Choose from 159 Fun Things to Do in Greece
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Piraeus Cruise Port
The Piraeus cruise terminal is an important historical port in Greece and one of the largest cruise ship docks in Europe. While known by cruisers as a gateway to the ancient city of Athens, the Aegean Islands, and other destinations in the Mediterranean, the city of Piraeus also merits a visit with its traditional town center, lovely parks and churches, and numerous cafes set along the tree-lined streets of the harbor.
The Basics
Most shore excursions departing Piraeus head inland to nearby Athens (8 miles or 13.5 km away). With half- and full-day Athens tours available, travelers can explore the Greek capital and its UNESCO-listed Acropolis—including Parthenon Temple, the Plaka District, and Temple of Zeus—or visit popular attractions such as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Olympic Stadium. Other popular day trips head to Vouliagmeni Beach (15 miles or 24 km away); southern Cape Sounion and its Temple of Poseidon (52 miles or 83 km away); ancient Corinth (52 miles or 83 km away); or the Greek islands of Poros, Hydra, and Egina (58 miles or 93 km across the Saronic Gulf). Back at the dock in Piraeus, visitors can experience the city’s National Archaeological Museum and its collection of art from Greek antiquity, including bronze statues of Athena and Apollo.
The Basics
Most shore excursions departing Piraeus head inland to nearby Athens (8 miles or 13.5 km away). With half- and full-day Athens tours available, travelers can explore the Greek capital and its UNESCO-listed Acropolis—including Parthenon Temple, the Plaka District, and Temple of Zeus—or visit popular attractions such as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Olympic Stadium. Other popular day trips head to Vouliagmeni Beach (15 miles or 24 km away); southern Cape Sounion and its Temple of Poseidon (52 miles or 83 km away); ancient Corinth (52 miles or 83 km away); or the Greek islands of Poros, Hydra, and Egina (58 miles or 93 km across the Saronic Gulf). Back at the dock in Piraeus, visitors can experience the city’s National Archaeological Museum and its collection of art from Greek antiquity, including bronze statues of Athena and Apollo.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to Athens from the Piraeus Cruise Port
To reach Piraeus city center from the cruise terminal, head to the Piraeus metro station about a mile away—you can walk 20 minutes around the harbor to get there, or take bus No. 843 from the port to the station. From here, take the green metro line to central Athens in about 20 minutes, alighting at Omonia Station or Thissio for the Acropolis. Shore excursion tours typically include round-trip transportation, while shuttles buses and private transfers are also available from Piraeus to central Athens.
Port Information
In Piraeus, the language is Greek and the currency is the euro, although you will find both English speakers and ATMs in the tourist areas of the city. It’s possible to ferry to just about any of the major Greek Islands from Piraeus—the biggest problem you will encounter is choosing which one.
- Discover Athens on foot, or by Segway, cruise, or hop-on, hop-off bus on a shore excursion tour.
- Booking an excursion that includes transportation and an English-speaking tour guide is the best way to learn about the ancient sights.
- Most Piraeus shore excursion tours include pickup and dropoff at the Piraeus port.
- For a taste of local flavor, choose a food tour or an outdoor excursion with a traditional lunch.
How to Get to Athens from the Piraeus Cruise Port
To reach Piraeus city center from the cruise terminal, head to the Piraeus metro station about a mile away—you can walk 20 minutes around the harbor to get there, or take bus No. 843 from the port to the station. From here, take the green metro line to central Athens in about 20 minutes, alighting at Omonia Station or Thissio for the Acropolis. Shore excursion tours typically include round-trip transportation, while shuttles buses and private transfers are also available from Piraeus to central Athens.
Port Information
In Piraeus, the language is Greek and the currency is the euro, although you will find both English speakers and ATMs in the tourist areas of the city. It’s possible to ferry to just about any of the major Greek Islands from Piraeus—the biggest problem you will encounter is choosing which one.
Address: Piraeus Harbour, Piraeus 18538, Greece
From $ 20
Kotzia Square
Kotzia Square is located in central Athens, Greece and is lined with neo-classical buildings from the 19th century. One of the buildings here is the City Hall of Athens, which is decorated with busts of famous Athenians such as Pericles and Solon. Another impressive building on the square is the National Bank of Greece. The square was built in 1874 and was originally called Loudovikou Square. The current name is for a former Athens mayor, Konstantinos Kotzias. This square was the starting and finishing point of the men's and women's road race events during the 2004 Summer Olympics.
