SUMMER HOLIDAY IN GREECE
TRAVEL GUIDES AND DEALS
Greece is a popular summer destination from May through October, where travelers enjoy the warm weather and swimming in lovely water. Choose your holiday destination in Greece!
A summer vacation in Greece is the epitome of an ideal holiday, where natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, exquisite cuisine, and rich culture come together. This guide will take you through the most stunning destinations in Greece, from the popular islands to hotspots on Halkidiki, the Olympic Riviera, the Ionian Coast, and the Peloponnese. You’ll also find practical tips to help you plan your trip seamlessly.
Mainland Destinations – Diversity and Accessibility
Greece’s mainland offers a wide range of vacation options, from the stunning beaches of Halkidiki to the historical landmarks of the Peloponnese and Athens. Below, we’ll dive into the most popular mainland destinations and their potential for a perfect summer escape.
Halkidiki, with its three peninsulas—Kassandra, Sithonia, and Athos—is one of the most sought-after holiday spots on the mainland. Kassandra is renowned for its organized beaches and vibrant nightlife, making it a favorite among younger travelers. On the other hand, Sithonia boasts quieter coves and unspoiled nature, ideal for families and those seeking tranquility. The Athos peninsula is famous for its monasteries, though access is limited due to strict visitor rules.
Accommodation in Halkidiki is affordable, especially for families, and visitors often praise the pristine sea and the hospitality of the locals. Popular activities include boat trips to nearby coves, cruises, and kayaking adventures. Boat tours typically cost between €20-40 per person, offering an excellent opportunity to explore the hidden gems of Halkidiki’s coastline.
Whether you’re looking for lively beaches, peaceful retreats, or cultural experiences, Halkidiki and the Greek mainland have something for everyone.
Sithonia summer destinations
Sarti
Nikiti
Toroni
Neos Marmaras
Metamorfosi
Kassandra Chalkidiki summer destinations
Hanioti
Pefkochori
Polichrono
Kalithea
St. George’s Region is a lesser-known but incredibly charming area in Greece, nestled between the country’s coastal and mountainous landscapes. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and relaxation. Key spots here include Stavros, Asprovalta, and the smaller Nea Vrasna. The beaches are long, sandy, and Blue Flag certified for their beauty and water quality, featuring turquoise waters and soft sand. Travelers from Serbia often reach this region via North Macedonia, taking the Thessaloniki bypass toward Kavala, though the route through Bulgaria is a more popular choice.
The Olympic Region, located at the base of Mount Olympus, combines stunning beaches with opportunities for mountain adventures. Towns like Paralia Katerini and Leptokarya are particularly popular with families, while adventure seekers love exploring the mountain trails. Accommodation options are diverse and affordable, with tourists frequently praising the laid-back atmosphere and reasonable prices at local restaurants and bars. Popular activities include hiking on Mount Olympus, visiting waterfalls, and exploring traditional villages. Organized hiking tours cost around €30-50 per person, providing a fantastic way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
The Ionian Coast is known for its breathtaking beaches and budget-friendly accommodations, particularly in towns like Parga and Sivota. This region is ideal for families and couples seeking a peaceful retreat by turquoise waters. Visitors often highlight the authentic and relaxed vibe of the area, though some note that beach chair rental prices are higher compared to Halkidiki. Popular activities include boat trips to nearby islands, scuba diving, and canoeing along the coast. Boat tours typically cost €25-35 per person, while diving experiences range from €40-60, depending on duration and equipment.
Athens combines history with a modern seaside getaway. Nearby beaches like Vouliagmeni and Glyfada offer a perfect escape from the city’s hustle. Tourists enjoy pairing beach outings with visits to iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis, though they note that dining in tourist-heavy areas is pricier than in other parts of Greece. Popular activities include cruises in the Saronic Gulf, cycling along Athens’ coastal areas, and day trips to nearby archaeological sites. Cruise prices range from €50-70 per person, with many enjoying the relaxing atmosphere aboard while discovering the Gulf’s beauty.
The Peloponnese offers a mix of stunning beaches and rich history. Towns like Nafplion, Kalamata, and Monemvasia are among the top vacation destinations. Visitors praise the blend of relaxed vibes and cultural attractions, though some mention that infrastructure in certain areas could use improvement. Popular activities in the Peloponnese include boat trips to nearby islands, tours of archaeological sites like Mycenae and Epidaurus, and cycling through olive groves and vineyards. Boat trips typically cost €30-50 per person, while organized cycling tours start at €25-40.
