Top summer resorts and destinations in Greece

Greece has some amazing places to spend your summer holidays. Best known are the many islands, but there are also fantastic holiday resorts on the mainland. One of the reasons a lot of people return to Greece year after year is that there is a wide variety of places: some calm and relaxed, others with a hectic nightlife. In general there is a little bit of everything wherever you go, so even if you decide to go to the place that seems the calmest, there will still be a bar around the corner.

Summer holidays for someone who does not have a holiday home or a house on an island or in a seaside area, we can say that it is not a very feasible scenario. We are seeing a steady upward trend in ferry tickets and accommodations.

This causes a lot of confusion for everyone who is looking for cheap destinations to spend a few days of summer. The truth is that it takes a good search to find destinations that do not have very expensive tickets or that do not have expensive accommodation.

Greece is a top summer destination that attracts travelers from all corners of the globe. With a plethora of islands and mainland locations to explore, each offering its own unique charm and character, Greece promises an unforgettable vacation experience. Whether you’re seeking sunsets in Santorini, nightlife  in Mykonos or family-friendly fun in Crete, this Mediterranean paradise has something for everyone.

Santorini stands out as the epitome of romance with its iconic white-washed buildings perched on cliffs overlooking the azure Aegean Sea. It’s the perfect spot for couples looking to experience breathtaking sunsets and luxurious accommodations.

For those craving vibrant nightlife and trendy beach clubs, Mykonos is the ultimate party island. With its cosmopolitan atmosphere and lively streets lined with boutiques and restaurants, it’s a playground for the young at heart.

Families flock to Crete for its diverse offerings – from beautiful beaches to ancient ruins. Kids will love exploring historic sites like Knossos Palace while parents unwind on pristine sandy shores.

Rhodes entices history buffs with its medieval charm evident in every corner of its Old Town. Discover ancient temples, medieval castles, and Ottoman architecture that tell tales of centuries past.

Seeking an off-the-beaten-path escape? Corfu awaits with lush greenery, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages where you can immerse yourself in local life away from crowds.

Alonissos

Alonissos is an excellent idea for a relaxing vacation. It is located in the Sporades and you can take a ferry from the port of Volos or the port of Thessaloniki. Ticket prices start from €30 from Volos and from €58 from Thessaloniki. Like all the islands of the Sporades, Alonissos has a heavenly beauty, with clear blue waters and plenty of greenery. Monachus-Monachus seals live in the north of the island and the Sporades National Marine Park operates there.

You will find rooms and hotels for rent at affordable prices for accommodation in Alonissos either in Patitiri, or in Chora Alonissos and Votsi. Do not miss visiting the Castle, the highest point of the island, and visiting the beautiful beaches of the island

Amorgos

Amorgos is one of the favorite destinations of young people. The island has been quite popular since the 80s with several scenes of the movie Blue Sky having been filmed there. I think the trip to Amorgos is one of the best options for budget holidays – the island is beautiful, has wonderful beaches and a special style of entertainment.

Many visitors choose to camp in Amorgos – there are three organized campsites and they’re quite affordable – but even if you don’t you’ll find affordable accommodation, especially if you book relatively early. Don’t forget to visit the sights of Amorgos, eg Hozoviotissa Monastery and explore as many beaches as you can.

Chora, Aigiali, Katapola, Tholaria – for me the top settlements to explore and stay in Amorgos. Transport is quite useful to get around the island, but there are also buses that cover the main parts. To go to Amorgos you will need to take a ferry from Piraeus, with travel times ranging from 5.5 to 8.5 and ticket costs starting from €50.

Agistri

Agistri is one of the closest islands to Athens. You can take a ferry from the port of Piraeus and reach the island within 1-1.5 hours. The ticket costs 13.50-19.50€.

It is a green island of the Saronic Gulf, which can offer you an affordable vacation and those of you who live in Athens will really be close by.

There are two ports on the island, one is in Skala and the other in Megalochori, i.e. in the country of the island. If you are a fan of free camping you can investigate it as it is common on the island. Otherwise you will find great options for hotels and rooms to rent to stay in Agistri and enjoy your vacation.

Ikaria

Ikaria It is located in the eastern Aegean south of Chios and west of Samos. You can reach it by boat from the port of Piraeus, which takes around 7 hours to arrive and costs from €58 to €72. Don’t be put off by the ticket prices, living in Ikaria is quite cheap, as is accommodation.

First of all, there are a large number of visitors camping on the island. If you are not interested in this accommodation scenario in Ikaria, you can book rooms for rent or, if you are a large group, an entire house. This way your stay will be much more economical. To have a good time in Ikaria you don’t need much. Festivals are the main form of entertainment, where the Kariotian wine flows abundantly.

