Planning a trip to Greece can be harder than it sounds. There are so many islands, coastal towns and historic places to choose from that deciding where to go can take almost as much time as planning the trip itself.
If you are looking for a mixture of scenery, history, food and atmosphere, these four destinations are a good place to start.
Athens
It would be difficult to visit Greece for the first time without spending some time in Athens. The capital is home to some of the country’s most famous historical sites, but there is much more to the city than ancient ruins.
The Acropolis is the obvious attraction, and it is worth seeing early in your visit. Once you have explored the historic sights, take some time to wander around the surrounding streets. Plaka is particularly enjoyable for a relaxed walk, with small shops, restaurants and cafés tucked among its narrow streets.
Athens also has a completely different feel in the evening. You can find rooftop restaurants with views of the Acropolis, sit outside with a drink or explore some of the city’s livelier neighbourhoods. It is a place where you can easily fill several days without running out of things to do. It’s advisable to rent a property in Athens near the centre to make the best of it.
Naousa
Naousa, on Paros, offers a very different experience. The small harbour is at the heart of the village, surrounded by white buildings, fishing boats, restaurants and seaside bars like Barbarossa Bar. It is the sort of place where you can happily spend an afternoon without having much of a plan.
During the day, the narrow streets are great for exploring, while the nearby beaches provide an opportunity to escape the heat. When evening arrives, Naousa becomes busier, with people heading towards the waterfront for dinner and drinks.
The village manages to feel lively without losing its traditional character. If you want somewhere that combines beautiful surroundings with a good choice of places to eat and relax, Naousa is well worth considering.
Santorini
Santorini needs little introduction. Its whitewashed villages, dramatic cliffs and views across the Aegean have made it one of the best-known destinations in Greece.
Oia is particularly popular for sunset, although it can get busy during the main holiday season. Fira is another good place to explore, with plenty of shops, restaurants and places to stop for a drink while taking in the views.
It is easy to spend your entire visit chasing the perfect photograph, but Santorini is better when you slow down a little. Visit a winery, explore one of the quieter villages or spend an afternoon discovering a different part of the island.
The scenery is certainly a major attraction, but there is more to the island than its famous views.
Crete
Crete is a good choice for anyone who wants variety. As the largest Greek island, it offers everything from beaches and traditional villages to archaeological sites and lively towns.
History enthusiasts will want to visit the Palace of Knossos near Heraklion, while Chania is worth a visit for its old harbour and attractive streets. There are also plenty of opportunities to get away from the busier tourist areas and see a quieter side of the island.
Crete is large enough that having your own transport can be useful. Hiring a car gives you the freedom to stop at small villages, local tavernas and beaches that you might otherwise miss.
The island also works well for longer holidays. You can spend a few days sightseeing, then slow things down with some time by the sea without feeling as though you have seen everything in one go.
Athens, Naousa, Santorini and Crete each offer something quite different, which is part of what makes travelling around Greece so enjoyable. You can move from ancient history to island life, from busy city streets to quiet coastal scenery, often within the same trip.