Choose from 159 Fun Things to Do in Greece
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National Gardens of Athens
With nearly 40 acres of well-kept gardens, sky-high forests and ancient ruins the National Gardens of Athens offers travelers a natural escape unlike any other. Commissioned by Queen Amalia in 1838, this unique destination is home to more than 500 species of plants and animals and a vast landscape dotted with the busts of Greek poets, gods and political figures.
Travelers can wander the grounds, which offer a scenic escape from the chaos of Athens, and sip hot coffees at the small outdoor café after combing through the Botanical Museum or the garden’s small zoo. Close proximity to the Olympic stadium makes it a perfect stop for those on a tour of Athen's most famous historical sites.
Practical Info
The National Gardens of Athens is located behind the Greek Parliament building. It is open from sunrise to sunset daily and is accessible from three different entrances.
Address: Amalias 1, Athens, Greece
Hours: Sunrise to sunset daily
From $ 37
Imbros Gorge
Imbros Gorge is located in the countryside of western Crete. It is one of the most popular gorges for hikers on the island. It's popular for many reasons including its beauty. The hike is also easier than some others in the area, making it a good choice for almost anyone who wants to spend a few hours exploring nature. The trail is about five miles long with a descent of less than 2,000 feet and usually takes two to three hours. There are some spectacular sections along the trail, including some narrow passageways. Along the hike, you will pass several small villages.
The gorge also holds historical significance. In May 1941 during World War II, Allied troops walked through the gorge while trying to escape Crete and get to Egypt. Many people whose parents or grandparents were there visit the gorge today as a kind of pilgrimage.
Practical Info
The village of Imbros can be reached by bus from Chania, though buses are not frequent. Other options include driving, taking a taxi, or joining a tour. There is a 2 euro fee for entry into the gorge, which is open all year round. Summer is often warm, but weather can be cooler during the rest of the year. Conditions can be poor during winter or spring due to bad weather, landslides, and flooding.
Address: Crete, Greece
Hours: Year round
Admission: 2 euros
From $ 50
Hosios Loukas Monastery
One of a trio of ancient Greek monasteries listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, Hosios Loukas Monastery is exquisite example of a Byzantine-era monastery, now preserved as a museum. Founded in the early 10th-century by the hermit monk Luke Stiris, whose tomb is still housed on the premises, the complex comprises two beautifully conserved churches located in a suitably dramatic setting on the tree-lined slopes of Mount Helicon.
First up is the Katholikón of Ósios Loukás, the larger of the two churches and renowned for its elaborate 11th-century interiors, a masterpiece of colored marble, vivid frescoes and extraordinary mosaics, including icons by 16th-century painter Michael Damaskinos. The neighboring Chapel of Theotókos is Greece’s only remaining 10th-century church and is most impressive from outside, with its classical Byzantine structure and elaborate brickwork.
Practical Info
The Hosios Loukas Monastery is located close to the town of Distomo, in south-central Greece, and is open daily (except Mondays) from 9am-5pm.
Address: Distomo Arachova Antikira 320 05, Greece
From $ 69
Kanoni
Once the capital and heart of the Greek island of Corfu, Kanoni today is a quarter of Corfu Town, the island’s modern day capital. The name Kanoni is derived from the canons that protected the city near the entrance to the lagoon, which once featured the main port of Corfu. With a steep, rugged coastline covered in trees, Kanoni has just two beaches for visitors to enjoy, but there is plenty else worth seeing.
On a small island connected to Kanoni by a long causeway is the church of Panagia Vlaherna. Built in 17th century, the church with a red-tiled roof boasts an impressive wood-carved iconostasis and many beautiful frescoes. Fishing boats depart regularly from Vlaherna Island for Mouse Island, which is about a five minute boat ride away and home to the 13th century Byzantine church of Pantokrator. According to legend, Mouse Island was formed when the boat carrying Odysseus home to Ithaca was turned into stone and then into an island. Kanoni provides a great view of both Vlaherna and Mouse Islands and is also a good spot from which to watch the plans land at Corfu’s main airport.