To explore the island you should have a vehicle, otherwise you can hitchhike – something quite common in Ikaria.

Santorini

Santorini is a dreamy destination known for its breathtaking sunsets and stunning white-washed buildings perched on cliffs overlooking the azure waters below.

The island’s charm lies in its romantic atmosphere, making it a popular choice for honeymooners and couples seeking an idyllic getaway. Stroll hand in hand through the narrow cobblestone streets of Oia as you admire the picture-perfect views or relax on one of the many beautiful beaches scattered along the coastline.

Santorini also boasts some of Greece’s finest wineries, where you can indulge in wine tastings while enjoying panoramic views of the caldera. Don’t miss out on exploring ancient ruins like Akrotiri or taking a boat tour to visit nearby volcanic islands.

Whether you’re savoring a candlelit dinner with your loved one or simply watching the sun dip below the horizon from your private terrace, Santorini promises unforgettable moments that will etch themselves into your memory forever.

Limnos

Limnos is one of the islands of the Northeast Aegean. Access to Limnos is by boat from the port of Thessaloniki (4 hours by speedboat and 7 hours by conventional boat), by boat from the port of Kavala (4 hours), from the port of Mytilini and by air.

The island is of particular interest, with Ammothines, Aliki, the wetland at Hortarolimni, the Castle of Myrina and the Ancient Hephaistia dominating. The island is quite large and requires several days to explore. If you are a fan of surfing, head to Keros beach, one of the most famous surfing sports in Greece.

For accommodation in Limnos, you can choose between Myrina, Moudros, Agios Ioannis Kaspakas, Platy, Kalliopi and Kontias. Do a good research and you will definitely find affordable accommodation to stay.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a paradise for those looking to dance the night away under the stars. From beach clubs with world-renowned DJs to cozy bars serving up delicious cocktails, there is no shortage of entertainment options on this energetic island. Whether you’re into electronic music or live bands, Mykonos has something for everyone.

During the day, relax on the white sandy beaches or explore the charming streets lined with boutique shops and traditional Greek tavernas. Don’t forget to snap some Instagram-worthy photos at iconic spots like Little Venice and the famous windmills.

As night falls, get ready to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Mykonos’ nightlife scene. Dance until dawn at clubs like Cavo Paradiso or Scorpios Beach Club, where you can mingle with locals and fellow travelers from around the world.

With its electrifying energy and endless opportunities for fun, Mykonos is a must-visit destination for party-goers seeking an unforgettable summer experience in Greece!

Crete

When it comes to family-friendly summer destinations, Crete is a top choice. This charming Greek island offers a perfect blend of relaxation and fun for visitors of all ages. With its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and warm hospitality, Crete has something for everyone in the family.

Families can explore ancient ruins like the Palace of Knossos or enjoy nature hikes through the stunning Samaria Gorge. Kids will love splashing around in the water parks or trying out traditional Cretan activities like olive oil tasting or pottery workshops.

For some quality bonding time, take a boat trip to explore hidden coves and pristine beaches together. And don’t forget to indulge in delicious local cuisine at family-run tavernas where you can savor fresh seafood dishes and mouthwatering desserts.
Crete truly caters to families looking for a memorable vacation filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished moments together.

Patmos

Patmos is located in the Dodecanese and is in fact the northernmost island of the complex. It is a beautiful island, with volcanic and rocky terrain. It is a favorite destination for religious visitors, since John the Theologian wrote the Apocalypse on this island.

For this reason, the Monastery of Agios Ioannis and the Cave of the Apocalypse are considered great attractions and even belong to the UNESCO Heritage. Both Skala and Chora are great areas to stay in Patmos, however there are other options such as Grikos, Sapsila settlement and Kampos.

To get to Patmos you have to take a ferry from Piraeus, which has a stopover in Syros or Samos and finally arrives after 8-12 hours. The cost of the ticket is €55, but you will save money on accommodation, as it is possible to find quite affordable accommodation.

Kefalonia

Kefalonia is a great idea for the residents of western Greece and the Peloponnese. Access to Kefalonia is from the port of Kyllini or Patras, with the journey taking 1.5 hours from Kyllini and 3 hours from Patras. The ticket costs around €15 in both cases. Generally you will need several days to go around the island and the vehicle is quite necessary. The prices to transport a vehicle are around €45-50.

It is a large island that is not inferior to the rest of the Iptane Islands, it has wonderful beaches, coves and of course plenty of greenery. There are many seaside settlements for accommodation in Kefalonia, for every taste and every budget. I love Argostoli and it is the area I would choose if I were to go back to the island, but there are other wonderful locations such as Fiskardo, Lassi, Lixouri, Assos, Sami.

