Greece is home to some of the most stunning cities in the world. Planning a trip to Greece can be overwhelming - how will you take in all the sites? From Santorini to Athens and beyond there is no shortage of picturesque destinations to add to your itinerary. When you’re planning one week in Greece, consider adding some of these lesser-known towns and islands to your list to avoid some of the big crowds and explore like a local.
Meteora
Meteora translates to “middle of the sky” which is very fitting for this small town located in central Greece. Rock formations make up this quaint town and were formed by earthquakes and wind over many years. Atop the rocks sit 24 Eastern Orthodox monasteries, only a few of which are still in use today. These monasteries date back to the 14th century. Some of the monks use a cable car between the rock formations to get from place to place. Stone stairs lead the way from the village to the top of the cliff, perfect for hiking with stunning views beyond.
Milos
Milos is an island to the west of Santorini. Known for its beaches (70 to be exact) and seafood, this island has a little bit of everything for any world traveler. You can swim in turquoise bays and enjoy octopus, sea urchin, and more. Milos was quite literally ‘flung out of the sea’ by volcanoes that erupted over 2 million years ago. There are hot springs around the island, and a variety of minerals that date back to Milos’ thousands year old mining industry. It is suggested to travel by 4-wheeler for easier, and more fun, access to parts of the island.
Evia
The second-largest Greek Island, Evia (also known as Euboea) is another hiker’s paradise. Mountainous roads beckon for an exhilarating trek. The city is also home to ample vineyards, beaches, and archaeological sites. You can get to Evia by traveling via ferry. This island offers plenty of fun water activities including kitesurfing, scuba diving, and wakeboarding. In addition to the water adventures, there are also active on-land things to do - cycling, trekking, and mountaineering tours. Evia features some ancient alpine forests great for skiing in the winter.
Ioannina
Ioannina is approximately 50 kilometer from the Albanian border. The cozy town is filled with a variety of cultures in the historic center. With Christian, Muslim, and Jewish influences the food in this area is vast. Coffee shops and bars also surround the historic, now commercial, hub. Various museums, including archaeological museums, are also popular sites to see. The Castle of Ioannina is the oldest fortress in Greece. It was built in 528 AD and is definitely a site you don’t want to miss. Fall is the best time to visit Ioannina so you can see the autumn colors around Lake Pamvotida. Another great activity while adventuring is the Domaine Glinavos winery.
Symi
Symi is known, surprise surprise, for its beaches like many other Greek islands, and for the 18th-century Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis which also features a Byzantine museum. The harbor at Symi Town is also a popular site for a quiet walking tour while enjoying a cup of coffee. Symi’s annual festival is held from July through September and is chock full of cultural performances and events. Spend one week in Greece during the fall and knock out the autumn colors seen in Ioannina and attend the Symi cultural festival!
Kastellorizo
Kastellorizo must be on your list of remote places to visit in Greece. The small, rocky island is only two miles off the Turkish coast so it’s often an afterthought for tourists. If you’re looking for a quiet escape from larger, bustling cities then this is the place to be. Time slows down in Kastellorizo and the beautiful landscape just adds to its magic. People often visit Agios Georgios, a swimming place with a taverna. The Church of Agios is rich with history and beautiful architecture. This small little island town, though sometimes forgotten, is full of culture and a peaceful ambiance wherever you go.
Thassos
The northernmost Greek island Thassos is privy to some very unique beaches. While there check out the Giola Lagoon, surrounded by golden stone and beautiful blue water. The minutes long walk will be worth the views. If you’re on the hunt for some nightlife, head to Potos Village, an area that perfectly marries the beauty of beaches with a cosmopolitan vibe. Like many other islands, Thassos is home to an archaeological site known as Alekys. Here you will find both ruins of temples and evidence of the quarry for the marble that Thassos was known for.
Naxos
The island of Naxos has a similar vibe to Santorini, with whitewashed buildings with blue shutters, and is just north of the well-known island. This charming city has plenty to offer visitors. Tour the Castle of Naxos and wind your way through alleyways on your way up to the 13th-century structure. Visit the Portara Gate, or Great Door, which stands next to the bright blue sea. Mount Zas is the birthplace of the Greek god Zeus and offers uninterrupted views of Naxos and the Aegean Sea. All three of these activities require lots of walking, so make sure you stay hydrated and wear comfy shoes!
Having travel FOMO? Don’t worry, Acanela has the perfect trip to go explore Greek Islands, but before you go, make sure to do your research on what to pack and how to prepare for your one week in Greece. Embark on the Greek Isles trip for an unforgettable experience!
Post written by Allison Steinke