Trying to create your perfect Greece bucket list? From its turquoise mediterranean sea to its picturesque villages and historical sites, Greece is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.
Many cities on the mainland, such as Athens, boast a rich history with some of the most spectacular ancient ruins worldwide.
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Each island has a unique charm; thus, you should include at least a few on your Greece bucket list. Here are our favorite things to do and see on the mainland and the islands.
Want to stay connected during your travels? Learn how to buy a SIM card in Greece.
See The Sights In Athens
Athens is the first stop on many people’s Greece bucket list, famed for its 5th-century BC landmarks. The capital city was the heart of Ancient Greece and was the birthplace of democracy.
One of the top landmarks in Athens is the 6th-century Panathenaic Stadium, the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. The stadium has a rich history, hosting the Zappas Olympics in 1870 and 1875 and the first modern Olympics in 1896.
The Acropolis is another must-see. It is an ancient citadel that sits on a rocky hilltop above the city, along with the remains of several other old buildings. Like the Panathenaic, the Acropolis has an equally impressive history as a home to kings, a citadel, a mythical home of the gods, and a religious center.
A different attraction worth checking out is Athens Central Market, which has been in operation since 1886. This bustling marketplace is a fab place to try local delicacies and the most authentic Green dishes.
If Athens is on your Greece itinerary, read our guide to find out how many days in Athens you’ll need.
Visit Delphi Archaeological Site
Delphi Archaeological Site Delphi lies between two towering rocks of Mt. Parnassus in Central Greece, 3 hours from Athens. Delphi is home to the Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Apollo dedicated to the Greek god, along with the Oracle of Delphi, which was once the most significant shrine in Greece.
While Delphi is a must-visit for any history buff, its breathtaking mountain landscape makes it an extremely beautiful place to visit. Thus, strolling around the hilltop ruins and exploring the amphitheater makes for an excellent day trip.
Guided tours run from Athens and include a stop at the Museum of Delphi, too.
Take A Trip To Ancient Olympia
Olympia is the home of the ancient Olympic Games, located in the valley of the Alfeiós Riveron on Greece’s Peloponnese peninsula. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was founded in the 8th century BC.
There are still extensive ruins today, including various athletic training areas, stadiums, and temples dedicated to Hera and Zeus.
The vast site was designed to hold up to 40,000 spectators. It is also the former site of the Statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Unfortunately, the 13-meter tall statue was destroyed by Emperor Theodosius II.
You can tour the ruins of Olympia and visit the Archeological Museum of Olympia, which opened in 1982.
Experience Paradise In Zakynthos
Zakynthos is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful parts of the country, and thus, be sure to include a visit here on your Greece bucket list. It is most known for its party town Zante, but the island offers so much more.
The most famous part of the island is Navagio beach, which is the site of the 1980 shipwreck, which today still rests in a sandy cove surrounded by cliffs. Moreover, you’ll enjoy turquoise blue waters all around the island and many stunning beaches, such as Agios Nikolaos, Alykanas, and Tsilivi.
Check out the blue caves, too, a succession of caves along the island’s northwest coast where the sunlight magically casts blue light onto the water, giving its vibrant hue. You can take a boat tour here from various parts of Zakynthos and swim around the caves.
Take A Trip To The Picturesque Island Of Santorini
From one beautiful island to another, Santorini is one of the Cyclades islands known for its iconic whitewashed houses in the towns of Fira and Oia. However, one of Santorini’s famous sights is the spectacular underwater caldera (crater) formed by a volcanic eruption centuries ago.
At 1,312 feet (400 meters) deep, the Santorini underwater caldera is one of Greece’s most popular diving spots. However, you can also see volcanic scenery on land by hiking around the black lava islands of Palaia Kameni and Nea Kameni.
The latter has a trail that leads to the crater, and the former boasts volcanic hot springs and sulfur waters that you can swim in. While in Santorini, you can also visit some of the wineries, such as Santo Wines and Venetsanos, which run tours and have tasting patios with ocean views.
