12 Greek Hidden Gems You Probably Haven’t Heard Of

If we told you to plan a summer vacation to Greece, you’d likely come up with an itinerary that includes famous tourist destinations, such as Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini. While there’s nothing necessarily wrong with visiting Greece’s most popular places, there’s so much more to see.

Despite being one of the world’s most sought-after tourist destinations, Greece still has plenty of hidden gems to explore. From less-traveled Greek islands to less-visited historical sites, Greece has it all. Here are 12 hidden gems in Greece to inspire your next trip. These locations offer impressive natural beauty, history, Greek charm, and fewer crowds.

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Agios Nikolaos, Crete

First, we have Agios Nikolaos, a charming coastal town on the Greek island of Crete, just a 50-minute drive from Heraklion Airport. Often considered one of Greece’s most beautiful, less-visited destinations, this picturesque city is a must-visit for travelers seeking somewhere quieter to relax and unwind.

When you’re not walking along the harborfront or dipping your feet in the calm waters at Paralia Kitroplatia, explore the Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos, admire the vibrant pastel-colored buildings in the town center, and take a relaxing stroll around Lake Voulismeni. Enjoy authentic Greek cuisine in one of the many romantic restaurants in the evening while taking in Crete’s fiery sunsets.

Ano Mera Village, Mykonos

Another stunning traditional Cycladic village you should visit in Greece is Ano Mera Village in Mykonos. Mykonos is widely known as one of the best places to party in Greece, so Ano Mera Village is relatively unheard of, which is a shame because it reveals another side of the island.

Lying in the heart of Mykonos, this quaint village lets you experience the island’s traditional way of life. Narrow alleyways lead to historic buildings, the central square is jam-packed with authentic vibes, and the cozy traditional tavernas serve delicious Greek cuisine. What’s not to like? Significant points of interest in Ano Mera Village include the 16th-century Panagia Tourliani monastery, Paleokastro Monastery, and Ano Mera Square.

Mystras

Mystras is a breathtaking fortified town in mainland Greece best known for its unique architecture, lush surroundings, and rich history. Often referred to as the “wonder of Morea,” the town was built as an amphitheater around a fortress in 1249. It’s designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is somewhere you don’t want to miss.

The town was abandoned in 1832 after being ruled by the Byzantines, Turks, and Venetians, leaving behind spectacular medieval ruins. Interestingly, the only people living in Mystras are the nuns of the Monastery of Pantanassa. Noteworthy points of interest in Mystras include the Acropolis and Fortification Castle of Mystras, the Archaeological site of Mystra, and the Constantine XI Palaeologus statue.

Kritinia Castle, Rhodes

Most people visiting Rhodes do so to enjoy the long and narrow sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise sea, and the historic Rhodes Old Town. While there’s nothing wrong with visiting the main attractions on the island, in fact, we encourage it, there are some hidden gems to discover. One place you don’t want to miss is Kritinia Castle.

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Aegean Sea, the castle was built in the 15th century by the Knights of St. John. Despite some wear and tear, the impressive Byzantine and Venetian-style fortification and ancient walls have stood up to the test of time. Inside the castle, you’ll find fascinating 16th-century wall paintings. Meanwhile, the top of the castle offers unparalleled views of the Rhodes coastline.

Mesa Pigadia Beach, Santorini

Generally, it can be pretty difficult to escape the hustle and bustle of Santorini’s most iconic tourist attractions and famous viewpoints, especially during peak tourism season. However, Mesa Pigadia along the southern coast offers a somewhat secluded retreat. Surrounded by tall volcanic cliffs, Mesa Pigadia Beach is a gorgeous pebble-stone beach that provides a tranquil, relaxing place.

You can rent a sun lounger and an umbrella and simply admire the scenic surroundings, swim in the deep blue waters, or participate in exhilarating water sports that will get your blood pumping. Other useful amenities on the beach include a beachfront restaurant, toilets, and changing rooms.

Folegandros

Another excellent way to escape the busy crowds in Santorini is to visit somewhere completely different. Conveniently, Folegandros, one of Greece’s lesser-traveled islands, is Santorini’s tranquil neighbor. Despite being just 28 nautical miles (52 kilometers) from Santorini, the two islands differ significantly.

