Once in a Lifetime: 8 Things to Do in Greece
This blog post is a guide to Greece for those planning a trip or simply interested in this beautiful country of diverse landscapes, history, and culture. History is rich with archaeological sites, idyllic beaches, and lively villages; a trip to Greece is not just an ordinary hike, but rather an adventure. Below, allow us to outline the Once in a Lifetime: 8 Things to Do in Greece that you shouldn’t miss on your travel itinerary.
Greece Flag
Situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Greece is a land of contrasts, where the azure waters of the Aegean Sea meet the rugged mountains and idyllic villages. This enchanting country is home to countless natural wonders, from the iconic whitewashed houses of the Cycladic islands to the majestic peaks of the Pindus mountain range. Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins of Athens, or relaxing on the sun-drenched beaches of the Peloponnese. Hiking through the lush forests of the mainland, Greece promises an unforgettable adventure. Here is a below guide about Once in a Lifetime: 8 Things to Do in Greece.
Greece Map
Once in a Lifetime: Here are 8 Things to Do in Greece
1. Explore the Acropolis of Athens
In Once in a Lifetime: 8 Things to Do in Greece, visiting Acropolis is at top. A tour of Greece would not be complete they had not visited the famous Acropolis which holds such famous places as the Parthenon, the Erecthion and the Temple of Athena Nike. Not only does it display Greece’s architectural prowess but also it boasts of vantage scenic gifts of Athens view.
Tips:
- Crowd presence is high during the mid-morning and in the afternoon, especially on hot summer months, therefore, visitors are advised to come early morning.
- Carry comfy shoes, preferably not slippery ones since the ground is most times rough and can lead to tripping.
- It is also important to visit this place with a guide to get more profound and informative information about the site.
Budget: Admission charges are approximately € 20 for adults and cheaper for students and other elderly people. Tickets for other archaeological sites in Athens cost about 30 euros combined and if you are interested in visiting other historical sites it will be cheaper to purchase a combo ticket.
2. Sail Around the Greek Islands
It is so surprising that besides the beautiful sunsets in Santorini, the volcanic rocks, the famous nightlife of Mykonos, and impressive architecture of medieval Rhodes island is also awaiting for you. As for those who prefer less crowded island vacations they can opt for more secluded ones like Milos, that boasts of otherworldly topographic or Symi, famous for its appealing view of the harbor.
In addition to their stunning looks the movement is rich in opportunities for water activities, shallow water diving and possibility to explore secluded beaches that can be reached only by sea. People shouldn’t miss visiting the little towns as share traditional cuisine and taste fresh fish, olive oil and wine.
Tips:
- If you want to get your ferries booked during peak season I mean during summers (June August) you will be able to get your ferries at better prices and better timings.
- Check for packaged itineraries; they can include a mix of the highly recommended and less known islands in order to feel both passionately wild and know the others.
- Small boats or engaging private tours can equally help one get closer and improve their adventure.
Budget: Ferry ticket prices vary from €20 to €100 depending on the route and the class on board the ferry. For private boat rental or for having a tour, costs differ between €50 to €150 per person depending on the time and what is to be included on the package.
3. Visit the Meteora Monasteries
Nestled on jagged cliffs in central Greece, Meteora’s monasteries are as impressive a work of art as is Mother Nature. Once created for monks’ hermitages in the 14th and the 15th centuries, these monasteries appear to be floating, are constructed on rows of giant sandstone pillars. Today, they alone allow to see not only the daily routine of Orthodox monks and nuns but some of the most spectacular panoramic views of Greece. Of the six monasteries that are operational, all are UNESCO World Heritage sites and are still a testimony to spirituality and survival.
The exterior and interior of these monasteries can be easily accessed by the visitors and, besides the original rock-hewn churches containing post-Byzantine frescoes and icons, the monuments will provide the guests with incredible views of the dramatically rising cliffs and the green valleys. The area is also a magnet for those interested in outdoor activity: there are great hiking trails which reveal the geological features of the area.
Tips:
- Dress conservatively as a mark of respect (women should wear long skirts; men should wear long trousers). Preferably, scarves and stoles are offered at the door if necessary.
- They should also include hire a local hiking tour in order to view the other great sceneries, as well as understand the geological formation of the Meteora.
- If you want to avoid crowds go in the early morning or afternoon as the place looks stunning for photography especially during these times.