Want more information about Santorini? Discover what to do in Santorini in winter.
Explore The Underground Melissani Lake In Kefalonia
Melissani Lake, on the island of Kefalonia, is one of the most jaw-dropping and unique natural wonders in Greece. The lake is located in a limestone cave with a 300 feet ceiling, giving the water a dazzling vivid blue tone.
You can access the lake on a small boat via a tunnel, and you can swim in the crystal clear waters in the serene spot. While Melissani Lake is one of Kefalonia’s top attractions, there are tons more things to do on the island.
So make a day of it by visiting the quiet fishing villages of Assos and Fiscardo to see what life is like for the locals. Then, relax on the untouched shores of Myrtos Beach and Antisamos Beach.
Go Hiking In Dragon Lakes
The Dragon Lakes (Drakolimni) are several alpine and subalpine lakes in the northwestern Greece Epirus region, named after the ancient dueling dragons Tymfi and Smolikas from Greek mythology. Dragon Lakes is an incredibly scenic area popular with hikers and nature lovers.
The village of Mikro Papingo is the trailhead for the main hike, and it takes around 5 hours to reach the lake and slightly less time to come back. Therefore, it is a full day trek and physically demanding.
Other activities you can do in the area include mountain biking and rafting (on the river Voidomatis), which you can book to do on a day tour.
Sail Around Milos
The volcanic Greek island of Milos is the southwesternmost island in the Cyclades group, known for its natural volcanic landscape that, due to the abundance of minerals, has many beautiful beaches and landscapes. The best way to explore this island is on a sailing trip.
Most cruises depart from Adamantas and voyage around the west part of the island, exploring the natural sights like Cape Vani, Kleftiko bay, the Arkoudes rocks, and Sykia cave.
On a sailing trip, you’ll get plenty of time to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear turquoise waters and admire the colorful villages of Skinopi and the capital of ancient Milos from afar.
For a different experience, you can head out in the early evening to witness the incredible Mykonian sunset.
Party In Mykonos
Mykonos is a beautiful and chic Greek island, boasting serene beaches, beautiful nature, picturesque villages, and mouthwatering Greek food.
However, Mykonos is most famous for its vibrant night scene that rivals Ibiza, making it a popular summer party destination among international visitors.
You will find massive nightclubs here with world-renowned DJs spinning the decks until dawn. You’ll also discover endless bars along Paradise and Super Paradise beaches blaring loud music every night.
Mykonos parties not only finish in the early morning hours but also start early. For example, Tropicana Mykonos Club on Paradise Beach kicks off around 5 pm and continues until the sun rises.
While in Mykonos, check out the island’s iconic attraction, a row of 16th-century windmills, which sit on a hill above the town. And if you need a break from the partying, visit the Ancient City of Delos in the island’s north.
Climb Mount Olympus
Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece, with a summit of 9,570-feet (2,917-meter). It is the legendary home of the 12 Olympian gods, including Zeus, Hera, Apollo, Artemis, and Aphrodite.
Climbing to the top of the peak is not for the faint-hearted as it is a strenuous 2-day trek. However, Mount Olympus has many shorter hiking trails, allowing you to admire the gorgeous scenery without a workout.
For example, the 7.5-mile (12 kilometers) hike from Prionia runs through the gorge of Enipeas. It finishes in the village of Litochoro, taking 5 hours in total.
Or, if you’re looking for something more exciting, you can canoe in the rivers of Mt. Olympus and abseil down the waterfalls.
Final Thoughts On Greece Bucket List Experiences
As you can see, a trip to Greece offers a variety of experiences. The country’s scenery differs from place to place, from limestone caves to refreshing gorges to serene mountains.
As a result, you will be left in awe wherever you go, and by following this Greece bucket list, you’ll have an epic adventure!
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