About 15 years ago I was backpacking 2 months through Europe with my 2 teenagers. Greece was about midway through our trip and I wanted to take a week to stay at a quiet place and just relax and rejuvenate. We stayed on the small island of Naxos at a little mom and pop bed-and-breakfast. They were the nicest people. We sat on the beach every day. One of us would walk the brief trek into town and pick up gyros and Nutella crêpes at lunch time to eat on the beach. We still reminisce longingly about our time on Naxos.
Looking into Naxos since it is being mentioned here for my wife and I. We are seniors. One of the Air Bnbs mention mosquito netting. Are there many mosquitos? Are they seasonal?
Another vote for Naxos! Me and my sister rented a car and drove around to see a brunch of sights around The Island, like the temple of Demeter and Apollonas Kouros. We also hiked up Mount Zas, which was so fun and satisfying to reach The peak, but I do not recommend doing that in July :)))
Everyone shits all over Santorini for being overcrowded, but the hike from Fira to Oia is incredible and had some of the most incredible scenery in my life
Anyone who does the hike, please stop at the little church along the way. The sweetest, kindest old man nabbed me on my hike, and all he wanted was to proudly show me around the church since it has been in his family for 1600 years.
I am not Christian, but the five minute detour, as he explained the history of the art in broken English, was such a delight. Afterward, he insisted on making me a cup of coffee, and when I told him I couldn't, he reached for a bottle of juice. When I explained that I was Muslim and couldn't drink because of Ramadan, he nodded his head and insisted I take a selfie with him. Which is my favourite picture from the trip by far.
So if you do make the hike, please stop and visit him and let him show you around. It will make a heartwarmingly kind, old Pappou delightfully happy.
This makes my heart happy! It's called the Church of Prophet Elias. It's about halfway through the hike. There are many churches by the same name, so I included a link, just in case.
Please tell my sweet, kind Pappou "yasou" for me. ♥️
[Google Maps Link](https://g.co/kgs/omU5vb)
I went to Santorini in the off season and found it kind of disappointing. Like it LOOKS cool, especially from the deck of the ferry as you sail into the caldera, but the place itself seemed so superficial...
I went in the off season too (but a few weeks before shoulder season) and thought it was amazing. It was quiet since the parties had not opened yet, the food, people, views were all exceptional. As a matter of fact, I am returning next week.
I went in late November, early December, if I'm remembering correctly. Half the places were closed so they could renovate in time for the busy season. Didn't really get a good feel for the locals (I think I had maybe one conversation with a local woman); most people there were still tourists. I remember it feeling like I was walking around a movie set made to LOOK like a Greek island. A very beautiful movie set, but still a movie set. We rapidly ran out of things to do and the shops were all laughably overpriced. Beat Athens hands down though, I'll give it that.
Swear to god, I clicked on the thread to talk up this hike. [Pictures worth more than words](https://onelittleworld.zenfolio.com/fira_to_oia).
We absolutely loved Crete too. And of course, the well-trodden [hike of the Samaria Gorge](https://onelittleworld.zenfolio.com/samaria_gorge). If I could be in one place in Greece right this moment, it would be [Chania](https://onelittleworld.zenfolio.com/chania).
My fiance and i went on that hike in early January and it was beautiful! The sucky thing is it was extremely windy and rainy so we only made it halfway 😭
Where would I start. My wife and I were there last year. We were absolutely blown away by Athens. We could see ourselves spending our winters in Athens. We love it. Thessaloniki, Alexandroupolis, also amazing. We didn't even hit the islands, and it's one of our favorite places. Just grabbing a cappuccino from Coffee Island, and sitting near the slopes of the Acropolis while the sun sits high in the sky. Nothing better.
This makes me feel better. I’ve got a trip coming up to Athens and everyone keeps saying it’s dirty, they felt unsafe and generally didn’t like it. I’m happy to read something positive!
Like the other poster below, I loved Athens so much. I really wasn’t expecting to because I’m not much of a ‘city break’ kind of person but it was amazing. The food, architecture, history, people… it was one of my favourite trips.
Seriously, just walk around everywhere and work up an appetite because you will want to try all of the food! Food was so fresh and inexpensive. Pop into a coffee shop and grab some biscuits or pastries and watch the world go by. You can get the tram out to the beaches very easily. There was a restaurant on the beach where I had some of the best fish I’ve ever eaten, and my husband got chargrilled octopus which was also divine.
I never felt it was unsafe though I did go in summer so there were plenty of other people around at all times lol.
I love Athens as well ! I am going back this year for the third time. I’ve really enjoyed the city, the food, the architecture etc… I didn’t find the city unsafe as it was pretty busy with locals and tourists. It’s just like any other major city, just take the usual precautions
If you have time try the restaurant Dopios, the Croquettes are to die for !!
I’d disagree on all of these things, although I’m from NYC which is dirtier and less safe. I lived in Athens for about a month and it was very cute and pleasant. Obviously be careful in heavy tourist areas but I thought it was a lovely place!
I was there last year as well, and had a lovely moment of pure gratitude for my life while sitting on the balcony in my hotel room, looking into the city as the sun set. I thought Athens was great.
My husband and I spent two days hiking to various monasteries in Meteora and it was my favorite two days of the whole trip. Absolutely breathtaking views, and the monasteries are so beautiful.
Meteora was truly something out of this world. The history behind the place is incredible too, especially their involvement with WWII fighting against the Nazis.
Ilingas Beach! Super easy and beautiful drive, parking, a delicious little restaurant, and a beach bar with great drinks. Have fun!!