Ancient ruins and antiquities were discovered here, and now you can see them on display in the center of the square. Tombs, a small building, and part of an ancient road are all on display, reminding us of the long history of this city. In the areas surrounding the square, visitors can find pedestrian streets with plenty of shopping and several restaurants and cafes, some right on the square with outdoor seating.
Practical Info
Kotzia Square is surrounded by Efpolidos Street, Athinas Street, Kratinou Street, and Aiolou Street. To get there, take the metro to Omonoia Square and walk a few minutes south.
Address: Kotzia Square, Athens, Attica, Greece 10551, Greece
From $ 23
Monument of Lysicrates
The Monument of Lysicrates is the best preserved choragic monument in Athens, Greece. In ancient times, statues like this one were built as a base for placing trophies. Theater competitions were organized each year, and the sponsor of the winning performance won a trophy. This particular one was built by Lysicrates, a wealthy citizen of Athens, in the 4th century BC. It stands over 30 feet high and is crowned with a capital in the shape of acanthus leaves. The bronze trophy would have been placed on top of this capital.
On top of the pedestal, you can see a tholos, which is a circular structure with Corinthian columns and covered with a marble roof. Beneath the roof you can see a frieze that shows scenes from the winning play along with Dionysus, the patron god of the stage. The monument was integrated into a Capuchin monastery that was built in the same location in the mid 1600s, which is part of the reason it has survived.
Practical Info
The Monument of Lysicrates is located on Lysicrates Square near the Acropolis. The closest metro station is Acropoli.
Address: Lysicrates Square, Athens, Attica, Greece 10558, Greece
From $ 20
Kourtaliotiko Gorge
A vast canyon burrowing between the Kouroupis and Xiro Oros mountains, the Kourtaliotiko Gorge is among Crete’s most dramatic natural attractions – running for almost 3 km along the Kourtaliotiko River. Starting out from the village of Koxare, the scenic canyon winds through the cliffs to join the Libyan Sea coast, where it forms a glistening lagoon fringed by the sandy beaches and verdant palm forests of the Preveli Palm Beach.
Most visitors choose to follow the road along the top of the canyon, enjoying the views over Kourtaliotiko Gorge and stopping to clamber down into the gorge and explore the many caves, streams and waterfalls, as well as the historic Church of St. Nicholas, perched on the hillside.
Practical Info
Kourtaliotiko Gorge is located 22 km south of Rethymnon in central Crete.
Address: Greece
From $ 83
Pyrgos
Pyrgos is a picturesque hillside village set on a volcanic crater at the highest point of the Greece’s Santorini, offering panoramic views of the rest of the island. At the top of the village sit the ruins of Kasteli Castle, remnants of the former capitol of the island before it was moved to Fira (where it remains today.)
Pyrgos is as beautiful as the rest of the island, but also has a special historic charm — with traditional white houses, Byzantine churches, Cycladic architecture, and small winding cobblestone lanes and paths. Some of the churches has beautiful old frescoes visible on the walls. The area sees far fewer tourists than the rest of the island, so it keeps a peaceful atmosphere. Though the town has merely 700 inhabitants, there are tavernas and local restaurants. Visiting the village is a way to experience the traditionally preserved culture of the Greek islands.
Pyrgos is as beautiful as the rest of the island, but also has a special historic charm — with traditional white houses, Byzantine churches, Cycladic architecture, and small winding cobblestone lanes and paths. Some of the churches has beautiful old frescoes visible on the walls. The area sees far fewer tourists than the rest of the island, so it keeps a peaceful atmosphere. Though the town has merely 700 inhabitants, there are tavernas and local restaurants. Visiting the village is a way to experience the traditionally preserved culture of the Greek islands.
Practical Info
Pyrgos is only few kilometers south of Fira, though it is best approached by car due to the steep location.
Address: Santorini, Greece, Greece
From $ 58
Medieval City of Rhodes
The historic core of Rhodes is its walled Old Town, and the medieval city of Rhodes is so beautifully preserved that it is now a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. Renowned as the oldest continuously inhabited medieval city in Europe, it not only offers an atmospheric introduction to medieval Greece, but its labyrinth streets and towering palace make it the perfect place to start a walking tour of Rhodes.
