The 30 Best Things to Do in Greece: Ultimate Guide for Every Traveler

Why Vacation in Greece

• Stunning Scenery: Greece offers breathtaking landscapes, from whitewashed island villages to turquoise beaches and dramatic mountains.
• Rich History: As the birthplace of democracy and philosophy, Greece is full of ancient ruins, temples, and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• Mild Mediterranean Climate: With warm summers and mild winters, Greece is a great year-round destination for sunshine and pleasant weather.
• Delicious Food: Greek cuisine is fresh, healthy, and full of flavor, featuring local olive oil, seafood, vegetables, and cheeses.
• Warm Hospitality: Greek people are known for their friendliness and generosity, making visitors feel welcome and at home.
• Affordable Travel: Compared to many Western European countries, Greece offers excellent value for money in accommodation, food, and transport.

Top 30 Best Things to Do in Greece

Greece is one of the best destinations for young adults, especially if you have a Greek Digital Nomad Visa, as it’s budget-friendly, full of vibrant nightlife, and offers a lively party scene. Beyond that, it’s a great choice for couples looking for romantic experiences, families with kids, adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and anyone fascinated by ancient Greek mythology. Whether you’re visiting Greece or living there with your family on a Golden Greece Visa, there’s something for everyone.

1. Party at Mykonos beach clubs

• Entrance fee costs: €20 to €50,
• Average cocktail prices: €15 to €25
• Bottle service or VIP tables: €500 and can go up to several thousand Euros

Mykonos is famous for its exciting beach club scene and vibrant nightlife. Top venues like Cavo Paradiso and Scorpios offer stunning seaside settings, world-class DJs, and an electric atmosphere. Parties often start in the late afternoon and continue through the night until sunrise.

The beach clubs attract international guests and provide a luxury experience with bottle service, music, and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Sipping cocktails at sunset, meeting people worldwide, and dancing until dawn make the Mykonos party scene a must for any nightlife lover.

2. Explore Athens’ street art and hipster neighborhoods

• Estimated total: €3.50 to €5.00. This includes a metro ride and a cup of coffee to enjoy in the middle of strolling through the colorful streets

Explore Athens’ street art and hipster neighborhoods for a creative and cultural side of the city. Areas like Psiri and Exarchia are known for their bold graffiti, indie boutiques, and lively cafés.

Psiri stands out with its colorful murals, artisan shops, and buzzing street life, while Exarchia offers a more alternative vibe with political art and a strong youth culture. Bring your camera, wander the streets, and soak in the modern, edgy side of Athens.

3. Hike the Samaria Gorge in Crete

• Cost: Free!

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.

Precisely because of its natural beauty, Crete is one of the top destinations for buying property in Greece. The Samaria Gorge is the perfect example, with the Iron Gates taking you through a meter-wide section surrounded by walls dramatically cascading 300 meters above you.

Samaria Gorge is one of Europe’s largest gorges in the White Mountains and Samaria National Park. It stretches 1,200 meters high and drops 1,000 meters, offering amazing natural views.

The hike should take five to seven hours and is considered moderately challenging. Some areas are steep and rocky, so ensure you have the proper footwear for your adventure.

4. Go windsurfing or kitesurfing in Paros

• Private (1 hour): €70
• Group (1 hour): €50
• 2-hour Private: €120

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 that offer lessons and equipment rentals.

Thanks to the strong Meltemi winds that blow in Paros from June to September, windsurfing and kitesurfing are very popular with watersport fans worldwide. Paros offers beautiful turquoise waters, perfect for both beginners and experts. With warm weather and gentle seas, the beaches of Paros are ready for your next watersport adventure.

5. Scuba dive in the Aegean Sea

• Introductory Dive: €70–€140
• Scuba Diver Course: €300–€440
• Open Water Diver Course: €410–€650

The Aegean Sea is famous for its clear waters and amazing scuba diving. You can see local marine life up close and explore underwater shipwrecks and rock formations. Diving here is a special chance to experience one of the world’s oldest maritime areas and see ancient underwater history.

