Choose from 159 Fun Things to Do in Greece
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Corfu Cruise Port
The main port on the sun-soaked Greek island serves as a gateway to the pristine beaches of the coastline, the verdant mountainous interior, and Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Disembarking cruisers can experience Mediterranean beaches, traditional Greek gastronomy, and historic sites.
The Basics
Cruise ships arriving in Corfu dock at Neo Limani (New Port) in Corfu Town. Shore excursions often include guided walking tours of Corfu Old Town, covering sights such as Spianada (Esplanade) square, the Old Fortress (Palaio Frourio), and ornate 16th-century St. Spyridon Church. Some shore excursions incorporate other island highlights, including 19th-century Achillion Palace, built by Empress Sisi of Austria, and the village of Paleokastritsa, known for its beach and 15th-century Venetian monastery.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Most Corfu shore excursions include pickup and drop-off at the cruise port.
- Corfu shore excursions typically last for 5–6 hours and allow you to see not only Corfu Old Town, but also other attractions scattered around the island.
- Note than many restaurants and shops close for a siesta between 3pm and 5pm.
How to Get to Corfu Town from the Corfu Cruise Port
The cruise port is situated just over 1 mile (2 kilometers) west of Corfu Old Town. Local buses connect the port with the town of Corfu, and many cruise ships docking here run shuttle buses to the center of town too. Taxis are available at the cruise terminal, and the walk to town from the cruise port takes 20–30 minutes.
Port Information
The terminal at the cruise port is well equipped with passenger facilities, including an ATM and car rental agencies. A tourist information kiosk can be found on Spianada square.
Address: Xen Stratigou 2, Kerkyra, Corfu 49100, Greece
From $ 105
Anthony Quinn Bay
Who would have thought that a small, rocky bay hidden on the coast of Rhodes island would be the subject of a court case, but that’s exactly what happened in the 1990s, when the local government decided to revoke the rights of the bay’s namesake. Named in honor of actor Anthony Quinn, who fell in love with the secluded beach whilst filming the 1961 hit The Guns of Navarone in Rhodes, the bay was gifted to him in thanks for putting the island on the map. Later however, as Quinn progressed with plans to transform the space into an arts and film center, the ‘gift’ was taken away, causing friction between the actor and his beloved second home.
Today, the bay still keeps its name and makes a popular spot for beachgoers, who can be found sprawled on deckchairs along the small, pebbled beach. With an expanse of shallow emerald green water framed by dramatic coastal rocks, this is one of the island’s most undeniably picturesque beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing or simply watching the sunset. The bay’s clear waters and rugged coastline also make it a great destination for snorkeling, with colorful reefs running along the rocks and waters teeming with fish.
Address: Greece
From $ 81
Corfu Town
The capital of the Greek island of Corfu, Corfu Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Twin fortresses, known as the Old Fortress and the New Fortress, stand atop two hills overlooking the old town, where you’ll find cobbled lanes strung with clotheslines, squares, museums, and an astonishing number of churches for a city of its size.
The Basics
Corfu Town is a charming place for a shop or a wander, and among the best places on the island to delve into local history. The town is a common stop-off on day tours of the island, which typically combine a guided walking tour of the city with stops at the likes of Achillion Palace, the Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Paleokastritsa, Kanoni, and some of the island’s beaches.
For history buffs exploring independently, there are several interesting museums, including the Antivouniotissa Museum, which displays Byzantine artwork and artifacts, and Corfu Living History, a waxwork-filled townhouse showcasing life on the island in the mid-19th century.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Corfu Town is a must for history buffs and souvenir shoppers.
- Wear sturdy shoes for strolling around Corfu Town as many of the streets are cobbled.
- The narrow streets, cobblestone surfaces, and stepped entrances of the old town make wheelchair access difficult.
How to Get There
Corfu Town is situated on the east coast of the island. Travelers arriving by cruise ship usually dock at a port just over 1 mile (2 kilometers) west of the old town, and local buses and shuttle buses run between the two. Local blue bus 15 travels between Corfu Town and the airport, about 1 mile (2 kilometers) southwest of town.