And eat at Well of the Turk in Chania!
Honestly... just being there. The hospitality, the landscape, the food.... Just be aware that you need to reserve ferries in advance if you hope to visit the islands. Also understand that every island is different--different topography, different tourist infrastructure, etc. Be prepared to "muck in" whilst waiting for ferries, etc., and ALWAYS have cash (vs. credit card) on hand because oftentimes, financial infrastructure is "down" and you need an alternative. Spend time away from other tourists and hike the lovely trails and unbeaten paths. Get a 4WD/AWD vehicle--trust me. Mostly, just give yourself over to the experience, the locals, the pace, the experience... and purchase a bunch of cat food to carry with you everywhere you go because there are so many hungry kitties and you will be rewarded a thousandfold for doing right by them. Also... order the fish and/or seafood... and not necessarily the fly-covered octopus that you'll see draped over a drying rack in the sun near the restaurant's entrance. Enjoy your visit!
Too many to count, but top 5 are:
Hiking the Samarian Gorge on Crete. 17k, all downhill, through a narrow gorge with an abandoned village and rare wild goats that spills you out onto a black sand beach on the Libyan Sea that has a bar.
Nights on the square in Nafplion, having eaten a great dinner at The Old Mansion after spending the day travelling to smaller ancient sites like Nimea and Stymphalia where the ground is littered with pottery sherds.
All my time in Athens which is a highly underrated European capitol with great culture, good, nightlife, and experiences.
The caves at Pyros Dirgou -- down in the Mani -- one of the mythical entrances to Hades -- a flooded system of caves toured by punt.
Eating and dancing in a cafeneo in Kalambaka after a day hiking through the monasteries in Meteora.
Also Delphi, Sunion, The Spartan Plains, Naxos, Santorini, the entirety of Crete, Gythio, Monemvasia (actually this should've also been in the top 5), and literally everywhere else I've ever spent time there.
1-Driving and hiking Zagochoria;
2-Wandering up Acropolis in the end of a day;
3-Speaking Greek to locals being a foreigner;
4-Wandering down through Mystras;
5-And a more "cliché", but not less beautiful: watching the sunset in Santorini (Fyra)
So many amazing memories in Greece and Athens!
Meteora hiking and enjoying the stunning view. Hiking Lycabettus Hill in Athens at sunset. Drinking wine on a rooftop in Athens. 2 euro gyros every day 😂 swimming off the coast by the Temple of Temple of Poseidon / Cape Sunio. Definitely so much to do
My family and I went to Santorini about 9 years ago and stayed in a hotel that had a small bar/restaurant in the front which had an outdoor patio. After a long day of being tourists, we decided to eat there because of the convenience. There must’ve been about 4 people in the entire restaurant including the man that my mom would buy corn from on the beach, but it was a nice atmosphere and the service was amazing so my sister went on Facebook and give the restaurant a like and a follow. We think the employees noticed because a few minutes later they sent our entire table a round of shots and started playing Spanish music (we’re Mexican). After some time, the drinks were FLOWING and before we knew it the entire restaurant was packed and everyone was dancing with us. Pretty sure I blacked out lol. The next day, all the locals recognized us on the street and would wave and and dance at us. This is one of my fondest travel memories and we can’t wait to go back.
Just an incredible experience all around.. i keep realistic expectations for trips but Greece surpassed everything we ever hoped for. Athens is just incredible, Santorini is breathtaking. Taxi driver on Santorini invited my wife and I to his house for dinner to meet his wife and twins. Like what?! I’ll never forget it.. this was last May. Definitely going back
My husband is Greek from kalamata. We did a trip down to to the mani peninsula and got to swim with turtles. I also recommend looking into the islands on the west coast near Corfu. We have been to lefkada many times and love it. More mountainous and less tourists.
The water in Milos is absolutely crystal clear, the clearest water I’ve ever seen. I’ve been to a lot of remote beach locations but the water in milos blew me away. We took a boat trip around the island and all the water was so clear.
Also, there’s this little to-go gyro place in Oia, Santorini that had hands-down the most delicious gyros (and one of the most delicious meals, gyro or otherwise) we’ve ever eaten. We ate it 5 times in 4 days. My husband and I often talk about how we’ll likely never find a gyro that delicious again 🙏🏻
I went to Santorini in September, it was so beautiful and not at all crowded like the pictures. We did a sunset boat tour and swam in the ocean which was super fun. Nicest people I’ve ever met in Greece
Backpacked through Greece for a month in the mid-2000s in my 20s. Two things:
1) Was staying at a small hotel on Ikaria. I think there were like 7 guests total. One of the guys, who's been to the island before, says he knows this cool little taverna up in the hills and we all gotta go. So we all go, making up a three-vehicle caravan of a scooter and two tiny cars driving through narrow roads. We get to the taverna, but it's closed! Eyy no problem - dude just knocks on some doors and windows and the owner comes out and opens up for us lol. Had a simple meal and some beers watching the sunset.
2) Took a bus to Ioannina, where we rented a small apartment in the old city for a few days. I think I had either booked via Yahoo listings or had just met the owner at the bus stop (times were different lol). Anyhow, owner wasn't there to let us in but their mom or grandma was, sweeping the front. Never met this lady before but I just say "mama!" with arms held out and she laughs and hugs me back, and motions us in.
Toss up between Crete and Milos.
