Greece is an alluring destination to many travelers because of its reputation as a beautiful and laid-back country, but some don’t realize what a truly multifaceted country it is. Greece caters to so many different types of people and offers such varied experiences that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure of what you should do. To help you get the most out of your trip to Greece, we’ve highlighted some of the best things to do during your stay!

Historical Adventures -

Greece’s rich cultural history shouldn’t be underestimated, and you should allot plenty of time to exploring it. The ancient city of Athens is the perfect place to kick-off your trip, as it is home to some of the most important sites in the Western world, like the Acropolis. The ancient citadel is marked by remnants of sanctuaries and monuments, including the famous Parthenon temple, and all the gleaming marble stone is a dazzling sight to behold. While in Athens, you should also be sure to visit the ancient amphitheater: otherwise known as Dionysus’ Theater, it was a gathering place for thousands of people to come together to appreciate the dramatic arts, and is still a staggeringly impressive sight today. If you can’t get enough of the ancient history, Greece has many more treats waiting for you: from the Palace of Knossos on Crete to the grounds of the first Olympic Games, you’ll have many opportunities to walk along ancient paths and appreciate Greece’s role in Western development.

Photo by: @OurTravelPassport | Ryan & Samantha Looney

Relaxation -

Of course, sometimes you just need to relax-- don’t worry, Greece has you covered there too. Santorini is a favorite of many travelers: with its idyllic, cliff-backed white houses, superb sunrises, and famous black sand beaches, it’s sure to capture your heart. The islands of Mykonos, Crete, and Corfu are also worth a visit, as some of the best beaches in the whole country can be found there beside the dazzling Aegean sea. Greece also has plenty of natural thermal springs, known for their relaxing and rejuvenating properties since ancient times. Many of them are located within “spa towns,” so if you’re craving more after bathing in one of the thermal springs, you can treat yourself to a full-fledged spa!

Outdoor Excursions -

In a country famed for its natural beauty, what better way to experience it than by hiking through some stunning landscapes? The Samaria Gorge is one of Greece’s National Parks located on the island of Crete, and its vertical walls and flowing river make it an inspiring sight to behold. If you’re lucky, you’ll also see some golden eagles flying overhead, or maybe even the rare, endangered wild goat known as the kri-kri. If you like adventuring, head to the Peloponnese region to hike the Mani, a rugged region of Greece that is as beautiful as it is wild. The Mani is known for having some of the most diverse scenery in all of Greece, from snow-tipped mountains to sparkling coasts to many olive groves, and despite being connected by walking trails, most of it is relatively untouched. You won’t want to miss this special opportunity to explore the majesty of rural Greece!

Cuisine -

Here’s something you definitely want to take advantage of while in Greece: the food! Explore world-renowned wineries on Santorini and Crete, or take some cooking classes and learn how to make your very own spanakopita (a savory spinach pastry) and loukoumades (hand-made donut holes sprinkled with honey and cinnamon). Even if you’re not up for cooking, you can have a great time just by savoring the many culinary delights on every island: from fresh seafood to hearty stews to delicious pastries to simply some olives and feta cheese, your tastebuds will be in for a treat no matter what city you find yourself in!

Blog post by: Hannah Hunt

Photo and video content provided by: Our Travel Passport | Ryan & Samantha Looney