An Odyssey of Beautiful Greek Hotspots

Greece is a mesmerising destination, boasting iconic sights like the cliff-defying blue minarets of Santorini, the magnificent temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens, and the giant, mountain-guarded Delphi theatre. And that’s just the mainland.

With over 60 inhabited islands to explore, how do you navigate the best of the best on your Greece holidays? Read on for the places it would be a Greek tragedy to ignore.

Crete

The largest of Greece’s islands, with one of the world’s ancient seats of civilization, the ruins of Knossos, are a top spot for historians on an archaeology binge.

Don’t miss out on the views of a trek through the incredible scenery of Samaria Gorge, or, if you prefer to explore on horseback, there are several highly recommended stables on the island.

Halkidiki

With its sizzling beaches and clear blue waters, this party loving peninsula has everything you need for a classic sand and sunshine escape. Set out on a pilgrimage for the north-east, however, and you’ll find the mist-enshrouded monastery of Mount Athos, a structure carved out of the rock face housing a total of 1400 monks.

Disclaimer: only ten non-orthodox travelers are granted travel per day, and females, sadly, are not invited.

Mykonos

This island has its own Little Venice, a forest of iconic windmills, and the rowdy Paradise Beach, which nestles beside a resort strip of bars and clubs.

For something more sedate, Mykonos also boasts as many little churches as there are days of the year, just remember to show respect if you choose to visit them.

Naxos

Often voted one of the most beautiful of the Cyclades, it’s easy to see why handsome Naxos is so well-reviewed. Lazy sailing boats drift its coastline while its old town meanders with winding paths, crooked staircases and secret crannies in which to enjoy cheap food and the company of the locals.

While there’s something to be said for striking out without direction, with a destination as scattershot in scope as the Greek islands, it’s good to have an idea of what you want from your vacation. It’s recommended that you map your adventure before you get to Greece, because you won’t want to lose a moment of relaxing and enjoying the sights when you arrive.