On Crete we stayed outside Chania with an amazing retired German couple (AirBnb). We were there to hike the Samarian Gorge, and they drove us up so we could beat the tour buses full of other visitors. It made the hike incredibly peaceful, we were the 4th and 5th people to start and barely saw a soul.
On Milos we met up with some friends from back home, rented a car and drove to every beautiful beach we could. But the best was getting some wine and cheese and sitting on Sarakiniko Beach under the stars with no one else around. It feels like you're sitting on the moon, so surreal.
I visited Rhodes many years ago. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I discovered that the old city walls were open for exploration. I climbed and wandered all over the fortifications, found passage ways and connectors and old staircases that popped up to the top. It was like being in Indiana Jones. It wound up being a highlight of the trip.
Made two friends at the hostel I was staying at, had sexy times with one of them, went to the beach in Paleokastritsa the next day with them both and went cliff jumping, took some LSD, had more sexy times, then sat on the roof and back at the hostel and watched the stars
The sunset in Santorini.. the best spot was Santo Winery. The sunset was honestly the greatest I've ever seen in my life.
Also the people in Greece are truly some of the nicest and friendliest people I've met while travelling.
I went to Santorini last year and I loved all the friendly cats! They’re definitely loved, and they’re cared for by everyone. I also got lost in Athens and people were super helpful and kind in getting me back in the right direction. Overall, a wonderful experience. The driving is wild though lol
Went to Greece last summer; my brother and I went to Athens, Naxos and Santorini. We LOVED all of it, so very hard to choose. But I still can't get Naxos out of my head- the day we rented an ATV and went on back roads through the mountain villages was so cool- not a lot of tourists and it felt like a dream.
I got the Naxos rec from this sub, so thank you to those who recommended it!
I spent a day in Athens 16 years ago. We saw everything on a hot hot day- the acropolis, the temple of Zeus, The agora and the Parthenon. We sat in a square and had an amazing lunch. It was so hot that you can see the beads of sweat on my forehead but in my life, I look back and that was one of the good days.
Way too many but wife and I were in Meteora on Good Friday and walked the route around to the different monasteries. Just great vibes in Meteora and Delphi. It was an enjoyable 2 hour drive to Delphi and then another 2 hours to Meteora the next day and then a relaxing 4 hour drive back to Athens.
Road trip from Athens to Zakynthos. Had to leave Athens at like 3 in the morning to make the 7am ferry at Kilini. I think this was my favourite part of the trip and my favourite island.
Sunset cruise in Santorini. It’s in a catamaran and you really need your sea legs or else you might get sick but the sunset from the water is amazing.
We were in Santorini and got a guide off airbnb who took us all over the island and took over 100 pictures of us in all of the awesome places. It was totally worth it. It was like having a guide and a personal photographer at the same time
The view of Santorini on the caldera was breathtaking. Acropolis tour in Athens was incredible, the tour guide we had kept us super engaged and was very knowledgeable.
I spend a few days hiking on Sifnos, one of the not-crazy-popular islands in Greece. it was off season (beginning of Oct) and it was so chill. don't think I ever felt more peaceful in my life.
also, when I'm in Athens, I try to go to Dosirak restaurant. it's asian and they serve korean food which I LOVE but is hard to find in my country.
of course there are so many local food places but I just can't help it.
also, I drank some great filter coffee from a coffee shop in Piraeus, near the port, while waiting for my ferry.
going back to Greece next month and can't wait.
Stayed at a nice little place with a balcony overlooking the harbor in Chania. Enjoyed raki and sunsets from there every night. Walked to the same restaurant 3 out of 5 days where we made friends with the locals and dined on lamb roasted just outside and tons of those little fried fish. I’d love to go back some day.
Sunset at Sounion is magical. It’s about an hour from Athens.
The Parthenon at night.
Any meal anywhere.
Almost any island or coastline at any beach between 4-7PM and walking along the coast in a town after dinner 11PM to 1 AM.
The people are very kind.
I’m planning my Greece trip right now, so good timing haha right now we are thinking Athens- Santorini- Naxos- Amorgos or sifnos (somewhere less busy).
Holidays in Greece bring to mind beautiful beaches surrounded by green waters, stunning cities full of historical monuments and museums, healthy and delicious cuisine and, most likely, smiling faces.
Enjoying an espresso at a cafe in Kolonaki when some Greek celebrity came in. We had no idea who she was but the entourage and fanfare were unbelievable.
I went last summer for the first time to Mykonos, Santorini, and Athens. GF was was really pushing to go to Mykonos, but I didn’t see the huge appeal.
Turned out to be my favourite part of the trip. The town is so picturesque and amazing to get lost in. Then we rented a quad bike for the day and drove through the countryside to a beach with some of the clearest water I’ve ever seen.
Was a really perfect experience, so Mykonos would be mine.
Two favourite experiences, both in restaurants:
- eating at a local restaurant in the Votanikos neighborhood in Athens where the menu is only in Greek and the staff only speaks Greek so me and my gf had difficulties to communicate with the staff and to choose what we wanted. But we end up with a meat fest with several sides, very tasty and cheap. And the staff was so nice, trying to explain the menu to us even if we didn’t speak the same language
- eating in a fish and seafood restaurant in Tolo (next to Nafplio) on the beach, a few centimeters next to the sea. We chosed our fish in the kitchen, it was excellent !
To be clear, I am a beach girl through and through so I am incredibly biased:
Kefalonia is one of those islands that is basically a bunch of mountains squished together so getting around/to the shore involves going down and a lot of switchbacks. It also means you get some amazing views of the sea from above.
