Athens is a vibrant city with a rich history, and the Acropolis is one of the most important landmarks. This ancient citadel boasts magnificent temples and ruins, including the breathtaking Parthenon. Walk around Plaka, the oldest neighborhood of Athens, and enjoy the traditional Greek architecture, tavernas, and cafes.
The National Archaeological Museum of Athens is home to an incredible collection of ancient artifacts, including sculptures, pottery, and jewelry. You can spend a full day exploring the galleries that showcase the glory of Ancient Greece.
Thessaloniki is Greece's second-largest city, located in the north of the country. The heart of the city is the famous White Tower, located on the waterfront promenade. You can then walk to the ancient Roman Rotunda to marvel at the impressive dome, which dates back to the 4th century. Stroll along the Aristotelous Square, and visit the historic churches of Agios Dimitrios and Agia Sofia.
Chania is a charming town located in the western part of Crete. Explore the Old Town, a maze of narrow streets, Ottoman-era buildings, and colorful Venetian-style mansions. Visit the old harbor, bustling with cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Stop at the grand Chania Market, where you can find fresh produce, seafood, authentic cheeses, and handmade textiles.
Heraklion is home to the fantastic Palace of Knossos, a Minoan archaeological site that dates back to 2000 BC. The remarkable ruins, restored frescoes, and stunning views of the city will leave you speechless. You can also visit the city center, where many buildings retain their Venetian and Ottoman architecture.
Meteora is a unique destination that should not be missed while in Greece. This impressive rock formation complex hosts six Greek Orthodox monasteries, built on top of towering cliffs. Visit the Monastery of Great Meteoron, which sits at the highest point and is the largest and most visited. The panoramic views of the surrounding valley are worth the visit.
Hydra is a picturesque island located south of Athens. This charming town is traffic-free, and donkeys and boats are the only means of transportation. Visit the Hydra Museum, which showcases the island's rich history of art, culture, and maritime traditions. Walk along the scenic coastal path and enjoy the sunset at the cliffs of the Monastery of Prophet Elias.
Travelers can move around Athens and Thessaloniki by subway, buses, and taxis. Ferries are available to explore the Greek islands.
Athens International Airport connects Greece to all major European cities by air. Domestic flights connect the mainland to Crete and other Greek islands.
If you have more time, you can add a day trip to Delphi, where you can visit the famous ancient oracle and the Temple of Apollo. For those who are interested in Greek mythology, a visit to Mycenae and the Lion Gate is highly recommended.
If you have less time, you can skip Thessaloniki or Hydra and add an extra day to explore Athens or Crete more thoroughly.
Athens International Airport (ATH) is the main airport in Greece, located 33 km east of Athens. Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG) is the second largest airport, located 14 km southeast of the city. Heraklion International Airport (HER) and Chania International Airport (CHQ) are the main airports in Crete, located in the cities of Heraklion and Chania, respectively.