Top diving spots are found on the Greek Islands like Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes, and Santorini. Each island offers different experiences for all skill levels.

6. Watch the sunset in Oia, Santorini

• Cost: Free!

For a truly romantic experience in Greece, watch the sunset in Oia, Santorini. This beautiful island in the Aegean Sea offers stunning views of the sea, blue-domed churches, and white-washed buildings. The sunset creates a perfect, romantic atmosphere.

You can take a ferry to Santorini if you’re elsewhere in Greece. Watching the sunset from Oia Castle is especially recommended, as it combines romance with historic ruins and breathtaking ocean views.

7. Take a private sailing trip around the Cyclades

• Bareboat Charters: Ideal for experienced sailors. Prices start from €2,000 per week.
• Skippered Charters: For those preferring a guided experience, skippered yacht charters begin at approximately €1,500 per week.
• Luxury Crewed Charters: For a fully serviced experience, luxury catamaran charters can range from €6,700 to over €50,000 per week.

If your budget allows, 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 Greek Islands like Mykonos, Santorini, and Paros.

The Cyclades is one of the most famous attractions for adventure lovers and history explorers. Made up of over 20 inhabited islands, you can really tap into the adventure spirit. Alternatively, simply soak up the sunshine and enjoy taking in the natural splendor along your private boat tour.

8. Enjoy a wine tasting in Nemea

• Cost: €15 to €30 per person.

If you want to treat your other half in Greece, you can spend one of your vacation days in Nemea. Located in northeastern Peloponnese, Nemea offers a truly unique and romantic experience where couples can immerse themselves in all things Greece.

There are a host of things to do in Nemea, including savoring the best Greek wine while exploring the historic vineyards on a tour, learning how to make local wine with some of the top winemakers in Greece, and sitting down to stunning Greek food and wine pairing while overlooking the gorgeous vineyards.

Nemea is one of the most historic winemaking regions in the world, with the tradition dating back over 3,000 years. The high altitude is another factor, offering wine rich in color and taste. Overall, Nemea is one of the top romantic regions of Greece.

9. Relax in a spa in the Peloponnese

• Couples massages: €100 to €150 per person
• Facials: €70 to €120
• Body treatments: €80 to €130
• Spa day packages for couples: €200 to €350

The Peloponnese is home to some of Greece’s best spas, offering couples relaxing massages, facials, and body treatments. Many resorts have special packages designed for couples, making it a perfect romantic getaway.

These spas focus on relaxation and romance, often using local ingredients like honey and olive oil to nourish your skin. Top spa destinations include Loutraki, known for its thermal springs, and Costa Navarino, a luxurious five-star resort.

10. Walk through the charming streets of Nafplio

• Cost: Free!

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 sea or relax in Syntagma Square, each offering a romantic atmosphere.

Nafplio, in the Peloponnese, was Greece’s first capital. Its historic buildings and beautiful coastal views make it a romantic spot for couples.

11. Visit the ancient site of Olympia

• Full Price: €12
• Reduced Price: €6 (for EU citizens over 65)
• Free Admission: EU citizens under 25, non-EU citizens under 18, and children up to 5 years old

Olympia, in western Peloponnese, is a top spot in Greece because of its rich history. Kids can learn about the Olympic Games’ birthplace and explore ancient stadiums and temples.

Olympia is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, full of historical sites like the Temple of Zeus, the Heraion, and the Ancient Stadium that bring Greek history to life for visitors of all ages.

The Archaeological Museum there has interactive exhibits that make learning about the Olympics fun and engaging.

12. Go to Crete’s interactive museums

• General Admission: €7.50
• Reduced Admission: €4.50 (for children aged 4–18, seniors, students, and certain other groups)
• Free Admission: Children under 4, members of the museum’s “Friends” club, students of the University of Crete, and others

Apart from history-filled archaeological sites, Greece also has a fair share of world-class museums. And, if you’re planning a family day in Crete, interactive museums are an absolute must.

