Popular holiday destinations in Greece. Greece: where to go for the first time

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Looking for information on the best places to holiday in Greece? We tell you everything about the country's resorts: where to go to Greece for a beach holiday, where the best excursions are, what places are inexpensive.

The first part of the article contains a selection of the best Greek resorts by type of holiday (beach, excursion, youth, with children, etc.). The second part of the article contains a detailed description of popular resorts with the pros and cons of holidays.

Holidays on the islands of Greece

According to reviews of many travelers, when going to Greece, they prefer to relax not at the mainland resorts of the country, but on the islands. This gives a better sense of local color, and the beaches on the island part are usually better and cleaner than on the mainland.

Islands of Greece for holidays - list of the best destinations:

Rhodes
Corfu
Zakynthos
Santorini
Kefalonia

The island of Kos used to be popular, but recently many have complained about the large number of migrants there.

Photo: © Militaru Alin Cristian / flickr.com

Beach holiday

Most tourists choose islands in the south of Greece or the Halkidiki peninsula in the north of the country for a beach holiday.

The best resorts in Greece with sandy beaches, according to tourist reviews:

The islands of Crete and Rhodes are the most popular destinations.
The islands of Mykonos, Thassos, Corfu - in addition to relaxing on the beach, you can enjoy magnificent scenery.
The Chalkidiki Peninsula is a good option to combine sightseeing and beach holidays.

Excursions and attractions

If you are traveling to Greece for a long time, it is convenient to stay in Athens: there are many attractions in the capital and its surroundings, and it is also easy to travel from there to other interesting places.

Another option for an excursion holiday is the Peloponnese peninsula, with ancient Greek cities (Olympia, Sparta, Mycenae with the preserved Lion Gate, Corinth and Epidaurus).

Popular excursions to the north of Athens are to Delphi and Meteora.

Advice: It is convenient to explore many attractions on your own if you rent a car. Conditions and tips are in our article Car rental in Greece.

Holidays with a child

For a comfortable holiday with children, it is better to choose a hotel with good infrastructure and a sandy beach. There are many suitable hotels on the islands of Crete and Rhodes.

Other Greek resorts with good sandy beaches and family hotels:

Chalkidiki Peninsula
Peloponnese Peninsula
Corfu Island

Resorts for young people

Where to relax in Greece for young travelers? For youth recreation, it is better to go to the resorts of Hersonissos (Crete) and the island of Mykonos: there is a lot of active entertainment, parties and discos.

Mykonos is considered an elite resort; holidays there are expensive; in Hersonissos you can relax much cheaper.

In addition to these resorts, young people often choose other places: the Halkidiki peninsula, the islands of Zakynthos and Rhodes.

Best Resorts for Seniors

For a quiet and measured holiday, it is best to go to the resorts of Crete (especially Rethymno), Thessaloniki, and the island of Thassos.

There are good hotels on the Halkidiki peninsula - from there easy excursions to the historical parts of Greece are available. At the resort of Loutraki near Athens you can undergo treatment with mineral waters.
Photo: Fira at night © Nikola Totuhov / flickr.com

Crete Island

One of the most popular resorts in Greece is the island of Crete. There are good sandy beaches, beautiful nature, hotels of any category, many restaurants and entertainment. An excellent destination for those who are choosing where to go to Greece for the first time.

The main resorts of the island of Crete are Rethymnon, Elounda, Chania, Hersonissos and Gouves.

Rethymno

Rethymnon is a resort for a quiet and relaxing holiday. There are many streets for romantic walks, sandy beaches, delicious food in cafes and restaurants. There are no parties or noise, and there is also no entertainment for children. Vacationers are mainly elderly tourists from Europe.

Most excursions are from Heraklion or Chania, so you will have to get to these cities first (about an hour away).

There are other resorts near Rethymnon - for example, Bali (good beaches) or Plakias (suitable for diving).

Elounda

The small resort is located in a bay, so the sea is always calm, without large waves. Elounda has good sandy beaches. There are hotels that operate on an all-inclusive basis. Suitable for families with children.

Chania

The Greek resort has many clean sandy beaches, but hotels are quite expensive. The city itself is beautiful (according to some tourists, it is the best on the island of Crete), it has many ancient buildings and attractions. The airport is nearby, making the resort easy to get to.

Hersonissos

One of the most youthful resorts in Crete is Hersonissos. The city has many bars, restaurants, discos - it is always noisy and fun. The beaches are sandy, prices for accommodation and food are low. Hersonissos – a suitable option for an inexpensive but good holiday in Greece.

If desired, you can easily reach Heraklion or the resort of Agion Nikolaos.

