Choose from 159 Fun Things to Do in Greece
ShowingFilter 141-159 of 159 listings.
White Mountains (Lefka Ori)
Crete is renowned for being a divinely sun-baked Greek Island, boasting great beaches and hot weather—but it’s less known for its spectacular White Mountains (Lefka Ori). Found in the west of the island, the mountains are a paradise for hikers and nature spotters when not dusted with snow in winter and early spring.
The Basics
The island of Crete is home to not one, but two mountain ranges—the White Mountains and the Psiloritis Mountains. While the island’s tallest peak, Mt. Ida (8,058 feet/2,456 meters), can be found in the Psiloritis range, the White Mountains are the tallest range on the island, with over 50 different peaks rising to 6,550 feet (2,000 meters) or higher. There are many hiking trails here—one of the most popular starts at Omalos village and crosses the famous Samaria Gorge. If hiking sounds too strenuous, you can simply enjoy the scenery by driving through the mountain passes.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The White Mountains are ideal for active travelers, experienced hikers, and nature enthusiasts.
- Facilities are limited in the mountains, so bring a water bottle (which you can refill at rest stops), snacks, and sun protection.
- If hiking, make sure to wear suitable clothing and footwear.
- Hiking the Samaria Gorge requires a small entrance fee to enter the national park.
How to Get There
The White Mountains are located in West Crete, and many people start their hike at Omalos village. Regular bus services travel from Chania to Omalos and Samaria Gorge during the summer months, or you can drive (although you will have to return for your car the next day). Many people finish their walk through the gorge in Agia Roumeli and then take the ferry and bus back to Chania. Crete, the largest island in Greece, is accessible by plane or a ferry from the mainland.
When to Get There
The White Mountains are covered in snow for much of the winter and early spring, and hiking by tourists is not recommended at this time of year. Samaria National Park (to access the Samaria Gorge) traditionally opens at the beginning of May and closes in October. The park is open from sunrise to sunset.
Heraklion’s Archeological Museum
With several major archeological sites, Crete is a top destination for history buffs. The Archeological Museum in Heraklion (Crete’s capital) is a good place to start for visitors who want to learn about the island’s history. The museum is famous for its Minoan artworks, but its collections cover all of the ancient civilizations that once lived on the island.
Address: Sfakia 730 11, Greece
From $ 72
Skaros Rock
Looming 20 meters high at the tip of a rocky promontory, the Skaros Rock is one of Santorini’s most memorable natural landmarks and its silhouette is so striking it can be seen from towns like Fira and Oia. The seafront cliff, sculpted from black lava rock, offers the perfect vantage point for looking out across the Aegean Sea and it’s an idyllic spot to watch the sunset, with views over the caldera and Kameni islands.
To visit Skaros Rock, follow the trail from Imerovigli village, then either climb the steps to the top of the rock or take the path around the base of the rock. Along the way, stop to visit the whitewashed chapel of Ekklisia Theoskepasti nearby, a remnant of Skaros’ early Catholic settlement, then explore the ruins of the Byzantine fortress that once stood on the peak.
Practical Info
Skaros Rock is located in Imerovigli, around 3km north of Fira on Santorini Island.
Address: Imerovigli, Greece
From $ 93
Spianada
Also known as the Esplanade, the Spianada is the largest town square in Greece, located in Corfu Town on the island of Corfu. Located in front of the Old Fortress, its construction dates back to the French occupation during the Napoleonic Wars. It is one of the most popular tourist sites in the city, as well as the liveliest part of Corfu Town, reflecting the history of the island with a mix of Venetian, French, British and Greek buildings. At one end of the Spianada stands the Royal Palace of Corfu (also called the Palace of St. Michael and St. George), which today houses the Museum of Asian Art. In front of the palace stands a bronze statue of Lord Frederick Adam, an English Commissioner who did important technical work for the city.