Practical Info
Kanoni is just eight kilometers south of Corfu Town and is reachable on foot, walking about 30 minutes along the coastline. Buses also run frequently between the Liston in Corfu Town and Kanoni.
Address: Corfu, Greece
From $ 208
Philopappou Hills
The Acropolis is Athens’ most famous hill, but one that can’t escape notice (especially as you climb up to the Parthenon) is the nearby Philopappou Hill. This forested hill was once called Mouseion Hill, or “Hill of the Muses,” but has been known as Philopappou Hill since a monument of the same name was built atop the hill in the year 116 C.E. The monument and tomb, the most noticeable part of the hill when viewed from anywhere else in Athens, was for the Roman consul and senator Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappos. He was a powerful and respected man in Athens, having lived there for many years, and was a prominent theater sponsor. The monument is a partial ruin today, but you can still see aspects of Philopappos’ life carved into the stone.
Lower on Philopappou Hill, you can also visit what some say is the cell where Socrates was imprisoned in 399 C.E. before he was executed. Many others contend the cell was in the Ancient Agora, but that doesn’t stop city officials from labeling the caves on this hill as “Socrates’ Prison.”
Practical Info
Access to Philopappou Hill is free, and there’s no admission fee to see the monument or the caves called Socrates’ Prison.
Address: Athens, Greece
From $ 34
Kamari Beach
Stretching for around 3 miles (5 kilometers), dark-sand Kamari Beach is sandwiched between the blue Aegean waters and the mountain peak of Mesa Vouno. With a bar- and restaurant-lined promenade behind it and lots of facilities nearby, it’s one of the best places to park yourself for a day of relaxation.
The Basics
Kamari Beach makes an ideal day-out destination for travelers looking to relax, swim, and catch some rays. For those who want a more active beach experience, water-sports operators and dive centers can be found just steps from the sand.
Kamari Beach is a common stop-off on island tours, which may also visit other Santorini beaches, such as striking Red Beach on the south coast. Helicopter flights over the island often hover over the eastern coast where Kamari Beach is situated, as well as the caldera and the lava island of Nea Kameni.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kamari Beach is ideal for families, couples, and travelers who want a no-fuss beach day with restaurants and bars within easy reach.
- Bring flip-flops or water shoes as the hot sand and volcanic pebbles can be uncomfortable for bare feet.
- Sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent. Many beach restaurants offer free umbrellas and sunbeds to patrons who purchase food and drink.
- Wi-Fi is available at select beachfront restaurants.
How to Get There
Find Kamari Beach on the east coast of Santorini, about 6 miles (10 kilometers) southeast of Fira. A taxi from Fira will take around 20 minutes. KTEL buses run from Fira regularly.
When to Get There
Kamari Beach is busiest during the peak summer tourist season, from June through September. If you want to beat the crowds and see the beach at its tranquil best, wake early and come to watch the sun rise. Sunset, though busier, is equally spectacular.
Other Beaches in Santorini
For swimming and sunbathing, try Perissa Beach, about 9 miles (15 kilometers) south of Fira. This black-sand beach is well developed and boasts ample facilities. A walking path leads from the village of Perissa up to Ancient Thera. With its high cliffs and narrow stretch of dusty red sands, Red Beach on the southern coast is among Santorini’s most dramatic beaches. Though falling rocks pose danger to those on the sands, it’s worth coming here if only to admire the beach from afar.
Address: Greece
From $ 58
Manto Mavrogenous Square
Looking out over the Old Port and marking the entrance to historic Mykonos Town is Manto Mavrogenous Square—the lively epicenter of the quintessential Greek Island destination. A popular starting point for walking tours, the square boasts handicraft shops, restaurants, and cafes along its seafront promenade, while its white-painted, blue-shuttered buildings make for a pretty photo opportunity against the ocean backdrop.
At the heart of the square stands its namesake monument, an unassuming statue of Manto Mavrogenous, the Greek war heroine famous for her role in the Greek War of Independence.
Practical Info
Manto Mavrogenous Square is located by the Old Port in Mykonos Town.