The medieval center is still encircled by its original 14th century fortification walls, which took over 200 years to construct and are dotted with gateways and watch towers. Enter through the northern Eleftherias (Liberty) Gate and you’ll find yourself in Simis Square, characterized by its striking medieval architecture and home to the Hellenistic ruins of the Temple of Aphrodite. Nearby, the lively cafes and souvenirs stores of Ippokratous Square and Sokratous street are the main tourist hubs, providing a central point from which to explore the Old Town’s many attractions.
The undisputed star of the Old Town is the dramatic hilltop Palace of the Grand Masters of the Knights of Rhodes, an unmistakable 14th-century castle, built by the Knights of St John. Leading down from the palace, the stone-paved Avenue of the Knights (Ippoton) is the city’s most famous medieval street, where the Knights once lived, and the nearby Archaeological Museum of Rhodes provides further insight into the island’s long and varied history. Also in the Old Town, the Folk Art museum and the Byzantine Museum are worth a visit, and the old Jewish quarter is home to the Kahal Shalom Synagogue and Museum. Additional sights include the Turkish Library and the Mosque of Suleiman, remnants of the 1522 Turkish invasion of Rhodes.
Address: Greece
From $ 64
Plaka
Plaka is the oldest residential district of Athens. Its historic narrow lanes and stepped alleys wind up the lower slope of the Acropolis. Once the heart of working class Athens, then the centre of music and nightclubbing, nowadays it's full of cafes and restaurants, also shops which tend to be aimed at tourists with prices to match. But it's definitely the nicest part of Athens to wander around between visits to the nearby archaeological sites and museums.
Head up the steps to the small area of Anafiotica. This is like a little Greek island village transplanted to Athens. It was built by the migrant workers who came to build the Presidential Palace in the 19th century when it was King Otto's palace.
Practical Info
Plaka is situated between the Acropolis and the National Gardens. The nearest metro is Akropoli.
Address: Athens, Greece
Admission: Free
From $ 20
Kolonaki Square
The epicenter of modern-day Athens, Kolonaki Square is the most fashionable spot for a coffee break in the city, located right at the heart of the upmarket Kolonaki district. Nestled in the shadows of Mount Lykavettos, the leafy square offers an idyllic setting and its many terrace cafés are brimming with locals during the summer months.
This is the place to sip a cappuccino at a glitzy café, spot Greek celebrities and socialites, and browse the designer boutiques of adjoining streets like Anagnostopoulou and Patriarchou Ioakim. The square is also buzzing with activity in the evening hours, when the neighborhood’s many restaurants, bars and nightclubs fill up with Athens’ most glamorous.
Practical Info
Kolonaki Square is located in the Kolonaki district of Athens, around 2km northeast of the Acropolis.
Did you know? Kolonaki (Column) takes its name from the ancient column that stands beneath the trees in the center of the square.
Address: Kolonaki Square, Athens, Greece
From $ 21
McArthurGlen Designer Outlet
Athens is known for its good taste and classic style. Visitors to this ancient city can find all of this and more on a trip to McArthurGlen Designer Outlets. Here, hundreds of designer brands unite under one roof to provide both travelers and locals with a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. High-style items can be found at roughly 70 percent off ticket price and open-air cafes, boutiques and tasty restaurants mean it’s easy to make a day of it. McArthurGlen is even home to an adventure playground, complete with slides, games and a carousel, which is sure to keep little ones happy, too.
Practical Info
The outlets are located about 30 minutes from the center of Athens in Building Block E71 in Spata. They are open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. and on weekends from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m.
Address: Block E71 Gialou, Spata, Athens, Greece
Hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; weekends 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
From $ 116
Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach)
With white sand and marble cliffs, Navagio Beach makes a striking setting for swimming and sunbathing. Set on sun-soaked Zakynthos island off the coast of Greece, Navagio Beach is a popular day trip destination. The beach’s centerpiece is a long-abandoned freighter—the remains of a smuggler’s shipwreck—that still languishes on the sands.
The Basics
Experience the history and scenery of Navagio Beach on a guided excursion to the shipwreck and nearby sea caves. Explore Zakynthos by coach and motor boat, and stop to swim in the beach's aquamarine waters, or hop on a full-day sightseeing cruise of the island to see Navagio by land and by sea. Don't miss the lookout point 600 feet (183 meters) above the beach.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There are no visitor facilities at the beach, so be sure to bring your own chairs, umbrellas, towels, water, and picnic supplies.