Photo: cafe in the village of Kalyves, Crete © VV Nincic / flickr.com

Halkidiki

The Chalkidiki peninsula is located in the northern part of Greece, where it is better to relax at the height of summer (July-August) - at this time the weather there is more comfortable than in other resort regions of the country.

Nearby is the airport of Thessaloniki, from where it is easy to reach most of the resorts of Halkidiki - Kallikratia, Kassandra and others.

Callicracy

Quiet resort, except for the center where the fur shops are located. The city beach is well suited for children: it is sandy, the entry into the water is gentle, there are umbrellas and sun loungers, and the sea is without strong waves. There are few attractions.

Cassandra

This Greek resort offers a family-friendly environment. Beaches with fine light sand, clean sea water, fresh air. Among the hotels, private hotels with a small territory and hospitable hosts predominate.

Photography: views of Halkidiki © AHT PHOTOGRAPH & PHOTOGRAPHER AGENCY / flickr.com

Rhodes

Where to go on vacation in Greece if you want to go to an island and you’ve already visited Crete?

The second most popular island resort in Greece after Crete is Rhodes. It is easy to get to - there is an airport and a seaport.

The island of Rhodes can be conditionally divided into 2 parts – eastern and western.

The eastern part is crowded, with hotels of all categories, restaurants, and entertainment. The sea there is a little warmer and calmer, but holiday prices are usually higher. The most popular beaches in the eastern part of Rhodes: Afandou, Faliraki, Kolymbia, Lindos.

The western part is quiet, with rocky shores and crystal clear sea. This side of Rhodes is washed by the Aegean Sea, which is considered windier and cooler than the Mediterranean. It is better to relax in the western part of the island in the high season (July and August) - the summer heat is more bearable there. Prices in the west are lower, it is easier to find inexpensive hotels or private accommodation.

Do you want to holiday in Greece in 2017? I want to, and therefore I carefully approached the planning, and at the same time I decided to tell you exactly how you need to plan a vacation in Greece, what nuances should be taken into account, how best to choose the time and place for your vacation, so as not to regret your choice even once.

Why here

Once upon a time, Greece was a stronghold of culture and even spirituality, which served as a kind of base for the formation of the culture of all of Europe. Now it is a good and inexpensive resort area that attracts vacationers with children from all over the world.

Tourists in Greece enjoy a wonderful climate, an abundance of cultural and historical monuments, as well as a well-developed infrastructure aimed at travelers. Why holidaying with children in Greece is a good decision:

very mild climate - there is a fairly low level of humidity, it is rarely stuffy, and the island is simply buried in greenery;
stunning natural landscapes put you in an elevated mood, and stunning beaches and a delightful sea introduce you to an atmosphere of relaxation and fun;
the local population itself is very friendly and hospitable, which makes the holiday simply fabulous;
there is practically no crime in Greece;
unlike Turkey, so beloved by tourists, childhood infectious diseases are rarely found here - it’s really safe to vacation with a child;
as in many popular tourist countries, there are plenty of Russian-speaking employees here - there is no feeling of a language barrier or helplessness;
many hotels offer special conditions for vacationers with children - for example, a special menu;
the cost of the holiday is quite affordable for most families, and many hotels do not require payment for children (almost all hotels do not charge for children under 12 years old, many do not require payment for children under 14-18 years old);
a large amount of excursion material - Greece is simply full of historical places that are associated with myths, world history and literature;
many hotels provide special conditions for children's recreation - at the hotel, a family with a baby will be offered a special crib and high chair, will be provided with a stroller for walks, and will also provide children with the attention of animators;
Almost all hotels are equipped for families with children.

The main thing you need to do is to choose the right resorts or islands in Greece for your holiday, which can meet any wishes of parents with a small child.

By the way, it should be said separately about “adult” holidays - it is clear that any parent wants to provide the child with the most comfortable holiday, but the Greeks do not forget about parents - a large number of excursions, good water parks, beaches and swimming pools, as well as bars and discos for everyone who are eager to take a little break from parenthood will warmly open their doors to every vacationer.

Choosing a place

Where is the best place to relax in Greece? In fact, you can relax here almost anywhere - it will still be of high quality, sunny, fun and tasty, but, of course, different resorts have their own differences. So, the resorts of Greece can be divided into mainland and island. If you want to relax on the mainland, then welcome to Chalkidiki or the Peloponnesian Peninsula.

If you are wondering where to relax in Greece and see on the map something resembling a trident - this is Chalkidiki.

Each “prong” is a peninsula, Kassandra, Athos and Sithonia. The peninsula is washed by the Aegean Sea. Most often, a trip to Greece on the mainland means trips to Halkidiki. The sea is not too deep, beaches with the purest white sand and a large number of attractions. The Kassandra resort will appeal to those who would like to combine a family holiday with an active nightlife.

