12 Things To Do in Greece Before You Die
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Greece is a country that you should visit at least once, but preferably several times before you die. It is a country of so much adventure, beauty, history, and culture that is waiting to be discovered. Whether you are looking for adrenaline-pumping experiences, relaxing moments, or everything in between, you will find your slice of paradise in Greece.
But now, let’s assume you have the golden opportunity of visiting Greece only once. On this trip, you would want to collect the most memorable experiences.
Don’t get me wrong; there are a lot of thrilling adventures you can indulge in for an unforgettable Greek trip. However, if you were to go with the best of the best, we would recommend the 12 activities we discuss in this list.
Add these to your Greece bucket list and watch how adventurous and thrilling your trip becomes.
Explore the Acropolis, Athens
The Acropolis of Athens is one of the world’s most famous landmarks. Exploring it is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich Greek history, culture, and mythology. The ancient citadel, perched on a hilltop in Athens, is home to several significant structures, including the Parthenon, considered the epitome of Doric architecture.
Other than the Parthenon, do not miss out on the other highlights like Erechtheion, Temple of Athena Nike, and Propylaea. The site is deeply historic but also scenic at the same time. In some spots, you can enjoy panoramic views over Athens.
Whether you are into history, architecture, photography, or intriguing scenery, you will love exploring the Acropolis.
Read also: Famous Landmarks in Greece
Hike the Samaria Gorge, Crete
Now, off to the islands. When in Crete, you cannot afford to miss the Samaria Gorge. It is one of Europe’s longest gorges and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, thanks to its stunning natural scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich biodiversity.
The gorge attracts tourists from across the world who come to experience its dramatic landscapes, towering cliffs, and tranquil streams. Traversing through the gorge’s ancient forests or past tall cliffs and along crystal-clear streams is an experience any outdoor enthusiast will cherish.
You may also be lucky to spot the kri-kri (Cretan wild goats), discover historical sites such as ancient ruins along the trail, or get the opportunity to explore the abandoned village of Samaria.
At the end of the trail lies Agia Roumeli, a small village on the coast with beautiful beaches where you can relax after the trek.
Indeed, hiking the Samaria Gorge is a journey through one of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes and an opportunity to explore Crete’s history.
Read also: Ultimate Greek Island Bucket List
Catch a Sunset in Oia, Santorini
There is something magical and calming about watching sunsets. Oia, a charming village on the northwestern tip of Santorini, is hands down the best place to watch sunsets in Greece. Start your evening by finding the best sunset viewing spots. The most popular spots to consider include Oia Castle, the Byzantine Castle Ruins, or the various rooftop terraces and restaurants. You can also descend to Amoudi Bay, which is known to offer unique perspectives of the sunsets. Amoudi Bay is lined with charming waterfront tavernas. You can, therefore, get seafood or drinks as you enjoy the view of the sinking sun painting the sky.
Oia is also famous for its charming white-washed buildings with blue domes, narrow winding streets and views of the caldera. You can explore the village’s beautiful architecture as you wait for the sunset spectacle.
Read also: Beautiful Greek Islands Beyond Santorini
Relax on Navagio Beach, Zakynthos
Navagio Beach, also called Shipwreck Beach, is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is renowned for its dramatic scenery, featuring a crescent-shaped bay, towering white cliffs, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The remains of a ship that ran aground in 1980 lie on the beach, creating a striking contrast against the white sand and turquoise sea.
The rusting ship is definitely the star of this beach, but the white cliffs, white sands on the shores, and inviting waters are equally outstanding. Keep in mind that Navagio Beach is closed from time to time due to risk of landslide, so you need to check in advance if you can visit it.
You will also like the fact that the beach is only accessible via boat ride, making it even more adventurous. There are also viewpoints from the cliffs where you can enjoy calming sea views.
Whether you are into watersports, relaxation, or photography, visiting Navagio Beach is an experience you should not miss. You can visit thousands of beaches all over the world, but one thing we are confident about is that you, too, will rate this as one of the most beautiful beaches you have ever been to.
Read also: Must-Visit Beache oin the Greek Islands
Sample Greek Cuisine
Greek cuisine is a journey in itself, offering a unique and adventurous way to explore the country’s rich history, regional diversity, and cultural heritage. It’s a delightful exploration of flavors and culinary traditions that you won’t find anywhere else.
When visiting, skip fast food and sample moussaka, souvlaki, gyro, Tzatziki, spanakopita, baklava and saganaki.
If you prefer to go with regional dishes, make sure to eat chochlioi boubouristi in Crete, Pastitsada in Corfu, fytoura in Zakynthos, and revithada in Sifnos.