Situated in Heraklion, the Natural History Museum of Crete offers an interactive dive into the history of Crete and the Mediterranean. The interactive exhibits invite children to learn about the various ecosystems, rock formations, and the infamous fauna and flora of Crete.

Located near Heraklion, the CRETAquarium is one of the biggest aquariums in Europe, offering families the chance to explore the incredible marine life of Greece and the Mediterranean up close. There are a range of interactive workshops, educational programs, and exhibits, waiting for little hands and minds to explore.

13. Take a ferry to the Cyclades Islands

• Mykonos: €43–€98
• Santorini: €45.50–€89
• Paros: €40.50–€74
• Naxos: €42–€74
• Amorgos: €42
• Tinos: €38.50
• Milos: €44–€74.70

A ferry trip through the Cyclades Islands is a great way to keep kids entertained while exploring new destinations. The Cyclades Islands are well known for their charming villages, stunning landscapes, and unique experiences for the whole family.

Here are a few of the most popular Cyclades Islands:

• Santorini: Known for its incredible history, white-washed buildings, and sensational sunsets, Santorini is the ultimate spot to take in the ocean views with a fresh Greek salad.
• Naxos: Ancient ruins and beautiful beaches await at the largest of the Cyclades Islands.
• Mykonos: If you’re a family of history-hunting explorers, Mykonos and Chora Mykonos, its picturesque Cycladic town, are worth visiting.

The ferry journey offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea, making it a memorable experience for the whole family. You can also see some of the amazing marine life while island hopping through Greece.

14. Visit the Athens Zoo

• Adults: €24
• Children (3–12 years): €18
• Children under 3: Free

Athens Zoo, also known as Attica Zoo Park, is home to over 2,000 animals, which will keep our kids entertained for an entire day. Here, the whole family can experience wildlife from around the world, exploring over 20 hectares of zoo attractions.

The zoo is home to diverse species, including mammals, reptiles, insects, and birds. Whether you want to see the mammoth Asian elephants, regal jaguars, or mischievous ring-tailed lemurs, the animals truly make this family day out one you won’t soon forget.

There are also playgrounds and picnic areas where you can enjoy a nice meal while the children play or listen to one of the animal handlers give talks.

15. Swim in the calm waters of Elafonissi Beach

• Cost: Free!

If you want to take your children for a day at the beach, Elafonissi Beach in Crete is considered one of the best beaches in Greece for families. The soft sand is ideal for hours of sandcastle building, while the warm, calm waters are ideal for first-time swimmers to get their first ocean swim.

Elafonissi Beach is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, with sand dunes and plants. But possibly the best part is the pink hues of the sand, this combined with the turquoise waters makes for an absolutely stunning beach day.

There is also a small island, inviting young ones to explore. All it takes is a short walk through the shallow waters. Plus, with the option to rent parasols and beach loungers, the whole family is set for a magical day at the beach.

16. Cave diving in Zakynthos

• 1 dive (gear + photos): ~€100 – Zante Diving
• 2 dives (gear + photos): ~€170 – Zante Diving
• 1 beginner dive: ~€90 – Michael Travel
• Combo: €45 per beginner dive, €90 for two certified dives – Michael Travel

Zakynthos, in the Ionian Sea, is a top spot for adventure lovers. Its clear waters, sea caves, rich marine life, and famous shipwrecks make it perfect for diving.

Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, local diving schools offer lessons for all ages. It’s best to dive with a guide, especially in the deep underwater caves.

Popular dive sites include the Blue Caves, Keri Caves, and shipwrecks. You might even spot turtles and colorful fish along the way.

