20 Of The Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Greece

From jaw-dropping natural attractions, and architectural feats that seem to defy the laws of physics (hello, Meteora!), to ancient glories and gorgeous beaches and islands, it’s fair to say Greece is blessed with a bounty of destinations and landmarks that can only be described as hands-down beautiful. It was a tough task, but here we present 20 of the most beautiful places in Greece — places that are certain to take your breath away and deserve to be pushed to the top of your destination wish list 

1. Delphi, Central Greece 

We’ll kick off with an icon of the ancient world — Delphi, in the central mainland of Greece.

Certainly one of the most beautiful places in Greece, it’s also one of the best places to visit in Greece if you’re into history.

Esteemed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a result of its role in shaping the ancient Greek world — and its wider influence on Western civilization — the site has played a pivotal role in Greek religion, politics and culture for centuries.

From the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, where the Oracle delivered her prophecies, to the Theater of Delphi that once hosted around 5000 spectators, Delphi still exudes a powerful sense of ancient grandeur, and spirituality, too.

Aside from the buildings, the setting plays a huge part in Delphi’s beauty. It’s set on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, and offers sublime views of olive groves, valleys, and the Gulf of Corinth. 

Editor’s tip: if you’re keen to uncover classical Greece, we have an itinerary that’ll have you doing exactly that. 

2. Monemvasia, Peloponnese

Located in the Peloponnese region of Greece, the fortress town of Monemvasia is a uniquely captivating destination that stands out for its medieval charm, dramatic setting, and rich history.

Often referred to as the “Gibraltar of the East”, it’s built on a massive rock island in the Aegean, connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. 

While the fortress dates back to the Byzantine era, the charming town was founded in the 6th century and flourished under Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman rule. As a result, its architectural and cultural heritage is remarkably rich.

The fact the town isn’t visible from the mainland gives Monemvasia an extra air of mystery and romance. 

Add to that spectacular sweeping views of the Aegean Sea from the Upper Town and the summit of the rock, and it’s clear why Monemvasia is one of the best places to visit in Greece when it comes to beauty.

Not sure when to visit? Read up on when to go to Greece. 

3. Meteora, Thessaly

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its cultural and natural significance, Meteora is one of the most extraordinary places in Greece.

Known for its monasteries perched atop towering rock formations, it holds tremendous religious and geological significance.

While Meteora’s massive sandstone pillars are believed to have formed about 60 million years ago, the site has been an important religious center since the Middle Ages.

The name tells you everything you need to know to get a sense of the magic of this place — "Meteora" means "suspended in the air”, which is exactly what the Eastern Orthodox monasteries built on the site’s rock pillars seem to be doing.

The combination of natural rock pillars with logic-defying monasteries present an otherworldly, harmonious blend of nature and architecture, with panoramic views of the Thessalian plains and surrounding mountains adding to the magic.

Especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset, when the rocks and monasteries are bathed in shadow-casting golden light, it’s patently clear why Meteora is one of the most beautiful places in Greece.

Editor’s tip: our immersive Majestic Greece itinerary includes magical Meteora.

4. Nafplio, Peloponnese

As the first capital of modern Greece after the Greek War of Independence, Nafplio in the Peloponnese holds a special place in Greek history.

It’s also one of the prettiest places to visit in Greece, thanks to its breath-taking coastal scenery — located in the Argolic Gulf, it offers spectacular views of the sea — and the romantic charm of its Medieval and Venetian architecture.

Perched high above town, the imposing Palamidi Fortress is one of Nafplio’s most iconic sights. The same goes for Bourtzi Castle, which lies on a small islet in the harbor.

Then there’s Nafplio’s old town — picture yourself meandering narrow alleyways lined by fragrant bougainvillea, with colorful neoclassical mansions, museums and churches to admire along the way.

If that wasn’t enough, the town also has legendary origins — according to Greek mythology, it was founded by Nafplios, son of Poseidon.

Editor’s tip: feeling inspirited to visit (at least) some of the most beautiful places in Greece? Browse our customisable Greece itineraries for ideas. 

5. Corfu Old Town, Corfu

One of the prettiest places in Greece, Corfu Old Town — a UNESCO World Heritage site, no less — is also one of the country’s most historically rich areas.