- Many boat tours to Navagio Beach are wheelchair accessible, but it's best to check with tour operators in advance.
How to Get There
Navagio Beach is tucked into an isolated cove on the northern coast of Zakynthos (also called Zante) in the Greek Ionian Islands. The beach is only reachable by sea, and boat trips set sail from nearby Porto Vromi Bay or the village of Volimes, taking about 20 minutes to reach Navagio.
When to Get There
Despite the fact that it can only be reached by sea, Navagio Beach gets packed with day-trippers and tourist boats in the summer high season. To escape crowds, try to visit early in the morning or in late afternoon. Visiting out of season means you'll get a rare chance to photograph the beach free of crowds, but boat departures are less frequent in winter.
The Famous Shipwreck Beach
The famous Navagio Beach is often better known by its nicknames, Shipwreck Beach or Smuggler's Cove. It acquired its notoriety in October 1980, when a freighter—allegedly used by smugglers—that was being chased by the Greek Navy ran aground and was abandoned on the shore. The rusting freighter, dubbed the Panagiotis, still lies at the center of the beach, slowly sinking into the sands and providing a unique photo opportunity for beach visitors.
Address: Navagio Beach, Zakynthos, Ionian Islands 29091, Greece
From $ 35
Koules Fortress
Situated at the end of the Heraklion’s inner harbor near the Old Harbor jetty is the Koules Fortress. Koules is the Turkish name for the fortress but the Venetians dubbed it the Rocco al Mare and the Castello del Molo in the 16th Century. It was a defensive mechanism, which stopped the Turks for 22 years and then became a Turkish prison for Cretan rebels. The harbor is now a drop off point for commercial and passenger ferries; the inner harbor is a concrete maze of apartments that now forms modern Heraklion.
The exterior is impressive, decorated with three stone lions of St. Mark (a symbol of Venetian imperialism), as well as embankments and cannonballs that will transport you to another century. Inside, you can find art exhibitions. Music and theatrical events are held on the upper level. Make sure to make your way to top for impressive views of the harbor. A thorough visit should take about an hour.
The exterior is impressive, decorated with three stone lions of St. Mark (a symbol of Venetian imperialism), as well as embankments and cannonballs that will transport you to another century. Inside, you can find art exhibitions. Music and theatrical events are held on the upper level. Make sure to make your way to top for impressive views of the harbor. A thorough visit should take about an hour.
Address: North end of 25 Avgoustou, Heraklion, Crete 71202, Greece
Hours: Apr-Oct: Tue-Sun 8:30am - 7pm; Nov-Mar, daily 8:30am - 3pm.
Admission: Adult: 2 EUR
From $ 17
Palace of Knossos
Once the glorious capital of Minoan Crete and one of the most powerful cities in the eastern Mediterranean, ancient Knossos is a place steeped in legend. Today, it’s Crete’s largest and most important archaeological site, crowned by the hilltop Palace of Knossos—built around 2000 BC—and revealing a fascinating history that stretches all the way back to the earliest European civilizations.
The Basics
The Palace of Knossos is one of the most popular attractions in Crete, but its immense size, little signage, and complex history means it’s worth visiting with a local guide. The best way to explore is on a guided walking tour, taking in highlights of the Minoan palace such as the Central Court, the Throne Room, the Tripartite Shrine, the Grand Staircase, and the Queen’s Hall.
How to Get to the Palace of Knossos
Knossos is located 3 miles (5 km) southeast of Heraklion in the north of Crete and is reachable by public transport and taxi from the city. Most visitors opt for a tour from either Heraklion or Rethimno (just over an hour’s drive away).
When to Get There
Knossos is open all year round, but the most popular months to visit are July and August. The site can get extremely busy, so arrive before opening at 8am or after 3pm if you want to avoid the crowds. Expect temperatures of up to 85°F (30°C) in midsummer.
Greek Mythology at Knossos Palace
Historic facts and Greek mythology intertwine at Knossos. While King Minos was believed to have been a real figure, the notorious Minotaur—the half-man, half-bull imprisoned in the palace’s labyrinth—and his creators, Daidalos and Ikaros, are characters of Greek legend.
