12 Most Beautiful Cities in Greece That Deserve More Love

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When we think of Greece, our minds quickly picture small Greek islands with vibrant coastal towns, beautiful beaches, and turquoise seas. After all, most travelers head to Greece to escape the daily grind and enjoy a summer vacation in absolute paradise. While these destinations are perfect in many ways, they aren’t Greece’s only beautiful places.

Greece also has many picturesque cities to explore. These cities have everything, from historic landmarks and ancient ruins to stunning coastal retreats and lively city centers. To learn more about the Greek cities, here are 12 of the most beautiful ones. These are the places you shouldn’t miss.

Thessaloniki

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Thessaloniki is a picturesque port city on the Thermaic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. It’s best known for its Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman architecture, but the food scene and nightlife are memorable. Evidence of Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman architecture is abundant across the city, but Ano Poli (the upper town) is an excellent place to start.

This former Ottoman quarter has a maze of narrow streets lined with historical monuments, tavernas, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Iconic landmarks in the area include the 5th-century Church of Osios David, the Trigonion Tower, and the Vlatadon Monastery. Other significant points of interest in the city include the Ataturk Museum, the Museum of the Macedonian Struggle, and the Martiou market.

Corfu Town

Corfu Town, the capital of Corfu, is a historic city with cobblestone streets, Venetian architecture, a picturesque harbor, and classic Greek charm. You’ll first notice the commanding Old Fortress of Corfu in the city. This 15th-century Fortress sits on a hill above the city, offering panoramic views of the harbor and an insight into Venetian architecture.

Take your time wandering the winding streets in the city, admiring the pastel-colored buildings. Plenty of landmarks and attractions, including the Holy Church of Saint Spyridon, the beautiful Spianada Square, and the Achilleion Palace, will keep you busy. Other points of interest include the Anemomilos Windmill, the Corfu Museum of Asian Art, and the Old Castle.

Athens

If you only visit one city in Greece, it has to be Athens, the nation’s capital. Once the heart of ancient Greece, Athens and its Acropolis are the most visited tourist destinations in the country. Millions of tourists visit the city yearly to glimpse the ancient architecture. The city is still dominated by 5th-century B.C. architecture, but the Acropolis is the most famous sight.

This hilltop citadel towers above the city, offering travelers an insight into ancient Greece. The Acropolis is home to the ruins of several buildings, including the Parthenon, the Old Temple of Athena, and the Erechtheum. You’ll also find significant landmarks in the city, such as the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Zappeion Hall, and the Ancient Agora of Athens.

Ioannina

With outdoor enthusiasts in mind, the city of Ioannina is a hidden gem that offers adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts everything they could ever want. Ioannina, known locally as Yannena, is the capital of the Ioannina region. It sits on Lake Pamvotida, offering epic views and countless opportunities for strolling along the beautiful lake.

Popular activities in Ioannina or surrounding the city include mountain climbing, mountain biking, hiking, paragliding, and snow skiing. The city itself is pretty spectacular, too. It has cobbled streets, historic buildings, monuments, and museums. At the same time, Ioannina is a famous student city, so you can expect to find nightclubs and street food markets.

Volos

Another Greek port city popular with tourists is Volos, the capital of the country’s Thessaly region. One of the biggest draws to Volos is its immense scenery. The city sits alongside the Pagasetic Gulf and is backed by the impressive Mount Pelion. As such, boating and hiking are both popular activities near the city.

Volos is also much loved for its beautiful waterfront and stunning architecture. You’ll find luxury yachts, quaint cafes, bars, and restaurants at the harborside. Meanwhile, like St. Konstantinos Park, Anavros Beach is a fantastic place to relax and unwind. Other significant points of interest in the city include the Athanasakis Archaeological Museum of Volos, the Church of Agioi Konstantinos and Eleni, and the Hill of Goritsa.

Lamia

Lamia is a fascinating city in central Greece in the foothills of Mount Othrys. Named after a mythical child-eating figure, the ancient city has something for everyone. You’ll likely explore the city’s most famous sites when you’re not tucking into traditional Greek cuisine, shopping in the sunshine, or admiring the city’s lush surroundings.