Rhodes

Rhodes island boasts a rich history dating back to ancient times. Explore the impressive medieval architecture of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site that will transport you back in time.

Discover the fascinating past of Rhodes by visiting the Palace of the Grand Master and strolling through the Street of Knights. Don’t miss out on discovering ancient ruins like the Acropolis of Lindos and exploring charming villages scattered across the island.

Rhodes offers more than just history – relax on stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters or enjoy water sports activities for an adrenaline rush. Indulge in delicious Greek cuisine at local tavernas and savor traditional dishes like moussaka and souvlaki.

Whether you’re a history buff, beach lover, or foodie enthusiast, Rhodes has something for everyone to enjoy during your summer getaway.

Corfu

Corfu is a hidden paradise waiting to be explored. With its lush greenery, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages, this Greek island offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The old town of Corfu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its Venetian architecture and narrow cobblestone streets. Stroll through the alleys lined with vibrant bougainvillea flowers or relax at one of the cozy cafes overlooking the sea.

For beach lovers, Corfu boasts some of the most stunning beaches in Greece. From the secluded coves of Paleokastritsa to the golden sands of Glyfada, there’s a spot for every type of traveler seeking serenity by the sea.

Explore Mount Pantokrator for panoramic views or visit Achilleion Palace to immerse yourself in history and mythology. Whether you’re into water sports, hiking trails, or simply soaking up the sun on a tranquil beach, Corfu has something special for everyone.

Thassos

Thassos is also a proposal for the residents of northern Greece. The ferry from Keramoti Kavala reaches the Port of Thassos in just 35 minutes, with the ticket costing just €5. The island is not very small and since the ticket for the transfer of the car costs 20€ it is a good idea to take it along, so that you can go around it as much as you can.

Almost along the entire coastline there are coastal settlements and beaches. Personally, I consider the best area to stay in Thassos is Skala Potamias, which is located close to Limenas and has the beaches Chrysi Akti and Chrysi Ammoudia. Don’t miss to explore the sights of Limenas: Acropolis, Ancient Agora, Ancient Theater and Archaeological Museum and visit the village of Panagia.

Kythira

The trip to Kythira is possible for residents of several regions in Greece. There are several ways to get to Kythira, such as by ferry from Piraeus, by plane from Athens, by ferry from Neapoli and by ferry from Kissamos Chania. Ferry tickets cost up to €22, making it an affordable destination.

The island has great beauty and is ideal to offer you a unique air, reminiscent on the one hand of the Eptan Islands, on the other hand of the Cyclades but maybe also of Crete. The best area to stay in Kythira is Chora, but to find availability and low prices you should book well in advance. If you can’t find it, don’t be disappointed, Avlemonas, Diakofti and Agia Pelagia also offer accommodation to accommodate you.

Tips for planning a summer vacation in Greece

Planning a summer vacation in Greece can be an exciting adventure filled with sun, sea, and culture. When deciding on your itinerary, consider visiting multiple islands to experience the diverse beauty of this Mediterranean paradise.

Research the different destinations in Greece to find the one that best fits your travel style. Whether you’re looking for romance in Santorini or party vibes in Mykonos, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t forget to pack light and comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather. You’ll want to explore ancient ruins, lounge on beautiful beaches, and savor authentic Greek cuisine without feeling weighed down by heavy luggage.

Consider booking accommodations well in advance to secure the best deals and availability during peak tourist season. From luxury resorts to cozy guesthouses, Greece offers a variety of options for every budget.

Immerse yourself in local culture by trying traditional dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and taste new flavors that will leave a lasting impression on your palate.

When it comes to finding affordable places to stay, consider looking into guesthouses, hostels, or even Airbnb options. These choices often provide comfortable lodging at a fraction of the cost compared to luxury hotels.

For those who love exploring nature, hiking trails in destinations like Crete or Corfu offer breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at no cost. You can also spend the day lounging on one of Greece’s many beautiful beaches or take a self-guided walking tour through historic neighborhoods.

To save money on dining out every meal, why not visit local markets and supermarkets to pick up fresh produce and snacks for picnics? This way, you can savor authentic Greek flavors while enjoying an alfresco meal with stunning surroundings.

By being savvy with your choices and opting for more affordable accommodations and activities, you can have an unforgettable summer getaway in Greece without overspending.

As you explore the stunning holiday resorts in Greece, don’t miss out on indulging in the local cuisine and must-try dishes. From fresh seafood to flavorful grilled meats, Greek cuisine is a true delight for food enthusiasts. Be sure to savor traditional dishes like Moussaka, Souvlaki, Spanakopita, and Gyros during your stay.