your days with activities and excursions, or relax on the islands many beaches.

Small windmills and white and yellow cube shaped buildings on a hillside in Santorini

Oia sunsets

This is the most famous activity to do in Santorini, and one of the most iconic images of all of Greece. The town of Oia, trecherously sprawling along the edge of a sea cliff, commands unbeatable west-facing views of the sea, and that means that once the day draws to a close, the sunsets from Oia are utterly breathtaking in their beauty. During the summer months, the sun sets at around 8pm, but you’ll see people gathering for the spectacle long before that. Oia’s magnificent sunsets aren’t exactly a secret, and attract throngs of people every evening, so grab some snacks and drinks, and get there early to grab a spot for the best view. The most popular spot is Oia Castle, which offers panoramic views of the town creating the perfect frame fro sunset photos. The Byzantine Castle ruins and the Kastro Walls are other well-known spots. If you don’t fancy jostling for position, or want to see the sunset from a different perspective, you can book a sunset sailing tour. Which brings us neatly to our next top pick for things to do in Santorini.

Sailing tours

Being an island, the sea surrounding Santorini is much an attraction as the land-based experiences. Sailing in Santorini is a fantastic way to explore the island’s more hidden beauty spots. Most sailing tours in Santorini are around half a day, and cover stunning destinations such as the red and white beaches, the Venetian lighthouse, and the volcanic caldera. Sailing tours often include the chance to swim or snorkel in the clear Aegean waters and lunch or dinner. Sailing tours can be booked privately or on larger catamarans for a group experience. The most popular time to sail is during the summer, when good weather is almost guaranteed, although spots also fill up fast during this period, so it’s wise to book well in advance.

Skaros Rock

Skaros Rock is an imposing landmark near Imerovigli. Once the site of a Ventian castle in the 13th century, the rock is today a popular tourist attraction for its incredible views of the Aegean Sea. Skaros Rock can be reached via a pathway in Imerovigli or a boat from nearby Fira. Skaros Rock is another Santorini hotspot for sunsets, when the dramatic geographic features blaze orange and gold in the light of the dying day.

Wine tasting

Santorini is well known for it’s delectable wine. The island has a long history of wine making, with the volcanic soil producing unique and delicious tasting tipples. THere are several wineries on Santorini, with some of the most popular being Estate Argyros, Vassaltis Winery, and Santo Wines. Many wineries in Santorini offering tours and wine tasting experiences, where you can sample of the grapes that are specific to the island, including Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani. Assyrtiko is the most popular of Santorini’s grapes, known for it’s acidic, minreal rich flavor, and citrus notes. Outside of the vineyards, Santorini also has several wine bars and restaurants in which you can try numerous varieties of local wines.

Santorini beaches

Santorini, like many Greek islands, is home to some gorgeous beaches, perfect for a relaxing vacation. What sets Santorini apart from other islands is the kalaedoscopic range of colors of sand found along the coastline. As well as traditional white and golden sand beaches, Santorini is home to Red Beach, which gets its name from the red volcanic rocks that surround it. Red Beach is dramatic and unique, and agreat spot for swimming and snorkeling. The volcanic theme continues with the black sands of Perissa Beach, beautiful spot on the southeast coast with clear waters and plenty of watersports opportunities.

Akrotiri Archaelogocial Site

For history lovers, Akrotiri Archaeological Site is a must-see in Santorini. Also known as ‘Minoan Pompeii’, the site was buried beneath volcanic ash when the island’s volcano erupted around 1627 BC. The city was perfectly preserved beneath the pumice and ash, creating a time capsule from a life long since passed. Excavations on the site began in 1967, and it has since become one of the most important archaeological sites in all of Greece. Visitors Akrotiri can explore the preserved buildings and streets, with frescoes and artifacts frozen in time. There is also a museum on site where you can learn more about the history of the city.

Things to do in Mykonos, Greece

Found among the sparkling Cyclades islands, Mykonos is a destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty, rich history, and a cosmopolitan charm. From its iconic windmills and pristine sandy beaches to its charming old town and bustling nightlife, Mykonos offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience for travelers.

