What comes to your mind when you hear the word “Greece”?
If you ask me, and I will date myself here…I think of one of my favorite movies, Summer Lovers, with Daryll Hannah and Peter Gallagher from 1982! Yes, Greece is a complete vacation paradise! With 6,000 islands and islets, 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Greece is and has always been, one of the most desirable and hottest destination to visit. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a history or mythology buff, a night owl party-goer, a beach hopper, or a foodie, Greece is the place to be!
For those of you who love to jump into the ocean to wake up in the morning, a catamaran cruise is the perfect way to explore various islands by sea. For those who prefer to stay in some of the most beautiful, romantic, unique hotels, there are a plethora to choose from.
I love working with our partners of the month Eclectic Greece, especially as I plan a few Greek adventures for my clients this summer. For years, they have worked with our advisors to create itineraries based on each client’s unique interests. So, whether you want a summer family trip, a history-focused excursion, or you want to explore a little bit of everything, we can design a trip of a lifetime! I am happy to share this wonderful short guide from our experts at Eclectic Greece.
ATHENS
Whether you want to explore ancient history, try local cuisine, experience the vibrant nightlife, or something in between, there is something for everyone in Athens.
Don’t miss:
A food tour of Athens. You’ll be dreaming about the mouthwatering bougatsa long after you return home.
Insider Tip:
If you have a long layover at the Athens Airport, you can store your luggage at the airport while you explore the city.
Best for:
Families, Couples, History, Food & Wine
How to get there:
Fly direct from several major US cities
Pairs with:
Anywhere in Greece!
CORFU
Situated off the northwest coast of Greece in the Ionian Sea, Corfu is a stunning island with a fascinating past. Corfu was under Venetian, French, and British rule before becoming part of Greece, and you can see those influences in the architecture, historical sites, and culture. And we’d be remiss not to mention the island’s natural beauty. From the beaches to the olive groves to the coastlines, Corfu is a gorgeous place to spend time outdoors.
Don’t miss:
The Old Venetian Fortress
Best for:
Couples, history, food & wine
How to get there:
Fly from Athens; take a ferry from Igoumenitsa or Patra
Pairs with:
Athens, Paxi, Ithaca, Lefkada, Kefalonia
CRETE
Greece’s largest island, Crete, has so much to offer, from Minoan culture to beautiful beaches to endless activities. Since the island is so big, you can easily split your time between the Elounda side and the Chania side.
Don’t miss:
A visit to Knossos Palace, where you can learn about the history of the Minoan civilization.
Best for:
Couples, families, history, food & wine, adventure
How to get there:
Fly from Athens; take the ferry from Santorini
Pairs with:
Athens, Santorini
MYKONOS
Mykonos is one of the most popular islands for travelers thanks to its vibrant nightlife and dining scene. But beyond that, you can also relax on the beaches, take day trips to other islands, or tour Mykonos by jeep.
Don’t miss:
A private tour to the island of Delos. This sacred island is said to be the birthplace of Apollo in Greek mythology.
Best for:
Couples, food & wine
How to get there:
Fly front Athens; take a ferry from Santorini, Naxos, or Paros
Pairs with:
Athens, Santorini, Naxos, Paros
NAXOS
Though it is the largest island in the Cyclades, Naxos has a small-town vibe. There are fewer travelers on Naxos, so you get a true sense of the authentic culture of the island. From relaxing on the sandy beach to enjoying dishes with Naxos potatoes, this island is the perfect spot to slow down and immerse yourself in Greece.
Don’t miss:
Learning new recipes during a cooking class with a local. Eclectic Greece can arrange the experience, and you can share your new cooking skills with friends and family back at home.
Insider tip:
The island has nine villages scattered around the island. Take time to explore the island, whether you rent a car or get a private driver.
Best for:
Couples, families, food & wine, history, off the beaten path
How to get there:
Fly from Athens (note: the Naxos airport is tiny!); take a ferry from Santorini, Mykonos, or Paros
Pairs with:
Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Paros
PAROS
When you think of Paros, imagine bright bougainvillea blooming against white-washed houses, verdant valleys, and golden beaches. There is so much to explore on this island but be sure to take time to simply relax on one of the amazing beach spots.
Don’t miss:
A private Paros and Antiparos that takes you to a 13th century Venetian castle, beaches, and shopping in Naousa.
Best for:
Couples, families, culture, food & wine, off the beaten path
How to get there:
Fly from Athens; take a ferry from Naxos, Mykonos, or Santorini
Pairs with:
Athens, Naxos, Mykonos, Santorini
SANTORINI
There is nowhere in Greece – or the world – quite like Santorini. With picture perfect views of the caldera from lux cliffside hotels, it’s no wonder Santorini is one of the most romantic destinations in the world.
Don’t miss:
Spending a day on a catamaran exploring the island by water.
Insider Tip:
Oia has incredible views (and boasts the BEST sunset views in all of Greece!), shops, dining, and hotels – and tourists know it. If you want to avoid the crowds on Santorini, consider splitting your time between Oia and hotels in or outside of Fira. And if you want a spa experience, check out Andronis Concept Wellness Resort in Imerovigli.
Best for:
Couples, Food & Wine
How to get there:
Fly from Athens or take a ferry from Mykonos, Naxos, Paris, Milos, or Crete
Pairs with:
Athens and any other Cyclades islands