When to Get There
Corfu Town, particularly the historical core, is busiest between June and August. As a visit requires some walking and the midday heat can be intense, it’s best to come either early in the morning or in late afternoon. Note that some restaurants and shops close for a siesta between around 3pm and 5pm.
What to See and Do in Corfu Town
Part of the pleasure of Corfu Town is simply wandering about and seeing what you happen upon, whether a quiet back alley or a bustling square. There are several sights in Corfu Town worth seeking out, including the Corfu Museum of Asian Art, which displays everything from Chinese ceramics to Japanese samurai armour. Elsewhere, the arcade-lined Liston promenade is a good place to shop, while Spianada Square is ideal for people-watching.
Address: Corfu, Greece
From $ 69
Floating Naval Museum Battleship Averof
The decommissioned armored cruiser Georgios Averof is one of two legendary Greek naval ships that have been transformed into floating museums; built in Italy during the first years of the 20th century, she served in the First Balkan War, played a major part in both world wars and patrolled the Indian Ocean as the flagship of the Greek fleet and was taken out of combat in 1952. The Navy restored and reopened Averof as a maritime museum in 1984; today four decks are open for public scrutiny, including the officers’ sumptuous quarters, engine rooms, cramped accommodation cabins, the chapel and kitchens are all on show among uniforms, weaponry, navigational charts, medals and many black-and-white images of the ship in mid battle. The Averof is manned and managed by the Greek Navy and opening hours are liable to be erratic, so check ahead online before visiting. She is moored up in Flisvou Marina, with the former naval ship Velos close by as well as a replica trireme called Olympias; it’s a pleasant place to wander around while spotting the gleaming, modern super-yachts bobbing in the water. Otherwise incorporate a visit to the ship into a cycle tour of Athens Riviera.
Practical Info
Flisvou Marina, Faliro Bay, Athens. Open Mon–Fri 9am–2pm, Sat–Sun 10am–5pm. Admission adults €2, seniors & student €1.50, children younger than 18 go free. Take tram no 4 from Syntagma Square to Trocadero.
Address: Flisvou Marina, Athens, Attica, Greece 175 10, Greece
Hours: Open Mon–Fri 9am–2pm and Sat–Sun 10am–5pm
Admission: Adults: €2; Seniors & Students: €1.50; Children: Free
From $ 44
Attica Zoological Park
For more than 10 years Attica Zoological Park has been the premier destination for wildlife education and conservation in Athens. Travelers can venture through the lush grounds for an up close look at birds, mammals, reptiles and insects from around the world.
Whether it’s exploring the grey hornbills and spurred tortoises of Africa, checking out one of the fun-filled shows at the Marine Mammals’ Educational Center, or traveling back in time on a visit to the interactive Dinosavropolis, there’s something for everyone at this favorite stop for families on holiday in Athens.
Practical Info
The zoo is located in At Yalou, Spata. It’s accessible via Bus Lane 319. Insiders say the zoo is busiest on Sundays between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., so travelers looking to avoid crowds should plan to arrive earlier or later on Sundays.
Address: At Yalou, Spata, Athens, Greece
Hours: Daily 9am-sunset
Admission: Adults €15, Children 3-12 €11, Children under 3 free
From $ 116
Arkadi Monastery
Perched on a 500-meter high plateau with a backdrop of hillside vineyards, ancient olive groves and the distant peak of Mt Ida, it’s easy to see why the Arkadi Monastery draws so many visitors. The unique building, with its blend of Renaissance and Greek style architecture, fairytale turrets and dramatic central bell tower, has the presence of a fortress rather than a church, and behind its attractive façade lies a long and bloody history.
Built in 1587 on the site of a 13th-century Byzantine church, Arkadi Monastery is most famous for its role during the 1866 rebellion, when around 900 women, children and guerrilla fighters took refuge in the monastery and were held under siege by Turkish troops. Despite holding out for nine days, the monastery eventually fell to the Turks, but today, the monastery is treasured as a National Monument and an important reminder of the fight for Cretan independence.
Practical Info
Arkadi Monastery is located in central Crete, 25 km southeast of Rethimnon and is open daily from 9am-6pm.
