12 Fairytale Villages in Greece You Won't Believe Are Real

Beyond the stunning coastlines and beautiful beaches, Greece is also home to fairytale villages that seem straight out of a storybook. The thing about these Greek villages is that they are not just beautiful. Many of them let you experience a side of Greece that many tourists who focus on major cities do not get to see. Don’t get us wrong; many Greek towns offer much to see and do. However, if you are looking for authentic experiences in less touristy areas, it would likely be in these beautiful Greek villages.

Whitewashed buildings, hilltop villages overlooking the sea, colorful fishermen’s houses, and a laid-back pace of life are some things you get to experience when visiting Greek villages.

Are you ready to elevate your travel experience in Greece? Add these fairytale villages to your Greek itinerary. You won’t just be visiting, you’ll be living the fairytale.

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Chora, Folegandros

Perched on a cliff’s edge, Chora, the main village on the island of Folegandros, provides stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding landscape. With the surrounding landscapes, visiting this island is a dream for nature lovers.

Its unspoiled Cycladic beauty is evident in its whitewashed buildings with blue doors and shutters and the colorful flowers that line the sideways. The car-free streets add to the village’s charm, creating a refreshing and calm ambiance.

Whether walking through its picturesque streets or soaking in its tranquil ambiance, Folegandros is a destination that lets you immerse yourself in the serene beauty of a typical Cycladic village.

Fiskardo, Kefalonia

On the northern side of Kefalonia lies Fiskardo, a charming village known for its stunning waterfront, colorful Venetian-style buildings, and a picturesque harbor filled with fishing boats and yachts. The surrounding area features lush green hills, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful beaches, making it one of the most scenic spots in Kefalonia.

Not only is Fiskardo among the most scenic but also among the most historic places on the island of Kefalonia. This village is one of the few places in Kefalonia that was spared from the devastating earthquake of 1953, which means it retains much of its original architecture and historical charm.

Stroll around the villages admiring the pastel-colored villages, or get a snack or a coffee at the waterfront cafes. Some landmarks to make time for include the Fiskardo Lighthouse or the nearby beaches Emblisi and Foki Beach, which offer crystal-clear waters and pebbled shores, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.

Makrinitsa, Pelion

Makrinitsa is a picturesque village located on the slopes of Mount Pelion in Thessaly. The village hangs dramatically off a vegetation-covered mountain. With its high elevation, Makrinitsa offers great views of the Pagasetic Gulf and the city of Volos. Many of the stone mansions and small chapels in the village date back to the 18th – 19th centuries, which is a great way to explore the elegance of that era.

You can lounge on its central square as you admire the stone fountains and the village’s architectural charm. Besides the square, you can swing by the Museum of Folk Art and History of Pelion, which showcases traditional costumes, artifacts, and historical exhibits.

In addition to enjoying the great views, you will be enveloped in the tranquility and sense of peace that this village offers, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Olympos, Karpathos

If you are looking for a destination that is a living museum, it would have to be this village. Houses in Olympos retain their original ancient architecture and color, offering an idyllic and historic atmosphere.

With a population of just around 400, you can expect the atmosphere here to be calm and slowed down—a perfect escape from the city chaos.

When visiting, make time for the historic Assumption of The Virgin Mary Church. Be sure to take note of the church’s beautiful frescoes—they are quite a sight.

Pyrgi, Chios

If you have an artistic eye, Pyrgi is calling! This village is often called the “painted village” due to its distinct house decoration style, called “xysta.” The black and white geometric prints are etched into the building’s wall, creating a picturesque effect. Each building features different patterns, making the village a living gallery of traditional art. If you are into collecting Instagram-worthy snaps, posing in front of Pyrgi’s buildings is something to do when visiting the Greek islands.

An unmissable landmark is the 13th-century Church of Agioi Apostoloi (Saint Apostles), which not only holds so much history but also showcases beautiful frescoes.

Beyond the unique decorations, you can enjoy the scenery of the olive groves and mastic trees surrounding the village.

Palaios Panteleimonas, North Greece

There is something irresistible about a destination that combines natural beauty with stunning architecture and charming history. If this is your vibe, Palaios Panteleimonas is a destination you want to experience. This village is known for its spectacular views of the Thermaic Gulf and the lush slopes of Mount Olympus.

Enjoying the beautiful landscapes surrounding this village is an excellent way to pass your day. You, however, want to take enough time to explore the village’s stunning architecture, which features stone-built houses with red-tiled roofs, wooden balconies, and large windows.

