Why visit Greece? Is Greece worth visiting? What makes Greece unique among all the wonderful places in the world?
We get asked these questions a lot. Rest assured, we’ve got answers.
Because there are reasons galore why Greece ranks in the Top 5 most popular countries in Europe, and Top 10 most popular destinations in the world.
So, let’s discover together some compelling reasons to visit Greece. What makes Greece the perfect destination for your next vacation.
Then, the excitement of planning a trip to Greece begins, whether it’s your first time or repeat trips to this enchanting land.
Ready? Πάμε, let’s go!
Why Visit Greece: Table of Contents
- Reasons to Visit Greece: Video
- Map of Greece
- Reasons to Visit Greece: Natural Beauty
- Reasons to Visit Greece: Epic History
- Reasons to Visit Greece: Vibrant Culture
- Reasons to Visit Greece: Delicious Food
- Reasons to Visit Greece: Year-Round Travel
- Reasons to Visit Greece Interactive Map
- Check Out More Recommendations
- Why Visit Greece: FAQs
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Reasons to Visit Greece: Video
We always say, “The WHY underscores everything” in travel and in life. Here’s WHY we’re inspired and motivated to visit Greece over and over.
Ever since we met as university students on an archaeological dig in the Cyclades Islands, we’ve returned to Greece again and again – for weeks and indeed months at a time.
We’ve traveled tens of thousands of kilometers across the Greek Islands and mainland Greece on road trips, flights, and ferries.
Watch this short video which is, in essence, our little love letter to Greece.
Map of Greece
Reasons to Visit Greece: Natural Beauty
The bountiful nature of Greece awes and astonishes with its beauty, biodiversity, and quality.
This European country, small but mighty, ranks second in the world for Global Blue Flag awarded beaches.
Additionally, Greece conserves its natural environments, wildlife, and marine habitats with the European Union Natura 2000 network.
Furthermore, Greece boasts three UNESCO World Biosphere Reserves.
You’ll enjoy these wonders of nature in coastal areas, inland plateaus, and mountainous landscapes alike.
Come discover scenic nature, fresh air, and great outdoor activities in Greece.
6,000 Greek Islands
Everyone’s favorite answer to the question “Why visit Greece” is, of course, the gorgeous Greek Islands.
For many visitors, the Greek Islands of their dreams mean the Cyclades Islands in the Southern Aegean Sea:
White-washed cubes of architecture. Brilliant blue domes of churches. Colorful blooms of bougainvillea softening the geometric lines.
Names of the Cycladic Island group resound from Greek mythology and antiquity to modern history and contemporary terminology:
Santorini, Mykonos, Delos, Paros, Naxos, Milos, Ios, and other Cycladic Islands appear to circle around the sacred island of Delos.
Indeed, Cyclades (Κυκλάδες) stems from κύκλος, meaning “circle” in Greek
Still, as charming as the Cyclades are, Greece offers somewhat more than a few alluring islands – in fact, several thousand other islands.
Our friends at the Greek National Tourism Organization say there’s roughly 6,000 Greek Isles overall. Approximately 227 islands are currently inhabited.
These 6,000 islands range in size from Greece’s largest island Crete to smaller islands, little islands, and tiny islets.
Longest Coastline in the Mediterranean
Greece encompasses the longest coastline in the Mediterranean Sea, and the sixth longest coastline in the world.
The Greek coastline length measures between 8,500 to 9,400 miles (13,676 to 15,147 km).
Well, that’s certainly a whole lot of seashore to explore in Greece!
Basically, the Greek seashore is accessible to almost everyone within a 30- to 45-minute drive everywhere in Greece, islands or mainland.
There’s only one exception in the 14 Regions of Greece: the land-locked Region of Western Macedonia.
Despite its lack of coastline, the Greek Region of Western Macedonia features tranquil lakes with lovely lakeshores.
Beautiful Beaches
The most popular Greek Islands boast some of the most sought-after beaches in Greece. To name but a few of these busy and beautiful best beaches:
- Kamari Beach, a volcanic black sand beach on Santorini.
- Paradise Beach, an upscale party beach on Mykonos.