Budget: The entrance fees are approximately € 3 per monastery. Entourage, hikes generally cost from € 30, full – from € 60, depending on the package.
4. Experience the Magic of Santorini’s Sunset
This island is particularly famous for having beautiful sunsets; particularly from this village known as Oia which is endowed with white-washed houses built on the edge of cliffs around the caldera. It is borded with rich shades of orange, pink and purple which reflect on the deep blue of the Aegean sea fulfilling tourist dreams from all over the world. The sunset and sunrises are best sights which are pleasing to the eye and which linger in the mind all through one’s life.
Although Oia is the greatest attraction, other areas that in some ways are even more beautiful but not that crowded are Imerovigli or Akrotiri Lighthouse. These alternatives, however, open other places where one can enjoy the sunset more calmly and quite probably in couple.
Tips:
- Some of the most popular villages, such as Oia especially during the summer may require you to plan to arrive at least an hour earlier in order to get a good location to view the sunset.
- For tourists visiting during spring or autum the weather might turn bit cooler so it will be useful to take a light jacket or shawl for the evening.
- Do not buy food at restaurants at exorbitant price by taking your own food and eating at a vantage point where you can enjoy the scenery.
- Before you leave, you might want to take advantage of a sunset cruise to view the caldera as you watch the sunset if you haven’t taken a cruise on the sea.
Budget: Sunset is free of charge but the food and beverages in Oia mainly are rather pricey which is quite reasonable considering the geographical position of the dining place – the cliff – dinner costs between €40 to €80 per person. Sunset cruising can range from €50 to €100, depending on what’s being offered in the trip.
5. Discover Ancient Delphi
Located at the southern spurs of Parnassos, Delphi was believed to be the myocardium of Gaea in ancient Greek legends and mythology being a place of worship for over the centuries. This site, where people come to see the remains of this ancient city with such sights as the Temple of Apollo, the theatre, and the stadium of ancient Delphi. Visiting Delphi gives one the impression of being transported back in time to stroll around what remains of a culture which shaped the west.
The Delphi Archaeological Museum close by, holds a rich collection including The Charioteer of Delphi and other antiquities found on the site. Having been around Delphi, this place is equally as a historical landmark and a destination for tourists who enjoy beautiful view scenic views since the regions surrounding it, Mount Parnassus is rich in vegetation and is an important landmark.
Tips:
- It is recommended to go on either in spring, specifically March to April or in the autumn period, September to November as it is cooler ,full of wild flowers and not congested.
- Visit it together with Arachova a picturesque mountain village offering best cheese products and local handicrafts, cozy cafes and traditional architecture.
- For the terrain it recommended that one wears good shoes for it is rocky in some places and when going in summer it is advisable to carry along a hat and sun scream.
Budget: Admission charges stand at €12 for the site and museum for visitors entering through the park. This pricing goes for about €40 to €70 for a guide and the over thirty, can be made as exclusive or shared touring service.
6. Wander Through the Streets of Mykonos Town
Mykonos is also renowned for its excellent night life, exclusive shopping and the most picturesque backdrop. Take a leisurely stroll in the alley like structure streets of Mykonos Town with houses in neutral tone of white, blue doors and bougainvillae in all the shades of the rainbow.
Tips:
- If want to be less crowded you’d rather choose different times of the year excluding summer season.
- Drinking water is advisable because the heat is usually high during the ear and July and August in particular.
Budget: Shopping and souvenirs: €10–€100 according to your prescription
Meals : at a local restaurant: €15–€30 per person
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7. Indulge in Greek Cuisine
Greece is indeed a foodie’s dream come true and a unique culinary tour explored with flavorful Mediterranean emphasis and long-standing customs. Greek food includes delicious delights such as moussaka, souvlaki, pikilia, baklava and loukoumades to name but a few, and all these are made using fresh locally sourced ingredients. A traditional meal is built up from mezze selection which may include small portions of tzatziki or taramasalata accompanied by bread. Seafood fans will never go hungry with dishes such as grilled octopus or fish, the vegetarians will also enjoy dishes like spanakopita and dolmades.
Tips:
- Use the taverna epi oxi to locate family-ran tavernas which in general offer traditional, tasty and cheap meals.
- Wander around local markets so as to taste seasonal fruit, olives or some other cheeses on the spot.
- Do not be stubborn when it comes to seeking advice from the locals; they will most probably point you to the best non-tourist attractions.