The Basics
The Palace of Knossos is one of the most popular attractions in Crete, but its immense size, little signage, and complex history means it’s worth visiting with a local guide. The best way to explore is on a guided walking tour, taking in highlights of the Minoan palace such as the Central Court, the Throne Room, the Tripartite Shrine, the Grand Staircase, and the Queen’s Hall.
- Choose between a standard entrance ticket or a combined ticket that includes access to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
- Plan to spend around two hours at the archaeological site, excluding wait times.
- Ticket lines can be long in peak season—arrive early or book a skip-the-line tour to maximize your time.
- Knossos Palace provides little shade, so you should bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water if visiting in the summer months.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven ground.
- Many parts of the archaeological site are wheelchair accessible; entrance is free for visitors with disabilities.
How to Get to the Palace of Knossos
Knossos is located 3 miles (5 km) southeast of Heraklion in the north of Crete and is reachable by public transport and taxi from the city. Most visitors opt for a tour from either Heraklion or Rethimno (just over an hour’s drive away).
When to Get There
Knossos is open all year round, but the most popular months to visit are July and August. The site can get extremely busy, so arrive before opening at 8am or after 3pm if you want to avoid the crowds. Expect temperatures of up to 85°F (30°C) in midsummer.
Greek Mythology at Knossos Palace
Historic facts and Greek mythology intertwine at Knossos. While King Minos was believed to have been a real figure, the notorious Minotaur—the half-man, half-bull imprisoned in the palace’s labyrinth—and his creators, Daidalos and Ikaros, are characters of Greek legend.
Address: Greece
Hours: Nov–May: 8am–3pm, Jun–Oct: 8am–7pm
Admission: Adults: € 6
From $ 59
Megalo Kavouri
Megalo Kavouri, which means big crab, is one of the two main beaches in the coastal town of Vouliagmeni about 12 miles from Athens, Greece. The second beach is called Mikro Kavouri. Some parts of the beach are sandy while others are pebbles, and there are several coves. Megalo Kavouri has a large sandy cove with shallow water. The roads near the beach are lined with palm trees, providing welcome shade in the hot summer months. The beach is a popular choice for sunbathing, swimming, and other water activities due to the safe waters and the amount of space on the beach. The beaches in Vouliagmeni are consistently awarded the EU blue flags for environmental excellence.
Megalo Kavouri has plenty of beach facilities, lounge chairs, and umbrellas. Several restaurants, cafes, and fish taverns that serve local Greek cuisine are located near the beach. There are lots of hotels and resorts in the area as well. Often people will play beach volleyball and other beach games at Megalo Kavouri. In Vouliagmeni, visitors can see the ruins of the temple of Apollo Zoster as well as other ruins dating from the Neolithic and Bronze Ages.
Practical Info
Megalo Kavouri can be reached by public bus from Athens. There is no entrance fee to use the beach.
Address: Vouliagmeni, Greece
Hours: Daily
From $ 103
Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes
Though originally constructed in the 14th century by the Knights of St. John, the current Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes is a Mussolini-era reconstruction built after the original was destroyed by a 19th-century explosion. The lavish palace now serves as a museum displaying furniture, statues, and ancient mosaics.
The Basics
Visitors can explore parts of the palace interior, including the courtyard and interior rooms. Among the highlights of the collections held within are Greek and Roman floor mosaics taken from the Dodecanese island of Kos. The palace can often be seen during walking and Segway tours of Rhodes, with some longer sightseeing excursions including entrance to the palace and exploration of Rhodes Old Town, the Acropolis of Lindos, and the Acropolis of Rhodes.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes is a must for history buffs.
- No cafe or shop is situated within the palace, but lots can be found in the surrounding Old Town.
- Much of the palace, as well as Rhodes Old Town in which it is situated, present challenges to wheelchair users, with steps and uneven cobbled surfaces.
How to Get There
The palace is situated within the medieval center of the city at the top of the Street of the Knights (Ippoton). The best way to get there is on foot. The palace is just a short walk from Mandraki Harbour and the KTEL East Side bus terminal.
When to Get There
The palace is busiest during the tourist season, which runs from April through November, particularly when cruise ships are in port. Even then, the palace is rarely crowded, and it’s likely you’ll get some respite here from the busy streets of the surrounding Rhodes Old Town.