Address: Crete, Greece
Hours: Daily: April-May, Sept-Oct 9am-7pm; June-Aug until 8pm; Nov until 5pm; Dec-March until 4pm
From $ 93
Archaeological Museum of Delos
In Ancient Greek mythology, the tiny Cycladean island of Delos was the birthplace of Apollo and his twin sister Artemis; in thanks for the safe delivery their mother vowed to make the island the richest community in Greece. And so it came to pass.
Delos was first colonized in around 1100 BC as a sanctuary to Apollo. By 456 BC the island was under Macedonian control and many of the surviving monuments of this vast, open-air museum date from that era, as its community of 25,000 people became a powerful trading port in the eastern Mediterranean. However, Delos lost its strategic importance in the first century BC and was gradually abandoned.
Excavations began there in 1873 and one of the wonders of the ancient world was unearthed from the UNESCO-listed site covering 235 acres (95 hectares) — only 62 acres (25 hectares) have been uncovered so far — of temples, sanctuaries, villas, palaces, amphitheaters and baths. The most famous of the Delos ruins is the Terrace of Lions, a row of marble lions that guarded Apollo’s sanctuary. Today nine replicas stand in their place, while five originals are found in Delos Archaeological Museum, which has nine galleries displaying finds from the archaeological excavations including mosaics, fragments of marble and stone torsos and heads as well as ivory and bronze reliefs, all dating from the seventh to the first century BC. As well as the marble lions, highlights of the collection include a bronze mask of Dionysos, wall paintings depicting boxing matches and great feasts, and a giant marble statue of Apollo. Considering this is one of the most important classical sites in the world, there is little interpretive information among the Delos ruins, so visit the museum first for an understanding of the history and importance of the island.
Practical Info
Delos, Mykonos. Open Apr–¬Oct 8am–8pm; Nov–Mar 8am–3pm. Admission adults €5, seniors, students & children younger than 19 €3. Delos is accessible by twice daily boats from Mykonos. Additional services run from Tinos and Naxos in summer.
Address: Delos, Cyclades, Greece 846 00, Greece
Hours: Open daily Apr–Oct 8am–8pm; Nov–Mar 8am–3pm
Admission: Adults: €5; Seniors, Students & Children younger than 19: €3
From $ 42
Delos
Archaeological buffs and lovers of legends can't miss a trip to the sacred island of Delos, the archaeological jewel of the Cyclades. Travelers can see firsthand where the ancients lived and clamber over the ruins they left behind. Held sacred as the mythological birthplace of Apollo, Delos was at the heart of the ancient world as an important religious and commercial center, reaching its zenith in the Hellenic period around the 5th century BC.
The huge site sprawls along the island’s west coast, from the stadium in the north to the old trading warehouses to the south. Standouts include the Sanctuary of Apollo temples and the Terrace of the Lions. The remains of private houses surround the semicircular theater, and the site includes several agoras, monuments, sanctuaries and temples. You can see finds from the excavations at the site museum, including the original lions from the much-photographed Terrace of the Lions. Another must-do is the climb up nearby Mt Kythnos for views over the island, sea and site.
The huge site sprawls along the island’s west coast, from the stadium in the north to the old trading warehouses to the south. Standouts include the Sanctuary of Apollo temples and the Terrace of the Lions. The remains of private houses surround the semicircular theater, and the site includes several agoras, monuments, sanctuaries and temples. You can see finds from the excavations at the site museum, including the original lions from the much-photographed Terrace of the Lions. Another must-do is the climb up nearby Mt Kythnos for views over the island, sea and site.
Practical Info
Delos lies a 30-minute sail southwest of Mykonos, only 5km (less than 1 mile) away. You can take an organized tour to Delos, or catch a boat from Chora Mykonos. Factoring in the return boat trips, stays on Delos are a maximum of six or seven hours.
You can’t stay overnight on Delos, which has been uninhabited since 478 BC. Facilities are limited, so pack a picnic and bring all the essentials, including a sunhat and walking shoes.