St. George’s Region in Greece
Stavros
Asprovalta
Nea Vrasna
Top Greek islands for summer vacation
Greece boasts over 200 islands, but here we focus on the ten most popular, each attracting millions of visitors annually with their diversity, natural beauty, and unique atmosphere.
Santorini
Santorini is one of the most famous islands in the world, known for its iconic whitewashed houses with blue domes perched on cliffs overlooking a volcanic caldera. It’s a romantic paradise, especially popular among couples seeking unforgettable sunsets in Oia.
The beaches, such as the Red Beach and Perissa, stand out for their volcanic sand, but their rocky access may not suit families with small children. Accommodation ranges from luxurious villas with private pools and sea views, priced on the higher end, to more affordable apartments in lesser-known areas. Dining is a highlight, with fresh seafood and local dishes taking center stage, though restaurants with caldera views come with steep prices. Meals at taverns typically cost €15-25 per person, while upscale dining can reach €50-80 per person. Sunbed rentals on popular beaches range from €30-50 per day.
Mykonos
Mykonos is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and luxurious vibe, making it a favorite among the young and famous. Beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise are hotspots for day-long parties, while Ornos and Psarou are family-friendly options.
Accommodation on Mykonos is generally expensive, with upscale resorts and hotels offering premium services, while budget-friendly options are available in less crowded areas. Sunbeds at popular beaches can cost as much as €100, so budget planning is essential. Visitors enjoy strolling through Mykonos Town, with its iconic windmills and picturesque streets, though they should be prepared for crowds and high prices at restaurants and bars. Meals at taverns cost €20-30 per person, with luxury dining exceeding €100 per person.
Corfu
Corfu, one of Greece’s greenest islands, is located in the Ionian Sea and offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and modern tourism. Beaches like Paleokastritsa and Sidari are known for their turquoise waters and sandy seabeds, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Corfu Town, with its Venetian charm and UNESCO-listed Old Town, provides plenty of cultural attractions alongside modern restaurants and bars. Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly apartments to luxury hotels, and prices are generally more affordable than on Santorini or Mykonos. Meals in local taverns cost €10-15, while restaurants with views charge around €20-30 per person. Sunbed rentals on beaches like Sidari are priced between €8-15 per set, making Corfu a more budget-friendly destination.
Rhodes
Rhodes is famed for its rich history and beautiful beaches. The UNESCO-protected Old Town is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities, offering a unique mix of culture and tourism. Beaches like Lindos and Tsambika are family-friendly, with soft sands and calm waters.
Accommodation is affordable, ranging from budget apartments to luxury all-inclusive resorts. Sunbed rentals are reasonably priced, making Rhodes a great option for travelers seeking value for money. Meals in taverns cost €12-20, while upscale restaurants charge €30-50 per person. Sunbed rentals at Lindos and Tsambika cost around €10-20 per set, offering a good balance of price and quality.
Zakynthos
Zakynthos, located in the Ionian Sea, is best known for its iconic Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), one of Greece’s most photographed spots. Other highlights include Laganas and Gerakas, where visitors can spot nesting loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta).
Accommodation on Zakynthos is diverse and affordable, making it ideal for families and couples. Boat tours to the Blue Caves and Navagio are a must, offering stunning views from the water. Popular activities include snorkeling, island cruises, and exploring traditional villages. Boat tours cost €20-40 per person, while peak season visits may require early morning or late afternoon trips to avoid crowds.
Skiathos
Skiathos is famous for its sandy beaches and lush green surroundings. Koukounaries, one of Greece’s most beautiful beaches, is framed by crystal-clear waters and pine forests. The island is perfect for families and couples seeking a peaceful getaway.
Accommodation is moderately priced, catering to all budgets. Visitors praise the island’s welcoming atmosphere, pristine beaches, and local hospitality. Popular activities include boat trips to nearby islands like Skopelos and Alonissos, as well as sailing and water sports. Boat tours typically cost €15-30 per person, making them an affordable way to explore the area.
Naxos
The largest island in the Cyclades, Naxos is ideal for those seeking an authentic Greek experience. Beaches like Agios Prokopios and Plaka offer long stretches of sand and calm waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Accommodation on Naxos is more affordable than on Santorini or Mykonos, with options suited for families. Visitors often highlight the island’s rich history, traditional villages, and local specialties like cheeses and olive oil, which add to its charm.