On the southern tip of the square you can see the Peristyle of Maitland, a circular monument in honor of the first English Commissioner Thomas Maitland in early 1800s. In front of the iron bridge leading to the Old Fortress is a statue of the German Marshall Schulenberg, who defended the city against the Turks in 1716. Notable for its many colonnades, the Venetian citadel known as the Liston runs along the edge of the square facing the old town.
Interestingly, a cricket court also takes up a significant part of the Spianada as cricket was made popular during British rule in the early 19th century.
Practical Info
A small train travels along the length of the square during the summer months, which can provide a nice introduction to Corfu Town. There are also traditional carriages available to ride around the town.
Address: Plateia Spianada, Corfu, Greece
From $ 69
Waterpark Rhodes
Waterpark Rhodes is the largest waterpark in Greece, covering more than 100,000 square meters. It offers a great selection of water slides for all ages, as well as traditional fair attractions, restaurants and snack bars. The park features five extreme slides: the Kamikaze, the Free Fall, the Turbo, the Space Bowl and the Twister. It also has several slides open to all ages, including the Boomerang, Rafting Slide, two Black Hole slides and the Crazy Cone Slide. Beyond the water slides, visitors can relax in the wave pool or enjoy funfair attractions like bumper cars and a giant wheel that stands 35 meters tall.
Practical Info
Waterpark Rhodes is located 12 kilometers from Rhodes, opposite the hotel Esperos Palace. A free bus transfer is available from the city center of Rhodes and from the south of the island. Rather than paying with cash in the park, visitors load money onto a waterproof wristband known as Splash Cash that they use to pay at shops and snack bar stands throughout the park.
Address: Faliraki, Rhodes, Greece
Hours: May, September and October, daily 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; June, July and August, 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Admission: 24 Euro
From $ 28
Historical Museum of Crete
The Historical Museum of Crete collects and preserves valuable archaeological, ethnographic and historical material from Crete's more recent past.
The A.G. Kalokerinos Room features a 4 x 4 meter model of the city of Chandax (Heraklion) in the mid-17th century, at the peak of its power in Venetian times. The Byzantine and Post-Byzantine Collection offers a fascinating display of art via frescoes, costumes, liturgical vessels, and jewelry. Don't miss the two only El Greco paintings in Crete - View of Mt Sinai and the Monastery of St Catherine (1570) and the newer addition, Baptism of Christ.
Modern and contemporary Cretan history is divided into four chronological phases and permanent exhibitions, including Turkish Rule, the Union of Crete with Greece, Interwar Years, and World War II. There are a variety of materials on display such as flags, banners, weapons, furniture, uniforms, and paintings. You can also interact with some of the exhibits through audiovisual means. Other rooms contain fragments of 13th and 14th-century frescoes, coins, jewelry, liturgical ornaments and vestments, and medieval pottery.
The recreated study of author Nikos Kazantzakis, which overviews his life, is a highlight. The main library collects rare editions, periodicals, historical archives and photographic material. For insight into Cretan life, the Ethnographic Collection is a must-see
The A.G. Kalokerinos Room features a 4 x 4 meter model of the city of Chandax (Heraklion) in the mid-17th century, at the peak of its power in Venetian times. The Byzantine and Post-Byzantine Collection offers a fascinating display of art via frescoes, costumes, liturgical vessels, and jewelry. Don't miss the two only El Greco paintings in Crete - View of Mt Sinai and the Monastery of St Catherine (1570) and the newer addition, Baptism of Christ.
Modern and contemporary Cretan history is divided into four chronological phases and permanent exhibitions, including Turkish Rule, the Union of Crete with Greece, Interwar Years, and World War II. There are a variety of materials on display such as flags, banners, weapons, furniture, uniforms, and paintings. You can also interact with some of the exhibits through audiovisual means. Other rooms contain fragments of 13th and 14th-century frescoes, coins, jewelry, liturgical ornaments and vestments, and medieval pottery.