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Folegandros is quieter, less touristy, and has fewer luxury resorts, restaurants, and shops. Instead, the island is loved most for its fascinating Cycladic architecture, vibrant seaside towns, and picturesque beaches. Chora, a Middle Ages town, is one of the main attractions on the island, so you should start there. Other notable attractions include Agali Beach, Katergo Beach, and the Church of Panagia (Virgin Mary).

Cameo Island, Zakynthos

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When not partying hard in Zakynthos’ famous nightclubs, discover the island’s most exciting and lesser-known attractions, such as Cameo Island. Cameo Island is a tiny island located north of Zakynthos Island, only a 15-minute drive from the island’s main airport.

Accessed via a small wooden bridge, this small slice of paradise offers scenic coastal views, sparkling turquoise waters, and a tiny stretch of beach where you can sunbathe. Admittedly, there isn’t much to do on the island, but that’s the beauty of it. Here, you’ll spend all your time relaxing and enjoying the breathtaking scenery. Cameo Island can be hired for private weddings and events, so visit the nearby Martini Beach instead if it’s shut.

Kokkari, Samos

The following Greek hidden gem on our list is perfect for travelers who want a more authentic Greek vacation in a coastal resort that’s much quieter and more laid-back than famous destinations like Santorini and Mykonos. Kokkari is a stunning village on the island of Samos, approximately 6 miles (10 kilometers) from the island capital.

It’s best known for its picturesque natural surroundings, vibrant architecture, and boat-filled harbor. You’ll likely spend most of your time in Kokkari walking along the harbor front, admiring the views of the nearby vineyards and pine-tree forests, tucking into authentic Greek food in a seafront taverna, and swimming in the turquoise waters off Paralia Kokkari.

Hydra Town, Hydra

The island of Hydra isn’t far from Athens, the Greek capital. However, it offers an entirely different experience. Sitting off the coast of the Peloponnese, Hydra is much quieter, more laid-back, and arguably more beautiful. It’s also car-free, which makes a nice change.

In Hydra Town, a traditional and protected settlement, you’ll find a maze of beautiful traditional houses and mansions from the 19th century, a scenic yacht-filled harbor, and a promenade with local tavernas and restaurants. Offering an escape from daily life, a walk along the horseshoe-shaped harbor is a must. Other popular things to do include hiking, swimming, and boating.

Melissani Cave, Kefalonia

Despite offering postcard-perfect beaches, charming seaside towns, many things to see and do, and countless hidden Greek island gems, Kefalonia is a relatively untraveled destination compared to other Greek islands. One of our favorite hidden gems on the island is Melissani Cave, also called Melissani or Melissani Lake.

Located northwest of Sami, this fascinating cave allows travelers to experience something different. In the cave, which can be explored by a rowing boat, you’ll find a large turquoise-colored lake, enormous stalactites hanging from the cave ceiling, and a forest-covered cave opening. The scene is spectacular at any time, but it gets even better at midday when the sun shines through the cave opening, lighting up the sparkling lake below.

Koronos Village, Naxos

Tucked away in the mountainous interior of Naxos, Koronos Village is a great place to visit if you want to experience the authentic Cycladic charm without the large crowds you find on other parts of the island. In Koronos, you’ll find everything from picture-perfect whitewashed houses adorned with beautiful flowers and traditional Cycladic buildings to charming winding alleys and streets lined with local shops and restaurants.

The village also offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and vineyards. Famous tourist attractions in the village include the nearby Church of Panagia Argokoiliotissa, the Folklore Museum of Koronos, and Routsouna’s Waterfall. Thanks to the village’s rugged surroundings, hiking is also popular in Koronos.

Angelokastro Castle, Corfu

Also known as Angel Castle, Angelokastro is a breathtaking attraction that sits precariously on a large cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea in northwest Corfu. Despite the castle’s apparent beauty and impressive architecture, one of the main draws is its unparalleled views of the coast.

Once you’ve admired the views of the Ionian Sea and surrounding cliffside, explore the castle to get a taste of Corfu’s rich history and cultural heritage. Inside Angelokastro Castle, you’ll find fascinating ancient ruins, tall stone walls, and hidden chambers waiting to be seen. Hiking to the castle isn’t easy, so pack your walking boots and a bottle of water.