Paros
Paros is known for its serene atmosphere, whitewashed buildings, and beautiful beaches. Kolymbithres is a standout with its unique rock formations and clear waters. The island is popular among couples and families seeking a relaxing escape.
Accommodation is varied, with options for every budget. Tourists often note the friendliness of locals and excellent local dishes. Visiting earlier in the day is recommended to avoid crowds on the beaches during the peak season.
Kos
Kos combines history and diverse beaches, with highlights like Asclepion, an ancient healing center, and beaches such as Paradise and Tigaki. These spots are ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts.
Accommodation is affordable, and the island offers a variety of excursions, including trips to the nearby Turkish coast. Sunbeds at popular beaches are reasonably priced, but early reservations during the peak season are advisable.
Lefkada
Connected to the mainland by a bridge, Lefkada is famous for its spectacular beaches like Porto Katsiki and Egremni, consistently ranked among Europe’s best for their turquoise waters and white sands.
Accommodation ranges from luxury villas to budget apartments. Visitors love Lefkada’s natural beauty and accessibility, though roads to some beaches can be challenging. Popular activities include boat tours to nearby islands such as Meganisi and Kefalonia, and paragliding for breathtaking views. Boat tours cost €25-40, while paragliding starts at €50-80, offering unforgettable experiences.
Greek Islands
Crete
Rhodes
Greece is the ideal destination for a summer vacation!
Greece is a famous holiday destination – the most beautiful beaches in the world, warm sea, lovely sunshine, and friendly hosts make Greece an irresistible summer destination for most tourists. Greece seemed to be made by the gods. In addition to the exceptional climate, the Greek coast is characterized by rugged coast, which results in countless beaches, coves, bays, islands, and peninsulas. Here, where the world’s first civilizations originated, Greece’s most popular holiday destinations are located today.
Nice weather and a pleasant climate throughout the summer attract tourists worldwide, especially those from colder and rainier countries.
Greece’s beaches are what set it apart from other similar destinations. Paradise beaches can be found at every step along the coastline, whether on land or islands. There are many small, secret beaches as well as huge ones; sandy, pebble, and rocky beaches, with greenery and natural shade or lovely umbrellas, popular and isolated. One thing is for certain: even ten lifetimes would not be enough to swim in each of them at least once. So don’t waste your time!
Greek islands
Each archipelago and island has its own charm, beauty, and tale. It’s difficult to pick a favorite because there are so many of them. After all, it’s a terrific topic for a debate among friends – everyone has a favorite Greek island and valid reasons why “their” island is the greatest in Greece!
Probably the most famous Greek islands are the Cyclades, mostly Santorini, Mykonos, Ios. Rhodes and Skiathos are certainly on the same level, as well as the famous pearls of the Ionian Sea – Corfu, Lefkada, Kefalonia, and the largest and southernmost island of Crete.
We should not forget the emerald island of Thassos, nor Ithaca, Icaria, and the increasingly popular Evia. Find the one that suits you best and enjoy the beautiful beaches, local wine, and fresh fish.
Enjoy the Mediterranean diet
Did you know that the Mediterranean diet is considered the healthiest in the world? That is why a summer vacation in Greece is an opportunity to enjoy the flavors that will improve your health. Plenty of fruits and vegetables, cheese, homemade bread, fresh fish, homemade wine, and inevitably extra virgin olive oil make Greek cuisine recognizable.
Entertainment and nightlife
Light conversations, good music, moonlight swimming – when you’re on vacation in Greece, it’s easy to have a great time. There are taverns in every place where the pleasant and relaxed atmosphere for dinner instantly turns into a collective play of sirtaki.
Greeks and tourists both enjoy the nightlife, thus there is usually a vibrant atmosphere in numerous clubs. For many, summer in Greece means partying until dawn! And the next morning, after the first plunge into the sea, the body and mind are reborn, and everything starts all over again.
When not at the beach
As beautiful as Greece’s beaches are, exploring the country’s interior is well worth your time. Athens and Thessaloniki are must-see cities (which you can do outside of the summer season).
Greece is rich in archaeological sites and monasteries. Visit the Holy Mountain of Athos or the well-known Meteora. The gods’ home, Mount Olympus, awaits true adventurers and nature lovers. Investigate inland cities around your location. You will get to know true Greece here, and the pricing will pleasantly surprise you.