Little Venice in Mykonos with white painted buildings with colorful window shutters against the water of the Aegean Sea

Mykonos windmills

The most iconic symbol of Mykonos are the five white stone windmills on ahill overlooking the charming neighborhood of Little Venice. Built during the 16th century, the windmills originally ground wheat and barely and were an integral part of Mykonos’ economy, with more than 30 originally on the island. Nowadays, noly a handful remain, incluidng the five famous ones of Mykonos Town. They are a popular tourist attraction, and a favorite of photographers for their placement against a backdrop of the Aegean Sea.

Delos

Just off the oast of Mykonos lies the small island of Delos, a hugely significant site in Greek history and mythology. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and known as one of the most important cultural places in Greece. To ancient Greeks, Delos was a sacred island, the birthplace of gods Apollo and Artemis. It was also a center of religion and trading, remanants of which remain to this day. The ruins of Delos include temples, buildings, private houses, and statues, with frescoes and mosaics still visible alongside other artifacts. There is also a museum on the island. In order to preserve the precious history of Delos, visitors are only allowed during the day, and noone lives on the island anymore. Ferry services from Mykonos depart frequently for excursions to Delos.

Little Venice

One look at this charming neighborhood in Mykonos Town will tell you how it got it’s name. The buildings of Little Venice are so close to water that the waves lap against the walls and frame the narrow alleyways, creating a resemblance the famous Italian city on the water. Once the home of wealthy merchants and fishermen, Little Venice is now the most popular area of Mykonos Town, with plenty of charming tavernas, cafes and shops. It is popular at sunset, when the restaurants become crowded with peopl wanting to soak up the ambience and views of the sea.

Scuba diving Mykonos

It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Mykonos vacations, but it is a great place to don some scuba gear and explore the world beneath the waves of the Aegean Sea. Popular dive spots around Mykonos include Tragonisi Island, Agia Anna Reef, Paradise Reef, and Kalo Lovadi Beach. Underwater caves and rock formations are perfect for exploring, and divers can meet a colorful variety of marine life including fish, octopi, cuttlefish, moray eels, andsea anemones.

Mykonos beaches

Mykonos and beach vacations go hand in hand. The island is rich in beautiful beaches and lively beach clubs, so whether yu’re looking for something lively, relaxing, or family friendly, there’s something for you in Mykonos. The most famous beach in Mykonos is Paradise Beach. With beautiful golden sand and clear waters, Paradise Beach is lively and popular with a young crowd for its beach clubs and events during the summer months. For families and couples, Elia Beach is a large and popular spot in Mykonos, with plenty of sun loungers and parasols making for a relaxed beach where you can easily spend a day. If you’re after somewhere upscale, beautiful Psarou Beach is popular with jet-setters and the celebrity set. It’s home to the famous Namos Beach Club, as well as luxurious loungers, and idyllic crystal-clear waters.

Mykonos Aegean Maritime Museum

If you’re keen to discover more about the history and maritime legacy of the Cyclades islands, then the Mykonos Aegean maritime Museum is worth a stop during your vacation. Housed in a 19th-century building in the middle of Mykonos Town, the museum is home to artifacts and exhibits about the history of seafaring in the Aegean, covering ancient times to the modern day. One of the highlights of the museum is the replica of an ancient Greek trireme, a type of warship used during the 5th century BC. The replica was built using traditional shipmaking techniques and can be toured by visitors.

Armenistis Lighthouse

This beautiful lighthouse on the northwest coast of Mykonos is one of the island’s most popular landmarks. Commanding impressive views of the Aegean Sea, the lighthouse dates back to 1891 and is still in operation today. Armenistis Lighthouse can be reached by car or on foot, via a scenic hike along the coastline from nearby Ornos village. There is a small museum inside the lighthouse, and idyllic beaches nearby make for a beautiful spot to while away an afternoon.

