12 Beautiful Seaside Greek Towns That Are Surprisingly Not on Islands

Most people immediately think of the nation’s most popular islands when planning a seaside getaway to Greece. After all, they are renowned for offering travelers sunny skies, soft sand beaches, and mesmerizing turquoise waters. While there’s nothing necessarily wrong with planning a trip to the Greek islands, it would be foolish to overlook the mainland.

Mainland Greece is home to many coastal towns just as beautiful as those on the Greek islands. However, they are often cheaper and quieter because they aren’t as sought-after. Here are 12 beautiful seaside Greek towns that aren’t on islands to show you what you’re missing. These towns offer sun, sea, and sand in abundance.

Table of Contents

Parga

Let’s start with Parga, a beautiful seaside town along Greece’s west coast between Igoumenitsa and Preveza. This charming little town is best known for its vibrant architecture, verdant hills, and tropical-esque beaches with white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Unsurprisingly, Parga is a big hit with holidaymakers who seek an escape from the daily grind.

When you’re not soaking up the sun on Paralia Valtos or sipping cocktails by the pool at your beach resort, get lost in the town’s colorful narrow streets and explore the fascinating 15th-century Venetian Castle of Parga. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to tuck into authentic Greek cuisine, as the town is home to many tavernas, bars, and traditional restaurants.

Chorefto

On the opposite coast lies a small seaside town with a rich history, stunning beaches, and luxurious beach resorts. Chorefto, near Zagora, has many things for beachgoers to see and do, the main highlight being a picturesque 1.2-mile (2-kilometer) stretch of pristine beach with turquoise waters.

In Chorefto, you’ll spend most of your time strolling along the beach, indulging in Greek cuisine, sunbathing, and hiking in the town’s beautiful landscape. It’s also worth noting that Zagora and Pelion, two places renowned for their scenery, are only a short drive away. In particular, Mount Pelion and its epic landscape vista are only a one-hour drive from Chorefto.

Kavala

With gorgeous architecture, long sandy beaches, a laid-back lifestyle, and a 15th-century castle, there’s no denying that Kavala, a commercial port and seaside town, is the crown jewel of Northern Greece’s coastlines. Everything about the city oozes class, elegance, and natural beauty. While spending all your time in Kavala on Rapsani Beach can be tempting, there is much to see.

For example, you don’t want to miss the beautiful Kavala Fortress. Standing proudly above the town, this 15th-century gem offers impressive views of the town and coastline from its round tower. Make sure you visit the Kavala Aqueduct and Kavala Archaeological Museum, too. Then you can go back to sunbathing on Perigiali Beach.

Galaxidi

Once an important shipping port, the small town of Galaxidi along the south coast of Greece is now a popular vacation destination, especially with loved-up couples and families who seek an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Besides its naval history, Galaxidi is known for its peaceful atmosphere, scenic surroundings, and beautiful beaches.

If you visit the town on vacation, you can expect your days to be jam-packed with authentic cuisine, sunny skies, white sand beaches, and transparent waters. Home to various museums, Galaxidi is also loved by history buffs. Check out the Maritime Museum of Galaxidi, the Archeological Collection, and the Naval Museum.

Nafpaktos

One of Greece’s most ancient seaside towns is Nafpaktos, a historic town in a bay on the north coast of the Gulf of Corinth in Western Greece. Its rich history dates back to 1,104 BCE. One of the things we love most about this breathtaking town is that it has something for every kind of traveler.

Beachgoers can soak up the sun at Gribovo Beach and Psani Beach. History buffs can learn more about the town’s rich history by exploring the Nafpaktos Venetian Port and the Old Town, and outdoor enthusiasts can get their daily adrenaline fix by participating in various watersports, such as jet skiing, canoeing, and sailing.

Pylos

The following Greek seaside town on our list is the historic and stylish town of Pylos. Formerly known as Navarino, this luxurious-looking town at the top of the western side of the Messinian Peninsula is loved for its regal history, traditional whitewashed houses, and picturesque waterfront.

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Celebrities and Hollywood actors frequent some of the town’s beautiful vacation resorts. Yalova Beach is the place to be if you want to enjoy the town’s best sand and sea, although there is much more to do than just relax. Pylos and its surroundings feature multiple golf courses, historical landmarks, and epic viewpoints. Must-see attractions include the New Castle of Pylos, Bastion Seven, the Bay Clubhouse, and the Old Navarino Fortress.

