Part of our Greece guide.
Greece offers ancient ruins, island escapes, and diverse landscapes across its mainland and thousands of islands. From the Acropolis in Athens to the beaches of Crete and the trails of Samos, this guide covers four destinations within Greece.
Related travel guides: Where To Stay In Greece.
Top 15 Things To Do On Crete From Rethymno, Chania And Heraklion
Crete, the largest Greek island, lies in the southern part of Greece. From Rethymno, Chania, and Heraklion, visitors can explore ancient ruins, dramatic gorges, idyllic beaches, and mountains. Top activities include hiking the Samaria Gorge, visiting the Palace of Knossos near Heraklion, and strolling through Chania’s Venetian harbor. In Rethymno, the old town and Fortezza Castle offer history and local culture. For those planning a longer stay, consider how much for a 10-day trip to Greece, which typically covers ferry connections between Crete and Athens.
What Are Some Tourist Attractions In Greece?
The Acropolis, in the heart of Athens, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient citadel sits on a rocky hilltop; its centerpiece is the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena that symbolized power in classical Greece. Visitors can also explore the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike. For cruise passengers, knowing how far is the Acropolis from the cruise port helps plan a visit; the Acropolis is roughly 5 kilometers from Piraeus port, a 20-minute taxi ride. Another practical question is how far is Athens airport to cruise port, which is about 40 kilometers via the Attiki Odos highway, typically a 40- to 60-minute drive.
Amazing Things To Do In Samos, Greece
Samos, a Greek island in the Aegean Sea, offers archaeological sites, monasteries, castles, and villages. Key attractions include the Heraion of Samos, a UNESCO-listed sanctuary, and the Tunnel of Eupalinos, an ancient aqueduct. The island’s beaches, such as Tsamadou and Kokkari, provide clear waters, while hiking trails lead to the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani. Samos is also known for its sweet wine; visitors can tour local wineries. For authentic experiences, hidden gems in Greece often include Samos’s lesser-known mountain villages like Vourliotes and Manolates. If you are interested in regional specialties, look into hidden olive oil tasting farms in kalamata's Peloponnese for a similar experience on the mainland.
Cyprus
Cyprus, an island in the Mediterranean, offers more than beaches. Imagine walking through ancient ruins, exploring villages, or hiking in forests. From the Akamas Peninsula to the historic city of Paphos, there is always something to see. Do not miss the Troodos Mountains, where you can find monasteries and views.