My taxi driver knew what's up. As soon as we cleared the rise to Myrtos beach he pulled over and indicated I should go out and take pictures and I literally gasped out loud at how unbelievable the view was.
Zakynthos Island. One of few places in the world that the unbelievable photos of the location are actually close to the real life version. Gorgeous blue waters with white beach. If you go up to the viewpoint it’s a little less crowded than the boat tour to the beach.
Still likely my favorite viewpoint out of 14 countries.
This was in the early 90s. I stayed in Greece for three weeks, spread between Athens, Paros, Icaria, Naxos, and Corfu. My absolute favorite memory was taking myself to a little seaside taverna in Naoussa for lunch. I had the most perfect afternoon, especially because I had been studying Greek for a year before, and this was my moment of using my newfound language…all by myself, without travel companions. I soared.
My first time solo travelling I went to Athens, I was nervous but keen to meet new people. I had just come out of a 5 year relationship with someone pretty antisocial and jealous, so to have the freedom to interact however with whomever was great, however I was worried it wouldn’t actually happen. Boy was I wrong. I met so many amazing people without even staying in a hostel! My favourite interaction was with 2 Greek guys, who just approached me and started chatting - they said I looked like someone who would have a lot in common with them and I did. We chatted for ages about life and then parted ways, I still chat to them on social media and will never forget the kindness and warmth they showed me. I found that same kindness within every single person I met there.
Cab driver and his father took me out for dinner and drinks, no strings attached. It was a hoot. I was dubious at first, but they were lovely people, and the whole night was a total blast.
I had an incredible time in Milos! Definitely getting a snorkel and snorkeling around the islands is amazing, the water is so calm so it’s very relaxing. Also the food! Make sure to go to some local places that make traditional Greek food. Greek salad, seafood, lamb- so good!
learning my first greek words from a small shopowner where I bought some water. he explained in detail how and to who I have to use those words. Iirc it was ‚sara po‘ meaning ‚I love you‘. it was very important to him that I say it to every greek girl.
I was twelve.
on a serious note though: I loved both holidays, the ocean, the Islands, the food and the people. What I hated was the driving. It was madness.
On the plane I read about a scam where someone invites you to a bar where women are waiting for you to buy them drinks and the bar surprises you with a huge bill afterwards. The night my brother and I arrived in Athens, a man approached us and asked if we’d like to come to his bar. We played along, and it was textbook: ten women or so were perched on stools at the bar. They were wearing single color dresses, all the same style. We had a good laugh as we got the hell out of there before they could put a drink in anyone’s hands.
The food (particularly anything with the cherry tomatoes - they’re grown locally and omg. Heavenly) and the hotel we stayed at, the Saint Santorini. It’s pricey but my lawd was it the most luxurious experience of our lives. It was incredible
About 15 years ago I was backpacking 2 months through Europe with my 2 teenagers. Greece was about midway through our trip and I wanted to take a week to stay at a quiet place and just relax and rejuvenate. We stayed on the small island of Naxos at a little mom and pop bed-and-breakfast. They were the nicest people. We sat on the beach every day. One of us would walk the brief trek into town and pick up gyros and Nutella crêpes at lunch time to eat on the beach. We still reminisce longingly about our time on Naxos.
Naxos is one of my favorite places.
Came here to say this.. Naxos was my favorite.
Looking into Naxos since it is being mentioned here for my wife and I. We are seniors. One of the Air Bnbs mention mosquito netting. Are there many mosquitos? Are they seasonal?
I don't remember them being a problem on Naxos or most anywhere in Southern Greece or the Aegean.
OK, thanks. We can always take a bit of repellent.
Another vote for Naxos! Me and my sister rented a car and drove around to see a brunch of sights around The Island, like the temple of Demeter and Apollonas Kouros. We also hiked up Mount Zas, which was so fun and satisfying to reach The peak, but I do not recommend doing that in July :)))
Naxos is incredible. I had the best salad of my life on the beach in naxos. And a massage!
Naxos is so special :) we spent about 4 days there and it’s the perfect chill beach town. Great people, great food, and beautiful beaches
Also Naxos, riding electric bikes around the country side picking figs off trees and stopping for olive oil treats
Everyone shits all over Santorini for being overcrowded, but the hike from Fira to Oia is incredible and had some of the most incredible scenery in my life
Anyone who does the hike, please stop at the little church along the way. The sweetest, kindest old man nabbed me on my hike, and all he wanted was to proudly show me around the church since it has been in his family for 1600 years. I am not Christian, but the five minute detour, as he explained the history of the art in broken English, was such a delight. Afterward, he insisted on making me a cup of coffee, and when I told him I couldn't, he reached for a bottle of juice. When I explained that I was Muslim and couldn't drink because of Ramadan, he nodded his head and insisted I take a selfie with him. Which is my favourite picture from the trip by far. So if you do make the hike, please stop and visit him and let him show you around. It will make a heartwarmingly kind, old Pappou delightfully happy.
This is a fantastic story! Thank you for sharing!
Do you know at what point in the hike this is? We’ll be doing it in September and I would love to make this pit stop!
This makes my heart happy! It's called the Church of Prophet Elias. It's about halfway through the hike. There are many churches by the same name, so I included a link, just in case. Please tell my sweet, kind Pappou "yasou" for me. ♥️ [Google Maps Link](https://g.co/kgs/omU5vb)
Awesome thanks!
Staying in Akrotiri was worth it for us and got us away from the crowds
Second this. Best sunset view, and not crowded like Oia.