The recreated study of author Nikos Kazantzakis, which overviews his life, is a highlight. The main library collects rare editions, periodicals, historical archives and photographic material. For insight into Cretan life, the Ethnographic Collection is a must-see
Address: House A. & M. Kalokerinos, 27, Sofokli Venizelou Ave, Heraklion 71202, Greece
Hours: Summer: Apr-Oct: Mon-Sat 9am - 5pm, Sundays and holidays Closed. Winter: Nov-Mar: Mon-Sat 9am - 3:30pm, Sundays and holidays Closed. Library: Mon-Fri 9am - 3pm.
Admission: Adult: 5 EUR, Student/Senior: 3 EUR, Child: Free
From $ 17
White Tower
The White Tower (Lefkós Pýrgos) is one of the best-loved buildings in Thessaloniki, a dumpy cylinder topped with turrets that sits at the southern end of the seafront promenade of Nikis Avenue. Thought to have been built on the top of Byzantine remains during the reign of Suleiman I the Magnificent in the mid 15th century, the six-story tower is 40 m (131 ft) high and 23 m (75.5 ft) in diameter, with sturdy stone walls dotted with tiny arrow slits. Originally it formed part of the city’s fortifications and was used by Thessaloniki’s Turkish invaders as a place of public execution. Since then the tower served as a communications center in World War I and later as a meteorological laboratory. Three more towers and a defense wall were knocked down after the fire of 1917, and its current use is as a visitor center with an exhibition detailing the turbulent history of the city. A viewing platform at the top of the tower looks out over the sea in one direction and the rooftops of Thessaloniki to the other.
One of the most popular evening pastimes for Thessaloniki locals is the waterside stroll up Nikis Avenue, starting at the old port and winding up in front of the White Tower.
Practical Info
Nikis Avenue, Thessaloniki. Opening hours Tue–Sun 8.30am–3pm. Admission adults €3; seniors, students and under 18s €2. Best accessed on foot along the waterfront promenade; it is a ten-minute walk from Thessaloniki train station.
Address: Nikis Avenue, Thessaloniki, Central Macedonia 54621, Greece
Hours: Tue–Sun 8:30am–3pm
Admission: Adults: €3; Seniors, students and under 18: €2
From $ 29
Santorini Hot Springs
Santorini’s hot springs are on the tiny, uninhabited islet of Palea Kameni. Continuous volcanic activity underground maintains the springs’ temperature between 86ºF and 95ºF (30°C and 35°C). The sulfuric, orange-tinged spring waters that bubble up into a shallow cove off the islet’s coast are said to be curative for the skin and joints.
The Basics
Most visitors reach the hot springs by way of a boat tour departing from the town of Oia or the Old Port—which sits beneath the town of Fira—on the main Greek island of Santorini. Tours may also stop on neighboring Nea Kameni, where you can hike up to the active volcano for panoramic views across lava fields to the Aegean Sea, and on Thirasia, the second-largest island in the archipelago. Boat trips to the springs moor in the rocky inlet at Erinia, and from there it is a short swim to the shallow, orange-streaked water overlooked by the tiny whitewashed church of Agios Nikolaos and bordered by vast lava boulders. For a more private experience, you can opt for a small-group catamaran tour or a romantic sunset cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The distinctive sulfuric odor of the hot springs can persist for some time after a swim, and the rust-colored water may stain light-colored swimwear.
- Don’t forget a hat, sunblock, and plenty of water to stave off the Mediterranean heat.
- Boat tour passengers must be agile enough to board and disembark boats, so travelers with limited mobility should confirm accessibility before booking.
- The hot springs are accessible only by taking a short swim, so are not recommended for young children or those who are not confident in the water.
How to Get There
You can reach the hot springs on Palea Kameni (also called Palia Kameni), just off the coast of the larger volcanic island of Nea Kameni, by boat on a private tour or a larger group cruise departing from Santorini.
When to Get There
The Santorini hot springs are most crowded in summer, but some days in late spring and early fall are warm enough to take a soak in the hot springs without having to share them with the summer crowds.
