Is Greece Worth Visiting In 2024? Here’s What You Need To Know
Are you considering vacationing in Greece and wondering, “Is Greece worth visiting?”
I can’t believe how much this country offers after visiting numerous islands and spots on Greece’s mainland. However, even before my first visit, I wondered if Greece was worth a visit.
The guide below will answer that question, including 11 of the best things to do and see while on your Greece vacation. Between breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, and pristine hospitality, this is one country you must visit at least once in your lifetime!
Throughout my Greece travels, I’ve always been amazed at how each new destination is different and holds something unique. So what are you waiting for? Grab your laptop and passport because you’ll need them after reading this!
Going On A Trip To Greece? Check Out These Resources!
🛌 Accommodations: I always use Booking.com for my lodging.
🚘 Car Rentals: To find the best prices, I use Discover Cars!
✈️ Flights: To find great flight prices, I check on Expedia.
📍Tours: I use Viator to find memorable experiences.
Is Greece Worth Visiting in 2024?
If you’ve found your way to this blog post, you’re likely asking yourself, “Is Greece worth visiting?” Perhaps you’re on the fence about booking the trip, wondering what, if anything, would make the trip worth the money. I am here to tell you that the answer is an overwhelming yes!
Greece’s more than 6000 islands, 15,000 kilometers of pristine coastline, and centuries-old archaeological sites will leave you in awe. Even better, Greece boasts a more relaxing atmosphere, better beaches, and cheaper food and hotel prices than many of its European counterparts.
11 Things To Do in Greece
The picturesque country of Greece is brimming with idyllic islands, Ancient Greek mythology, a traditional culinary scene, historic ruins, and a rich philosophical past.
A journey to this fascinating country is a bucket list destination for many travelers with its fluorescent blue seas, striking architecture, mountainous landscape, and breathtaking coastal towns.
From lively mainland cities to quaint and colorful villages by the sea, Greece is a colorful mosaic of picture-perfect beaches, towering temples, and surprises at every winding coastal road and mountain peak. One thing is sure: you won’t be able to visit just once!
Continue reading below to learn more about the best things to do during a Greece vacation:
1. The Acropolis
It’s not a trip to Greece without visiting The Acropolis of Athens. Seeing this historical site is one of the most significant contributors to why Greece is worth visiting. Once a mighty citadel atop the city’s highest hill, it now stands in beautiful ruin as one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.
Built for the Greek goddess Athena 3,300 years ago, the Acropolis includes the Parthenon religious temple, the temple of Athena Nike, and other notable structures. Mainly built for defense, the Acropolis was heavily damaged in 1687 by a Venetian cannonball.
To reach the ruins, you can climb all 250 steps in 20 minutes or take a one-minute inclined elevator ride.
➡️ See the Acropolis on an Acropolis of Athens Afternoon Walking Tour!
2. The Meteora Monasteries
If you’re up for an adventure, hiking to the Meteora Monasteries is a great outdoor activity. The 16 kilometers (10 miles) of walking trails lead to all six monasteries. The hikes are rated moderately complex and can be taken with a professional tour company or at your own pace with your own transportation.
Once at the monasteries, you can explore the interior and grounds for a small fee. Pack plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate clothing inside the monasteries. It’s essential also to note that at least one monastery will be closed on any given day of the week, so plan your itinerary in advance.
I recommend this tour to see all six monasteries!
➡️Panoramic Meteora and all Monasteries Tour
3. Santorini’s Stunning Caldera
To this day, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Greece is the site of the largest volcanic eruption ever recorded: The Santorini Caldera.
The caldera itself is outlined by the Santorini, Aspronisi, and Thirasia islands, with the two small islands of Palea and Nea Kameni in the center.
It’s the only inhabited caldera in the entire world! Made up entirely of frozen lava, it remains one of the most intriguing natural formations in the world. While Santorini may be an expensive island, you must see a sunset from the caldera!
It is a must-see if you are visiting Santorini. The stunning backdrops, such as the famous flying dress, are perfect for photoshoots!
An activity like an ATV tour is an excellent way to view the stunning views from the caldera and reach hidden gem viewpoints.
➡️Check out this excellent Catamaran Cruise for a unique experience around the Caldera.
Milos’s Unique Beaches
With over 75 unique and secluded beaches, Milos is heaven on earth for those who love exploring the sandy coastline. Although they are all beautiful, some of the most striking and unique of Milos’s beaches include Sarakiniko, Tsigrado, and Kleftiko.
Sarakiniko is the most famous and most photographed beach. A stream of deep blue water goes through a surrounding landscape of white volcanic rocks for an otherworldly view. Tsigrado Beach is just as stunning but even more unique, secluded, and dangerous.
The water is incredibly clear at Kleftiko, with sandy volcanic rock formations. In addition to being beautiful, many of Milos’s beaches are also perfect for cliff diving and swimming.
➡️I booked this Milos Catamaran Tour that visited Kleftiko and had an AMAZING time!
5. The Underrated Corfu Island
If you want to experience a more off-the-beaten-path Greece vacation, don’t pass up the island of Corfu. Known for its impressive nature reserves and unique bird-spotting opportunities, endless ways exist to escape the tourist crowds and delve into the island’s rich landscape.
