Under the Hellenic sun: the best luxury places for tourists in Greece

Greece is the perfect place to relax and discover new experiences. From exciting excursions to ancient ruins to relaxing time on the beautiful beaches of the Aegean Sea, Greece has everything to satisfy the diverse tastes of travelers.

Whatever you choose: a cultural vacation, an active holiday or just a relaxing seaside getaway, Greece is always happy to welcome you with open arms. What places are worth visiting for tourists, writes wyandottedaily.

1. Acropolis of Athens: an ancient jewel

The Acropolis is a pearl of Greek architecture and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located on top of a steep hill, the Acropolis once served as a fortified citadel and the center of religious and political life in ancient Athens. This place is famous for its ancient ruins, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Cultural aspect: The Acropolis embodies the greatness of ancient Greek architecture and represents the rich cultural heritage of the city. It is a testament to the ingenuity and art of the Greeks during the golden age of Athens in the 5th century BC.

Transportation access: The Acropolis is conveniently accessible by public transportation, including the metro (Acropolis station) and bus routes. Visitors can also choose a scenic route on foot from the city center, which takes about 30 minutes uphill.

Accommodation: A wide range of accommodation options are available in the area around the Acropolis, from budget hostels to luxury hotels with great views. Some of the popular options include AthensWas, Athens Studios and Hotel Herodion.

2. Santorini: a volcanic paradise

Santorini is a magical island in the Aegean Sea, famous for its incredible volcanic landscapes, breathtaking sunsets and picturesque villages perched on steep cliffs. The island's unique landscape was created by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, creating a fascinating caldera.

Culture: The special geological character of Santorini has determined its cultural heritage and traditions. White houses with blue roofs, which are the symbol of the island, reflect the influence of volcanic formations and the sea. The local cuisine and wines are also enriched by the volcanic soil.

Transportation: Santorini can be reached by ferry from Athens or neighboring islands. The main port, Athenios, which can be reached by bus or taxi, is connected to the cities and villages of the island.

Accommodation options: Santorini has many accommodation options for different budgets. Popular tourist areas such as Oia, Fira and Imerovigli offer a variety of hotels and guest houses, from traditional to luxury, with spectacular sea views.

3. Mykonos: a cosmopolitan gem

Mykonos is an island in the Cyclades group that has incredible beaches and a vibrant nightlife. Its characteristic white houses and narrow streets create an atmosphere of luxury and elegance.

Culture: Mykonos is a true cultural mix, a reflection of its diversity and history as a major trading center. The island's architecture and art galleries are a testament to its artistic heritage. Also worth noting is its lively nightlife and diverse LGBTQ+ community.

Transportation: Mykonos is accessible by ferry from Athens and other Greek islands. Mykonos Town, the main port, provides convenient access to the island's beaches and villages through a network of buses and taxis.

Accommodation options: Mykonos has a variety of accommodation options, from simple guesthouses to luxury resorts. Mykonos Town, Psara and Ornos are considered popular tourist destinations with numerous hotels and villas equipped with private pools and all the necessary amenities.

4. Delphi: the ancient oracle

Delphi is a historical sanctuary and city in Greece, famous for its ancient oracle and religious shrines. One of the most important artifacts of Delphi is the Temple of Apollo, where the oracle was consulted. This place has great historical and cultural significance for Greece and the whole world.

Culture: The ruins of Delphi reflect the greatness and beliefs of the Greeks, as they are home to the Temple of Apollo, the Athenian treasury, and the stadium for the Pythian Games.

Transportation: Delphi can be reached by train or bus from Athens. The trip from Athens takes about three hours and by bus about four hours. From the city of Delphi, a short route by bus or on foot leads to the ancient sanctuary.

Accommodation options: A selection of hotels and guest houses are available near ancient Delphi. Popular options include the Hotel Amalia Delphi, Kastalia Boutique Hotel and Delphi Palace Hotel, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valley.

5. Meteora: a monastic miracle

Meteora is a unique natural phenomenon in central Greece, where monasteries are located on tall sandstone pillars. Built in the 14th and 15th centuries, these monasteries are impressive in their complexity of architecture and expressed faith.

Culture: Meteora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a pilgrimage site for Orthodox Christians. Founded by monks seeking solitude and protection, the monasteries are known for their intricate architecture and impressive frescoes.

Transportation: Meteora can be reached by train or bus from Athens. The train ride takes approximately 4 hours and the bus ride takes about 5 hours. From the town of Kalambaka, you can reach the monasteries with a short bus ride or on foot.

Accommodation options: There are several hotels and guesthouses near the Meteora monasteries. Here you can stay in such popular hotels as Grand Meteora Hotel, Hotel Kastraki and Ermitage Parthenon Hotel, which offer comfortable rooms with views of the landscape.

6. Mount Athos: The Holy Mountain

Mount Athos is an autonomous monastic republic located on a peninsula in northern Greece that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While retaining its unique identity, it is home to 20 Orthodox monasteries and is the only monastic republic in the world.

Culture: Mount Athos is a sacred place accessible only to male pilgrims. The monasteries located here adhere to strict religious norms and preserve monastic traditions that have a century-long history. This region is known not only for its natural beauty but also for its spiritual significance, which attracts pilgrims from all over the world.

Transportation: Mount Athos can be reached by ferry from the city of Ouranoupolis, located on the mainland. The ferry ride usually takes about 2 hours. Upon arrival at the port of Daphne, visitors can use buses or taxis to get to the various monasteries on the mountain.

Accommodation options: There are limited accommodation options on Mount Athos provided by monasteries that accept male pilgrims. Visitors need to obtain permission from the Holy Community of Mount Athos before arriving.

7. Spinalonga: a historic island

Visit the beautiful Spinalonga, an island located in the Gulf of Mirabello in Crete. Here you can enjoy the atmosphere of the ancient Venetian fortresses built in the 16th century to protect against the invasions of the Ottoman Empire. In addition, you will see historical evidence of a humanitarian effort - a leper colony that was active in the 20th century. Spinalonga is an extraordinary place, offering a unique opportunity to experience history and culture in one of the most beautiful regions of Greece.

Culture: Spinalonga has great historical and cultural significance. The Venetian fortress is a testament to the architectural skill of the Venetians, while the leper colony reminds us of the terrible reality of the disease. Today, Spinalonga is an uninhabited island open for day trips.

Transportation: Spinalonga can be reached by boat from the city of Elounda in Crete, which takes about 20 minutes. It is also possible to take a ferry from Agios Nikolaos to Plaka and then transfer to a small boat to the island of Spinalonga.

Accommodation options: There are no accommodation options on Spinalonga Island itself. Visitors can find a variety of hotels and guesthouses in the neighboring town of Elounda. Popular options include Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas, Sensimar Elounda Village Resort and Capsis Elite Resort.

Greece has something to offer every traveler. Embark on an unforgettable journey and immerse yourself in its rich history, diverse landscapes and warm hospitality.

Read also about other attractions in Greece. As TravelWise wrote, the small island of Simi will become the best tourist destination in the future.