Culinary Delights to Savor on Your Greek Vacation
A vacation in Greece isn’t just about relaxing on stunning beaches—it’s also an opportunity to explore the country’s rich culinary traditions. Whether you enjoy dining in restaurants, browsing local markets, or indulging in simple beachside meals, Greece offers a variety of flavors to satisfy every palate.
When visiting Greek tavernas, prepare to feast on fresh and flavorful dishes. Start your meal with traditional meze, a selection of appetizers. Don’t miss tzatziki, a refreshing yogurt, cucumber, and garlic dip, or saganaki, a golden, fried cheese that’s a real treat. For something spicier, try the local sausages or dolmades, grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs. Main courses vary by region, but staples like moussaka, a baked dish of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel, are classics. Meat lovers can’t go wrong with souvlaki, grilled skewers of tender meat, or the ever-popular gyros and pita-gyros, perfect for a casual meal.
On the coast and islands, fish and seafood are the stars of the menu. Freshly grilled fish, served simply with olive oil and lemon, is often the best choice. Octopus, either marinated in vinegar or grilled, is a regional specialty, while fans of shrimp shouldn’t miss shrimp saganaki, cooked in a rich tomato and feta sauce.
For a more hands-on experience, explore Greece’s markets and bazaars to discover authentic local products. High-quality olive oil, especially from the Kalamata region, makes an excellent souvenir, as do the many varieties of olives. Greek cheeses such as feta, graviera, and mizithra are perfect for adding flavor to salads or as table staples. Seasonal fruits like oranges, figs, and grapes are delicious and refreshing, particularly during hot summer days.
On the beaches, the dining experience is simple yet satisfying. Beach bars often serve quick bites like gyros sandwiches, light salads, and Greek pies. A favorite snack is spanakopita, a savory pastry filled with spinach and cheese—perfect for a midday break. Pair your meal with a refreshing frappé coffee or locally made fruit juices.
Each region in Greece offers unique flavors and culinary highlights. On Halkidiki, known for its picturesque beaches, you’ll find fresh shellfish prepared simply with white wine and lemon. Corfu, with its Venetian influences, is famous for pastitsada, a rich beef dish in a spiced tomato sauce, typically served with pasta. On Crete, Greece’s largest island, the cuisine is distinct and hearty. Be sure to try dakos, a traditional dish of dried bread topped with tomato, feta, and olive oil, as well as a variety of meats cooked with aromatic herbs.
Finally, Greek desserts are worth every bite. Baklava, made from layers of nuts and pastry soaked in honey, is a must-try, while galaktoboureko, a custard pie soaked in syrup, is a treat for those with a sweet tooth. For something lighter, yogurt with honey and walnuts is a simple yet divine option often served in bars and cafes.
Greek cuisine is more than just food—it’s a celebration of culture and a way of life. Indulging in local specialties will not only enhance your vacation but also offer you a deeper connection to the heart and soul of Greece. Let every meal become part of your exploration of this beautiful country.
Frequently asked questions
Greece is in the time zone UTC + 2. It is important to set your clock to local Greek time as soon as you land at one of the Greek airports because you will receive all the information (about working hours, sightseeing, and tours) in local time.
Greek sea temperatures usually reach 25°C during summer, while daily air temperatures range from 29°C to 40°C.
Depending on the sea currents, jellyfish can occasionally appear in some resorts. They are harmless and should not affect your impression of the destination because their presence cannot be predicted.
The elder generation uses it on a basic conversational level, whereas the younger generation speaks English fluently.
There are mosquitoes in almost all Greek resorts, but their presence is practically invisible somewhere. The presence of mosquitoes is higher in summer resorts with more greenery and larger freshwater areas on the coast. Make sure that the accommodation you choose has mosquito nets on the windows and always have a mosquito repellent device and spray with you, and you will not have any problems.
ABSOLUTELY! Not only will the sea and the air improve the health of the little ones, but they will also enjoy swimming and playing all day. Almost all Greek resorts have parks and many facilities for children, while restaurants offer baby feeders. In Greece, you can buy supplements, porridge, bottles, and everything necessary for the youngest, so there is no need to bring it all from home.
Although nothing bad would happen if you drink it, the official statement is that tap water in Greece is not drinkable. That is why you should buy bottled water, which is quite cheap when purchased in bulk (six bottles each).
Because sewage pipes in most of Greece are 50 mm in diameter, clogging issues are common. That is why you will often see a sign stating that you must only dispose of paper waste in the bin, and we strongly suggest you follow this rule or you can face with troubles.