As a result of its location, the island has long been something of a cultural crossroads, with the Venetians, French, British and Greeks all leaving their mark, as seen in the island’s diverse architectural styles and cultural influences, including food.

In fact, many argue that Corfu’s culture is built on food. It certainly gives travelers another reason to visit. 

With their pastel-colored facades, red-tiled roofs and shuttered windows, the Old Town’s Venetian-style buildings create an especially enchanting atmosphere that’s enhanced by the Ionian Sea.

At the same time, Corfu’s Old Town is speckled with green spaces, including Spianada Square, and many of its café-lined streets and squares are also trimmed by flowering plants. Glorious!

Editor’s tip: read up on the best areas to stay in Corfu, or let our experts take care of booking your accommodation on a Greek Dreams trip that includes a luxurious stay in Corfu.

6. Apeiranthos, Naxos

Located on Naxos — the largest and most fertile of the Cyclades islands — Apeiranthos is nestled high in the mountains.

Famed for its white marble streets and stone buildings, Apeiranthos exudes a timeless elegance, with the stark contrast between its bright white architecture and the surrounding greenery and blue-sky backdrop creating a striking effect.

But that’s not the only reason Apeiranthos is one of the most beautiful places in Greece.

From its lofty position, the town also serves sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains, vineyards, valleys, olive groves, and distant sea. 

Apeiranthos also has a charming unhurried pace of life, its winding alleyways, small squares and traditional tavernas offering a rare sense of tranquillity — and authenticity.

Editor’s tip: why not treat yourself to a trip that’ll have you discovering Naxos in style?

7. Vikos Gorge, Epirus

Located in the Epirus region in north-western Greece, near picturesque villages known as the Zagorochoria, Vikos Gorge is one of the best places to visit in Greece if you’re into epic views, and adventure. 

Lying within Vikos–Aoös National Park, and part of the greater Pindus mountain range, it holds the Guinness World Record for being the deepest gorge in the world relative to its width.

With vertical cliffs reaching up to 1000 meters (3280 feet) in some areas, the gorge’s dramatic depth makes it a bona fide natural wonder.

It’s also a popular — and very, very pretty — destination for hiking and trekking. The main trail through the gorge traverses rugged terrain, lush forests, and follows Voidomatis River, offering hikers the chance to experience the raw beauty of the gorge up close.

Editor’s tip: fancy including Vikos Gorge in your itinerary? Read our general guide to how to plan a trip to Greece.

8. Navagio Beach, Zakynthos 

Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is one of the most iconic and stunning beaches in Greece. In a country loaded with beautiful beaches, that’s really saying something. 

Located on the island of Zakynthos (Zante) in the Ionian Sea, its combination of dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and the famous shipwreck make it a truly breath-taking spot.

While the Panagiotis shipwreck gives the beach a unique edge and sense of mystery, its secluded location, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, make Navagio one of the prettiest places in Greece.

That and the striking turquoise-and-electric-blue hues of the water, which contrasts with the white limestone cliffs and the sandy shore, and are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Despite its fame — the beach regularly features in round ups of the best beaches in the world” – Navagio Beach has retained a gloriously untouched vibe, and remains relatively free from large crowds, especially early in the morning.

Editor’s tip: get the Mini Rough Guide to Zakynthos ahead of your trip.

9. Mystras, Peloponnese

Located in the Peloponnese near the modern town of Sparta, Mystras is one of the most historically and architecturally significant sites in Greece. As such, it's been granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Often referred to as a “Byzantine Pompeii” it’s a stunning example of a medieval fortified town, and was once one of the most important cities of the Byzantine Empire.

As for why Mystras is one of the most beautiful places in Greece, that’s partly thanks to its dramatic location on the steep slopes of Mount Taygetos, surrounded by lush valleys, olive groves and mountains. 

From the heights of Mystras, especially from the Palace of the Despots, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Spartan plain and the Eurotas River Valley.

The site’s stone buildings, arched doorways and domed churches also exude a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. 

10. Porto Katsiki, Lefkas

Located on the island of Lefkas (Lefkada) in the Ionian Sea, Porto Katsiki is renowned for its stunning natural setting, clear turquoise waters, and dramatic limestone-cliff backdrop.

As a result of the cliffs surrounding the beach, it’s only accessible via a staircase or boat, giving it the feel of a secret paradise.