You can’t stay overnight on Delos, which has been uninhabited since 478 BC. Facilities are limited, so pack a picnic and bring all the essentials, including a sunhat and walking shoes.
Address: Greece
Hours: Open Tue – Sun: 8:30am-3pm
Admission: Adults: € 5
From $ 42
Archaeological Museum of Olympia
The site of the Ancient Olympic Games in Olympia in the Peloponnese was lost to time and earthquake until 1875 when excavation began to uncover the ancient stadium (which could seat 20,000), the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera (where the Olympic Flame is still lit from the sun), and many other important buildings.
Today they are only ruins, foundations and columns mainly but still of great interest and one of the most visited ancient sites in Greece.
Adjoining the site is the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, which contains some of Greece's most valuable historic artifacts found in the Altis or sanctuary to Zeus. The museum is famous for its sculpture collection including Nike who was said to come down from the sky to hand a palm leaf to the victors. The large terracotta collection is also renowned and this modern museum is a great way to get a feel for how it was to be at those ancient games.
Today they are only ruins, foundations and columns mainly but still of great interest and one of the most visited ancient sites in Greece.
Adjoining the site is the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, which contains some of Greece's most valuable historic artifacts found in the Altis or sanctuary to Zeus. The museum is famous for its sculpture collection including Nike who was said to come down from the sky to hand a palm leaf to the victors. The large terracotta collection is also renowned and this modern museum is a great way to get a feel for how it was to be at those ancient games.
Address: Greece
Hours: Sun-Mon: 9am-4pm; Tues-Sat: 8am-6pm (last entry 15 minutes prior to closing)
Admission: Varies
From $ 92
Elafonisi Beach
With shallow waters, pale pink-tinted sands, and sweeping dunes, Elafonisi is frequently and deservedly listed among Europe’s best beaches. The beach is connected to a protected island nature reserve, which is home to a variety of rare plants and animals, including loggerhead sea turtles.
The Basics
Elafonisi Beach is a little pocket of paradise and a must-see for visitors to Crete. Many day tours from Chania visit the beach and also stop at the 17th-century Chrisoskalitissa Monastery en route. Most day tours include several hours of free time at Elafonisi, so travelers can sunbathe, swim, and head out across to the island nature reserve to explore the trails. At low tide, visitors can walk across to the island via the exposed sandbar. At high tide, the sandbar is covered by wadable-depth water.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Elafonisi Beach is a must for families, beach lovers, and nature enthusiasts.
- The shallow waters of the beach are ideal for bathing, so be sure to bring a swimsuit.
- Sun loungers and umbrellas can be rented on the main beach.
- There are no facilities on the island, so carry water with you if you go exploring.
- The beach is not suitable for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Elafonisi Beach is situated in the west of Crete, around 46 miles (74 kilometers) southwest of Chania. Local KTEL buses connect Chania to Elafonisi. It's easiest to arrive as part of a tour that includes transportation.
When to Get There
Get there before 11am—earlier, if possible—to find a favorable spot on the sand. While the beach gets busier later in the day, there is usually enough space on the sand that you won’t be elbow-to-elbow with your fellow sunbathers.
What to See on the Island
Elafonisi island offers the chance to escape the beach crowds and enjoy some quiet time amid nature. Follow trails leading to a lighthouse on the western tip, where you can gaze out across the Mediterranean, and look out for the sea daffodils and juniper trees that grow here in abundance. For those who want to sunbathe away from the busy mainland beach, it’s possible to find small and quiet hideaway coves on the island.
Address: Elafonisi, Crete, Greece
From $ 56
Fira to Oia Hiking Trail
The most spectacular walking trail on one of Greece’s most spectacular islands, the Fira to Oia hiking trail winds northwards past ancient churches, hilly vineyards and through cute, timeless white villages as well as passing along the rim of Santorini’s massive volcanic caldera.
Leaving Fira close to the cable-car station, the trail leads first to the cliff-side village of Firostefani and then on to the 17th-century Byzantine Monastery of St Nicholas, which holds a priceless collection of Orthodox icons. Next stop is the gorgeous, whitewashed Imerovigli, which has many blue-domed chapels and churches as well as plenty of tavernas and cafés with panoramas stretching across the Aegean Sea to the western side of the caldera, which forms the island of Thirassia.
