Holidays to Greece are crammed with scenic highlights, from quaint hamlets decorated with whitewashed houses to pretty pine-clad coves and cliffside churches overlooking the sea. And when you’re done admiring the country’s good looks, you’ve got historical sights at every turn. Find some of the finest examples in Athens, Crete and Rhodes, or head to the islands of Santorini, Lefkas, and Corfu and wander through unchanged villages filled with cobblestone streets and traditional tavernas.
Those looking to relax on a sandy beach during the sunlight hours, before being entertained from dusk until dawn, should hit one of Greece’s purpose-built resorts. Families will have their fill of high-octane thrills at its waterparks, while kids will love learning all about the country’s famous myths and legends.
History & culture
Like a living museum, the country is littered with artefacts. Discover its athletic roots with a trip to Olympia (or Valley of the Gods). As one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, it’s home to the remains of the first Neolithic inhabitants and the Temple of Zeus. It's also where you’ll find the site of the Ancient Olympic Games Museum, where the first Olympics were held here in 776 BC. But no holiday to Greece would be complete without ticking off the iconic Acropolis in Athens!
Though, the islands can certainly hold their own when it comes to antiquity. Visit a Medieval Old Town built by the Knights of St. John in Rhodes, or admire the grandeur of a palace in the ancient city of Knossos and learn about the father of all gods with a visit to the Cave of Zeus in Crete.
Attractions for everyone
Famed for its incredible hospitality, holidays to Greece are perfect for families. From its long list of all-inclusive hotels to its child-friendly waterparks, there’s something for all generations. The Star Beach waterpark in Hersonissos is regularly voted one of the best in Europe. On top of the rides, slides, pools and chutes, you'll find plenty of watersports, whether you’re looking for a scuba diving adventure or want to get your heart racing with a bungee jump.
Those with little ones in tow will love the choice of Blue Flag beaches dotted along the never-ending coastline. Stretch out on pebble-strewn bays in the north or stroll along lengthy golden stretches in the south. But make sure you don’t forget to hunt down its most famous beaches. Head to Zante and visit the aptly named ‘Shipwreck Beach’, whose remote location and abandoned boat is instantly recognisable. Or, discover the pink sands and greeny-blue waters of Crete’s most photogenic shoreline, Elafonisi.
Those escaping for some sun-splashed romance will love the peace and tranquillity of honeymoon favourite, Santorini. This crescent-shaped caldera, fringed by black sands and famed for its blue-domed churches, offers one of the best sundown experiences Greece has to offer.
Party islands
You won’t be stuck for things to do in Greece if you like your holidays packed with buzzing Greek nightlife. For world-class clubs, buzzing bars and beach parties, look no further than the lively hotspots of Faliraki, Kardamena and Laganas. However, Crete takes pole-position, with its choice of bustling towns including Malia and Stalis. Here, you’ll witness big-name DJs manning the decks at popular clubs like Kings Cross and The Zoo. You'll also find exciting boat parties such as Pukka Up. This fun-filled day trip will return to the shore just as the clubs start to open.
More Travel Guides
We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Athens | Corfu | Crete | Halkidiki | Kalamata | Kefalonia | Kos | Lefkas | Lesbos | Mykonos | Olympius Riviera | Parga | Rhodes | Santorini | Skiathos | Skopelos | Thassos | Zante