Limeni

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If you’re searching for a Greek island-like vacation on mainland Greece, Limeni could be the perfect destination. One of the mainland’s best-hidden gems, Limeni is a small yet magical oasis on the country’s scenic Peloponnese peninsula. Sitting in a quaint bay, this town offers a tranquil atmosphere, irresistible turquoise waters, soft sand beaches, and authentic Greek charm.

What’s not to like? In Limeni, you can sleep in a waterfront house listening to the calm waters lapping the beach. When you’re not sleeping, enjoy relaxed strolls around the town, lazy days by the beach, and romantic meals at the beachside. Noteworthy points of interest in Limeni include Dexameni Beach, St. Nicholas Church, Monastery Evretrias, and Limeni Beach.

Kyparissia

Another beautiful seaside town on the western coast of the Peloponnese is Kyparissia. This town offers a breathtaking fusion of Cyclades and Mani architecture, long sandy beaches, verdant hillsides, and many things to see and do. A big hit with families, you’ll enjoy sun-soaked days at the beach, impressive sunsets, and a magical medieval Old Town.

On Kyparissia Beach, you can rent a sun lounger, relax, swim in the turquoise sea, and enjoy a stroll. Meanwhile, in the Old Town, you can discover traditional Greek architecture and tuck into local cuisine. Alternatively, enjoy the city’s best views along the promenade or from Kyparissia Castle. The sunset from the medieval castle is awe-inspiring.

Syvota

Small Towns in Greece for an Affordable Getaway_Parga, Preveza — © sea and sun / Adobe Stock

Syvota might be the most spectacular Greek mainland town on this list. The town is gorgeous, but its lush surroundings and beautiful beaches make it special. Surrounded by lush islands, Syvota looks and feels like a miniature Greek island, allowing travelers to enjoy the island lifestyle on the mainland.

As such, this picturesque spot entices outdoor enthusiasts, beachgoers, and sailors who want to enjoy the scenery. Not to mention, the waters surrounding the town are exquisite. You’ll spend almost all of your time in Syvota at the beaches, of which there are several. Bella Vraka Beach, Gallikos Molos Beach, and Zeri Beach are all within walking distance. You’ll be treated to vibrant houses, quaint cafes, and traditional restaurants in the town.

Monemvasia

Monemvasia is perhaps the most unique seaside town in Greece. Located in Laconia, southeast Greece, this fascinating town is like something you’d expect to find in Game of Thrones, minus the dragons and White Walkers. It’s only connected to mainland Greece by a 1,312-foot (400-meter) long tombolo.

Old stone walls and tall cliffs almost entirely encircle the town. To reach the emerald waters below the city, travelers must follow a stone stairway that leads through a narrow-arched gateway to a small quay with a bathing ladder. The whole experience is lovely. You’ll find romantic hideaways, charming restaurants, and stunning old Venetian mansions inside the walls.

Gytheio

Gytheio is arguably one of Europe’s most beautiful small towns, never mind Greece. This breathtaking fishing town on the Southern side of the Peloponnese is relatively unheard of. Still, it packs a punch with several pristine beaches, authentic pastel-colored architecture, gorgeous scenery, and many things to see and do.

You’ll likely spend most of your time in Gytheio sunbathing and swimming at Mavrovouni, a large bay a short drive from the town. You’ll find crystal-clear waters, golden sand, and a relaxing ambiance here. Meanwhile, in the town, spend time exploring Gytheio Lighthouse, Tzannetakis Tower, and the ancient theater of Gytheio. Alternatively, kick back with a crisp glass of wine and souvlaki.

Kardamyli

We’ll leave you with one more hidden gem seaside town to finish off. Kardamyli is a picturesque coastal town approximately 22 miles (35 kilometers) southeast of Kalamata in Southern Greece. Despite being a relatively unheard-of town, it offers everything tourists need to enjoy a Greek island experience on the mainland.

You can expect scenic verdant hills, soft sand beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters, beautiful accommodation options, authentic tavernas, and much more. Popular beaches in the area include Ritsa Beach, Delfinia Beach, and Foneas Beach. All three of these beaches offer beautiful coastal views and inviting turquoise waters. You’ll find a handful of interesting sights in the town, including Mourtzinos Tower and the Old Bridge.