Shortly after Imerovigli, there’s a truly breathtaking view out over the caldera and the azure waters of the Aegean at Skaros Rock. Heading onwards past two more white churches, the settlement of Oia hoves into view, with its sophisticated cafés, bars and restaurants string out along the clifftop.
The 6.75-mile (11-km) hike takes up to four hours and much longer with photo stops — expert photographers lead guided tours to all the best viewing points — and the well-marked route is easy to follow. The path is reasonably maintained but can be uneven and although it is not too taxing, it is steep in parts. Hiking in the middle of the day is manageable in spring and fall, but from June to early September it’s best to set off early in the morning or late afternoon, aiming to arrive in Oia for what is probably the most romantic sunset in the world.
Practical Info
It takes four hours to cover the 6.75-mile (11-km) walking route between the two villages. Wear sturdy shoes. Buses depart Oia for Fira regularly throughout the day.
Address: Fira to Oia Trail, Santorini, Cyclades, Greece
From $ 81
Athens Numismatic Museum
Now supported by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, the Athens Numismatic Museum first opened in 1834 and has been relocated several times during its lifetime; its present resting place is the Iliou Melathron (Palace of Iliou), a late 19th century Neo-classical mansion that was once home to German archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann, who discovered Troy. The house, designed by Ernest Ziller in 1881, is as big an attraction as the museum and is surrounded on three sides by manicured gardens full of replicas of classical statues. Inside, a series of grand apartments are filled with highly patterned marble floors, elaborately painted ceilings and wall paintings reflecting Schliemann’s interest in ancient civilizations.
The museum itself is dedicated to rare coins, weights, stamps, medals and gemstones from across the world, mostly donated to the collection by wealthy Greek benefactors. Thematically displayed in a series of lavish apartments are rare and ancient coins from Hellenistic, Roman, medieval and Byzantine times, as well as modern coins from European states. With more than 500,000 artifacts in total, this is one of the most important numismatic museums in the world, with great rarities in the collections including gold coins dating back to Alexander the Great in 356 BC and to the Egyptian Pharaoh Ptolemy I in 305 BC. The library of some 12,000 books is also available for research purposes.
Practical Info
Iliou Melathron, Eleftheriou Venizelou (Panepistimiou) 12, Athens. Open Mon 1pm–8pm, Tue–Sun 9am–4pm. Adults €6, seniors, students and children younger than 18 €4. Special price for admission to National Archaeological Museum, Byzantine & Christian Museum, Epigraphic and Numismatic Museums: adult €15, concessions €8. Take the metro to Syntagma Square; from there the museum is a short walk.
Address: Iliou Melathron, Eleftheriou Venizelou (Panepistimiou) 12, Athens, Attica, Greece 106 71, Greece
Hours: Open Mon 1pm–8pm and Tue–Sun 9am–4pm
Admission: Adults: €6; Seniors, Students and Children younger than 18: €4
From $ 38
Balos Beach and Lagoon
Bridging the gap between the wild Gramvousa Peninsula and the idyllic Cape Tigani, Balos Beach is a startlingly blue lagoon, framed by jagged sea cliffs and pristine pink and white sand beaches. A pocket of paradise, Balos Beach is one of Crete’s most photographed natural beaches.
The Basics
The best way to experience the natural beauty of Balos Beach, is on a boat trip, which affords stunning views of the lagoon and the Mediterranean Sea. A typical full-day tour begins at Rethymnon, Georgioupolis, Kolymbari, or Chania. Continue on to discover the caves around Kissamos Bay, the beautiful beaches of Gramvousa Island, and Imeri Gramvousa fortress, before diving in to swim in the lagoon’s turquoise waters.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Between April and October, visitor facilities include restrooms, a beach café, and sun beds.
- Visitors arriving by road are required to pay a small entrance fee to enter the Balos Reserve and parking area.