Things to do in Crete, Greece

Crete is the largest island in Greece, and as such has many fantastic attractions and experiences to offer both first time visitors and those who return to the beautiful destination year after year. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor adventures, Crete has got countless ways to fill your itinerary.

Ruins of the Palace of Knossos in Crete, a temple with red columns

Spinalonga Island

Spinlaonga Island is a small island just off of the eastern coast of Crete. It is a popular day trip for visitors wanting to admire its scenic beauty and history. Historically Spinalonga Island has been many things: a Venetian fortress, a leper colony, and more recently, an uninhabited tourist attraction. Sites of the island include ruins and what remains of the old fortress and colony buildings, excellent walking trails, and incredible sea views around the coastline. The easiest way to get to Spinalonga Island is via a boat from nearby Elounda on Crete, and most trips include a guided tour and time to explore by yourself.

Seitan Limania Beach

One of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, Seitan Limania, alsoown as Stavros Beach, is an incredible spot on the Akrotiri Peninsula. Surrounded by soaring cliffs, with impossibly clear turquoise waters, Seitan Limania beach is ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and diving. Stavros Beach is more is certainly picturesque, with towering cliffs forming a natural cove which shelters the beach from wind and waves, and nearby caves and rock formations making it an interesting place to explore. Seitan Limania is a pebble beach, and the water is quite deep, so not the best spot for families with young children. To reach the beach there’s a steep hike down a rocky pathway, but that doesn’t prevent both locals and tourists flocking to it, particuarly during the summer months.

Loutro

A small, hidden village on the Cretean coastline, Loutro is a slice of traditional Greek village charm. Characterized by traditional sugar-cube houses, winding cobblestone streets, and a quaint fishing harbor, Loutro’s main draw is it’s incredible setting. The village is surrounded by steep sea cliffs, with many unspoiled beaches and sea caves nearby. Loutro is cutoff by road from the resort of the island, and the only to reach it is via boat or on foot. Hop of a boat from Hora Sfakion (sometimes called Sfakia), or, if you fancied a walk, it’s possible to go on foot from the same place It takes around 2 hours to along the coast until you reach Loutro. The isolated location of the village has contributed to the delightful ‘old-world’ and traditional feel of Loutro, which, despite its small size, has plenty of family-run tavernas and small shops to browse.

Balos Lagoon

One of the most picturesque spots in all of Crete, Balos Lagoon is located on the northwest coast on the Gramvousa Peninsula, accessible via sea or hiking trails. The area around Balos Lagoon is famous for its beautiful white sand beaches, incredible turquoise water, dramatic cliffs, and a historic fortress. The small island of Imeri Gramvousa rises dramatically up front he center of the lagoon, and is home to an abandoned Venetian fortress with possibly the best views Crete has to offer.

Rethymno

A popular and beautiful town in the north of Crete, Rethymno has got a little bit of something for everybody. With a rich historic legacy, stunning architecture, and a lively atmosphere, it is one of the most well-loved spots of tourists on the island. The Old Town of Rethymno is a gorgeous preserved Venetian and Ottoman-era neighborhood that is a labyrinth of cobblestone alleys, cafes, and shops that is begging to get lost in. One of the most noticeable things about Rethymno, and much of the rest of Crete, is that it looks a little different to many other Greek islands. Instead of the gleaming white sugar-cube houses there are buildings of varying colors and grander style, giving the whole place a very unique feel amongst the islands. One thing that Rethymno has in common with other Greek island towns is its proximity to beautiful beaches. There are many within walking distance of the town center, including Rethymon Beach, which is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. It is also a lively place after dark, with events, festivals, and celebrations taking place through the summer, and plenty of nightclubs for the patry crowd.