Sithonia - a green peninsula where there are not many people and quite quiet. Here you can find tranquil solitude, lazy beach holidays, and plenty of pine forests and olive groves.

Here time flows completely differently, and you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest, even if it lasts just over a week.

Athos - a popular place in the religious world. Specific, to be precise. The fact is that Holy Athos is located here - it is a monastic city in which there are about 20 operating monasteries of different faiths. It's difficult to get there.

In the central part of Halkidiki there is a town Unknown Callicracy - small hotels, a good beach made of a mixture of sand and pebbles, as well as a large number of shops and clubs.

Another peninsula called Peloponnese More suitable for holidays with children of middle school age - they will be interested in getting acquainted with ancient sights.

There is also a resort on the mainland called Pieria - it stretches along the foot of Olimko. There are more cultural events and activities, as well as unique nature (most of the territory is under state protection).

Island resorts

Among the islands, the most popular are Crete, Corfu, Rhodes and Santorini.

Crete boasts a varied excursion program; there are several resort regions that differ significantly from each other. It makes sense to choose a hotel - a good hotel for a holiday with small children will make your vacation simply unforgettable.

Many are also attracted to the islands of Corfu, Zakynthos and Rhodes. The Ionian Sea will allow you to get acquainted with marine life, and it is also worth considering that there is quite a rich club life here.

However, Rhodes in its eastern part is quite calm - here you can enjoy a leisurely holiday on the beaches with the purest sea sand, visit an amusement park with your children or visit a huge Aquarium. Rhodes can also boast of the Valley of the Butterflies.

How to decide where to go:

choose the main indicators for yourself - in my case, this is the possibility of fast sea travel and an average pricing policy;
weed out those resorts in Greece that are not suitable;
To choose one of the remaining ones for your vacation, look at the photos and compare reviews.

This way you can understand which Greek island is right for you, as well as where to go on holiday in Greece to the mainland resort.

If you are planning to go to Greece and Thessaloniki on your own on vacation, then the airport is located there.

Make your own list of preferences and you will understand where in Greece you will like best.

Choosing a time

You also need to think about when is the best time to vacation in Greece. In Greece, the holiday season never ends, however, in the tourism business there is the concept of high season - from May to October, and finding an inexpensive tour at this time is quite difficult.

To travel to Greece without going broke, consider two ways to save:

early booking (if you have a vacation planned with strict dates, it is better to start planning a few months in advance);
last minute trips (suitable for that category of tourists who are not tied to dates and can easily get ready for vacation in a couple of days).

in winter

In January and February, all kinds of carnivals take place here - varied entertainment, costumed masquerades and general fun are guaranteed. During this period, many vacationers come to Greece. In winter, it makes sense to go to mountain resorts. And many girls go to Greece in winter for shopping in January - the season of big discounts attracts all fashionistas.

In March-April

An excellent period for an introductory trip. Everything is blooming, the sun is not hot and gentle, it is not yet hot and already warm. By the way, vacationers who go to Crete and Rhodes in April swim.

May and June

Great time for a beach holiday. The ambient air is heated to approximately +30, and the water in the sea to +24.

July and August

Traveling with small children, and even more so with infants, should not be planned at this time - these are the hottest months. At this time, a sailing regatta takes place, and if you are lucky, you can get to the wine festival.

September-October

The velvet season begins in September and continues throughout October. There are few tourists, but it is still warm, and the water in the sea is at a pleasant temperature, but thanks to the fresh winds, solar activity is much easier to bear. The beach season closes at the end of October.

November-December

Vacations in November and December can be recreational or skiing. Around the island of Santorini there are healing springs on the small islands, almost all hotels have spas and saunas, and you can also enjoy strolling through the autumn fairs.

Visas

So, you have found out when is the best time to vacation in Greece, how and where to vacation on the mainland and islands, and now we will find out how to get a visa for a vacation in Greece with children and whether it is possible to get to Greece without a visa.

In fact, in the summer you can actually get to Greece for a couple of weeks literally without a visa - when traveling by plane or arriving by ferry (for example, from Turkey), polite customs officers will issue a visa right on the spot.

The cost of such a visa last year was about 30 euros, duration - up to 15 days. However, if you are traveling to Greece with children, then it is better not to risk it and request a visa in advance.

The procedure for obtaining a visa is usual - you need to send all the necessary documents and come to the embassy on the appointed day. If you are planning to go on a tourist package, then the registration is usually handled by a representative of the travel company.

Please note that according to the new rules, when traveling with a child (when only one of the parents is traveling), written permission will be required. And if both parents are traveling with the child, but their last names are different, you will need to provide a marriage certificate.

Nuances

If you are planning a beach holiday in Greece, then be sure to take care of protecting your child from sunburn.