The Santorini Volcano
The massive explosion of what is now known as the Santorini volcano around the 16th or 17th century BC formed the enormous, water-filled caldera around which the dramatic Santorini archipelago is grouped. Repeated volcanic eruptions of ash and lava over the millennia have formed the Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni islands, now popular destinations for tour boats ferrying visitors to the active crater for a volcano tour and to the nearby hot springs.
Address: Palia Kameni, Oia, Santorini, Cyclades Islands 847 00, Greece
Hours: Daily
From $ 77
Temple of Poseidon
Dramatically situated on the coastal cliffs of Cape Sounion, overlooking the Aegean Sea, the Temple of Poseidon is one of the most evocative sites of ancient Greece and a top visitor attraction. The magnificent monument dates back to 444 BC, but today, all that remains is a series of gleaming white marble columns, standing proudly atop the cape.
The Basics
Whether taking a sunset cruise around Cape Sounion, driving the scenic coastal road along the Attica peninsula, or enjoying the panoramic views from the cliff tops, there are numerous options for visiting the ancient temple. One of the most popular ways to visit is on a half-day tour from Athens, and many tours also stop at the idyllic beaches along the Attica Riviera, or include a romantic dinner in Vouliagmeni Bay. For the best value, combine a Cape Sounion tour with an Athens city tour, a walking tour of the Athens Acropolis, or a day trip to Mycenae and Epidaurus.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes as the ruins are situated on uneven ground and require some walking.
- Bring your swimsuit. There is a swimming beach at the foot of the cape.
- Parts of the temple are accessible to those with limited mobility, and wheelchair accessible tours are available.
How to Get There
The Temple of Poseidon is located at the southern tip of the Attica peninsula, about 43 miles (70 kilometers) southeast of Athens. Public buses run from Athens to Sounion, but visiting on a group or private tour means you can enjoy the wonderful drive and stop at towns such as Vouliagmeni, Varkiza, or Lagonisi along the way.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit the Temple of Poseidon is during summer, but the site can get crowded. Visiting in the early morning is the best way to avoid the crowds and the midday heat, while the most atmospheric time for photos is at sunset. Alternatively, an out-of-season visit, in still balmy May or September, might mean you get the ruins to yourself.
What to See at the Temple of Poseidon
Thought to have been built by Iktinos, the architect who designed Athens' ancient Agora, the Temple of Poseidon is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Greece. Today, only 16 of the original 34 Doric columns remain, one of which is famously inscribed with the name Lord Byron, who visited the temple in the early 19th century. Additional highlights include the remains of a propylaeum and the Temple of Athena, while the real star of the show is the splendid view, which stretches as far as the Cyclades and Peloponnese islands.
Address: Cape Sounion, Greece
Hours: Open daily from 8am to sunset
Admission: Adult: €8
From $ 52
Spili
A cluster of traditional houses and cobblestone lanes nestled in the foothills of the Psiloritis mountains, there’s no denying Spili’s photogenic appeal and the tranquil mountain village has long made a popular addition to tour itineraries. Small enough to explore on foot, Spili’s top landmark is its main square, where a grand Venetian fountain takes center stage, featuring 25 lionheads spouting fresh water sourced from the nearby Mt Ida, Crete’s highest mountain.
Once you’ve explored Spili’s three historic churches and shopped for souvenirs at its many small handicraft and artisan shops, be sure to explore the surrounding countryside, renowned for its tranquil olive gloves, lush greenery and colorful fields of wildflowers that bloom in the spring and summer months.
Practical Info
Spili is located in central Crete, 30 km south of Rethymnon.
Address: Spili 740 53, Greece
From $ 83
White Beach
Tucked away on the south coast of Santorini in the next cove to Red Beach, White Beach (Aspri Paralia) is sheltered by soaring chalk-and-grey cliffs and usually accessed by boat from Akrotíri. This minuscule strand is actually composed of coarse black – not white – sand, and liberally peppered with grey and white pebbles as well as massive white volcanic boulders. Underwater caves and rocky formations along the shoreline make the beach an excellent choice for snorkelers.