How to Get There
Balos Beach is located along the Gramvousa Peninsula on the northwest coast of Crete, around 35 miles (56 kilometers) from Chania and 11 miles (17 kilometers) from Kissamos. Daily ferries run from Kissamos port to Balos, but it’s also possible to arrive by 4WD, following a dirt road from Kaliviani along Cape Gramvousa.
When to Get There
Summer is the most popular time to visit Balos Beach, though the small beach can get crowded—especially in July and August. For peace and quiet, make an early start and arrive before the crowds descend upon the lagoon.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving at the Balos Lagoon
The Balos Lagoon is a Natura 2000 reserve, where monk seals and loggerhead sea turtles might be spotted. It’s a prime spot for swimming and snorkeling, and scuba diving—another popular activity around the lagoon—includes the possibility of exploring the underwater wreckage of an English landing craft.
Address: Balos, Crete, Greece
From $ 72
Gournes Beach
Gournes Beach is a sandy beach in the town of Gournes on northern Crete. It is located nine miles east of Heraklion, the capital of the island. The town is on a fertile plain where vegetables and olives are grown. Gournes was once the site of a US Air Force communications base, but when the base closed in 1993, many locals became unemployed. The coastal town has since built itself up again as a quiet vacation destination. The town has no banks or pharmacies, and only a few stores. However, there are small guesthouses, restaurants and taverns to provide a fun beach vacation for visitors. The Crete Aquarium, the largest aquarium in southern Europe, is also located in Gournes.
The sandy beaches of Gournes are along the north shore of Crete. Some areas of the beach are well organized with lifeguards, umbrellas and lounge chairs, while other sections are stretches of open sand. Some parts of the beach are across the street from restaurants where sunbathers can get drinks and snacks. There are several man-made rock jetties to break the waves, and several coves have formed in between the jetties. The beach meets with beaches of neighboring towns to form part of the largest coastal tourist area in Crete.
Practical Info
There are regular buses that connect Heraklion with Gournes. The airport in Heraklion is the closest airport to Gournes.
Address: Gournes Beach, Gournes, Crete, Greece
From $ 60
Corinth
With its spectacular mountainside setting looking out over the Gulf of Corinth, the ancient city of Corinth is one of the most impressive in the Peloponnese. The remarkably preserved Roman ruins are the star attraction for visitors, while the modern town of Corinth sits on the coast, a short drive from the famous Corinth Canal.
The Basics
Most visitors head straight for the archaeological site of ancient Corinth, where the most memorable monument is the Doric Temple of Apollo, which dates back to 540 BC. Other highlights of a walking tour include the Peirene Fountain, the ancient theater, the Peribolos of Apollo, and the Roman Odeon.
It’s possible to explore on a half-day tour from Athens, but full-day tours often combine a visit to Corinth with the nearby acropolis of Acrocorinth, the Byzantine monastery of Daphni, the ancient city of Mycenae, or the seaside town of Nafplio.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is an entrance fee to visit the Corinth archaeological site, which includes entry to the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore ancient Corinth; the archaeological site has uneven and hilly terrain.
- Some parts of the site are accessible for wheelchair users and those with reduced mobility, but the ground is pebbly in parts and assistance may be required.
How to Get There
Corinth is located along the coast of the Gulf of Corinth on the Peloponnese Peninsula. Cross the Corinth Canal if you’re driving from Athens. Buses run from Athens to the modern town of Corinth, and there are also direct trains from Athens airport. From Corinth town, regular buses run up the short distance to the ancient city, around 4.5 miles (7 kilometers) away.
When to Get There
It’s possible to visit Corinth year-round, but the busiest period is during the summer months of July and August. Making an early start is advisable, but not only to escape the crowds—the ruins offer little shade and the midday sun can be unbearably hot.
Corinth Canal
Linking mainland Greece to the Peloponnese Peninsula, the Roman-built Corinth Canal is an impressive feat of engineering. A hugely important navigational route during the 19th century, modern cruise or freight ships no longer use the narrow isthmus connecting the Gulf of Corinth and the Saronic Gulf today. However, the dramatic cliffs provide a thrilling backdrop for sightseeing cruises, and the canal bridges are a popular spot for bungee jumping.