Do you want to organize an independent holiday at sea in Greece? Look for accommodation in advance, because most of the villas that are suitable for family holidays (especially if a child is going on holiday) are booked by travel agencies.

A good campsite is an excellent alternative to a beach holiday, especially since Greece has a whole network of excellent campsites, which is organized by the Greek Tourism Organization.

Everyone dreams at least once in their life to go on vacation abroad. Of course, people who can regularly afford such voyages have already visited many countries. But even they cannot cover the entire geography of the globe. Tunisia, Thailand, Türkiye, Egypt are all popular destinations preferred by a large number of tourists.

Greece champion

But there is a country on the European map that can compete with them regarding the benefits of recreation on its territory. Greece is a place that offers a sea of impressions and a comfortable holiday for everyone who wants to get to know it better. But where exactly to go? Where is the best place to relax in Greece? These questions invariably concern tourists who decide to go to the country of warm seas and endless olive fields.

But before we find out where is the best place to relax in Greece, let's look at the advantages of spending a vacation in this country.

What is attractive about holidays in Greece?

Comfortable Mediterranean climate. Nothing will set you up better for a positive mood than such an atmosphere. The favorable geographical location contributes to a mild climate, when the air is saturated with the aroma of orange groves, and the greenery of the vineyards pleases the eye.
A treat for the curious. Where is the best place to relax in Greece? Reviews from tourists report that in every corner of the country there are a lot of attractions: from the Temple of Apollo in Delphi to the tomb of Agamemnon in Mycenae.
Ecologically clean resort areas. The Greeks are known throughout the world as long-livers. The secret is simple: healthy food, clean air. The EU Environmental Commission recognized this country as one of the leaders in clean sea water in all of Europe.
Spa salons to save health and beauty. Few people know that a unique procedure called thalassotherapy originated in Greece. It should not be surprising that there are more than 30 thousand spas and health centers in the country that you can visit.
Democracy of rest. It has been proven that both restless youth groups and families with children who need peace can relax here equally fun and usefully. The main thing is to choose the right place to relax in Greece.
Hospitable Greeks leave gratitude in the souls of Russian tourists, and a sea of smiles on their faces. There are no differences between them in matters of religion. Here you will find hospitality and friendly looks everywhere.
Kaleidoscope of entertainment. In this matter, Greece successfully competes with Egypt and Turkey. The infrastructure in the country is admirable.
Shopping is everything. What's missing here! Embroidery, ceramics, leather, jewelry, marble figurines, olives and, of course, fur coats. Tourists usually complain that, having arrived in Greece with one suitcase, it is quite possible to leave here with at least two. The temptation to buy something is too great.
Gastronomy and alcohol. The country produces about 500 million liters of legendary wine every year. No one leaves here without a couple of bottles. And Greek cuisine is rightfully recognized as the healthiest in the whole world. You will satisfy your gastronomic cravings to the fullest.
Affordable prices. Tours to this country are considered inexpensive when compared with travel offers to other places in Western Europe. You just need to properly organize your holiday in Greece. Reviews will tell you reliably where it is better to relax.

Have you changed your mind about exchanging your usual Thailand or Egypt for this magnificent country? But already interested? Then it’s time to get acquainted with different resorts in the country and understand for which holiday a particular option is suitable.

The islands rule

The country's territory is conventionally divided into the mainland and the island zone. It is the latter that optimally and colorfully advertises holidays in Greece. The list of places that have won the love of tourists will tell you where to relax. Let's figure out which islands are the most popular.

Corfu Island

This place is recognized as one of the most visited. Its second name is the Emerald Island. There really is a riot of greenery and bright colors here. The island is located in the west of the country and is the largest in area. The climate here is conducive to relaxation almost all 365 days a year. You can not only enjoy the gentle and warm Ionian Sea, but also see many amazing things and places. This is the Achilleion Palace, built in the 19th century in the Renaissance style. Next to it is a beautiful park filled with many ancient statues. Don't forget to visit the Church of Spyridon, built in 1589. Pilgrims come here to call for help on the relics of Saint Spyridon, which are kept in a silver coffin. On the island there are many monasteries, museums, Mount Pantokrator and a lot of other interesting things. If you don’t know where is the best place to relax in Greece, then you can safely go to Corfu.

Rhodes Island

This place was noted by the international organization UNESCO. Historians claim that people lived here back in the Neolithic era. In any case, for tourists this is an attractive corner of stunningly beautiful nature and bright sunshine, shining almost 300 days a year. If you like sights, then there are many of them in Rhodes: both natural and man-made. Be sure to visit the Old part of the island, the Palace of the Grand Masters, the port of Mandraki, the city of Lindos with its abundance of architectural monuments, the valley of the Petaloudes butterflies, the natural history museum and so on. We can continue for a long time. Believe me, your vacation will definitely be bright and eventful if you choose Rhodes.