Thanks to its circlet of overhanging cliffs, White Beach is reasonably isolated and hard to access so is consequently often very quiet, making it a perfect spot for those who love their sunbathing without the crowds. However, there are few facilities except sun beds and parasols for hire, so take water, food and sun tan lotion when visiting.
Practical Info
Take the ferry from Akrotíri harbor to get to White Beach; it is not accessible from inland, but can be reached by a westwards walk and a scramble through the sea from neighboring Red Beach. Always wear shoes when walking on the pebble beach as it can get unbearably hot underfoot.
Address: Santorini, Greece
From $ 110
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Athens' Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Mnēmeíon Agnōstou Stratiōtou) commemorates all those Greek soldiers who died in service of their country over its long history. Among its inscriptions are quotes from Pericles Funeral Oration as written by Thucydides in his History of the Peloponnesian War : 'and one bed is carried empty / made for the unknown ones.' During major holidays, politicians and officials lay wreaths at the tomb.
The tomb is guarded 24 hours a day by the Presidential Guard (the Evzones). These are the hand-picked strongest men of the army - also the most handsome! Their traditional uniform features a skirt, stockings and pom-poms on their shoes, all of which makes the hourly Changing of the Guard ceremony even more worth seeing. On Sundays at 11am they stage an impressive full ceremony with formal uniform and an army band.
The tomb is guarded 24 hours a day by the Presidential Guard (the Evzones). These are the hand-picked strongest men of the army - also the most handsome! Their traditional uniform features a skirt, stockings and pom-poms on their shoes, all of which makes the hourly Changing of the Guard ceremony even more worth seeing. On Sundays at 11am they stage an impressive full ceremony with formal uniform and an army band.
Practical Info
The Tomb of the Unknown Solider is located in Syntagma Square, near Parliament House. Nearest metro is Syntagma and there are also buses hubbing around the square.
Address: Syntagma Square, Athens, Greece
Hours: Open 24 hours a day
Admission: Free
From $ 20
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Athenian rulers began construction of the Temple of Olympian Zeus in the sixth century BC. By the time Roman Emperor Hadrian completed it 600 years later, it was the largest temple in Greece, and its statue of Zeus—king of the gods of Mt. Olympus—was one of the largest in the world. The temple began to fall into ruin shortly after it was finished; today only 15 of its original 104 columns still stand and much of its marble has been recycled or stolen for other temples. Nonetheless, what remains is a truly impressive sight to see.
The Basics
Most sightseeing tours of Athens include a stop at the Temple of Zeus, whether they are full-day or half-day tours. If you have a special interest in ancient Athens, you may want to book a small-group or private walking tour with an expert guide. A unified ticket valid for five days is available for the Temple of Zeus and other Athens archaeological sites and museums such as the Acropolis Museum, Hadrian’s Library, Ancient Agora, and Lykeion.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Admission is free on certain Sundays and holidays throughout the year.
- The temple is accessible to wheelchair users.
- The entire site is outdoors, so dress appropriately for the weather.
How to Get to There
The Temple of Zeus is about a quarter mile (0.4 kilometers) southeast of the Acropolis in the center of Athens, and stands the same distance south of Syntagma Square and the Parliament Building. Walk along Vasilissis Amalias Avenue from Syntagma Square, passing by the National Gardens and the edge of the famous Plaka neighborhood. The nearest metro station is Akropoli, about 1,650 feet (500 meters) from the entrance.
When to Get There
The Temple of Zeus is open year-round, with slightly longer hours in summer. Visit early in the day to beat the crowd—and, in summer, the heat.
The Archaeological Site of Olympieion
The Temple of Olympian Zeus forms part of the larger site of Olympieion, which gives visitors a glimpse into the ancient city of Athens. The site includes the Temple of the Delphinian Apollo and the Law Court at the Delphinion, both dating to 500 BC; the gates of the Themistoclean Wall, dating to around 479 BC; and public baths dating to AD 124–132. Just outside the fences of the site stands Hadrian’s Arch, which dates back to AD 131.