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Across the city, you’ll find beautiful examples of Greek architecture and historic landmarks. Lamia Castle stands proudly above the city, while Platia Eleftherias looks into modern Greek architecture. Lamia highlights include the Mansion of the Central Greece Administration, the Archaeological Museum of Lamia, and the Statue of Athanasios Diakos.

Rhodes Town

Rhodes Town, with its medieval Old Town, is a strong contender for the most beautiful city in Greece. With its multi-millennium history, the city’s medieval quarter is home to historic ancient sites such as the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Masters. Here, you’ll also find two pillars that mark the location of the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World.

When you’re not admiring the ancient architecture in Rhodes Old Town, walk the winding narrow streets, stroll along the harbor, and explore the countless authentic shops and souvenir stalls. To relax, head to Elli Beach and enjoy the soft golden sand and turquoise waters.

Chania

Another breathtaking Greek city with a rich history is Chania. Found along the northwest coast of Crete, this city is most famous for its Venetian Old Town. The Venetian Old Town features a beautiful 14th-century harbor with vibrant houses, cafes, bars, and restaurants.

One major highlight of the Old Town is the 16th-century lighthouse, inspired by Venetian, Egyptian, and Ottoman architectural styles. With its pristine beaches, Chania is also a beach lover’s paradise. Nea Chora Beach is one of several beaches in the city, and the famous Balos Beach is just a short drive away.

Kastoria

Tucked away in northern Greece along the western shore of Lake Orestiada, Kastoria is one of the most scenic cities in Greece. You won’t find white sand beaches with crystal-clear sea, but you will find a vibrant city sitting alongside a gorgeous lake and surrounded by the lush Grammos and Vitsi Mountains.

Like other Greek cities, Kastoria features traditional Greek architecture and historical landmarks. Popular attractions include Dragons Cave, the Folklore Museum of Kastoria, and the Byzantine Museum. However, Kastoria is a bigger hit with outdoors enthusiasts than history buffs. The beautiful scenery, especially the lake and its shoreline, makes Kastoria the perfect place for hiking, cycling, running, and boating.

Nafplion

Nafplion was the original capital of modern Greece before it was changed to Athens. This city is less well-known than other Greek cities and is more popular with locals. As a result, you can expect less crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere. Like most cities in Greece, Nafplion is best known for its beautiful architecture, lovely beaches, and cobblestone streets.

Most travelers explore Nafplion’s charming center, visit historic landmarks, eat authentic Greek food, and relax on several beaches. Must-visit destinations in the city include the Fortress of Palamidi, the 15th-century Bourtzi Castle, Arvanitia Beach, and the Archaeological Museum Of Nafplion. Nafplion is also one of the most popular day trips from Athens.

Larissa

The penultimate city on our list is Larissa, a gorgeous city in central Greece. With a population of approximately 150,000, Larissa is the capital and largest city in the Thessaly region. However, thanks to its lush surroundings, the city has a laid-back feel that’s perfect for a relaxed getaway.

The city has many sights and attractions, including the 15th-century covered market, two ancient theaters from the 3rd and 2nd centuries B.C., Larissa Ancient Ruins, and the acropolis on the hill of Agios Achilios. You should also visit the city’s commercial center to enjoy the best shopping, dining, and nightlife. Meanwhile, history buffs can learn more about the city at the Archaeological Museum and the Historical & Folk Art Museum.

Piraeus

The final city on this list is Piraeus. If you’re heading to the Greek islands by boat, you’ll likely pass through this port city. Despite its proximity to Athens, Piraeus isn’t in Athens. It is, in fact, its own city within the Athens urban area. It’s also the largest port in Greece, making it a significant industrial, shipping, and transportation center.

Before you board your ferry to the Greek islands, spend a little time exploring the city. Walking along the waterfront, you’ll see the city’s traditional pastel-colored buildings, fishing boats, cafes, and restaurants offering fresh and tasty seafood. In the city, you’ll also find popular attractions, including the Hellenic Maritime Museum, the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus, the Holy Trinity Cathedral, and the Municipal Theatre Of Piraeus.