Address: Serakonta, Mykonos Town 846 00, Greece
From $ 44
Lion Square & Morosini Fountain
Lion Square is a central hub for both tourists and locals. It is a great place to people-watch, have a pastry at one of the many cafes or check out the historic Morosini Fountain. During the period of Arab rule (9th-10th century AD), the square was the largest slave market in the Eastern Mediterranean. In Venetian times (13th-17th century), Lion Square was the site of the Palace of the Venetian Duke of Crete and is also known as the Ducal Palace, where the Duke and his two councilors decided the fate of Heraklion and its people. The Ducal Palace was a two-story building with verandas and vaulted areas on the ground floor which were rented out as shops on the north side of the square. Now, it is home to many souvlaki shops where late night revelers convene.
Morosini Fountain, built in 1628, was commissioned by Francesco Morosini while he was governor of Crete. It is one of the most famous surviving monuments given from the Venetians. In practical terms, the fountain --which spurts water from four lions into eight marble troughs--offered a solution to supplying Heraklion with water at the time, providing 1,000 barrels of water a day. The lion is not connected to water but used a symbol of Venetian power.
The lobes of the fountain are decorated with scenes from Greek mythology carved in relief, mainly mythical water beings such as Tritons (son of mythical God Poseidon), dolphins and nymphs. At the center of each lobe were the coats of arms of the Doge, the Duke, the Councilors and Morosini himself.
Morosini Fountain, built in 1628, was commissioned by Francesco Morosini while he was governor of Crete. It is one of the most famous surviving monuments given from the Venetians. In practical terms, the fountain --which spurts water from four lions into eight marble troughs--offered a solution to supplying Heraklion with water at the time, providing 1,000 barrels of water a day. The lion is not connected to water but used a symbol of Venetian power.
The lobes of the fountain are decorated with scenes from Greek mythology carved in relief, mainly mythical water beings such as Tritons (son of mythical God Poseidon), dolphins and nymphs. At the center of each lobe were the coats of arms of the Doge, the Duke, the Councilors and Morosini himself.
Address: Lion Square, Heraklion, Greece
From $ 59
Mt Lycabettus
Looming 886-foot (270-meter) over the city, Mount Lycabettus is Athens’ highest peak and with the crowds flocking to the nearby Acropolis, it’s the best bet for those seeking out a viewpoint away from the crowds. While adventurous travelers can hike to the top in less than an hour, the easiest way to scale Mt Lycabettus is by riding the funicular railway, which runs from Kolonaki.
At the top of Mt Lycabettus is the striking Orthodox chapel of Saint George, built in the 19th century over the ruins of a Byzantine church, but the real highlight is the stunning panoramic view over Athens. For the full experience, head there to dine at one of the two hill-top restaurants, attend one of the summer shows at the hill-top concert venue or time your visit to witness the mesmerizing sunset.
Practical Info
Mt Lycabettus is located in central Athens and can be reached by funicular (daily 9am-2:30am, €7).
Address: Athens 114 71, Greece
Hours: Funicular is open daily 9am-2:30am
Admission: Funicular ride: €7
From $ 29
Mandraki Harbour
Mandraki Harbour has been in use since ancient times and was formerly the military port of Rhodes; it was protected from attack by gigantic chains across its narrow mouth and later by the impregnable bulk of the Fort of St Nicholas, built in 1467 and still watching over the marina. Over the centuries the harbor was also a successful and rich trading port but these days its role in Rhodes life is entirely peaceful; a fetching clutch of billionaires’ super-yachts bob in the marina alongside traditional fishing boats and a multitude of tour boats, which depart every day in summer to visit islands off the coast of Rhodes – including Symi and Nisyros – as well as ferrying visitors to local beaches and on diving trips.
The harbor mouth, reputedly bridged by the Colossus of Rhodes in classical times, is now guarded by bronze statues of Elafos and Elafina – the deer that symbolize the island – atop slender stone columns; little remains of Mandraki’s commercial past except three corn mills lined up along the breakwater, where merchant ships once offloaded grain. Nowadays the quays are packed with late-night bars and cafés and floating restaurants have taken the place of cargo ships; a new addition to the Mandraki landscape is the Nea Agora (New Market), built in ornate style by the Italians in the 1930s.