Corfu has many activities and is well worth visiting in Greece. There’s something for anyone to enjoy on this Ionian island.
In fact, the coastline is brimming with sandy beaches and secret coves, stunning mountain scenery, and ancient fortresses. Plan to spend at least a few days there, and don’t pass up exploring The Achilleion Palace, Porto Timoni Beach, or the town of Kassiopi.
6. Delicious Greek Cuisine
There are endless reasons why Greek cuisine is so famous. From the healthy aspect to its ingredient variety, vibrant taste, and visual appeal, the “Mediterranean diet” has exploded in popularity worldwide in recent years.
One of the reasons for this is Greece’s close proximity to the Mediterranean Sea. Nutrient-rich soil to grow fruit and vegetables and the freshest caught seafood creates a culture of unprocessed foods.
➡️Here are some great food tours throughout Greece!
✔️Athens- Get a Taste of Athens Food Tour
✔️Naxos- Food Tour in Naxos Town
✔️Santorini- Half-Day Small-Group Eat and Walk Food Tour
7. Incredible Hospitality
Southern hospitality in the United States might be sweet as pie, but the tradition of hospitality in Greece is on another level. A deeply-rooted characteristic of Ancient Greek culture, Greek people remain some of the most welcoming people in the entire world.
As a matter of fact, the Ancient Greek God, Zeus Xenios, was known as the “protector of travelers.” Greek mythology deeply instilled the law of xenia, or the promise to offer protection and hospitality to strangers. It is still upheld to this day.
8. Island Hopping
One of the best reasons Greece is worth visiting is the convenience of island hopping by ferry. With 227 inhabited islands throughout the Mediterranean, it’s virtually impossible to see them all in one trip. However, you sure can make an effort!
Most people try to visit at least two in one trip, spending a total of two-to-three nights on each island. One of the most popular routes for island hopping includes a seven-day itinerary beginning in Athens with stops in Mykonos and Santorini. Add a couple of stops in either Naxos, Paros, or Crete for a longer two-week journey.
Best Way to Visit Greece Islands
Island hopping is one of the best things to do in Greece. Many would consider visiting Greece a crime and not exploring at least one or two. With 227 inhabited islands, you’ll definitely have plenty to choose from!
Traveling by ferry is the most affordable and scenic way to island hop. The travel time between most islands is as short as 45 minutes on a faster ferry or as long as an overnight sail from Athens on a slower ferry.
Tickets to the ferry must be bought at least 24 hours before departure and typically range in price from 4 euros to nearly 100 euros per person. Check websites such as Ferryhopper for up-to-date routes, sail times, and prices.
9. The Lively Greek Nightlife
When you think of partying and nightlife in Greece, you most likely think of the lively island of Mykonos. Mykonos has dozens of clubs and bars, including VOID and Paradise Beach Club. These are considered two of the best nightclubs in Greece. In fact, many world-famous DJs have performed at them in recent years.
However, Mykonos isn’t the only Greek island that knows how to have a good time. Corfu and Santorini nightlife give Mykonos a run for its money with miles of coastline brimming with exciting venues (think dancing on tables on a moonlight beach until the early morning).
10. The Many UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Currently, Greece is home to 24 designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 22 of these are cultural sites, and two (Meteora and Mount Athos) are listed for natural and cultural significance. While this is shy of neighboring Italy’s 58 UNESCO Sites, Greece still packs a cultural punch.
The Parthenon (within the Acropolis of Athens) is perhaps the most notable of the 28 total sites, but all are significant and beautiful in their own way.
Other sites popular with locals and tourists include the Archaeological Site of Olympia, the Greek islands of Delos and Rhodes, and the archaeological ruins complex of Hadrian’s Villa.
11. Archaeological Sites
While every historical location in Greece isn’t a UNESCO site, many other significant archaeological sites are spread across the mainland and the islands. This offers to chance to learn more about Greece and it’s prominent history.
Of the many sites to see in Athens, the Roman Agora should be visited! It’s a historical site that was a meeting place for various activities in ancient Greece. Today, you can view its ruins and still see the best-preserved structures, such as the Gate of Athena.
What is Greece Known For?
Greece is indeed known the world over for its vast collection of islands. It is also known for the infamous ancient ruins and Greek columns of the Acropolis of Athens. While these sights deserve a spot at the top of the list, there is so much more to Greece than meets the eye.
It was home to brilliant, history-altering philosophers, including Plato, Pythagoras, Socrates, and Aristotle. Greece was also the birthplace of the Olympic Games, the art of theater, and democracy in the West.
If you’re a foodie, don’t pass up the cuisines that Greece is most famous for, including baked moussaka (eggplant casserole), souvlaki (grilled meats in pita), gyros, and fasolada (bean soup). Each dish has great cultural significance to Greece and is prepared differently depending on the region and island.
When is the Best Time to Visit Greece?
There’s really no “bad” time to visit Greece, but the answer to this ultimately depends on the type of traveler you are and the kinds of experiences you want to have on your vacation.