What Else to See in Rhodes Old Town
In addition to the palace, the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes—which displays ancient treasures dug up from sites all around the island—is also situated in Rhodes Old Town. Also of note is the Street of the Knights, the 14th-century home of Rhodes former rulers: the Knights Hospitaller. Then there’s the Turkish Quarter, where you’ll find the 16th-century Suleiman Mosque, built to celebrate the Ottoman win over the Knights of Rhodes.
Address: Greece
Admission: Varies
From $ 68
Nisyros Volcano
The volcanic island of Nisyros lies north of Rhodes, a craggy, mountainous and fertile speck in the Aegean Sea. It forms part of the Dodecanese Islands along with Kos and Tilos, and is an unspoiled treasure that has so far dodged the onslaught of mass tourism.
The volcano that forms the greater part of Nisyros last erupted in 1888 but it is one of the most active in the region. Of the island’s six craters, Polivotis is the biggest, measuring 260 m (853 ft) across and reaching a depth of 30 meters (98.5 feet); it steams gently as gases bubble up from underground. Thanks to all this volcanic activity, thermal springs disgorge their sulfurous waters into the sea at several points around Nisyros; visitors flock to the spa at Loutra on the north coast to take advantage of their healing properties, while other hot springs are found at Thermiani and Avlaki.
Nisyros’s main town of Mandraki is tucked into hills on the northwest tip of the island, a charming waterfront sprawl of squat, white-washed houses and taverna-lined piazzas. Inland Byzantine chapels such as the Church of the Panaghia Faneromeni are scattered across the landscape, accessible by way-marked cycling and hiking trails, but the most startling of the island’s cultural remains is the Paliaokastro, high on a hilltop overlooking Mandraki. Dating from the fourth century BC, this was once a mighty acropolis and fort but now little survives except for fragments of the walls constructed out of volcanic basalt, although two towers have been recently remodeled out of rock surrounding the site.
Practical Info
Nisyros lies in the Aegean Sea north of Rhodes, with twice-weekly ferry services operating between the two islands; crossing time is around 3.5 hours.
Address: Nisyros, Greece
From $ 52
Red Beach
Santorini’s Red Beach is not your average white-sand beauty. Rather, it’s a narrow, pebbly stretch hemmed in by high scarlet cliffs and scattered with large volcanic rocks. Together with the sapphire blue waters of the Aegean Sea, these volcanic features create a striking natural color palette that draws photographers to its shores.
The Basics
While Red Beach is a popular swimming and sunbathing spot, it can also be a dangerous one, with occasional landslides and falling rocks. Because of this, many visitors prefer to admire the beach from afar, either from the parking area overlooking the beach or from the sea itself.
Many catamaran cruises, some of which include meals and drinks on board, and kayaking tours travel by the beach. Some Santorini day tours combine a visit to the beach with a stop at the nearby ancient Akrotiri archaeological site, an excavated Minoan settlement dating back to the Bronze Age.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With its unusual colorful appearance, Red Beach is a must for photographers.
- Bring along sunscreen, water, and a picnic to enjoy while soaking up views of the beach.
- Red Beach can only be accessed via a steep trail, and the beach’s surface is rocky, meaning it is not suitable for wheelchair users. The beach can, however, be clearly seen from the parking lot.
How to Get There
Red Beach is situated on the Akrotiri Peninsula in southwest Santorini. It’s about a 25-minute drive from Fira and offers free though limited parking. A steep access trail leads from the parking lot to the beach. Car-free travelers can take the KTEL bus from Fira to Akrotiri and make the short walk from there.
When to Get There
Despite the dangers of loose, falling rocks, Red Beach still attracts a lot of sunbathers and from June through September is often crowded. The red of the beach’s cliffs and rocks is most vivid at sunset.
Beaches on Santorini
Santorini’s volcanic topography has resulted in a range of visually diverse beaches. Contrasting with the intense color of neighboring Red Beach is remote White Beach, which is backed by light-colored cliffs and can only be accessed by boat. For a family-friendly option with ample facilities including restaurants, water-sports operators, sun loungers, and umbrellas, try Monolithos Beach on the island’s east coast. Black-sand Perivolos Beach, on the southeast coast of the island, is another popular choice, attracting a lively, youthful crowd.