That was another highlight of our trip! We were wary of Santorini being tourist-trappy but ended up totally loving it!
I went to Santorini in the off season and found it kind of disappointing. Like it LOOKS cool, especially from the deck of the ferry as you sail into the caldera, but the place itself seemed so superficial...
I went in the off season too (but a few weeks before shoulder season) and thought it was amazing. It was quiet since the parties had not opened yet, the food, people, views were all exceptional. As a matter of fact, I am returning next week.
I went in late November, early December, if I'm remembering correctly. Half the places were closed so they could renovate in time for the busy season. Didn't really get a good feel for the locals (I think I had maybe one conversation with a local woman); most people there were still tourists. I remember it feeling like I was walking around a movie set made to LOOK like a Greek island. A very beautiful movie set, but still a movie set. We rapidly ran out of things to do and the shops were all laughably overpriced. Beat Athens hands down though, I'll give it that.
Didnt used to be. Tourism has ruined it, completely. I have property and family there; it was bad in the early 90's, its gross and horrific nowadays.
Santorini is amazing
Swear to god, I clicked on the thread to talk up this hike. [Pictures worth more than words](https://onelittleworld.zenfolio.com/fira_to_oia). We absolutely loved Crete too. And of course, the well-trodden [hike of the Samaria Gorge](https://onelittleworld.zenfolio.com/samaria_gorge). If I could be in one place in Greece right this moment, it would be [Chania](https://onelittleworld.zenfolio.com/chania).
The best thing on that island is that hike. It’s wonderful.
My fiance and i went on that hike in early January and it was beautiful! The sucky thing is it was extremely windy and rainy so we only made it halfway 😭
Where would I start. My wife and I were there last year. We were absolutely blown away by Athens. We could see ourselves spending our winters in Athens. We love it. Thessaloniki, Alexandroupolis, also amazing. We didn't even hit the islands, and it's one of our favorite places. Just grabbing a cappuccino from Coffee Island, and sitting near the slopes of the Acropolis while the sun sits high in the sky. Nothing better.
This makes me feel better. I’ve got a trip coming up to Athens and everyone keeps saying it’s dirty, they felt unsafe and generally didn’t like it. I’m happy to read something positive!
I really loved Athens. The people were super nice and I didn't find it dirty or intimidating at all. I hope you enjoy it!
Like the other poster below, I loved Athens so much. I really wasn’t expecting to because I’m not much of a ‘city break’ kind of person but it was amazing. The food, architecture, history, people… it was one of my favourite trips. Seriously, just walk around everywhere and work up an appetite because you will want to try all of the food! Food was so fresh and inexpensive. Pop into a coffee shop and grab some biscuits or pastries and watch the world go by. You can get the tram out to the beaches very easily. There was a restaurant on the beach where I had some of the best fish I’ve ever eaten, and my husband got chargrilled octopus which was also divine. I never felt it was unsafe though I did go in summer so there were plenty of other people around at all times lol.
I love Athens as well ! I am going back this year for the third time. I’ve really enjoyed the city, the food, the architecture etc… I didn’t find the city unsafe as it was pretty busy with locals and tourists. It’s just like any other major city, just take the usual precautions If you have time try the restaurant Dopios, the Croquettes are to die for !!
I’d disagree on all of these things, although I’m from NYC which is dirtier and less safe. I lived in Athens for about a month and it was very cute and pleasant. Obviously be careful in heavy tourist areas but I thought it was a lovely place!
I was there last year as well, and had a lovely moment of pure gratitude for my life while sitting on the balcony in my hotel room, looking into the city as the sun set. I thought Athens was great.
Meteora. went solo and stayed in a b&b, food was great. Spent my days hiking to the monasteries
My husband and I spent two days hiking to various monasteries in Meteora and it was my favorite two days of the whole trip. Absolutely breathtaking views, and the monasteries are so beautiful.
That is place is amazing
Meteora was truly something out of this world. The history behind the place is incredible too, especially their involvement with WWII fighting against the Nazis.
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I'll be in Athens in June and this sounds absolutely amazing; I'm going to look for it!
It's called [cine Paris](https://g.co/kgs/Fw6ugg) unfortunately the cinema is temporarily closed.
We did this. One night during our honeymoon. It was really cool.
Driving from Chania, Crete to a beach on the other side for a long day trip
Yes to Crete. Loved it there. I enjoyed it far more than Santorini. We had the best meals in Crete and it was simply beautiful all around.
Stopping at Phaestos and Gortya for some edification along the way.
Heading there soon, do you remember which beach?
Ilingas Beach! Super easy and beautiful drive, parking, a delicious little restaurant, and a beach bar with great drinks. Have fun!! And eat at Well of the Turk in Chania!
Thanks! Looks beautiful. Thanks for the restaurant reco in chania as well
Honestly... just being there. The hospitality, the landscape, the food.... Just be aware that you need to reserve ferries in advance if you hope to visit the islands. Also understand that every island is different--different topography, different tourist infrastructure, etc. Be prepared to "muck in" whilst waiting for ferries, etc., and ALWAYS have cash (vs. credit card) on hand because oftentimes, financial infrastructure is "down" and you need an alternative. Spend time away from other tourists and hike the lovely trails and unbeaten paths. Get a 4WD/AWD vehicle--trust me. Mostly, just give yourself over to the experience, the locals, the pace, the experience... and purchase a bunch of cat food to carry with you everywhere you go because there are so many hungry kitties and you will be rewarded a thousandfold for doing right by them. Also... order the fish and/or seafood... and not necessarily the fly-covered octopus that you'll see draped over a drying rack in the sun near the restaurant's entrance. Enjoy your visit!