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Stroll along the village’s winding streets to perfectly explore the unique architecture. You could also lounge in the village’s central square and enjoy the scenery or a coffee. It’s a perfect destination for tranquility and an authentic Greek mountain village experience.

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Oia, Santorini

Unmissable Things To Do in Santorini How To Get Around Santorini — © neirfy / Adobe Stock

Oia is a classic. If you like going with what everyone loves, you have got to spare enough time for Oia—it is a magical experience. There are so many things to like about Oia—the Cycladic architecture, featuring whitewashed houses with blue accents; blue-dome-shaped roofs, and the occasional cave houses.

Architecture aside, Oia offers amazing views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea. The village also provides some of the most spectacular sunset views in the world. However, it does get crowded in the summer. We highly recommend going to Santorini in May or September for great weather and no crowds.

There is so much to do in this village. You can hike from Oia to Fira, explore the town’s numerous art galleries and shops, swing by the Church of Panagia, or walk down the steep staircase to Amoudi Bay, perfect for a drink in the tavernas and cliff diving.

Whether strolling around the village, catching a sunset, enjoying the views, or doing a photoshoot, Oia memories will definitely be among your most cherished travel memories.

Pyrgos, Santorini

Everyone knows Oia and its charm. Therefore, don’t be surprised if you meet crowds during your visit or stay in the village. If you are looking to experience Santorini’s charm without having to worry about crowds, Pyrgos is a great option to consider, as it offers a more authentic experience.

The architecture in Pyrgos features traditional Cycladic elements, including whitewashed houses, narrow alleyways, and blue-domed churches. The maze of streets and hidden ways elevate the village’s sense of timelessness.

Some noteworthy landmarks include Kasteli, a Venetian castle at the top of the village that offers a glimpse into the village’s history. You can also swing by the 10th-century Church of Theotokaki, one of the oldest churches in Santorini.

You will also like that Pyrgos is surrounded by some of the island’s best vineyards. Besides soaking in the picture-perfect scenery, you can sample some of the island’s famous wines, such as Assyrtiko.

Assos, Kefalonia

Greek Islands That Have Airports Cephalonia — © SCStock / Adobe Stock

Assos is a quaint village famous for its colorful houses and tranquil ambiance. Located on the edge of the Assos Peninsula, this village offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea, elevating its serenity. The village’s lush greenery blends with the deep blue of the sea, creating a very relaxing atmosphere.

Beyond the postcard-perfect views of the natural scenery, you will also fall in love with the village’s architecture. The pastel-colored houses with red roofs and vibrant flower-filled gardens are quite a sight. The buildings line narrow, winding streets that lead down to the waterfront, where boats bob gently in the harbor. The combination of natural and architectural beauty gives Assos its unique charm.

Katapola, Amorgos

Katapola is another Cycladic village that effortlessly blends natural beauty, traditional architecture, and a relaxed atmosphere. A charming waterfront, classic Cycladic architecture, and views of the deep blue sea are some of Katapola’s irresistible features. The simplicity and elegance of the architecture blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings, creating a timeless appeal you cannot afford to miss when hopping from one Cycladic island to another.

When in Katapola, wander through the village, swim in the nearby villages, explore the archaeological site of Minoa on a hill above Katapola, or hike to scenic viewpoints.

Kastro, Sifnos

Perched on a hill overlooking the Aegean Sea, Kastro is a medieval settlement known for its Cycladic architecture, rich history, and stunning views. For starters, the village’s elevated position allows for breathtaking views of sunsets and sunrises alongside the blue sea stretching out as far as the eye can see.

You can explore the whitewashed buildings, the ancient walls and fortifications in the villages, and the characteristic Cycladic churches. The Church of the Seven Martyrs is a noteworthy highlight that should not be missed. This church is a highly photographed spot for its picturesque setting and striking appearance.

Whether strolling and exploring the architectural delights of Kastro, dining in local restaurants, or swimming in the nearby beaches, Kastro is a village that promises a memorable experience.

Klima, Milos

If you want to explore an authentic fishing village, Klima in southern Milos is a great destination to consider. While the village has many things to see and do, your top priority should be the colorful boat houses built into the cliff sides along the waterfront. These distinctive buildings serve as homes and boat storage for local fishermen, creating an authentic setting to explore the village’s fishing lifestyle.

Klima offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into traditional Greek island life with its stunning scenery, unique architecture, and tranquil atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring the traditional fishermen’s houses, swimming in the sea, or simply enjoying the sunset views, Klima is a village that will not fail to impress you.