Address: Corinth, Greece
From $ 54
Aristotelous Square
The hub of civic activity in Thessaloniki is Aristotelous Square, which was designed by French architect Ernest Hébrard in 1918 after the devastating fire of 1917 that destroyed much of the city center. Sitting on the waterfront just off Nikis Avenue, the square was designed to mimic the vast and grandiose open plazas found in many European maritime cities – such as the Praca do Comercio in Lisbon – and to move away from the chaotic layout of Ottoman Thessaloniki towards an ordered town development plan. Today most of the monumental mansions that line the piazza were rebuilt in the 1950s and renovated again in the early 21st century. It is one of the biggest and most impressive squares in Greece, offering a view of Thermaikos Gulf to the southwest and up the grand boulevard of Aristotelous to the gardens of Platia Dikastirion.
Thessaloniki is northern Greece’s party town and New Year sees crowds spilling into Aristotelous Square for the countdown to midnight before they pile into late-night clubs and bars to celebrate until sunrise. The square is also a popular spot for social events and festivals throughout the year; during the recent unrest concerning Greece’s financial position within the EU, many protests and political rallies also took place here.
Practical Info
Nikis Avenue, Thessaloniki. Open 24/7 free of charge and best
accessed on foot along seafront Nikis Avenue; it’s a five-minute walk from Thessaloniki train station.
Address: Nikis Avenue, Thessaloniki, Central Macedonia 54623, Greece
From $ 46
Aqualand Corfu
Aqualand Corfu is the island’s biggest and most popular water park and offers themed zones catering for all ages, carefully watched over by qualified lifeguards. Stretching over an area of 130,000 sq ft (12,000 sq m) landscaped with lawns and mature maple trees, it is a family paradise of water rides and slides, lazy rivers and 15 swimming pools for a day of fun in the sun.
Toddlers up to the age of four can enjoy shallow bathing pools with water showers, playing splashy games on Fantasy Island and exploring the Caribbean Pirate Adventure Pool. There’s a dedicated family area (kids must be aged eight and over) with giant slides, Jacuzzis, a lazy river and a wave pool. Adrenaline junkies can get their kicks from six extreme water ride ranging from the spiraling Hydrotube to the hair-raising Free Fall Plus, which plunges vertically for 80 ft (24 m) into deep water.
Facilities include plenty of free sunbeds and parasols for shade and lockers to hire for a small charge of €5; there are changing rooms and showers as well as food outlets scattered throughout the park and stores selling sun lotion, rubber rings and pool toys.
Practical Info
The water park is open May–Oct daily 10am–6pm. Admission for adults is €35; children are €25 for the two-day pass. One day pass for adults is €27; seniors & children aged 5–12 are €19; aged five and younger go free. Aqualand is three miles (5 km) from Corfu Town. For public transportation, take no. 8 bus from San Rocco Square. The park can also be visited as part of a half-day shore excursion from the cruise-liner port in Corfu Town.
Address: Agios Ioannis Corfu, Agios Ioannis Parelion, Corfu Town (Kerkyra), Corfu 491 00, Greece
Hours: May–Oct daily 10am–6pm
Admission: One day pass: adults €27; seniors & children aged 5–12 €19
From $ 39
Delphi
Delphi, with its remarkably preserved ruins dotted along the southern slopes of Mount Parnassus, is one of Greece’s most famous archaeological site. Dating back to the seventh century BC, the ancient city of Delphi is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to sites such as the Sacred Way, Stoa of the Athenians, polygonal wall, monument of Platea, and Temple of Apollo.
The Basics
The only way to explore the sprawling ruins of Delphi is on foot. Visiting with a tour guide offers a greater insight into the fascinating history of the archaeological site, while the nearby Delphi Archaeological Museum offers an array of exhibits.. Most visitors choose to visit on a day tour from Athens or Patras, often combined with nearby attractions such as Arachova, Saint Lucas Monastery, or Meteora.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The ruins of Delphi are spread over a large area—plan at least half a day to take in the highlights.
- Bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and comfortable shoes to walk around the ruins.