Address: Corner of Amalias & Vassilisis Olgas, Athens, Greece
Hours: Open daily 8am - 3pm
Admission: € 6
From $ 20
Temple of Hephaestus
The Temple of Hephaestus was built just two years before the Parthenon. It is located in the ancient agora, not too far from the Acropolis. Sometimes it is referred to as the Temple of Thission based on some opinions that the temple may have been dedicated to Theseus. It was built in 450 B.C., most likely by the same architect who built the Parthenon. The temple was designed in a Doric style with six columns on each end and 13 columns on each side.
Hephaestus is the Greek god of volcanoes and metalworking, and he was the only one of the Olympic gods who was not physically perfect and had to perform manual labor. He was the god responsible for crafting the armor with the fatal weakness that was worn by Achilles in The Iliad. Statues of Hephaestus can be found in the temple, as well as statues of Athena and several friezes depicting scenes with other gods.
Practical Info
The Temple of Hephaestus can be reached through the entrance from Monastiraki on Adrianou Street.
Address: 24 Adrianou St, Athens, Greece
From $ 37
Tsambika Beach
Hemmed in by a crescent of jagged rocks, golden sands, and crystalline waters, Tsambika Beach is one of Rhodes’ most beautiful beaches. A popular stop for boat cruises around the island, the beach is well-served by beach bars and food huts, but with no town nearby, the focus is firmly on the sun, sea, and sand.
Tsambika takes its name from the Monastery of the Virgin of Tsambika, perched on a 3,280-foot-tall (1,000 m) rock at the north end of the beach. The steep climb to the top, via 297 stone steps, affords spectacular views over Tsambika Bay. The south end of the beach is a designated nudist section.
Visit Tsambika Beach on a day cruise exploring Rhodes' east coast beach spots and scenery. To really leave your worries behind, consider choosing a tour that includes buffet lunch and round trip transportation, or a stop at Kalithea Spa.
Practical Info
Tsambika Beach is located on Rhodes Island, around 16 miles (26 km) south of Rhodes, and can be reached by car and public transport. There is a small parking lot near the beach.
There are no lifeguards or sunbeds on Tsambika Beach, but there are water toys available for purchase.
Address: Tsambika, Rhodes, Greece
From $ 47
Santorini Volcano
The “Santorini volcano” may refer to two different peaks: the first, Thira, exploded around 1600 BC and ended the thriving Minoan civilization and may have spawned the legend of Atlantis. Millennia of eruptions formed the second “Santorini volcano”—the island of Nea Kameni, drawing visitors eager to hike to the rim of its active crater.
The Basics
Most visitors reach the active volcano on Nea Kameni, whose crater continues to rumble and puff out steam, by way of a boat tour departing from the town of Oia, the Old Port of Fira, or the Athinios port on Santorini’s main island. Once on the island, you can hike up to the crater’s rim and take in the views across lava fields to Greece’s Aegean Sea. Volcano tours may also stop on Thirasia, the second-largest island in the archipelago, and at the hot springs on Palea Kameni, where boats moor at Erinia and you can swim to the springs beneath the tiny church of Agios Nikolaos. Boat trips can get crowded in high season, so opt for a small-group guided tour or catamaran tour if you would prefer a more personal experience.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you plan to walk to the crater’s rim, be sure to wear hiking-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes.
- Don't forget a hat, sunblock, and plenty of water to guard against the Mediterranean heat.
- Boat tour passengers must be agile enough to board and disembark boats, so travelers with limited mobility should confirm accessibility before booking.
- Visiting the volcano requires about 30 minutes of uphill hiking, so may not be suitable for young children or those who are not strong walkers.
How to Get There
You can reach the volcano on Nea Kameni by boat on a private tour or a larger group cruise departing from Santorini.
When to Get There
Santorini volcano tours are most crowded in summer, when it can also be uncomfortably hot during the peak hours of the day. Opt for an early morning or late afternoon departure, or plan your visit for the spring or fall.