If you want to beat the summer crowds and unlock the best hotel deals, visit in early spring or mid-fall. April and September bring lower temperatures, less rain, and warm sea temperatures, perfect for swimming.
In September, the main tourist attractions remain open, with fewer school and tour crowds, and the wine flows freely since its vine harvesting season. Cheers!
What is the Weather in Greece Like?
Like many other parts of the world, Greece experiences all four seasons. Due to its mild Mediterranean climate, most of Greece experiences long, dry summers. However, it’s not uncommon for the mountainous region of the mainland to experience light snowfall.
July is the hottest month in Greece, with an average daily high temperature of 33 Celsius (91 Fahrenheit) and an average daily low of 17 Celsius (63 Fahrenheit).
On the other end, the coldest month is January, with an average daily high of 13 Celsius (55 Fahrenheit) and an average daily low of 5 Celsius (42 Fahrenheit). This is one of the best months to see snowfall in the country’s northern regions.
In the north, annual rainfall can range from 20 to 48 inches. In the south, total rainfall varies from 15 to 32 inches annually. Even in light of the rain, Greece still sees more than 250 sunny days yearly.
Does Greece Get A Lot of Tourists?
For decades, Greece has been one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world. In fact, tourism is Greece’s largest industry, employing nearly 900,000 people and accounting for nearly 25 percent of the country’s GDP.
The country welcomes more than 34 million tourists annually, many choosing to visit Santorini, Rhodes, Crete, Mykonos, and Corfu. The tourist season in Greece runs from early April to mid-October, with the highest concentration of tourists arriving during the summer months.
If you are seeking a less touristy island to visit during your time, you can consider going to Syros, Tinos, or Paxos. These islands also will provide a terrific Greek experience.
How Many Days Do You Need in Greece?
The answer to this ultimately depends on several factors, including your budget and how many places within Greece you want to experience.
Spending three to five days in Greece is possible if you are short on time. However, you would likely only be able to fit in one day in Athens and one nearby island.
That said, 11 to 15 days is the “sweet spot.” This allows three days in Athens, a day trip to a location like Meteora, and a few nights each on two to three islands.
Getting Around Greece
Many modes of transportation in Greece make exploring both the mainland and the islands accessible. The country has many options, from planes, buses, Ubers, and ferries.
The fastest way to travel throughout the country is, of course, by plane. Greece is home to 46 international and domestic airports, the most significant being Athens International Airport (ATH). The Athens airport receives the most flights from abroad and offers the most routes to the islands.
A more scenic and affordable way to explore the islands is by ferry. Depending on the season and route, ferry tickets can cost as little as 4 euros up to 100 euros. It’s one of the best things to do in Greece!
The public bus system is also modern, affordable, and comfortable. The buses offer routes to most communities except for sparsely populated towns. In select cities and islands, Uber is also available. However, reserving one is highly complicated and expensive, so it’s best to stick to public transportation where possible.
For the most flexibility, you can rent a car. Be mindful that locals can drive more aggressively than how you may be used to. Given that, make sure that you are very vigilant while driving.
🚗Book your rental car through Discover Cars!
(This is the company I use)
Is Greece Safe?
The short answer is yes! Greece is very safe for travelers of any nationality. In fact, Greece is one of the safest European Union countries to visit in 2023, according to risk monitoring apps.
As is the case with any destination, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings near tourist attractions or in large crowds. While levels of violent crime are relatively low, tourists can still fall victim to petty crimes like pickpocketing or bag snatching. Remain vigilant, don’t draw unnecessary attention to yourself, and don’t walk alone late at night.
Overall, if you obey the local laws and take general precautions, you should have an incident and worry-free Greece vacation!
Is Greece Good for Couples?
Absolutely! Year after year, Greece ranks one of the world’s top honeymoon destinations. This is due to a variety of reasons.
Greece is a timeless classic from striking blue waters, world-class cuisine, and luxury coastal resorts. It attracts millions of happy couples and honeymooners searching for romance and relaxation each year.
A few of the most popular destinations for a honeymoon or couples retreat include Santorini, Mykonos, Milos, Antiparos, and Ios.
Santorini’s close proximity to Athens makes it an easy choice, while couples looking to escape the tourist crowds choose Antiparos, Milos, or Ios. In fact, Ios is known to have some of the world’s most romantic beaches that are perfect for swimming, hiking, and beach dining.
To Sum Up: Is Greece Worth Visiting in 2024?
So, is Greece worth visiting? As you likely learned from this post, Greece is truly a country that has it all. There are more than a million reasons why Greece is a phenomenal country to visit in 2023, but perfect weather, quiet beaches, and colorful coastal villages are excellent place to start.
While vacationing in Greece, you can discover hidden beaches, admire the magnificent rock formations of Meteora, or savor local wine and fresh seafood in Crete.
The possibilities are endless, from the freshest cuisine and the untouched mountain villages of the north to the lively nightlife scene of tropical Mykonos! Greece truly has something to appeal to every type of traveler.
If you still need convincing, check out more of my comprehensive Greece guides and itineraries before hitting the “book” button.