17. Wandering through the Archaeological Site of Delphi

• Full price: €12 (April 1–October 31)
• Reduced: €6 for non‑EU youth (under 25) & EU seniors (65+)
• Off‑Season: €6 all year from November 1 to March 31

Delphi is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Central Greece that is perfect for history lovers and adventurers.

Once seen as the center of the world by the ancient Greeks, it’s home to impressive ruins like the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theater, and the Stadium, where the Pythian Games were held.

You can explore the site through scenic trails with stunning views of Mount Parnassus and the surrounding landscape.

18. Paragliding over Meteora

• Footlaunch tandem (20 min) – €140
• Footlaunch tandem (40 min) – €190
• Motorized paratrike (20 min) – €140
• Motorized paratrike (30–40 min) – €150–210

If you want to feel alive, take our advice and go paragliding over Meteora. Thanks to its astounding beauty and steep cliffs, it’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the historic monasteries to gliding over the towering rock formations, this is an adventure lover’s dream activity.

Paragliding is one of the top thrilling things to do in Greece, giving you a truly unique perspective. To avoid the midday heat, it’s best to take the flight in the early mornings or late afternoon.

19. Canyoning in the Peloponnese

• Price: €75 per person for 4 hours

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.

There are activities available for all skill levels, with all the equipment and training needed for a fantastic adventure day in the Peloponnese.

20. Go to the traditional villages of Naxos

• Price: €180 per person for 5 hours

If you’re looking for a true history 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 to visit in Naxos include:

• Halki: Known for its incredible traditional food and art, Halki offers an adventure in history, with ancient churches, Kitron distilleries, and Venetian architecture.
• Apiranthos: Also known as the Marble Village, Apiranthos invites visitors to explore its infamous stone-paved streets, with traditional tavernas, historic museums, and sensational mountain views.
• Filoti: Located at the base of Mount Zase, visitors are in for a treat with the traditional cafes that line the narrow alleys and amazing hiking trails, offering spectacular views.

21. Hiking in Peloponnese

• Cost: Free!

When you plan your activities for Greece as a nature lover, make sure not to skip hiking in Peloponnese. 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.

Another popular option is the Taygetos Mountains, here outdoor enthusiasts can summit the highest mountain of the range, known as Profitis Ilias, a challenging but rewarding hike.

If you’re looking for more of a forest hike, the Lousios Gorge is ideal, taking you through dense forests, up scenic viewpoints, and through ancient Greek monasteries.

22. Go skiing in Arachova

• Cost: 1 Day Pass: €30–€35

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.

The Parnassos Ski Center is 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.

On days where you’re not hitting the slopes, Arachova offers a cozy village feel with traditional tavernas serving up local delights including hearty stews and Arachova.

23. Explore the Caves of Kefalonia

• Entrance Fee: €7 per adult; children receive a discount

If you travel to Greece, don’t forget to go to Kefalonia, home to Melissani Cave. This is where you can take a boat trip through the stunning underground lakes.

The cave’s turquoise waters and stalactites make it a magical experience for nature lovers, with incredible reflections making beautiful colors bounce throughout the cave as you make your way through this enchanting site in Greece.

Nearby, the Drogarati Cave offers another underground adventure, with impressive rock formations that are millions of years old. Keep an eye out for any musical events, the cave’s acoustics have made it a popular location for musical events, with music filling the entire cave.

24. Birdwatching in Lake Kerkini

• Boat tours: €240 per boat for 1–4 participants; €40 per additional person

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 you prefer walking, you can explore the surrounding wetlands on foot. It’s a peaceful destination that’s an amazing example of Greece’s biodiversity.

25. Go to the Vikos Gorge

• Duration: 6–8 hours
• Distance: 13 km
• Pricing: 1 traveler: €180

Vikos Gorge in northern Greece is a must-see for nature lovers. It’s one of the world’s deepest gorges compared to its width.

Located in the Zagori region of Epirus, it offers stunning views, hiking trails, wildlife watching, and great spots for photography.