- Gyros, spanakopita, Greek salads or moussaka and pastitsio all are quite delicious and not incredibly expensive.
Budget: Place to eat out in Greece can range from expensive to cheap. Entrée to main courses at conveniently located taverna usually cost between 10 to 20 Euros per person whereas, fast food such as gyros or cheese pie will cost anything between 2 to 5 Euros. High price level above €40 per person is appropriate for such segments of restaurants as fine dining or specialty restaurants.
- Taste traditional Greek cuisine of moussaka, souvlaki and baklava as a few of the delis that classically appeal the visitors’ palate. Your meal is not complete without some of the Greek wines or ouzo.
Tips:
- All tavernas are good but for the best and traditional taste you should find tavernas that belong to the family.
- For cheaper prices you should go for things like gyros and spanakopita.
Budget: Food differs from €10 on average in a taverna, €2-5 for ouzo mezedhes at tavernas and €5 for taverna lunch.
8. Relax on Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach)
Located at the northwest of Zakynthos Island, Navagio beach is easily one of the most famous attractions in Greece due to its crystal blue waters, imposing white cliffs and the alien-like shipwreck that sets the vibe of the beach. This beautiful bay is popular by the name of Smuggler’s Cove and the only way to get there is on a boat, making this place even more special!
In addition to the scenic beauty of the beach, it is rather suitable for sunbathing, swimming or for taking virtually stunning pictures for a postcard. The cliffs above the beach are as beautiful to look at and offer that wide angle view that is best for photographers and lovers of natural sceneries.
Tips:
- It is particularly essential to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon or even early evening because of the crowds that will always be flocking these places mostly in the summer.
- When selecting the boat, make sure it also offers a stop at nearby Blue Caves which really makes for great viewpoints and underwater swimming.
- This place is better accessed on foot so expect to trek to the viewpoint above the beach, so it is advisable to wear durable shoes.
- Carry basic necessities such as sunscreens preferably water and snacks as there are no facilities on the beaches.
Budget: The normal charges for the boat ride to Navagio beach start from €20 for a person while a charter for a boat begins from €100. Additional what some tours may offer are such items like snorkeling equipment and other interesting sites that can be included making a tour more valuable.
9. Hike the Samaria Gorge
For those wanting to get off the beaten track, hiking through the Samaria Gorge in Crete is a must do. Measuring 16 kilometers in length, this beautiful trail covers the impressive vertical cliffs, greenery and other wild animals such as the kri-kri goats that are regarded as endangered suffers. Located in the area of the Samaria National Park, the gorge leads to the wonderful little sea-side town of Agia Roumeli where visitors can enjoy the blue waters of the Libyan Sea after their walk.
The path starts at Xyloskalo, a very steep one that owns a great view of the gorge below. During this tour, tourists can observe certain sites which significant for archaic history of Crete, for example, “Iron Gates” when the gorge is only several meters wide and ruins of ancient towns.
Tips:
- It is recommended to set off early in the morning when the sun has not yet been very hot and use the greater part of the day in the hiking before the sun gets scorching hot.
- Take firm hiking shoes, hat, cap, sunglasses or goggles and a flask as water points are offered all through the trail.
- Take water and some small snacks or energy bars because places where you can buy food are scarce on route.
- It is also recommended to take a guided tour for an understanding of natural and historical importance of the gorge.
- As a word of caution, plan for the whole day because the hike will last between 5-7 hours.
Budget: The entrance fee of Samaria National Park is €5 for each individual. Transportation services through bus and ferry that enable people to get to the gorge and back can cost between €10 and €20 thus making it an extremely fulfilling experience .
Final Thoughts
There is much more to choose in Greece than just ruins and beautiful sea coast. The following are Once in a Lifetime: 8 Things to Do in Greece , which will make your trip to Greece fantastic: walking through Mythological land and ruins, climbing the mountains and swimming in the clear sea. Regardless of the type of your wallet, whether it is thin or fat, you will find something for yourself in Greece.
Overall Budget for a 7-day trip to Greece:
- Flights (from the US/Europe): €300–€800
- Accommodation: €50–€150 per night
- Meals: €10–€30 per meal
- Activities and tours: €20–€80 per day
Pro Tip: You need to plan your travels and book your tours and accommodations early to get the best deals, but it’s always better to do this before June up to September as these are considered peak travelling months.
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