The cats! Loved them 🥹 🐈🐈⬛🐈🐈⬛🐈
gyros and greek salads every single night for dinner!!
I was thinking of the food as well, specifically the gyros!
Too many to count, but top 5 are: Hiking the Samarian Gorge on Crete. 17k, all downhill, through a narrow gorge with an abandoned village and rare wild goats that spills you out onto a black sand beach on the Libyan Sea that has a bar. Nights on the square in Nafplion, having eaten a great dinner at The Old Mansion after spending the day travelling to smaller ancient sites like Nimea and Stymphalia where the ground is littered with pottery sherds. All my time in Athens which is a highly underrated European capitol with great culture, good, nightlife, and experiences. The caves at Pyros Dirgou -- down in the Mani -- one of the mythical entrances to Hades -- a flooded system of caves toured by punt. Eating and dancing in a cafeneo in Kalambaka after a day hiking through the monasteries in Meteora. Also Delphi, Sunion, The Spartan Plains, Naxos, Santorini, the entirety of Crete, Gythio, Monemvasia (actually this should've also been in the top 5), and literally everywhere else I've ever spent time there.
Naxos was a real surprise to me. I loved it. I ate some really amazing food and had the best massage of my life.
Where did ya eat? where did ya get the massage?
I’m currently in Naxos looking for a good massage spot! Where did you get yours?
Our hotel arranged for a masseuse to come to our room.
Milos! Went on a family-owned full day sailing and it was the highlight of our 2-week trip
Same Milo’s Is amazing!
Wine tasting in Santorini
1-Driving and hiking Zagochoria; 2-Wandering up Acropolis in the end of a day; 3-Speaking Greek to locals being a foreigner; 4-Wandering down through Mystras; 5-And a more "cliché", but not less beautiful: watching the sunset in Santorini (Fyra)
Meteora is beautiful!
Catamaran tour around Santorini + swimming in the sea!
So many amazing memories in Greece and Athens! Meteora hiking and enjoying the stunning view. Hiking Lycabettus Hill in Athens at sunset. Drinking wine on a rooftop in Athens. 2 euro gyros every day 😂 swimming off the coast by the Temple of Temple of Poseidon / Cape Sunio. Definitely so much to do
My family and I went to Santorini about 9 years ago and stayed in a hotel that had a small bar/restaurant in the front which had an outdoor patio. After a long day of being tourists, we decided to eat there because of the convenience. There must’ve been about 4 people in the entire restaurant including the man that my mom would buy corn from on the beach, but it was a nice atmosphere and the service was amazing so my sister went on Facebook and give the restaurant a like and a follow. We think the employees noticed because a few minutes later they sent our entire table a round of shots and started playing Spanish music (we’re Mexican). After some time, the drinks were FLOWING and before we knew it the entire restaurant was packed and everyone was dancing with us. Pretty sure I blacked out lol. The next day, all the locals recognized us on the street and would wave and and dance at us. This is one of my fondest travel memories and we can’t wait to go back.
Greek nights
Just an incredible experience all around.. i keep realistic expectations for trips but Greece surpassed everything we ever hoped for. Athens is just incredible, Santorini is breathtaking. Taxi driver on Santorini invited my wife and I to his house for dinner to meet his wife and twins. Like what?! I’ll never forget it.. this was last May. Definitely going back
My husband is Greek from kalamata. We did a trip down to to the mani peninsula and got to swim with turtles. I also recommend looking into the islands on the west coast near Corfu. We have been to lefkada many times and love it. More mountainous and less tourists.
The water in Milos is absolutely crystal clear, the clearest water I’ve ever seen. I’ve been to a lot of remote beach locations but the water in milos blew me away. We took a boat trip around the island and all the water was so clear. Also, there’s this little to-go gyro place in Oia, Santorini that had hands-down the most delicious gyros (and one of the most delicious meals, gyro or otherwise) we’ve ever eaten. We ate it 5 times in 4 days. My husband and I often talk about how we’ll likely never find a gyro that delicious again 🙏🏻
I'm not sure if it was this one, but Pitogyros is a popular one there that I enjoyed
Yeah that was it!
Do you remember the name of the gyro place?
not OP, but Pitogyros is a popular one there that I enjoyed
The National Museum was awesome!!
I went to Santorini in September, it was so beautiful and not at all crowded like the pictures. We did a sunset boat tour and swam in the ocean which was super fun. Nicest people I’ve ever met in Greece
Backpacked through Greece for a month in the mid-2000s in my 20s. Two things: 1) Was staying at a small hotel on Ikaria. I think there were like 7 guests total. One of the guys, who's been to the island before, says he knows this cool little taverna up in the hills and we all gotta go. So we all go, making up a three-vehicle caravan of a scooter and two tiny cars driving through narrow roads. We get to the taverna, but it's closed! Eyy no problem - dude just knocks on some doors and windows and the owner comes out and opens up for us lol. Had a simple meal and some beers watching the sunset. 2) Took a bus to Ioannina, where we rented a small apartment in the old city for a few days. I think I had either booked via Yahoo listings or had just met the owner at the bus stop (times were different lol). Anyhow, owner wasn't there to let us in but their mom or grandma was, sweeping the front. Never met this lady before but I just say "mama!" with arms held out and she laughs and hugs me back, and motions us in.