You can explore Greece’s plants and animals in their natural home. Plus, the Voidomatis River at the gorge’s bottom is perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

26. Tour the Acropolis in Athens

• Adults (General): €30 year-round
• EU Citizens (Ages 18–25): €10 year-round
• Children & Youth (EU, under 18): Free year-round
• Children (Non-EU, under 18): Free year-round
• Seniors (EU, over 65): Free year-round
• Children (Non-EU, under 5): Free year-round

No Greece trip is complete without visiting the Acropolis, a symbol of Western civilization. This fascinating UNESCO World Heritage site invites all explorers to step back in time to experience Greece’s rich history.

You will find the iconic pantheon, the ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, towering above all visitors. This is classic Greek architecture at its finest.

At the foot of the Acropolis, the Theater of Dionysus is the birthplace of the Greek tragedy. Theatre lovers will thrive here, seeing where it all began.

While there, it’s worth touring the Acropolis Museum. You can learn more about the history of the Parthenon and other ancient structures.

27. Discover the Minoan Ruins at Knossos, Crete

• Adults (Full Price): €15
• Seniors (65+): €8
• EU Citizens (Under 25): Free with ID
• Non-EU Citizens (Under 25): Reduced rate of €8 from April to October with ID

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

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

Dating back to the Minoan civilization, this area flourished between 2000 to 1400 BCE. From the walls adorned with frescos to the ceremonial throne room, this is the epitome of ancient Greek history.

28. Go to the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki

• Adults (Full Price): €15
• Seniors (65+): €8
• EU Citizens (Under 25): Free with ID
• Non-EU Citizens (Under 25): Reduced rate of €8 (April to October) with ID

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.

The museum has over 100,000 artifacts from various periods, taking you through different eras of Greek history.

For a true dive into ancient Greek history, there are guided tours along with educational programs for kids.

29. Discover ancient Corinth

• Full Ticket: €8

Situated on the isthmus of Corinth, this fascinating archeological site is a must for history lovers visiting Greece.

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.

The well-preserved ruins give a true glimpse into what life was like in ancient Greece. This along with the beautiful surrounding scenery are ideal for history and nature lovers.

30. Visit the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus

• Adults (Full Price): €15
• Seniors (65+): €8
• EU Citizens (Under 25): Free with ID
• Non-EU Citizens (Under 25): Reduced rate of €8 (April to October) with ID

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.

This site is renowned for its exceptional acoustics and stunning architecture, and it’s one of the best-preserved theaters in the world.

Built in the 4^th century BCE, the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus is an architectural marvel. Once set up for up to 14,000 spectators, one can only imagine the incredible electric atmosphere when a live show took place.

But if you want to hear the astounding acoustics for yourself, you’re in luck. There are still live events today displaying the true might of Greek craftsmanship, still standing over 2,000 years later.

Frequently Asked Questions About Top Things To Do In Greece

What is the number one thing to do in Greece?

The number one thing to do in Greece is to visit the Acropolis in Athens, an ancient citadel featuring the Parthenon and other historic ruins. This iconic site offers insights into ancient Greek civilization and breathtaking views of Athens.

What is the most beautiful part of Greece?

Santorini is often considered the most beautiful part of Greece, known for its stunning sunsets, whitewashed buildings, and blue-domed churches overlooking the Aegean Sea. The island’s unique volcanic landscape and picturesque villages make it a top destination for travelers.

Which Greek island is most fun?

Mykonos is considered the most fun Greek island, renowned for its vibrant nightlife, beach parties, and luxury resorts. The island also offers lively beach clubs, historic sites, and shopping, making it popular for travelers seeking both relaxation and entertainment.

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 taste local wine 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 Greek 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

What is the best month to visit Greece?

The best month to visit Greece is September, offering warm weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices. This month provides ideal conditions for sightseeing, island hopping, and beach activities without the peak-season crowds of July and August.