While most visitors choose to visit Porto Katsiki as part of a boat tour, reaching it via the steep staircase carved into the cliffs adds a sense of discovery.

While the secret is definitely out, Lefkas still has an untamed, natural beauty that gets under your skin.

Editor’s tip: inspired to visit the Greek Islands? Discover some of the best Greek Islands to visit. 

You might also want to read up on how to plan a Greek Island holiday.

11. Lindos, Rhodes

Though Rhodes isn’t short of captivating coves, the island has plenty of amazing things to do beyond the beach, among them exploring Lindos on the eastern coast.

Home to the Acropolis of Lindos — one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece — and the Temple of Athena Lindia, this place once served as a powerful fortress and religious center.

But the Acropolis of Lindos isn’t only historically significant — it’s also visually breath-taking. The ancient ruins are set on a cliff and rise above the village against a background of the impossibly blue Aegean Sea.

At the same time, the traditional village of Lindos — replete with whitewashed houses and bougainvillea — make it one of the prettiest villages in Greece.

Editor’s tip: ahead of your trip, get The Mini Rough Guide to Rhodes.

12. Parga, Epirus

Located on the western coast of mainland Greece in the region of Epirus, the seaside town of Parga is beloved by Greek and international visitors alike.

Surrounded by green hills and olive groves that slope down to the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea, the town itself sits in a natural amphitheater, with colorful buildings cascading down towards the harbour.

And all this is overlooked by the Venetian Castle of Parga – an 11th-century fortress that served as a defensive stronghold for centuries, and today serves incredible views over town, the Ionian Sea, and nearby islands. 

Parga is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the Greek mainland, among them Valtos and Lichnos.

Editor’s tip: Parga, like many of the other best places to visit in Greece, are pretty packed in the summer high season months. If you prefer a quieter kind of vacation, you might be pleased — and surprised — to discover there are plenty of reasons to visit Greece in winter. 

13. White Tower, Thessaloniki

Symbolizing the city’s rich history and resilience, the White Tower of Thessaloniki is one of the most significant historic landmarks in Greece.

Originally built by the Ottomans in the 15th century, on the site of an older Byzantine structure, the tower stands prominently on Thessaloniki’s seafront promenade, where its medieval structure provides a stark contrast with the modern buildings.

Climbing the White Tower rewards visitors with panoramic views of Thessaloniki’s sprawling urban landscape and the glimmering Thermaic Gulf. 

14. Kefalonia, Ionian Sea

The Ionian island of Kefalonia (also spelled Cephalonia) is the largest of the Ionian Islands, and one of the best places to visit in Greece for varied natural beauty. 

By which we mean everything from dramatic mountains and forests, to caves and spectacular beaches. 

On the subject of beaches, Myrtos Beach is one of the island’s most iconic, and consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world.

Happily, Kefalonia’s interior is just as beautiful as its coast, dotted with traditional villages verdant hills, olive groves and vineyards.

Then there’s the serene Melissani Lake, and forested Mount Ainos, the highest peak in the Ionian Islands, which also makes Kefalonia a wonderful place for hikers and nature lovers.

Still not sure which Greek island to visit? Decide after diving into the in-depth Rough Guide to the Greek Islands. 

15. Plaka, Athens

One of the best areas to stay in Athens, meandering Plaka is also one of the best things to do in the city. 

Located at the foot of the Acropolis, it’s Athens’ oldest neighbourhood and known as the "Neighbourhood of the Gods”.

In fact, Plaka’s labyrinthine streets were walked by ancient Athenians, and many of its buildings reflect centuries of history, from the Byzantine to the Ottoman periods.

While most of the district showcases neoclassical architecture, with well-preserved houses and iron balconies adorned with flowers, the tiny Anafiotika quarter will have you thinking you’ve been transported to an island.

That’s because its Cycladic-style whitewashed houses were built by workers from the island of Anafi in the 19th century.

If that wasn’t enough, Plaka is also home to several important museums, such as the Museum of Greek Folk Art, The Jewish Museum of Greece, and the Frissiras Museum.

Add to that tonnes of traditional tavernas that serve Greek cuisine, often accompanied by live bouzouki music, and stacks of shops, and it’s hard not to fall under pretty Plaka’s spell.