Santorini Sunsets
Santorini boasts gorgeous sunsets, and the archipelago has the Thira volcano to thank. Its cataclysmic eruption scooped out the once-circular island’s center and west coast, creating the sea-filled caldera ringed by the sheer cliffs of the Santorini archipelago’s main island. Today the caldera provides a low-lying, obstruction-free observation point along Santorini’s west coast, perfect for watching the sun sink into the sea. Consider booking a romantic sunset tour by boat in the late afternoon to savor this famous sunset.
Address: Greece
From $ 107
Spinalonga
The now-uninhabited island of Spinalonga (Kalydon) sits in the Elounda Gulf along Crete’s northeastern shore. During the 16th-century Venetian occupation, the invaders built a defensive fortress here protecting Mirabello Bay. Today visitors can tour the massive structure and the abandoned buildings that sit along its turreted walls.
The Basics
Spinalonga is a popular tourist attraction, known for its archaeological site and fortress (once used as a Turkish bastion and leper colony), shallow pools formerly used to harvest sea salt, and pretty pebble beaches along clear waters. You can reach the island by boat trip from Plaka, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos, but by far the best way to visit the island’s archeological site is with an expert tour guide. Many full-day Spinalonga tours include other nearby highlights like the so-called “bottomless lake” in Agios Nikolaos and the beautiful beaches on Kolokytha, and some offer a BBQ lunch. If you’re a more adventurous visitor, choose a tour that pairs a ride through the countryside on a 4x4 with a private speedboat trip to the island.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Spinalonga is for day-trippers only: There are beaches for taking a dip and a small snack bar on the island, but no accommodations.
- Don’t forget a hat, sunblock, and plenty of water to stave off Crete’s summer heat.
- Tours do not include the entrance fee for the Spinalonga archaeological site and fortress.
- The fortress and archaeological site have stairs and uneven ground, and are not suitable for wheelchair users.
- Older children enjoy touring the abandoned fortress, but infants must be carried as the site is difficult to visit with a stroller.
How to Get There
The island of Spinalonga lies 50 miles (80 kilometers) east of Heraklion in Greece’s Mirabello Bay. To access the fort, you need to take a ferry or boat tour from Plaka or Elounda.
When to Get There
Spinalonga is most crowded in summer, which is also when the heat can be hard to manage. Plan your day around visiting the archaeological site in the early morning or late afternoon, and staying cool at the beach during the hottest time of day.
Spinalonga in Books and Movies
Spinalonga has been the setting for a number of books and movies—most famously the 2005 novel The Island by Victoria Hislop, which was adapted into a Greek television series.
Address: Greece
From $ 60
Fira
With gleaming white-and-blue buildings perched on a clifftop overlooking the glittering Aegean Sea, Fira (or Thera) is every bit the postcard star of Santorini. The island capital, the main port of call for holidaymakers, is famous for its stunning views, lively nightlife, and archaeological museums.
The Basics
Fira is the starting point for Santorini shore excursions, and there are ample options for day trips, with the coastal town of Oia, the archaeological site of ancient Akrotiri, and the Akrotiri lighthouse all just a short drive away. Boat tours also set sail across the caldera from Fira, cruising around the volcanic islands of Palea and Nea Kameni and often stopping for swimming and snorkeling breaks.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wi-Fi and cell phone service can be patchy on Santorini, so check in advance with your hotel or tour provider.
- Temperatures can climb above 30°C (86°F) in summer, so be sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat.
- Some boat cruises, hotels, and ferries are wheelchair accessible"”check in advance.
How to Get There
Fira is on the west coast of Santorini, 6.5 miles (11 kilometers) south of Oia, about 25 minutes by bus or taxi from the island's airport. Cruise ships will either dock at the New Port, a short bus ride away, or at the Old Port, which is directly below the town at the foot of the cliff. You can acsend by cable car, on foot (via 588 steps), and even by donkey.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit Fira is in summer, when sunny weather and warm waters make for a perfect beach vacation; at that time, tours, ferries, and accommodation book up quickly, so book in advance. If you're visiting in winter, check ahead to be sure hotels and attractions are open, and be prepared for cooler weather and some rainy days.