Crete Island

Where is the best place to relax by the sea in Greece? Definitely in Crete. It is here that there are the best resorts, excellent infrastructure has been created, and the climate allows families with children to successfully acclimatize in the shortest possible time. If you are young, active and hungry for adventure and unforgettable emotions, you should choose the local resorts of Malia, Hersonissos, Stalida. There are magnificent beaches and a huge number of bars and discos. If you want to find out where is the best place to relax in Greece with children, then you can go to the quieter areas of the island: Analipsi, Ammudara, Gouves, etc. All of them are located in the central part. In general, anywhere on the coast there are interesting sights and excellent conditions for recreation.

Santorini Island

This place has become famous among tourists for its exotic houses, made in blue and white colors, decorated with bright, colorful flowers in pots. Santorini is not one island, but a group. The main thing that distinguishes this option is the abundance of spa centers, comfortable beaches and a measured atmosphere of peace and tranquility.

Chios Island

Do you think where is the best place to relax in Greece? Reviews from tourists recommend that those who have already visited most places in the country come here. Chios is not yet very popular among Russian holidaymakers, but it’s time to expand your horizons. Here you will be hospitably greeted by local residents, you will be amazed by the wild nature around, you will be delighted by the cleanest sea and well-maintained beaches. The peculiarity of this place is the complete absence of the tourist hustle and bustle that is usual for world-famous resorts. Looking for peace and tranquility? Then this is the place for you.

Traveling with children

If you have children, do not rush to leave them with their grandmothers when you go on vacation. A properly planned and organized trip, even in the presence of restless toddlers, will turn out to be exciting and filled with positive emotions. Give your child a fairy tale.

The place you choose in Greece depends on the age of the baby.

Up to 3 years. You need a family resort with hotels offering babysitting services. It should have a large safe beach, a garden with soft grass on which the baby can run.
From 4 to 6 years. The best option is a house on an island with a kitchen and a cozy garden. A hotel with playgrounds and services for this age category of children is also suitable. But avoid long trips to the beach - it's tiring.
From 7 to 10 years. At this age, kids will already be interested in all kinds of entertainment. So look for a resort with a water park, an aquarium, an amusement park, etc. A child will be much more interested in going to a zoo than wandering through ancient ruins.
From 11 to 13 years. Teenagers prefer outdoor recreation - active sports.
From 14 to 16 years old. You'll have a hard time here. Typically, children at this age crave beach activities and discos, and parents want to go to museums and relax during siesta. You need to be able to make compromises, so it is important to choose a diverse resort.

Where is the best place to relax in Greece with children?

Large islands with well-developed infrastructure will suit you. These include Crete, Lesvos, Rhodes. These destinations are considered classic for tourists looking for family vacation opportunities.

Ease of access also becomes important when traveling with children. From this perspective, you can prefer the island of Symi.

Avoid traveling to islands reserved for couples. You won't find the necessary infrastructure there. These include, for example, the island of Folegandros.

If we talk about mainland Greece, then the resorts of Halkidiki and those located along the Peloponnese coast are ideal for a family holiday with kids. It is there that the shallow sea, golden, clean sand and maximum amenities await you.

How to choose a hotel for a family holiday

When going to Greece with children, carefully select not only a resort, but also a hotel to stay in. A good establishment should have:

Family cottages with garden and lawn.
Places for sports.
Babysitting services, instructors for water activities.
Children's playroom.
A swimming pool designed specifically for children.
Sandy beach nearby.
Children's menu in a cafe or restaurant.

And now we can talk about seasonal holidays. After all, the situation in Greece is different at different times. And September is the best option for vacation.

Where is the best place to go in Greece in September?

This month is chosen by many tourists from all over the world. Therefore, do not expect peace and quiet at the resorts. The weather is warm, but during the day there is no longer any sweltering heat. The air temperature is around 27 degrees. It's not too cold at night. The temperature is approximately 18 degrees. The water in the sea along the entire coast of the country has not yet had time to cool down. Its temperature is about 24 degrees - excellent conditions for swimming. Thus, if you are interested in the answer to the question of where is the best place to vacation in Greece in September, then you can choose any place. Climatic conditions are favorable for this.

June is a mainland month

This is what Greece is like! Where is the best place to relax in June? After all, it is in this month that most Russians wait for their vacation. It is recommended to choose an area with a temperate climate. Such, for example, is the Halkidiki peninsula. The sea is already warming up enough, the air temperature during the day is around 30 degrees. And a beach holiday is preferable during this period, since it is too hot for excursions.