- The Delphi Museum is wheelchair accessible, but due to steep and uneven ground, it is not possible to visit the ruins up close via wheelchair.
How to Get to Delphi
Delphi is located at the foot of Mount Parnassus in central Greece, 112 miles (180 kilometers) northwest of Athens. The closest airport is in Athens, about a 3-hour journey away, and it can be reached by bus or car.
When to Get There
The busiest time to visit Delphi is summer, so arrive early if you want to skip the queues and avoid the midday heat. For cooler weather and fewer crowds, visiting in spring is a popular alternative, while winter visitors can make the most of the nearby ski resorts.
Ancient Delphi in Greek Mythology
In ancient Greece, Delphi was considered the center of the world, or the place where heaven and earth met. Legend says that Zeus released two eagles from opposite ends of the earth to find its center, and they met over Delphi. The city become a sanctuary to the god Apollo and home of the famous Oracle of Delphi, a trusted oracle from which the spirit of Apollo gave advice on everything from domestic matters to war.
Address: Delphi 33054, Greece
Hours: Open daily. Winter: 8:30am - 3pm, Summer: 8am - 8pm
Admission: Adults: €12
From $ 69
Gazi
Gazi has reinvented itself in recent years as one of Athens’ coolest nightlife and entertainment districts, and the lively neighborhood makes a worthy addition to any tourist itinerary.
Once Athens’ main industrial area, Gazi’s makeover was kick started when the old gasworks was transformed into the Technopolis cultural center. The center remains the epicenter of Gazi, hosting concerts, art exhibitions and a museum, while the surrounding neighborhood is now crammed with bars, restaurants, live music venues and nightclubs.
Gazi is easy to explore on foot, with the majority of venues clustered around the Technopolis, and the surrounding streets of Iakou, Persephonis, Dekeleon and Voutadon. Bar hopping tours are also a great way to discover the area’s nightlife and get the inside scoop on the hippest bars and clubs.
Insider’s Tip: Gazi is also the heart of the city’s gay scene, with the highest concentration of gay bars and dance clubs in Athens.
Practical Info
The Gazi neighborhood is located in west Athens and the closest metro station is Kerameikos.
Address: Gazi, Athens, Greece
From $ 37
Byzantine & Christian Museum
The Byzantine and Christian Museum is housed in the lovely Neo-Classical Villa Ilissia in the Athens suburb of the same name; it was built in 1848 as the residence of Sophie de Marbois-Lebrun, the philanthropic US-born Duchess of Plaisance. Having had an architectural facelift in 2004, the museum has one of the best displays of Byzantine icons and mosaics on earth. Its priceless exhibits are laid out chronologically to trace the development of early Christian and Greek Byzantine culture from the 4th century onwards, drawing on more than 25,000 treasures from across the Greek world including religious statuary removed from ruined churches in Attica. Among the Coptic priestly vestments, pottery, the frescoes, armor and fragmented mosaics is a world-beating collection of more than 3,000 glittering Byzantine icons. Modern-day religious art in Greece is covered in a series of ever-changing temporary exhibits.
Allow at least two hours to visit this well-curated, well-lit gallery, with multi-lingual labeling and displays spread over several floors. It’s often crowded in summer so get there early in the morning. The Byzantine and Christian Museum sits next door to the War Museum of Athens and close to Aristotle’s Lyceum, the remains of one of the three major academic gymnasia of ancient Athens, which is a pleasant park for a stroll among olive trees and scented rosemary bushes. Further treasures from Greece’s Classical past are on show at the National Archaeological Museum.
Practical Info
22 Vassilissis Sofias Ave, Athens. Open Tue–Sun 9am–4pm. Admission adults €8, seniors & students €4, children younger than 18 go free. Take the metro Line 3 (blue) to Evangelismos or walk from Syntagma Square. Several galleries in the museum’s permanent exhibition are currently closed, with no fixed date for their reopening.
Address: 22 Vassilissis Sofias Ave, Athens, Attica, Greece 106 75, Greece
Hours: Open Tue–Sun 9am–4pm
Admission: Adults: €8; Seniors & Students: €4; Children: Free
From $ 38