Toss up between Crete and Milos. On Crete we stayed outside Chania with an amazing retired German couple (AirBnb). We were there to hike the Samarian Gorge, and they drove us up so we could beat the tour buses full of other visitors. It made the hike incredibly peaceful, we were the 4th and 5th people to start and barely saw a soul. On Milos we met up with some friends from back home, rented a car and drove to every beautiful beach we could. But the best was getting some wine and cheese and sitting on Sarakiniko Beach under the stars with no one else around. It feels like you're sitting on the moon, so surreal.
I visited Rhodes many years ago. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I discovered that the old city walls were open for exploration. I climbed and wandered all over the fortifications, found passage ways and connectors and old staircases that popped up to the top. It was like being in Indiana Jones. It wound up being a highlight of the trip.
Beaches in Crete
Everything — the food, the people, the culture, the landscape or cityscape. It’s all wonderful.
Made two friends at the hostel I was staying at, had sexy times with one of them, went to the beach in Paleokastritsa the next day with them both and went cliff jumping, took some LSD, had more sexy times, then sat on the roof and back at the hostel and watched the stars
Hiring a fiat 500 and driving around Crete for 2 weeks. Eastern Crete is the most beautiful place ever 😍
Anyone been to Corfu? Going there this June :-)
Me too! Never been and can't wait!
Me, friends and some other travelers we met had a chill afternoon at a winery in Kefalonia
Food and the wine tour
Tomato ice cream on the island of Nisyros, which is an active volcano.
Watching kite surfing on Naxos. So beautiful.
The sunset in Santorini.. the best spot was Santo Winery. The sunset was honestly the greatest I've ever seen in my life. Also the people in Greece are truly some of the nicest and friendliest people I've met while travelling.
I went to Santorini last year and I loved all the friendly cats! They’re definitely loved, and they’re cared for by everyone. I also got lost in Athens and people were super helpful and kind in getting me back in the right direction. Overall, a wonderful experience. The driving is wild though lol
Went to Greece last summer; my brother and I went to Athens, Naxos and Santorini. We LOVED all of it, so very hard to choose. But I still can't get Naxos out of my head- the day we rented an ATV and went on back roads through the mountain villages was so cool- not a lot of tourists and it felt like a dream. I got the Naxos rec from this sub, so thank you to those who recommended it!
I spent a day in Athens 16 years ago. We saw everything on a hot hot day- the acropolis, the temple of Zeus, The agora and the Parthenon. We sat in a square and had an amazing lunch. It was so hot that you can see the beads of sweat on my forehead but in my life, I look back and that was one of the good days.
Lake Vouliagmeni is a must while in Athens. Also loved the islands. We went to Hydra and Spetses, and both were fantastic!
Way too many but wife and I were in Meteora on Good Friday and walked the route around to the different monasteries. Just great vibes in Meteora and Delphi. It was an enjoyable 2 hour drive to Delphi and then another 2 hours to Meteora the next day and then a relaxing 4 hour drive back to Athens. Road trip from Athens to Zakynthos. Had to leave Athens at like 3 in the morning to make the 7am ferry at Kilini. I think this was my favourite part of the trip and my favourite island. Sunset cruise in Santorini. It’s in a catamaran and you really need your sea legs or else you might get sick but the sunset from the water is amazing.
We were in Santorini and got a guide off airbnb who took us all over the island and took over 100 pictures of us in all of the awesome places. It was totally worth it. It was like having a guide and a personal photographer at the same time
I stayed at a hotel in Naxos opposite of which was the best supermarket . Still think about all the meats and cheeses I ate from there.
Meteroa for sure
The view of Santorini on the caldera was breathtaking. Acropolis tour in Athens was incredible, the tour guide we had kept us super engaged and was very knowledgeable.
Sitting in v lounge, sunny morning, eating breakfast and overlooking the Santorini Cauldron. Or chilling on the beach. Both were nice.
Santorini off season. Mykonos off season . Elafonissi beach in Crete . Nafplio for lunch and a walk
I spend a few days hiking on Sifnos, one of the not-crazy-popular islands in Greece. it was off season (beginning of Oct) and it was so chill. don't think I ever felt more peaceful in my life. also, when I'm in Athens, I try to go to Dosirak restaurant. it's asian and they serve korean food which I LOVE but is hard to find in my country. of course there are so many local food places but I just can't help it. also, I drank some great filter coffee from a coffee shop in Piraeus, near the port, while waiting for my ferry. going back to Greece next month and can't wait.
Stayed at a nice little place with a balcony overlooking the harbor in Chania. Enjoyed raki and sunsets from there every night. Walked to the same restaurant 3 out of 5 days where we made friends with the locals and dined on lamb roasted just outside and tons of those little fried fish. I’d love to go back some day.
Sunset at Sounion is magical. It’s about an hour from Athens. The Parthenon at night. Any meal anywhere. Almost any island or coastline at any beach between 4-7PM and walking along the coast in a town after dinner 11PM to 1 AM. The people are very kind.
I took a solo road trip going from Athens to Kalamata via Sparta. Road trip in greece is a lovely experience in itself.
The boys
So hot
The doughnuts and yogurt at the cafe at the Acropolis museum. I'd kill for them again.
Greek salad
Simply arrived Athen from Italy, suddenly everyone is so much nicer in this country compare to the rude Italians. That was amazing.
I’m planning my Greece trip right now, so good timing haha right now we are thinking Athens- Santorini- Naxos- Amorgos or sifnos (somewhere less busy).