Finally

Greece resembles a huge book in a hard antique cover. You want to leaf through it, study it, and there are so many pages in it that you can always find something surprising and unknown.

Don't know where to go to Greece for the first time? We have selected for you the 4 most popular and favorite destinations among travelers from all over the world, talked about their features and shared tips on how to spend time, where to stay and what to see. Read and make your choice!

Where to go for the first time to Greece?

In Greece you can experience ancient culture and mythology, enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Aegean Sea, soak up the Greek sun on the white sandy beaches of Greece, walk in the mountains with the purest air, admire white buildings and taste delicious Greek cuisine.

If you are going to Greece for the first time and don’t know where to go, this article is for you. Here I have selected the 4 most popular destinations:

First time to Greece: Mykonos

Mykonos is the most famous and cosmopolitan island of Greece. It is here that the well-known white buildings, so unusual to the Russian eye, are located. But keep in mind that Mykonos is quite an expensive island compared to the rest of Greece. The capital of the island is the city of Chora, here you can get acquainted with the famous Greek architecture.

Where to go and what to see

Church of Panagia Paraportiani;
"Little Venice"
an area with 18th-century buildings, where the mansions of great captains with colorful balconies and stylish windows are everywhere;
strange windmills perched imposingly on the slope;
snow-white sandy beaches stretching along the perimeter of the island.

Where to stay

Mykonos is a tourist island, and therefore you will not have problems finding accommodation. – from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses and hostels, you can also search for hotels using the form on the left. For the truly budget conscious, there is Couchsurfing.

Things to do

Mykonos hosts many holidays and festivals in the summer, all accompanied by rivers of delicious wine and mountains of delicious food.
Also, this “Wind Island” is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts; surfers and sailors gather here from all over the world. Mykonos has a large selection of windsurfing beaches. The best beaches are considered to be the most isolated ones: Kórfos, Fteliá, Meyáli Ámmos and Kalafátis. Almost all beaches teach surfing.
In Mykonos you can play tennis or mini golf at Ayios Stéfanos, beach volleyball at Ayia Ánna, skydiving or jet skiing at Eliá or Kalafátis. Even diving enthusiasts will not be left out and will be able to explore the beauty of the underwater life of the Aegean Sea.

Mykonos is a standard choice where you can hang out, go on interesting excursions, and enjoy a beach holiday. Therefore, if you are planning to visit Greece for the first time, and your budget allows, visit Mykonos, you will not be disappointed.

First time to Greece: Paros

Paros is one of the most popular holiday destinations for young people. Unlike Mykonos, this island is a more budget option. Unsurpassed natural beauty, a developed tourist infrastructure, beaches with clear waters, Byzantine footpaths linking traditional Greek villages, breathtaking scenery and a pulsating nightlife await you on the island of Paros.

Parikia is the island's capital and is home to its famous whitewashed rectangular buildings and impressive neoclassical mansions.

Where to go and what to see

the village of Naoussa, where the ruins of a Venetian fortress stand at the entrance to its small port;
Lefkes is also a village, it is built into a mountain and surrounded on all sides by greenery, located at the highest point of the island of Paros, from here a breathtaking view of the island opens;
Márpissa is a traditional village with a strong medieval character, dating back to the 15th century;
marble quarries in Maráthi, where the famous Parian marble was mined.

Where to stay

It all depends on how much you plan to spend. There are options for every taste and budget.

Things to do

Visiting a religious festival is a great opportunity to taste sweet wines produced in the Monemvassiá and Mantilariá vineyards. On August 15, one of these events is traditionally organized near the Panayia Ekatontapyliani church.
Explore the island on horseback. There are two horse rentals here, one near the sea in Ambelás and the other in Ystérni. This walk around the island is a great way to see with your own eyes the most beautiful places of Paros.
The sun-drenched beaches of Chrissí Aktí, Santa Maria, Poúnda and the crystal clear waters of the sea will captivate all beach lovers. You can also go surfing here.
Kalóyeros Beach, surrounded by red and green clay rocks, will provide you with an effective and natural spa completely free of charge. Cover your body with clay and let it dry in the sun, after a while wash the clay into the sea - your skin will be soft and velvety.

Price statistics for tours to Greece

If you are not yet ready to travel on your own, then price statistics for tours to Greece will help you. Here you can find the lowest prices for holidays to Greece from leading tour operators.

First time to Greece: Skiathos

Skiathos is the most popular resort island in the Northern Sporades. Despite the rapid growth of the tourism sector, it is still picturesque and unspoilt. The island is decorated with more than 60 beaches with absolutely clear waters, the most famous of which is Koukounariés beach, which is rightfully considered the third most beautiful beach in the Mediterranean. Add to all this the vibrant nightlife and you can see why thousands of travelers flock to this island every year.

