Greece
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Greece
Greece is the stuff of vacation dreams—with more than 200 islands to find whatever you’re looking for. Want ancient history, art, and culture? Start in the hub of Athens, where you’ll find treasures from the Acropolis to the Parthenon. Brush up on your Greek mythology in Olympia, where you can pay homage to Zeus and walk through the ruins of the first-ever Olympic games. If lazy beach days and never ending mezze are what you’re after, there’s no shortage of islands to escape to: Catch a Santorini sunset over those iconic blue domed buildings, party ‘til sunrise (and brush elbows with celebs) in Mykonos, and get the best Mediterranean food in Crete. There’s so many ways to explore Greece, and we’ve got all the recs below.
Essential Greece
My favorite beaches in Greece
Life is always better on the beach. That’s what I’ve discovered over the last 30 years of traveling across Greece in search of the perfect seaside paradise. The secret is to find one that’s just right for you. Thankfully, Greece is blessed with hundreds to choose from, and these are the nine I love the most.
Maria Paravantes, Athens, Greece
Falassarna Beach3,886Think turquoise waters and powder soft sand. On the island of Crete, Falassarna is perfect for swimming, walking, sunbathing, or chilling. (Nudists have their spot, too, on the far side.) Umbrellas and loungers are available for rent. For food, head to the tavernas behind the beach. Parking can get crowded, so arrive early to find a spot or take the bus. Early morning is the best time to swim—the waves can get rough after 11 a.m., but it’s still wonderful.
Voidokilia Beach1,154On the mainland in Messinia, Voidokilia is a natural wonder. The omega-shaped beach is set right next to the serene Gialova Lagoon in the middle of the Messinia plain with green-blue waters and silky sand dunes. It’s a drone-lover’s delight, and it’s also ideal for kids, picnics, swimming, and snorkeling. Bring some form of shade, snacks, and water, as there are no facilities nearby. Hikers and nature lovers can wander beyond the dunes. They won’t regret it.
Banana Beach1,700For swimmers, families, and beach sports fans, Banana Beach on Zakynthos is the place to be. It has beachside tavernas, sea sports, and sunbeds and umbrellas for rent—all against a stunning backdrop of golden sands and crystal-clear shallow waters. But it can get loud, so for some quiet, go before 10 a.m. or after 7 p.m. Parking is free, but one of the beach bars also offers complimentary transportation from various points on the island: Look for the “yellow bus.”
Petani Beach1,813Soak up the sun and swim to your heart’s content at this secret beach on Kefalonia. You’ll find sunbeds and umbrellas on one side and a free, laid-back area with a bar on the other. It’s pebbly at some points, so bring water shoes. The tavernas dotting the shore are perfect for ouzo, fresh seafood, and amazing views. It’s hard to find parking, so get there early. And a note that it gets crowded in late July and August.
Xi Beach888An endless stretch of brick-red sand and shallow waters makes Kefalonia’s Xi Beach one of the most interesting spots in Greece. Sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports are on offer on one side of the coast. But if you head past the white cliff toward the center, you’ll feel like Robinson Crusoe. It’s ideal for kids, seniors, and sun-lovers. Best of all: It’s easy to get to and usually has very calm waters.
Tristinika Beach23If you’re vacationing in Northern Greece, head to Tristinika on the island of Halkidiki. This seaside haven wins over nature lovers, families, and camping fans with its powdery sand and welcoming waters in all shades of blue. It’s a great place to swim, sunbathe, read a book, or simply take in the soothing view. A trendy beach bar offers drinks, finger food, and great music. Don’t leave before watching the sun dip into the sea.
Katergo Beach476One of Greece’s wildest beaches, secluded Katergo on the island of Folegandros is accessible only by boat or with a brave hike. Pack essentials like water, snacks, and a hat. The azure waters have a steep drop-off but are perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Adventurous and mellow types (and even some nudists) frequent this isolated beach. Before you go, ask the locals about the weather, because it often gets too windy to enjoy.
Manganari Beach1,272This pristine beach on Ios has velvety sand and serene waters—perfect for relaxation and for getting a genuine Greek island feel. Two tavernas offer food and drink, but it’s not a party vibe. In fact, it’s so untouched that it’s frequented by goats at sunrise. You can get there by car (it’s 40 minutes from Ios Chora), but I recommend taking the bus, which drops you off in the morning and picks you up in the evening. Best time to visit: June or September.
Chorefto Beach189On the mainland, forest meets the sea at this breathtaking beach at the foot of Mt. Pelio, which is worth the tedious drive. Chorefto’s mix of grainy white sand and deep crystalline waters makes it perfect for swimmers and snorkelers, but it can get choppy and dangerous. Limited parking is available, so arrive before 10 a.m., especially in July and August. If you’re into hiking, take the path toward Agioi Saranta, and you’ll be rewarded with another awesome beach.
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