Whether you’re enjoying a hearty meal or a light snack, Greek cuisine provides a rich exploration of flavors. It is not just a way of delighting your palettes but also an amazing way to explore the country’s rich culinary traditions.
Read also: Mouth-Watering Greek Dishes To Try
Windsurf in Lefkada
Lefkada, located in the Ionian Sea, is known for its dependable winds, warm waters, and scenic coastal landscapes, which makes it a top-tier windsurfing destination. Lefkada’s Vasiliki Bay is considered one of the best windsurfing spots in Greece, thanks to its ideal wind conditions and surrounding beautiful landscapes.
Agios Ioannis Beach is another prime spot for windsurfing in Lefkada. New to windsurfing? Lefkada has many windsurfing schools that you could join to get you started.
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When not windsurfing, you can relax on other Lefkada beaches like Porto Katsiki and Egremni. You could also just walk around as you soak in the island’s calm ambiance; this island is super tranquil and not very touristy.
Read also: Spectacular Greek Islands for Beaches
Relax on Elafonisi Beach, Crete
Elafonisi Beach, located on the southwestern coast of Crete, is renowned for its soft pink sand, crystal-clear waters, and a shallow lagoon, making it an irresistible beach destination. Pink beaches are quite a rare occurrence, which is why you should take advantage of them whenever the opportunity arises. You will love the scenery here, and so will your camera lenses; come ready to capture some insta-worthy moments.
When on Elafonisi Beach, you can just lounge on its pink sands, swim in its shallow waters, or get active with water sports.
Read also: Amazing White-Sand Beaches in Greece
Party in Mykonos
Mykonos, one of the most famous Greek islands, is popular for its vibrant nightlife and world-class party scene. Known as the “Ibiza of Greece,” Mykonos offers an electrifying mix of beach parties, chic nightclubs, and stylish bars, attracting partygoers from around the globe.
If you are a party animal, the experience of partying in Mykonos is one you will love. For the best party scene, travel to Mykonos between June and September. If you are into beach parties, head out to Paradise and Super Paradise beaches, which host electrifying parties till dawn. You will also love the bar hopping experience in Mykonos Town.
Read also: Spectacular Greek Islands for Cheap Vacation
Explore Rhodes Old Town, Rhodes
Athens is known for its rich history. However, if you want another super-historic destination in Greece, consider heading to Rhodes Old Town. Rhodes Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is rated as one of Europe’s best preserved medieval towns. The town is surrounded by imposing medieval walls and is filled with historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and charming squares.
For your historical immersion, visit the Palace of the Grand Master, originally built by the Knights of St. John and now a museum showcasing the island’s history, and the Street of the Knights, a historic street lined with Gothic architectural masterpieces and medieval inns.
Read also: Stunning Medieval Towns in Greece
Explore Kefalonia’s Fishing Villages
Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian islands, is home to some of Greece’s most stunning fishing villages. These fishing villages, known for their picturesque harbors, colorful fishing boats, and hospitable communities, offer a glimpse into the traditional Greek way of life.
Some of the unmissable fishing villages on the island include Fiskardo, Assos, Sami, and Agia Efimia. You will not only get an immersion into the traditional fishing life but also enjoy fresh seafood and relax on beautiful beaches.
For an even more immersive experience, consider staying in the fishermen’s houses, which have now been transformed into tourist accommodations.
Read also: Awesome Small Towns in Greece for Budget Vacation
Hike the Vikos Gorge
Vikos Gorge is another haven hiking enthusiasts cannot resist. The gorge, part of Vikos–Aoös National Park, is known for its dramatic landscapes, towering cliffs and lush vegetation, features that make for spectacular hiking adventures. It is also one of the deepest gorges in the world.
The gorge has several trails, the most popular of which are from Monodendri to Vikos village. This trail passes through diverse landscapes, including dense forests, steep cliffs, and the Voidomatis River, making the adventure more thrilling.
There are also various vantage points along the way like the Oxya and Beloi lookouts, which offer panoramic views of the gorge and surrounding mountains.
Read also: Surreal Places in the Greek Islands
Summit Mount Olympus
Hikers and climbers, this is a destination you will not regret investing time in. Mount Olympus, Greece’s highest mountain, is a natural wonder steeped in mythological significance. Known as the home of the ancient Greek gods, exploring this mountain is an experience that lets you immerse yourself in a significant part of Greek culture.
There are several trails you can take to the summit, but the most popular trailheads are at Prionia and Litochoro. While at it explore sites connected to Greek mythology, such as the throne of Zeus and the various peaks named after the gods.
Make sure to prepare vigorously, acclimate yourself, and use a guide, as the ascent can be challenging. The sense of accomplishment, the views and the adventure will be worth it, though.
Read also: Avoid These Mistakes When Visiting Greece
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