Palace of Knossos

The most famous and important archaeological site on Crete is the Palace of Knossos, found near the capital city of Heraklion. The ruins of the palace date back to the Bronze Age and were the home of an ancient Minoan civilization. The area is large, over 20000 square meters in size, with many rooms, courtyards, and staircases to explore. The remains of the grand entrance, the throne room, and the queen’s quarters offer a rare glimpse into the daily life of royalty long ago. Guided tours are available at Knossos, and are a fantastic way to get a deeper understanding of the significance of the site, although you can explore independently if you wish. The Palace of Knossos is open from 8am through 8pm in the summer, and 8am through 5pm in the winter. Last entry is one hour before closing.

Samaria Gorge

A staggeringly beautiful natural attraction in Crete, Samaria Gorge forms part of the White Mountains National Park, and is open to the public from May through October (weather dependent). The hiking trail through Samaria Gorge is a challenging walk of 4 - 6 hours through spectacular landscapes. The pathway is well signposted, but if you want to see the sights without taking on the hike, you can hop aboard the ferry service that operates from Chora Station to the end of the gorge. There is an entrance fee to Samaria Gorge (currently between 5 and 10 euros) which helps to maintain the trail and protect the local ecosystems.

Things to do in Corfu, Greece

A jewel in the Ionian Sea, pretty Corfu is one of the most popular vacation spots in the Greek islands. To sum up Corfu in a word, it would have to be: charming. Ancient towns and historical sites sit alongside breathtaking natural splendor and, of course, spectacular beaches.

The beautiful natural cove of Paeleokatstritsa in Corfu, with a arched white sand beach surrounded by verdant forests and sea cliffs

Corfu Old Town

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most beautiful spots in all of Greece. It is the heartbeat of Corfu, located about 10 minutes away from the main airport by road. The Old Town is a mesmerizing maze of narrow, twisting alleyways that is best explored on foot. Getting lost amongst the colorful buildings, old churches, and beautiful squares is by far the best to see the town, with sites such as the Old Fortress, the Church of Saint Spyridon, the Ionian Parliament, and the Archaeological Museum of Corfu just some of the attractions on offer. Corfu Old Town also hosts many shops, tavernas, and cafes, and is bustling with locals and tourists throughout the spring, summer, and fall.

Corfu Trail

One for serious walkers, the Corfu Trail is a spectacular long-distance route that traverses the island's length, covering around 136 miles. The trail takes between 10 and 12 days to complete, although it is divided into 10 shorter sections, each between 6 and 20 miles, so if you don't fancy tackling the entire Corfu Trail, you can do one of these shorter legs instead. Hikers on the trail will encounter a wide range of landscapes, from olive groves to pine forests and coastlines. That’s to say nothing of the numerous ruins, churches, monasteries, and tiny villages and hamlets that you’ll pass through. The best time to take on the Corfu trail is when it is cooler in spring and fall.

Paleokatstritsa

Paleokatstritsa is one of the most beautiful places in Corfu, a small coastal village about 25km from Corfu Town. There are regular buses between the two, or you can rent a car and explore at your pace. Paleokatstritsa is known for its beautiful coastal scenery, with golden beaches, hidden caves, and grottoes harboring teeming marine ecosystems. There are also hikes along the coastline, a nearby 13th-century monastery, and the Angelokastro fortress.

Day trip to Albania

One of the most unique things to do in Corfu is taking a day trip to another country. Nearby Albania is reachable in 30-40 minutes via ferry to Saranda, where you can explore the city, head to the ancient ruins of Butrint, or take a tour of the stunning Albanian Riviera. Although they are close neighbors, Greece and Corfu are very different, so much so that Albania is in a different time zone! Whether you want to discover the dramatic and often tragic history of Albania, some of it very recent, see one of Europe’s most underrated destinations or simply tick another destination off of your list, a day trip from Corfu to Albania is a unique excursion on your vacation.

Things to do in Paros, Greece

Paros is a lovely island in the Cyclades, smaller and more traditional than nearby Santorini and Mykonos, with miles upon miles of beaches, authentic villages, and a laid-back, relaxed charm.

