If this is your first time visiting Greece, you want to know what not to miss. There are many different beautiful places that may get all your attention, but let’s take a look and see which tourist destination you must check out on your first visit to Greece to get the best variety of what this diverse country has to offer.
Hydra
Close to Athens in Hydra and one of the beautiful islands that are not only unique but also convenient to visit. Hydra is an enchanting Greek island known for its great restaurants lining the main port. The beauty of the winding narrow pathways that lace the city is one thing to explore and experience Hydra.
For a different experience, you can try on your vacation, there are alternative ways to see the entire island, explore the island on horseback riding or stay on this island for a couple of days and stay at comfortable homes for rent in Greece to make the most of your stay in this island.
Athens
Your Greece experience wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Acropolis and the Acropolis museum – it’s a great an unforgettable experience. Also, there are many other things to see and do when visiting Athens.
You can spend at least one day in exploring the ancient streets of Monastiraki or divert from the popular tourist attractions and visit the town of Anafiotika located under the Acropolis that transports you to a Mediterranean island.
You can also take a bus to visit the Sunio ruins. If you’re not into traditional beaches, the alternative way is by taking a bus or taxi and check out the unique cave lake of Lake Vouliagmeni located in Vouliagmeni. Find yourself in the pedestal that leads to the place that once used to serve as the ancient Athenians sacred cemetery, the Kerameikos.
Rhodes
This breathtaking island of Rhodes has stand-out fortifications of Rhodes town winding around the medieval town. It has tavernas and quaint little squares throughout the villages. This island is a huge tourist destination for all of the right reasons. Climb the steep to reach the 116 meters-high rock above Lindos and you’ll be rewarded by the stunning preserved Acropolis.
You can also check out the Valley of the Butterflies, the Petaloudes.
Crete
Crete is far away from the mainland so spend some time on the boat to reach Crete, the largest island in Greece. Spend at least a day to see every awesome thing Crete has to offer. People visit the Crete to see the ruins of ancient city of Knossos to see what remains from the capital of Minoan Civilization.
Crete is the largest island in Greece and has a coastline of 1,046 kilometers or 650 miles, which makes for some amazing beaches. Experience its sand in a variety of colors and its crystal-clear waters. Once you experience the beauty of Crete’s beaches, you’ll surely not regret it.
Corfu
The Greek island of Corfu is rich in amazing views, great museums, enchanting towns, and other activities you shouldn’t miss when visiting Greece. Aside from visiting the Kerkyra old town, make sure to try some of the best local dishes. This island has many influences to Italy because of its proximity to the country which you will notice right away once you’re in the island to try the island’s classic combination of beef cooked in a local white wine sauce with fresh parsley and garlic.
You can also visit the Palea Perithia, the Venetian-era village that is hidden in the north slope of the island and be transported back into time. This village was abandoned in 1960’s and has gone many restorations since then. Part of the restoration is the 14-century church of Agios iakovos O Persis which you’ll notice right away as you approach the village. During the summer season, there are ferries sailing from Venice and Ancona that stop in Corfu town.
Santorini
Known for its iconic volcano cliffs and white washes buildings, Santorini is undeniably one of the top destinations to visit in Greece. The island has a lot to offer, from wine vineyards, volcano caldera tour, to extraordinary beaches.
You can also rent a scooter to see the island from a different perspective. You should try this if you feel confident with your driving skills since the roads are narrow and steep. There are many rental companies from different towns of the island that can provide you with a scooter.
Check out the popular tourist attractions such as the beaches of Persia and Kamari. To experience the uniqueness and culture of Santorini, stay in places such as Oia, Imerovigli, and Fira. These beautiful towns are full of small cafés, restaurants, shops, and places of interest, and not to mention, these towns are built into the cliffs. These towns are the most popular romantic destination for couples, especially for honeymoons and wedding. Explore the island by bike and appreciate its natural beauty.
There are so many things to do in Santorini like swimming at the black volcanic sand beaches on the south and east coast and visiting the Akrotiri, an archeological site and an ancient Minoan settlement buried below lava. This island has an airport and is served by catamarans and ferries from the port of Athens, Piraeus.
Milos
Milos is one of the underrated and beautiful islands of Greece. Don’t forget to bring your camera with you as there are so many beautiful things to see here in Milos. This island is memorable and unique and you’ll surely get amazing photos to wow your family and friends – most especially from the moonscape beaches.