Practical Info
Rhodes Town. Open 24/7. Best accessed on foot.
Address: Mandraki Harbour, Rhodes Town, Rhodes 851 00, Greece
From $ 58
Kassiopi
Kassiopi is a village and resort sitting on a small peninsula on the northeast side of the island of Corfu. Historically a small fishing village, it is less than 40 kilometers from Corfu town and is a very popular tourist destination in the summer. Allegedly founded in the 3rd century B.C., it sits in the shadows of Mount Pantokrator. Though small, Kassiopi boasts a lively nightlife with a good mix of bars, restaurants and dance clubs around the harbor and town square.
One sight to see in Kassiopi is the former Temple of Kassios Zeus, which was converted to a church in the 5th century. Burned to the ground by the Turks and restored in late 16th century, the new church has altars to accommodate both Christian and Orthodox religions and inscriptions date from 1590, 1670 and 1832. Kassiopi Castle sits up above the village and was one of three Byzantine era castles that defended the island before the Venetian era. Though it is in a state of ruin today, it was once one of the most impressive castles in the Ionian islands.
Practical Info
Kassiopi is a 40 minute drive from Corfu airport and can be reached by taxi or bus. A taxi should cost 50 to 60 Euros, while the bus is only ten Euros. To take the bus, look for the blue bus station in Corfu town; they run regularly between 5:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. daily. Buses will take you as far as the village square, but not as far as the harbor. Excursions all over the island can be organized from Kassiopi and taxis can be found in the car park at the top of the town.
Address: Kassiopi, Corfu, Greece
From $ 69
National Library of Greece
With a history dating back to 1832 and home to over 2 million books, microfilms, newspapers, ancient manuscripts and historic documents, the National Library of Greece is the heart of Greek literary history.
The library moved to its current location in the center of Athens in 1903, a striking Neoclassical building designed by Danish architect Theophil Hansen, whose other creations include the National University of Athens and the Academy of Athens constitute. Inspired by a Doric Temple, the grand library is sculpted from Pentelic marble and fronted by a pair of dramatic winding staircases.
Plans are currently underway to relocate part of the library’s extensive collection, with construction beginning at a new complex in Phaleron Bay back in 2012.
Practical Info
The National Library of Greece is located on Panepistimiou Street in central Athens and is open Monday to Thursday from 9am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday from 9am to 2pm.
Address: 32 Panepistimiou Street, Athens 10679, Greece
Hours: Open Mon-Thurs 9am-8pm and Fri-Sat 9am-2pm
From $ 23
National History Museum (Old Parliament)
Covering the period from 1453 to the 1940s, Athens’ National History Museum takes visitors from the Ottoman years right up until the Greek-Italian War. The museum is housed in an ornate Neoclassical palace dating back to 1813 and has seen several incarnations; it was once the home of King Otto, the first Greek monarch after independence in 1832, before being taken over by Greek Parliament, who in turned moved out to the current Parliament Building in Syntagma Square in 1932. Lastly, the Old Parliament building housed the justice ministry before opening as a museum in 1962, showcasing turning points in Greek history from the Byzantine rule to the build up to the Wars of Independence in the 1820s and the disastrous Asia Minor Campaign in 1919.
Weaponry, colorful folk costumes, decorative arts, war medals and statuary are exhibited in a chronological display through a suite of rooms spinning out from the original parliamentary chamber, which is in itself a highlight of the museum.
Practical Info
Located at 13 Stadiou Street in Athens, the museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission costs €3 for adults. Metro lines 2 and 3 can be taken to Syntagma Square.
Address: Stadiou 13, Athens, Greece
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Admission: €3
From $ 80
Katakolon Cruise Port
At the western edge of Greece's Peloponnese Peninsula, Katakolon’s deep waters makes it one of few Greek ports able to accommodate the world's largest cruise ships. It’s also the gateway to ancient Olympia, the flame and founding place of the Olympic Games, and one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.
The Basics
The most popular day trip destination from Katakolon is ancient Olympia, 20 miles (32 kilometers) east. Shore excursions typically take in the highlights of the archaeological site, including the Temple of Zeus, the palaestra gymnasium, the archaeological museum, and the Olympic stadium, which held the first Olympic Games in 776 BC.