Address: Santorini, Greece
From $ 64
Nea Kameni
Centered around a ruggedly beautiful volcanic crater, the small island of Nea Kameni offers a dramatic photo opportunity, with its dark cliffs sculpted from lava rock and natural thermal waters tinted orange by the mineral-rich seabed. Floating off the coast of Santorini Island, Nea (New) Kameni and neighboring Palea (Old) Kameni lie at the heart of the mostly-submerged Santorini caldera, and are Greece’s newest volcanic islands - Nea Kameni dates back just 425 years.
Reachable only by boat, Nea Kameni makes a popular choice for cruises from Santorini Island, with visitors free to explore the unique volcanic landscape and bathe in the natural hot springs, legendary for their healing and rejuvenating minerals.
Practical Info
Nea Kameni is located off the west coast of Santorini Island in the Greek Cyclades islands, and is only reachable by boat.
Address: Nea Kameni, Greece
From $ 40
Omonoia Square
Omonoia Square is a big square located north of the central market in Athens, Greece. It's the city's oldest square, and pictures show it was once a lovely square with lots of trees. However, it has been reconstructed several times in order to adjust for the introduction of cars and other vehicles. Six streets intersect at the square, making it a busy traffic hub. Buses, metros, and taxis can all be found here. There are no ancient ruins here like in other parts of the city, but the area surrounding the square is known for its bohemian vibe and cultural mix, and it is popular with students.
You can find affordable hotels, inexpensive restaurants and cafes, and other types of shops here. Nearby are several flea markets as well. The National Archaeological Museum is the most well known attraction located near Omonoia Square. Other important buildings include the Athens Art Gallery and the National Theater.
Practical Info
Omonoia Square is located where Athinas Street becomes 3rd Septemvriou. The transport stop here is called Omonoia.
Address: Omonoia Square, Athens, Attica, Greece 10431, Greece
From $ 23
Maritime Museum of Crete
The Firkas Fortress at the entrance to Chania harbor was built during the Venetian occupation of Crete between 1204 and 1669; it was originally used as a barracks and prison and has housed the island’s Maritime Museum since 1973.
Spread over two floors of the museum are 13 chronological displays starting with models of ships from Prehistoric times, passing through ancient navigational equipment, and ending with models of destroyers and landing craft from Greece’s modern-day naval fleet. Highlights along the way include plunder from ancient shipwrecks, such as amphorae and cooking utensils; reproductions of Minoan galleys; a Bronze Age trireme; and a model bridge from a World War II torpedo boat. A section is also given over to the German invasion of Crete in 1941, illustrated with photographs and personal testimonies.
There’s a small exhibition of shells showcasing the diversity of Mediterranean sea life and a well-stocked library of maritime books. A visit to the museum is easily combined with a walk around Chania’s Venetian Harbour or can be visited as part of an electric Trikke tour of its Old Town.
Practical Info
Open Apr–Oct daily 9am–4pm; Nov–Mar daily 9am–2pm. Admission for adults is €2; students is €1; children less than 6 go free. The museum is best reached on foot although there is some parking in the area. Chania can be reached by daily ferry from Piraeus in Athens, and by plane via Chania International Airport, which is 9 miles (14 km) from the town center.
Address: Akti Kountourioti, Chania, Crete, Greece
Hours: Apr–Oct daily 9am–4pm; Nov–Mar daily 9am–2pm
Admission: Adults €2; Students €1; Children less than 6 go free.
From $ 34
Ornos Beach
The soft, sandy beach at Ornos is found on the southwest coast of Mykonos, draped around a sheltered bay with clear, calm and shallow water that is safe for family swimming and a popular anchorage for yachts. Thanks to its proximity to Mykonos Town, it is busy every day with a mixture of youngsters and families; sun loungers and parasols are available for a small fee and it is backed with a generous supply of seafront restaurants, tavernas and shops as well as cozy apartments, villas and several luxury hotels in what was once a traditional, whitewashed fishing village. Water sports facilities available at Ornos include water-skiing, diving and windsurfing, with equipment for hire and lessons for all skill levels.
Several boat cruises around Mykonos and sailing trips to Delos depart from Ornos Beach; water taxis near Platis Gialos also offer trips to other beaches on the island, including Psarou, Agrari, Elia and Super Paradise.
Practical Info
The beach is two miles (3.5 km) south of Mykonos Town and can be accessed by bus (there are frequent connecting services), car or taxi. It is is also within walking distance of Mykonos Town.
Address: Ornos, Mykonos, Cyclades Islands 846 00, Greece
From $ 101