Where to go and what to see

the capital of the island is the town of Skiathos with its stone-paved, cozy streets and white buildings;
a picturesque harbor surrounded by 4 islands;
the small island of Boúrtzi, where the ruins of a Venetian fortress nestle among dense vegetation;
the house and now museum of the famous author Alexandros Papadiamantis;
Church of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary, which houses 4 museums.

Where to stay

Skiathos has many hotels, hostels and rooms at affordable prices. You can also stay at Camping Koukounariés.

Things to do

Every summer the island hosts colorful cultural events, concerts and art exhibitions.
Walk along a breathtaking route starting from Asélinos, past the Kounistra monastery, the small beach of Asélinos and Alygariés beach, ending at Kehriá beach.
All the island's nightlife is concentrated on the street near the Old Harbor. Bars and nightclubs are open here all night until the morning and are always full of young people having fun. The Ammoudiá area often hosts outdoor parties (easy to find, just follow the road leading to the airport).

First time to Greece: Chios

The island of Vos is almost in no way inferior to the famous and sometimes overrated Mykonos and Santorini. Stroll the picture-perfect streets, admire the elegance of the buildings, swim in the warm, clear waters of the world-famous beaches of Mylopótamos and Maganári, and taste the outrageously delicious Greek delicacies.

Where to go and what to see

Be sure to visit Hóra, located on the famous hill with its snow-white cubic buildings and covered alleys.
See 12 windmills.
Panayia Gremiótissa (Madonna of the Cliffs) is located at the highest point of Hòra, with amazing views of the bay and the neighboring island of Sikinos.
Byzantine castle Paleókastro, built at the very top of the hill.
Summer theater "Odysseas Elytis", built in one of the favorite places of the poet Odysseas Elytis and well preserved from 2800 BC.

Where to stay

There are many wonderful hotels and hostels, and there are cozy family pensions near the beaches. There are also several camping areas on the island. Keep in mind that Chios does not have the luxury of Mykonos and Santorini, but it does have many wonderful places to explore.

Things to do

I think you already understand that August 15th is a special day for the Greeks, Ios is proof of this. On this day, one of the most impressive celebrations, Panagia Gremiotissa, takes place here, when a procession carries the famous icon of the Virgin Mary around the Hora, all accompanied by a banquet, playing traditional instruments and dancing.
Walk along the ancient paths of Ayia Theodóti-Hóra, Ayia Iríni-Valmá beach, Hóra-Pýrgos-Psáthi, Hóra-Áyios Spyridonas-Perivolia-Áyios Prókopas-Pelekaniá, which are still used by local shepherds, and you will see the most beautiful locations of the island.
The mountains of Ios are ideal for climbing, mountaineering or cycling. On the peaks you will have an unforgettable view of the island and the endless expanse of the Aegean Sea.
On the beaches of Mylopótamos and Manganári you can rent equipment for water sports, including surfing, water skiing, and diving. Here you can learn how to surf and canoe.
There are plenty of clubs, bars and restaurants on this island. Every day, crowds of young people enjoy colorful cocktails, dancing until dawn and night swimming.

That’s all, if you are going to Greece for the first time and don’t yet know where to go, listen to our advice. IN

Greece is a country where amazing things are found at every step. By visiting Athens, Thebes or Delphi, a tourist gets a chance to touch an unsolved mystery, familiar from myths and legends. For Orthodox Christians, Mount Athos and Meteora became the center of pilgrimage. But today Hellas is a modern country where guests are offered clean beaches and warm seas, comfortable hotels and other services. The question arises: where is the best place to vacation in Greece in August? This is exactly what will be discussed below.

Features of holidays in Greece

It is difficult to find a resort with poor infrastructure in this beautiful country. Regardless of what a tourist is looking for - an inexpensive vacation with affordable prices or an expensive resort, there is exactly what you need here. Greece has everything: attractions, beaches, nightclubs, boarding houses with wellness treatments.

For a romantic trip, it is better to choose the island part of the country. The special atmosphere of antiquity is still preserved here. For lovers of active recreation and nightclubs, Crete or Rhodes are suitable. Connoisseurs of first-class service and silence choose Corfu. Low prices and family beach holidays - this is, of course, Corfu.

Greek beach

But on the mainland the resorts are no worse. Beach holidays here are no less wonderful, sightseeing tours are even better. Nightlife is richer and more interesting.

Additional information! Most Greek beaches are sandy and free. But you will have to pay for additional amenities in the form of sun loungers and umbrellas.