Those staying in Katakolon can visit the Museum of Ancient Greek Technology, enjoy a wine tasting at the Mercouri Winery, relax at Agios Andreas beach, or browse the many tourist shops along the main street.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Shore excursions typically include port pickup and drop-off.
- Direct trains and buses run from Katakolon to Olympia.
- Taxis are available right outside the cruise terminal.
How to Get to Katakolon from the Katakolon Cruise Port
Cruise ships dock right in the center of Katakolon, and it’s an easy 5-minute walk to the shops and restaurants of the town, as well as Plakes Beach.
Port Information
The euro is the currency used in Greece. Greek is the official language here, but English is also widely spoken. You’ll find restaurants with free Wi-Fi, ATMs, and currency exchange houses along the main street in Katakolon town.
Address: Katakolou, Katakolon 27100, Greece
From $ 112
Mt Parnassus
Mt. Parnassus is one of the many places in Greece that occupies very real space on the landscape, and is also central to such a number of Greek myths that you might be surprised to learn that the mountain is not a myth of its own. The mountain is in central Greece, just north of Delphi. It is associated with several prominent figures in Greek mythology. Mt. Parnassus was said to be the home of the Muses, sacred to the god Dionysus, sacred also to the god Apollo, home to the winged horse Pegasus, and closely tied with poetry, learning, and music.
Today, Mt. Parnassus is a draw for visitors year-round. In the winter, there are two ski resorts on its slopes. In warmer weather, the mountain is an excellent location for hiking - views from the summit are spectacular.
Practical Info
The drive from Athens to Mt. Parnassus is about three hours. From Delphi, it’s just over an hour. You can easily combine the two in a day trip from Athens, but it’s really only feasible if you rent a car or book a guided tour - relying on public transportation means a one-way trip of roughly five hours.
Address: Delphi, Greece
From $ 69
Mt Pantokrator
Mt Pantokrator sits on the northeastern side of the Greek island of Corfu. Almost 3,000 feet tall, it is the tallest mountain on the island. From the top, you can see all of Corfu, Albania and even all the way to Italy on a clear day. A Greek Orthodox monastery has sat on top of the mountain since the middle of the 14th century. The original monastery was destroyed two centuries later and the current one dates to the late 17th century, with a façade from the 19th century.
The peak of Mt Pantokrator can be reached by car or by foot. The walking trail to the peak is part of the Corfu Trail, which covers more than 200 kilometers around the island. On the way to the top, you will pass Old Perithia, the oldest mountain village on Corfu. Nestled high up on the mountain, it once served as a hideaway from pirate attacks. Today, visitors can wander along cobblestone streets, enjoy a drink in one of four tavernas and sample local cuisine.
Practical Info
There is limited parking in Old Perithia. Walking guides and maps are available for those who wish to take a self-guided tour of the village or continue on by foot to the top of Mt Pantokrator. A café for tourists is available at the top of the mountain.
Address: Mount Pantokrator, Corfu, Greece
From $ 69
Kapnikarea Church
Standing proud on Kapnikarea square at the heart of Athens’ principal shopping boulevard, Kapnikarea Church looks somewhat out of place amid the sea of modern shopping boutiques. Dating back to the 11th century, the historic church is among the oldest in Athens and it’s a remarkably preserved example of the city’s Byzantine architecture.
Saved from demolition in 1834 by Ludwig I of Bavaria, the church now makes a fascinating diversion for shoppers in Athens’ center. As well as admiring the church’s striking façade, with its Roman-style pillars and dome, visitors can peek inside the chapel and narthex, where highlights include some beautiful mosaics and series of icons by artist Fotis Kontoglou.
Practical Info
Kapnikarea Church is located in Kapnikarea square on Ermou boulevard in central Athens and is open Monday, Wednesday and Saturday from 8am-1pm; Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8am-1pm, and 4pm-8pm; and Sunday from 8am-11:30am. Admission is free.