A full moon over the traditional Greek town of Naousa in Paros, with white-painted sugar cube houses by a harbor

Parikia

Pariaka is the capital and main port of Paros, likely to be at the point that you enter the island, as, although it has an airport, most people arrive via ferry from Piraeus or nearby islands. Parikia has a number of attractions, such as the 13th-century Venetian castle, a church from the 4th century, and an archaeological museum.

Lefkes

For a taste of traditional Greek island life, head to Lefkes. This delightful mountain village has got charm to spare, with tumbledown white buildings adorned with colorful flowers, serpentine alleyways, and sublime views of the island. Strolling through the streets feels like being transported back in time, and it is easy to while away a peaceful afternoon sipping on Greek coffee in a quaint taverna as the world passes you by.

Naoussa

Another of Paros’ picture-postcard towns is Naoussa. The heart of the town is the small fishing port, where you’ll find tavernas and cafes lining the waterfront serving up seafood fresh from the boats that bob gently on the waves. Noussa is also home to some of the best beaches in the Cyclades. Kolymbithres Beach is a particular standout, with crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock formations. There’s an ancient ruined fortress in Naoussa, that offers incredible vistas of the surrounding area.

Golden Beach Paros

For an unforgettable beach day on Paros, Golden Beach is the place to go. This stunning stretch of coastline lives up to its name with idyllic golden sand that shimmers in the Mediterranean sunshine. It has got space to relax and soak up some vitamin d, restaurants and cafes where you can grab a traditional Greek meal, and opportunities for watersports including windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Things to do in Zakynthos

Also known as Zante, Zakynthos is a stunning and popular island in the Ionian Sea. It is particularly famous for its dramatic beaches, one of which has a rusted shipwreck prone on the sand surrounded by dramatic white cliffs. Zakynthos is great for fans of the great outdoors, foodies, and those who like to continue the fun once the sun goes down.

An old shipwreck on a white sand beach in Zante, Greece, with tall white sea cliffs forming a cove around the beach

Navagio Beach

Zante’s most famous attraction, and one the best-known sites in all of Greece, is Navagio Beach, also sometimes called Shipwreck Cove. It gets its name from the rusty wreck that lays on the white sand and is one of the most unique and dramatic places to visit in the region. Navagio Beach can only be reached by boat, departing from several ports on the island, including Zakynthos Town, Porto Vromi, and Agios Nikolaos. The beach is a protected area with no facilities, so make sure to take snakes and drinks with you. Activities on the beach include swimming and snorkeling, and it is a popular spot for photographers.

Kalamaki Beach

Another of Zante’s many gorgeous beaches is Kalamaki Beach on the south coast of the island, a short distance from the airport. Kalamaki Beach is a good spot for families, with plenty of facilities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, changing rooms, and toilets. There are also places to grab a bite to eat or a cooling drink. The sea around Kalamaki Beach is generally calm, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling, or you can join a boat tour to see the loggerhead turtles that call the local waters home.

Blue Caves Zakynthos

Located in northern Zakynthos, the Blue Caves are a stunning natural wonder, popular with tourists for their unique geological formations and fantasy-blue waters. The caves are near the village of Volimes and Agios Nikolaos town. There are several boat tours, or you can rent a boat or kayak and explore on your own. The Blue Caves are best visited during the summer months when the water is warm and calm. They are open all year around, but inclement weather can affect accessibility.

Marathonisi

Marathonisi, also known as Turtle Island, is a small uninhabited island in the Ionian Sea, just off the coast of Zante. The main draw to the island is the opportunity to observe the loggerhead turtles that nest along the coastline. You can reach Marathonisi by boat on an organized excursion. Summer months are the best time to visit, both for great weather and because it is the nesting season between May and August. It’s important to observe all guidelines and rules when observing the turtles and be respectful of their space and their habitat to keep Marathonisi a safe place for the animals to return to.

Greece is a magnificent country with a plethora of attractions to delight and inspire even the pickiest visitor. From exploring legendary ruins and soaking up the glorious sunshine on beaches, to sampling mouth-watering cuisine and enjoying the buzzy nightlife, there truly is something for everyone.