Visiting Greece and not trying the local cuisine is an unpardonable sin. The portions here are simply huge, and the dishes themselves are very tasty. The basis is meat delicacies, fish, vegetables and fruits. You can feel the true hospitality of the Greeks by going to a tavern or cafe. The only inconvenience is the menu is in Greek. Having familiarized yourself with the nuances of vacation, you should answer one more important question: Greece in August, is it worth going?

Greece in August: is it worth going on vacation?

For residents of cold countries, which include Russia, planning their vacation in July - September, you need to take into account one feature of Greece. The climate here is dry and hot, but by August the heat on the islands recedes, although in Athens it will persist until mid-September. The water temperature at the resorts ranges from + 24 °C to +28 °C. The air warms up from +26 °C to +30 °C, but the dryness of the air makes it easier to tolerate the heat than in the regions of Russia. The islands are much cooler and the north wind blows. During this period, vacation will definitely be possible in Greece: where is the best place to vacation in August, that is the question.

Ferry excursions

Where is the best place to relax in Greece in August?

You can definitely answer the question of where in Greece the warmest sea in August is Attica. The last month of summer marks the peak of heat in the southeastern regions of the country. From 11 am to 4 pm it is better not to go outside at all, because thermometers show +38 °C. But the nightlife here is in full swing: nightclubs, discos, and restaurants are open from dusk to dawn. When choosing where in Greece it is not hot in August, you should use the following information:

Mainland Greece in August is not suitable for a family holiday. Even in the traditionally cooler Thessaloniki, the temperature rises to +30 ° C, but it is still much cooler than in other resorts.
Those who like a comfortable holiday should pay attention to the island part of the country: the climate here is cooler compared to the continent. For example, the average air temperature in Crete is +27 degrees, in Corfu - + 26 °C, in Rhodes about + 28 °C.
You can combine a beach holiday with excursion trips by going to the Athens Riviera. It’s quite hot here in August, but you can go on a yacht and lie on comfortable beaches with fine sand. The water temperature here reaches +27 °C.
It is much cooler in the Peloponnese. Here you can also visit excellent beaches, but in addition to everything else, there is unsurpassed natural beauty and many historical monuments.
It is quite cool in the resorts of Halkidiki, but the water here is also a little colder - +25 °C. These places are suitable for families, as there is practically no nightlife here.

Greece: where is the best place for surf lovers to relax in August? Here the answer is quite simple - these are the Cyclands or Crete.

It is difficult to decide on a holiday in Greece on the islands. It’s easier to decide where it’s better to go in August if you know the following information: August in Greece is a period of numerous festivals and holidays.

Hotel in Greece

On the island of Crete, in the small village of Avdu, the Ikarus rock music festival takes place. Lovers of lighter music are invited to the island of Rhodes in Epidaurus, where the traditional Hellenic festival takes place. It is interesting to visit the Volcano Festival in Santorini.

Additional information! When looking for a resort for a holiday with children, you can pay attention to the island of Crete, where there is a lot of entertainment for young tourists.

Greece: holidays with children in August

Many people choose Greece for a family holiday. Where to relax in August with children? Answering this question, some start from information about the most popular Greek water parks. One of the most notable is Acqua Plus Water Park on the island of Crete. There is free internet, a swimming pool, slides, play areas and much more. Flying with a child to Crete means giving him unforgettable memories.

Crete is not only the southernmost island of Greece, it is also the largest. There are good sandy beaches suitable for swimming with children. The sea water is very warm. But you can fly to Crete not only for the beaches. There are many other entertainments here: parks and water parks, a huge aquarium. A botanical garden with exotic plants and an artificial lake, many historical architectural monuments.

Crete Island

Other places chosen by parents include Rhodes, Corfu, Kosou and Chalkidiki. Good impressions will remain from traveling to the Peloponnese. In general, any of the resorts in Greece will appeal to a child, but in August the weather is hot in most of them.

The island of Corfu attracts holidaymakers a huge amount greenery and water activities. One of the largest water parks, AQUALAND, is located here, which has 25 slides and 6 pools.
Rhodes will be of interest to history buffs. Among the countless monuments, the Colossus of Rhodes and the Acropolis stand out.
The island of Kos cannot compete with the above in terms of entertainment. But it rightfully bears the title “Garden of the Aegean Sea”. The nature here amazes with its riot of colors. In addition, the ecology here is one of the cleanest in Europe.
The Peloponnese is an excellent place for sightseeing trips throughout the country. Moreover, there are many attractions on the peninsula.
Another possible option is Halkidiki. From here you can go to Mount Athos or see the ancient ruins of Torni. But there is not much entertainment for children here.

Overall, Greece is a great option for family travel. Low crime rates, many quiet resorts, beautiful beaches and local cuisine - this is exactly what you need for a quiet family holiday. However, young and active people who want to dance the night away will also find decent options here.