Short on time? Discover the City of the Gods on our 4-day trip, armed with info from the Mini Rough Guide to Athens.

16. Rethymno, Crete

Splendidly sited on the northern coast of Crete, Rethymno is renowned for blending Venetian, Ottoman and Greek influences — and natural beauty — into a one-stop shop for scenic atmosphere. 

Its Old Town is one of the best-preserved in Crete, with many buildings dating back to the Venetian period, among them the Venetian Fortezza that overlooks town, the Aegean Sea, and the surrounding mountains. 

Rethymno also showcases its Ottoman past, with majestic mosques and minarets scattered through an Old Town that’s also loaded with lively cafés.

Rethymno’s Venetian Harbor is another reason it’s one of the one of the prettiest places in Greece, along with the fact it’s surrounded by rugged mountains, and its proximity to beautiful beaches, including the impossibly pretty Preveli beach.

Editor’s tip: ahead of your vacation, read up on how to spend 5, 7, 10 or 14 days in Crete, and get the Rough Guide to Crete to help you plan your perfect trip.

Alternatively, skip the hassle of planning by booking our customisable Along the Coast of Crete trip. 

17. Gialova, Peloponnese

The small coastal village of Gialova in Greece’s Peloponnese region comes especially recommended for nature lovers, thanks to Gialova Lagoon (AKA Divari Lagoon) being one of the most important wetlands in Europe.

It’s home to over 250 species of birds, and known for its biodiversity and pristine natural beauty — think tranquil waters surrounded by salt marshes and dunes.

The village itself is small and peaceful, with traditional tavernas and laidback beachfront restaurants that are a far cry from Greece’s tourist resort hotspots.

Talking of beaches, one of Greece’s most beautiful — Voidokilia — is just short distance from Gialova. With a perfect crescent of soft white sand, its crystal-clear waters are impossible to resist.

Oh, and if you’re keen to travel more sustainably, you’ll be happy to hear Gialova is becoming something of a hub for eco-tourism.

18. Klima, Milos

Known for its traditional syrmata houses — two-story buildings with boat garages on the ground floor and living quarters above — the small fishing village of Klima on Milos is one of the most picturesque places in the Cyclades

It’s also largely untouched by commercial tourism, with an incredible location right on the edge of the Aegean Sea — houses literally touch the clear, calm water. 

One of the reasons Klima is one of the most beautiful places in Greece comes courtesy of its extraordinary sunsets, during which the last glowing embers of day reflect off the bright houses, leaving you to reflect on how lucky you are to be here. 

Love the sound of Klima’s laidback vibe? Treat yourself to more slow travel tips, and get the Rough Guide to Slow Travel in Europe.

19. Apella Beach, Karpathos

Secluded, unspoiled, backed by dramatic cliffs and pine trees, and fronted by azure waters — need we say more about why Apella Beach is one of the most beautiful places in Greece?

Located on the island of Karpathos in the Dodecanese, Apella is often accessed by taking a boat trip from the town of Pigadia, though you can reach it by road.

On arrival, prepare to have your soul stirred by the natural scenery, serenity and divine swimming and snorkelling experiences.

20. Monastery of St. John, Patmos

Known as the Island of the Apocalypse, petite Patmos — part of the Dodecanese islands in the Aegean — is a serene place of religious importance, largely thanks to its UNESCO-designated Monastery of St. John the Theologian.

Sitting atop a hill in the main town of Chora, the monastery is dedicated to St. John the Apostle, who’s believed to have written the Book of Revelation on the island.

Along with Patmos’ Cave of the Apocalypse — where St. John is said to have received his visions — it’s an important pilgrimage site, with sublime sunset views served by its high vantage point. 

Chora itself is a captivating UNESCO World Heritage Site of whitewashed houses, winding streets, and beautiful Byzantine churches.

Also offering awe-inspiring views over the Aegean Sea, Chora is something of a creative hub for artists, musicians and writers, and hosts several cultural festivals through the year.

Ready to start planning your trip? Get yourself The Rough Guide to Greece for detail on where to eat, sleep, drink and shop in every area, along with stacks of maps and expert tips.

Heading to the islands? We have a detailed guide covering them, too.

Alternatively, avoid the hassle of planning by enlisting the expertise of our local travel experts to curate your perfect Greece itinerary.