Greece is packed with phenomenal attractions: ancient temples, mountains, monasteries, 100’s of islands and crystal clear sea. We’ve been many times, but feel like we’ve only scraped the surface of this amazing country.
Here’s our top 5:
The Acropolis, Athens:
The spectacular Acropolis towers over Athens. The “scared rock” is probably the most significant archeological site in the west. It’s home to the Parthenon and more temples dating from the 5th century BC. The whole site is mesmerising, especially the Parthenon with its 46 magnificent columns and perfect proportions.
Tip – Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and linger longer. Admission is free on the first Sunday of the month.
Rhodes Old Town:
The old town of Rhodes is cut off from the new town by double layered walls, a deep moat and 7 gates. It’s a medieval masterpiece of fortifications, alleyways, ancient ruins and relics. As Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited town, crusading knights, the Ottomans and Italian fascists have all left their mark.
Don’t miss: the Street of the Knights, the Palace of the Grand Master and the Church of Our Lady of the Castle.
Tip – take a picnic and walk the ramparts in the late afternoon/early evening for amazing views.
Chania, Crete:
The Venetian harbour of Chania is our favourite place on Crete. Even if you ignore the spectacular setting, the Venetian streets, city walls and Ottoman, Byzantine and Minoan ruins would have us hooked.
Don’t miss walking the seawall to the lighthouse, the Yiali Tzami Mosque and the Venetian Arsenal. But the best way to appreciate the charms of Chania is to wander the backstreets, hangout in a seafront cafe and just take in the view.
Tip – cool off during the day on Neo Chora Beach 10 minutes from the harbour.
Samaria Gorge, Crete:
The Samaria Gorge, also on Crete, is a stunningly, strenuous hike. At 16 km long (18 km to the sea), it takes approximately 5 hours and there’s no food or drink available in the gorge, but you can refill your water bottle at springs.
It begins surrounded by pine forest, wild flowers and mountain herbs and the gorge becomes increasingly narrow and rocky. Halfway, there’s the abandoned village of Samaria and then the gorge walls dramatically close in until the arm’s width Iron Gates. The walk is rocky and follows a stream, so wear sensible walking shoes. The end of the hike opens onto the beautiful beach of Agia Roumeli where you can eat, drink and swim before getting the boat back.
Tip – to have the gorge to yourself, arrange your drop off at the top for midday, arrive at the beach after the last boat and spend the night in remote Agia Roumeli away from the day trippers.
Paxos:
The island of Paxos is one of the least commercial in the Ionian Sea. Accessed via ferry from Corfu, it’s unspoilt and beautiful. Don’t miss: the ridiculously pretty fishing harbour of Loggos – lined with irresistible tavernas and bars; the spectacular bay of Lakka; and a boat trip to Anti Paxos 10 minutes away for some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.
Tip – we also loved the boat trip to the Blue Caves – the colour of the sea is unreal.