The 40 Best Things to Do in Greece: Ultimate Guide for Every Traveler

Greece has an incredibly long and rich culture and history, and it’s brimming with natural beauty. Because of this, there are endless things to do in Greece.

Whether you’re a young adult, couple, family, or thrill-seeker, this guide will help you discover the best activities, destinations, and experiences for your next trip to Greece.

Top 5 Things to Do in Greece for Young Adults

Greece is one of the best destinations for young adults not only because it’s incredibly budget-friendly and you can save money but also because it has a rich partying scene and vibrant nightlife.

Here are the top five things to do in Greece as a young adult, especially if you have a Greek Digital Nomad Visa.

Party at Mykonos beach clubs

Mykonos is known among locals for its vibrant nightlife and beach clubs. The most popular destinations on the island are Cavo Paradiso and Scorpios and they have stunning seaside views and host world-class DJs at night.

The party scene in Mykonos typically heats up in the late afternoon and continues overnight and into the early morning hours.

Explore Athens’ street art and hipster neighborhoods

Athens is loved among younger generations because it combines creativity and culture. One of the major sites of Athens’s street art and hipster culture are neighborhoods like Psiri and Exarchia.

So, one of the best pieces of advice you’ll hear is to grab a camera and stroll down these two neighborhoods in Athens to get a taste of modern art and culture. While there, go to trendy cafes and boutiques that offer a taste of the local lifestyle.

It’s important to note that these areas in Athens will have a lot of crowds.

Hike the Samaria Gorge in Crete

One of the most exciting things you can do in Greece is to hike the Samaria Gorge on the island of Crete. This 16-kilometer trek has amazing natural landscapes, including towering cliffs, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers worth seeing in great weather. The hike should take you five to seven hours to complete.

Precisely because of its natural beauty, Crete is one of the top destinations for buying property in Greece. 

Go windsurfing or kitesurfing in Paros

If the weather in Greece is warm, and you’re wondering what to do, go windsurfing and kitesurfing in Paros. It’s the perfect place for beginners and seasoned pros to enjoy water activities. Besides that, there are local schools which offer lessons and equipment rentals.

Scuba dive in the Aegean Sea

The Aegean Sea has crystal-clear waters and rich marine life and the best places for diving are Santorini, Kefalonia, and Hydra. You can take ferries to these islands.

Typically, you can rent out scuba diving equipment on the islands.

5 Romantic Things To Do in Greece for Couples

Watch the sunset in Oia, Santorini

If you’re looking for a true romantic experience in Greece, watch the sunset while the weather is warm in Oia on Santorini, the island in the Aegean Sea. If you’re residing elsewhere in Greece, you can take one of the ferries leading there.

Take a private sailing trip around the Cyclades

If your budget allows you, rent a yacht or book a private tour to enjoy hidden beaches, swim in secluded coves, and visit charming villages around Cyclades. You can also travel to stunningly beautiful islands like Mykonos, Santorini, and Paros.

Enjoy a wine tasting in Nemea

If you want to treat your other half in Greece, you can spend one of your vacation days in Nemea. There, you can sample wines and walk through picturesque vineyards.

Relax in a spa in the Peloponnese

The Peloponnese has some of the best spas in Greece. Many resorts offer couples’ packages that include massages, invigorating facials, and relaxing body treatments. Hotels in the Peloponnese also have amazing packages.

Walk through the charming streets of Nafplio

Nafplio is best known as one of Greece’s most romantic towns. Walk the town’s charming cobblestone streets and marvel at neoclassical architecture, quaint shops, and small but charming cafes. You can end your walk at Palamidi Fortress for panoramic views of the town and the sea or relax in Syntagma Square.

5 Things to Do In Greece for Kids and Families

No matter if you’re visiting Greece or you’re living with your Golden Greece Visa with your family, here are children-friendly destinations. 

Visit the ancient site of Olympia

Olympia is an excellent place to visit in Greece. Not only can children learn that this is the birthplace of the Olympic Games, but they can also explore the ruins of ancient stadiums and temples in Olympia. The site is rich in history, providing a unique opportunity to understand the origins of the Olympic Games and their significance in ancient Greek culture.

Besides that, the onsite Archaeological Museum has interactive exhibits that make learning about the Olympic Games more fun.

Go to Crete’s interactive museums

While on Crete, get tickets and go to the Cretaquarium and the Natural History Museum of Crete in Heraklion. These two interactive museums can be a great opportunity for your kids to learn more about marine life, fossils, and the island’s nature.

If the weather is nice, you can also go to Crete’s water parks and beautiful beaches, which are great for a fun family day out. You can also spend a day driving around the island, going to beaches and swimming in the sea.

Take a ferry to the Cyclades Islands

A ferry trip through the Cyclades islands is a great way to keep kids entertained while exploring new destinations. The journey offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea, making it a memorable experience.

Visit the Athens Zoo

The Athens Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals, and this destination will keep your kids entertained for an entire day. There are also playgrounds and picnic areas where you can enjoy a nice meal while the children play.

Swim in the clear waters of Navagio Beach

If you want to take your children to the sea, Navagio Beach is one of the best destinations. You can also go sailing, swimming, building castles in the sand, or enjoy a nice day in the warm weather.