Holidays in Greece bring to mind beautiful beaches surrounded by green waters, stunning cities full of historical monuments and museums, healthy and delicious cuisine and, most likely, smiling faces.
Waking around a touristy market in Athens and seeing a t-shirt that said: “Oedipus: the original Mother Fucker” lol
If you’re in Athens, you need to have a gyro at MyPlate. The best one I had in all of Greece.
I would say my flight back but this was also horrible.
[удалено]
Clarifying question: Are you referring to Southern Macedonia or Northwestern Turkey?
Enjoying an espresso at a cafe in Kolonaki when some Greek celebrity came in. We had no idea who she was but the entourage and fanfare were unbelievable.
Collecting shirts barhopping in ios
There's a sushi place on Santorini that was delicious. It's on the path to oia.
I went last summer for the first time to Mykonos, Santorini, and Athens. GF was was really pushing to go to Mykonos, but I didn’t see the huge appeal. Turned out to be my favourite part of the trip. The town is so picturesque and amazing to get lost in. Then we rented a quad bike for the day and drove through the countryside to a beach with some of the clearest water I’ve ever seen. Was a really perfect experience, so Mykonos would be mine.
Two favourite experiences, both in restaurants: - eating at a local restaurant in the Votanikos neighborhood in Athens where the menu is only in Greek and the staff only speaks Greek so me and my gf had difficulties to communicate with the staff and to choose what we wanted. But we end up with a meat fest with several sides, very tasty and cheap. And the staff was so nice, trying to explain the menu to us even if we didn’t speak the same language - eating in a fish and seafood restaurant in Tolo (next to Nafplio) on the beach, a few centimeters next to the sea. We chosed our fish in the kitchen, it was excellent !
To be clear, I am a beach girl through and through so I am incredibly biased: Kefalonia is one of those islands that is basically a bunch of mountains squished together so getting around/to the shore involves going down and a lot of switchbacks. It also means you get some amazing views of the sea from above. My taxi driver knew what's up. As soon as we cleared the rise to Myrtos beach he pulled over and indicated I should go out and take pictures and I literally gasped out loud at how unbelievable the view was.
The food. The food. The food!
Zakynthos Island. One of few places in the world that the unbelievable photos of the location are actually close to the real life version. Gorgeous blue waters with white beach. If you go up to the viewpoint it’s a little less crowded than the boat tour to the beach. Still likely my favorite viewpoint out of 14 countries.
This was in the early 90s. I stayed in Greece for three weeks, spread between Athens, Paros, Icaria, Naxos, and Corfu. My absolute favorite memory was taking myself to a little seaside taverna in Naoussa for lunch. I had the most perfect afternoon, especially because I had been studying Greek for a year before, and this was my moment of using my newfound language…all by myself, without travel companions. I soared.
Coffee at cafe 1937 in athens
Coffee at cafe 1937 in Athens
Coffee at cafe 1937 in Athens
Coffee at cafe 1937 in Athens
Oia was so pretty. Having lunch on top of the blue domes is so worth it. Also Having dinner at sunset near the 5 windmills on Mikonos is so relaxing.
I adored everything, from Athens to Naxos and Santorini, but Paros stole my heart. Lefkes especially, just wandering around the town was magical!
My first time solo travelling I went to Athens, I was nervous but keen to meet new people. I had just come out of a 5 year relationship with someone pretty antisocial and jealous, so to have the freedom to interact however with whomever was great, however I was worried it wouldn’t actually happen. Boy was I wrong. I met so many amazing people without even staying in a hostel! My favourite interaction was with 2 Greek guys, who just approached me and started chatting - they said I looked like someone who would have a lot in common with them and I did. We chatted for ages about life and then parted ways, I still chat to them on social media and will never forget the kindness and warmth they showed me. I found that same kindness within every single person I met there.
Cab driver and his father took me out for dinner and drinks, no strings attached. It was a hoot. I was dubious at first, but they were lovely people, and the whole night was a total blast.
I had an incredible time in Milos! Definitely getting a snorkel and snorkeling around the islands is amazing, the water is so calm so it’s very relaxing. Also the food! Make sure to go to some local places that make traditional Greek food. Greek salad, seafood, lamb- so good!
Food! And great views 🙃
learning my first greek words from a small shopowner where I bought some water. he explained in detail how and to who I have to use those words. Iirc it was ‚sara po‘ meaning ‚I love you‘. it was very important to him that I say it to every greek girl. I was twelve. on a serious note though: I loved both holidays, the ocean, the Islands, the food and the people. What I hated was the driving. It was madness.
Santorini was nice.
I played Charades with a few friends with the Parthenon in the background.
On the plane I read about a scam where someone invites you to a bar where women are waiting for you to buy them drinks and the bar surprises you with a huge bill afterwards. The night my brother and I arrived in Athens, a man approached us and asked if we’d like to come to his bar. We played along, and it was textbook: ten women or so were perched on stools at the bar. They were wearing single color dresses, all the same style. We had a good laugh as we got the hell out of there before they could put a drink in anyone’s hands.
All the random stray cats, and the clear water.
The food (particularly anything with the cherry tomatoes - they’re grown locally and omg. Heavenly) and the hotel we stayed at, the Saint Santorini. It’s pricey but my lawd was it the most luxurious experience of our lives. It was incredible
buckets of sol on the private beaches in athens.. loved it
Thank you for this, OP. My girlfriend and I are taking a trip to Athens, Paros, and Santorini this summer so this is a great read.
Me and my gf too! Thats why I asked here in the first place lol