A walking tour of Fira
Fira's small size makes it easy to get around on foot; the town's small center is full of handicrafts shops, family-run cafes, and traditional Greek restaurants. Visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thira to discover the ancient wonders of Akrotiri, then learn more about Santorini's history at the Santorini Archaeological Museum. After exploring the museums, walk down to the Old Port, visit the 19th-century Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, or head to the Santos Winery for a tasting. In the evening, make your way to one of the seafront bars to sip cocktails as you watch one of Santorini's famous sunsets.
Address: Greece
From $ 174
Terrace of the Lions
The famous Terrace of the Lions is a signature image of Delos, as key to the island as the whitewashed windmills of Mykonos.
The Terrace of the Lions was dedicated to Apollo in around 600 BC. Originally, there were up to a dozen big squatting guardian cats lining the Sacred Way; today, only seven remain. The lions have grown weathered with time and the elements, and only their tapering feline shapes suggest their original appearance. Lined up in a row, they sit atop pillars of brick and rubble, looking over the site.
The lions are replicas, with the originals preserved in the site’s museum, a short walk east of the terrace near the visitor pavilion.
You can also see one of the lions in Venice, guarding the entrance to the Arsenale shipyards. The terrace is part of the sprawling archaeological site of Ancient Delos, on the island’s northwest coast. It sits in front of the rectangular Agora of the Italians, south of the Sacred Lake where Leto gave birth to Apollo. Between the terrace and the sea lies the temple of Poseidon.
The Terrace of the Lions was dedicated to Apollo in around 600 BC. Originally, there were up to a dozen big squatting guardian cats lining the Sacred Way; today, only seven remain. The lions have grown weathered with time and the elements, and only their tapering feline shapes suggest their original appearance. Lined up in a row, they sit atop pillars of brick and rubble, looking over the site.
The lions are replicas, with the originals preserved in the site’s museum, a short walk east of the terrace near the visitor pavilion.
You can also see one of the lions in Venice, guarding the entrance to the Arsenale shipyards. The terrace is part of the sprawling archaeological site of Ancient Delos, on the island’s northwest coast. It sits in front of the rectangular Agora of the Italians, south of the Sacred Lake where Leto gave birth to Apollo. Between the terrace and the sea lies the temple of Poseidon.
Practical Info
The Terrace of the Lions is one of the monuments of Ancient Delos, a 30-minute sail southwest of Mykonos. You can take an organized tour to the island of Delos, or catch a boat from Chora Mykonos.
Address: Greece
From $ 93
Thirassia
The little island of Thirassia has a population of only 200 or so, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing lunch at a cliff-top taverna, with views over to Santorini. The island used to be part of Santorini’s mainland, until the violent volcanic eruption of 1650 BC set it free.
Sail over from Santorini to escape the crowds on Thirassia’s lovely beaches, and bring a traveler’s dictionary as not many people here speak English. Those tavernas are clustered in the village of Manolas, near the ferry stop, and the tranquil island also has scattered blue-domed churches, ancient monasteries and stone villages
Sail over from Santorini to escape the crowds on Thirassia’s lovely beaches, and bring a traveler’s dictionary as not many people here speak English. Those tavernas are clustered in the village of Manolas, near the ferry stop, and the tranquil island also has scattered blue-domed churches, ancient monasteries and stone villages
Practical Info
The island of Thirassia lies west of Santorini, across the caldera on the other side of Nea Kameni. Some ferries run to Thirassia’s ports of Riva and Korfos from Athinios on Santorini’s central west coast, and from Ammoudi on its northern tip. As ferry schedules are unreliable, most visitors come via excursion boat, sailing via Nea Kameni along the way.
Address: Greece
From $ 110