5 Unique Things to Do in Greece for Adventurous Travelers

Cave diving in Zakynthos

The island of Zakynthos is famous for being home to Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach. If you’re looking for an adventure, you can dive in the sea caves to see the stunning marine life.

It’s important to note that this is best suited for certified divers. However, you can take snorkeling tours if you don’t have a certification.

Wandering through the Archaeological Site of Delphi

To jump straight into the Greek past, visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, Delphi. This used to be the center of the world by the ancient Greeks. In the ruins, you’ll find the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theater, and the Stadium, which hosted the Pythian Games.

Paragliding over Meteora

If you want to feel alive, take our advice and go paragliding in Meteora. Thanks to its astounding beauty and steep cliffs, it’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Paragliding prices typically range from €90 to €150 per person, and flights last 15 to 30 minutes.

Canyoning in the Peloponnese

The Peloponnese region is one of the most stunning places in Greece due to its beautiful rivers and gorges. While traveling to Greece, make room in your itinerary plan for canyoning activities in the Peloponnese.

With the guidance of an experienced instructor, you can traverse waterfalls, slide down rock faces, and find hidden pools. The Neda River and Lousios Gorge are the most popular spots for this.

Go to the traditional villages of Naxos

If you’re looking for a true adventure in Greece, take a ferry to the island of Naxos and explore the traditional villages. This will give you a true glimpse of Greek culture with narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and vibrant bougainvillea. The best places include Halki, Apiranthos, and Filoti.

5 Top Outdoor Activities in Greece for Nature Lovers

Hiking in Peloponnese

When you plan your activities for Greece as a nature lover, make sure not to skip hiking in Paloponnese. This region has incredible hiking potential, with long trails leading to ancient ruins and breathtaking scenery.

One of the most popular trails is the Menalon Trail, which winds through traditional villages, forests, and rivers. Along the way, hikers can see monasteries, old stone bridges, and Arcadia.

Go skiing in Arachova

Arachova, located near the ancient site of Delphi, is a popular destination for those who enjoy skiing in winter. In the Parnassos Ski Center, you’ll find great slopes, ski rentals, and cozy mountain lodges. It’s the perfect place for those who enjoy skiing and snow activities in Greece, with various runs suitable for all skill levels and excellent facilities for skiing enthusiasts.

Explore the Caves of Kefalonia

If you travel to Greece, don’t forget to go to Kefalonia, home to Melissani Cave. This is where you can take a boat through the underground lake. The cave’s turquoise waters and stalactites make it a magical experience for nature lovers.

Nearby, the Drogarati Cave offers another underground adventure, with impressive rock formations that are millions of years old.

Birdwatching in Lake Kerkini

If you want to avoid crowds in Greece, go to Lake Kerkini and enjoy birdwatching. At this lake, you can see more than 300 species of birds, including pelicans, flamingos, and herons.

You can also enjoy guided boat tours and get closer to the wildlife. If prefer walking, you can explore the surrounding wetlands on foot. It’s a peaceful destination that’s an amazing example of Greece’s biodiversity.

Go to the Vikos Gorge

When you travel to Greece, go to the Vikos Forge in the heart of the Zagori region. You will get to see the stunning gorge, which is roughly 20 kilometers long. This is a great place for hiking, photography, and watching wildlife.

5 Top Cultural Things to Do in Greece for Greek Mythology Lovers

Tour the Acropolis in Athens

No trip to Greece is complete without visiting the Acropolis, a symbol of ancient Greek civilization. While there, it’s worth touring the Acropolis Museum. There, you can learn more about the history of the Parthenon and other ancient structures.

Discover the Minoan Ruins at Knossos, Crete

For a journey straight into the heart of Greek history, go to the Minoan Ruins at Knossos. Located on the island of Crete, these ruins feature a palace complex, grand staircases, and stunning frescoes.

The ruins are typically associated with the myth of the Minotaur and the labyrinth, making them even more exciting to discover.

Go to the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

All history lovers will enjoy the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki. This museum has artifacts from Macedonia, such as sculptures, pottery, and jewelry from the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

Discover ancient Corinth

At the ancient Corinth site, make sure to visit the Temple of Apollo, the ancient marketplace, and the Acrocorinth fortress. These played important roles in Greek history, and you can learn more about how Greece thrived in the ancient era as the center of trade, politics, and culture.

Visit the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus

On your next trip to Greece, go to the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus, a place where tragedies and comedies used to be played out on the grand stage. The place is renowned for exceptional acoustics and stunning architecture, and it’s one of the best-preserved such theaters in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions About Top Things To Do In Greece

What are the top adventure activities in Greece for young adults?

Top adventure activities in Greece are hiking, scuba diving, paragliding, and windsurfing. Make sure to choose to do whatever suits your itinerary.

What are the most romantic things to do in Greece for couples?

In Greece, you can enjoy watching sunsets in Oia, taking private sailing trips around the Cyclades, and enjoying wine tastings in Nemea. Strolling through Nafplio’s charming streets and relaxing in luxurious spas is also amazing for couples.

What are the most unique things to do in Greece that tourists often miss?

The most unique experiences tourists miss are exploring villages such as Hydra, tasting local delicacies in traditional tavernas, and visiting the ancient ruins of Delos.

What are the most unique hikes or nature trails in Greece?

The most unique hikes in Greece are:

• Samaria Gorge in Crete
• Mount Olympus
• Vikos Gorge