Address: Kapnikarea Platz, Athens 105 56, Greece
Hours: Mon, Wed & Sat 8am-1pm; Tues, Thurs & Fri 8am-1pm & 4-8pm; Sun 8am-11:30am
From $ 46
Kalafatis Beach
With its long stretch of golden sand and steady coastal winds, Kalafatis Beach is not only one of Mykonos’ most beautiful beaches – it’s also earned a reputation as the island’s water sports hub. The beach is most renowned for its windsurfing, but other popular activities include jet skiing, water skiing, banana boating and wakeboarding.
For less adventurous beach-goers, Kalafatis also offers ample opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, as well as boat cruises around the sea caves of Dragonisi island. The beach itself is well equipped for families, with sunbeds and parasols for hire, beach volleyball nets, and a selection of cafés and restaurants nearby.
Insider’s Tip: Beach bars and sun beds for rent are located at both ends of the beach, but if you don’t want to pay, bring your own beach towel or parasol and head to the central strip.
Practical Info
Kalafatis Beach is located on the southeast coast of Mykonos island, 12km east of Mykonos Town.
Address: Kalafati Beach, Kalafati 846 00, Greece
From $ 63
Kalamata
If the name ‘Kalamata’ sounds familiar to you, you’re not alone — it’s a city in southern Greece from which Greek olives get their name. It is both the capitol of the region of Messinia and the second-largest city in the Peloponnese. With its preserved Old Town and a number of museums and galleries, the city maintains its rich cultural history. The ancient Greek author Homer described a city called Pharai, which is believed to have been where the Kalamata Castle stands today.
The name Kalamata is derived from an icon of the Virgin Mary known as the ‘good eye’ (kalo mata.) The icon was believed to be miracle-working, and today can be found in the inside the city’s cathedral, the Church of Ypapantis. Throughout the ages, Kalamata has suffered wars at the hands of the Ottoman Empire and earthquakes in as recent as 1986, though today it flourishes as an important port city.
The name Kalamata is derived from an icon of the Virgin Mary known as the ‘good eye’ (kalo mata.) The icon was believed to be miracle-working, and today can be found in the inside the city’s cathedral, the Church of Ypapantis. Throughout the ages, Kalamata has suffered wars at the hands of the Ottoman Empire and earthquakes in as recent as 1986, though today it flourishes as an important port city.
Practical Info
Kalamata is roughly a two hour drive from Athens. Once in the city, it is pedestrian friendly — though there are also bicycle and bus routes in town.
Address: Kalamata, Greece
From $ 93
Marathi Beach
Comprising two sandy stretches extending from either side of a pier, Marathi Beach overlooks the vivid blue waters of Souda Bay and the White Mountains of Chania. The beach is well sheltered from the elements, meaning the waters are waveless and calm. Traditional tavernas near the sand serve fresh fish to hungry beachgoers.
The Basics
Marathi Beach is a prime sunbathing and swimming destination. Some Crete sightseeing cruises anchor at the beach, giving participants free time to stretch out on the sand, enjoy a typical Cretan meal at the nearby tavernas, or splash around in the shallow waters. Stand-up paddleboarding tours also pass through Marathi Beach, as do scuba diving tours, which typically focus on dive sites near the pine-topped island of Palia Souda, about 1,640 feet (500 meters) offshore.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Marathi Beach is a must for families, with shallow, swim-friendly waters.
- Sun umbrellas and loungers can be rented on the beach for a small fee.
- Several beachside tavernas here serve traditional Cretan dishes and Greek fare.
How to Get There
Marathi Beach is situated on the Akrotiri peninsula on Crete’s west coast, about 11 miles (18 kilometers) from the city of Chania. Local KTEL buses travel between Chania and the beach several times a day during the summer season.
When to Get There
Marathi Beach is popular among local Greek families, who often flock here on the weekend. To see it at its quietest, go midweek instead. The best months to visit are between June and October, when the sea is typically warm enough for swimming.
Ancient Minoa
Northeast of the beach lies a small ancient archaeological site known as Minoa. Featuring ruins dating back to the Roman era, the site is thought to have been under the control of the ancient city of Aptera, situated on the far side of Souda Bay, and to have served as one of its two ports during ancient times.
Address: Crete, Greece
From $ 68