- Elafonissi Beach, a pink sand beach on Crete.
- Lindos Beach, a curving white sand beach under the Acropolis of Lindos on Rhodes.
- Paleokastrisa Beach, a white sand beach with dramatic sea cliffs on Corfu.
- Kolymbithres Beach, smooth boulders that rather resemble a lunar landscape on Paros.
- Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach on Zakynthos.
However, if you prefer to escape the tourist crowds, the good news is: Greece is a great place to get off the beaten path quite easily.
Because jaw-dropping beautiful beaches are just about everywhere.
After all, as noted above, the longest coastline in the Mediterranean includes both Greek Islands and Greek mainland.
You’ll find idyllic Greek beaches for endless fun in the sun: Stony beaches and sandy beaches. Wild beaches and organized beaches. Peaceful beaches for quiet moods and lively beaches for upbeat vibes.
Crystal Clear Waters
During recent decades, Greece has worked diligently to ceate and maintain pristine seashores, marine habitats, and sparkling seas.
Crystal clear waters in all the hues of blues are a hallmark of Greek gulfs, bays, and seas.
As a result of this ongoing focus, Greece now ranks in recent years for the most Blue Flag Awards in the world.
The Global Blue Flag Awards establish and uphold the highest standards for beaches, marinas, and tourism boats around the world.
Blue Flag requires that “stringent environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility criteria must be met and maintained” every year.
National, regional, and local tourism boards obviously desire the prestigious Blue Flag recognition. Tour operators, tourists, and, of course, local residents similarly value the designation.
Each year, an international jury carefully considers every submission to determine the beaches, marina, and tour boats which fulfill the strict regulations.
In 2023 and 2024, Greece ranked second in the world for the Blue Flag Award-winning sites.
Greece’s huge quantity and nationwide locations of Blue Flag Awards recognizes and rewards the national dedication to this important work.
You’ll be amazed to see the water clarity even in major ports for ferry boats and cruise ships.
Magnificent Mountains
Greece is beloved for her superlative beaches, seas, and of course, sunsets.
However, mountains and mountain ranges surprisingly comprise 80% of Greece, islands and mainland alike.
The mountains of Greece are mythical, magical, and magnificent.
Ancient Greeks described the mountains as the celestial homes of the Olympian gods and goddesses, as well as other mythological deities.
Meanwhile, from Neolithic times to present days, the Greek people have built their mountain villages on the steep slopes.
Three Greek mountain ranges in particular have earned premier recognition as UNESCO World Biosphere Reserves:
- Mount Olympus, ranging from the Regions of Thessaly and Central Macedonia, is Greece’s highest peak where Olympian gods lived in the celestial ethers.
- Samaria Gorge located in the White Mountains on the island of Crete.
- Asterousia Mountains, another of the six mountain ranges on the island of Crete.
Mountains in Greece connect you with nature at its best: From gentle walks in forests to thrilling adventures such as river rafting, mountain biking, and serious mountaineering.
You’ll breathe bracing mountain air. Drink from flowing mountain streams. View breathtaking mountain vistas of gorges, valleys, and peaks.
Reasons to Visit Greece: Epic History
History lives and breathes in Greece. In truth, Greece exemplifies epic history just as Homer expresses epic poetry in The Iliad and The Odyssey.
- Mythological gods and legendary heroes from the mists of time.
- Elite athletes who competed at the Ancient Olympic Games in Olympia.
- Civilizations and empires and kingdoms come and gone.
- The Hellenic Republic, that is, the modern Greek nation.
Ancient history, post-classical and medieval history, modern and contemporary history – it’s all here for you to learn in an easy, fun, and unforgettable way.
You’ll travel back in time when touring the Minoan Knossos Palace in Crete, for example, and the Hellenistic Ancient Epidaurus Theatre in Peloponnese.
You’ll fast forward to the present when crossing the 21st-century Rio-Antirio Bridge in Western Greece.
Come discover the incomparably rich history throughout the ages in Greece.
19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Greece possesses an extraordinary wealth of historic sites, including 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the Registered Lists.
In 1987, the Acropolis of Athens received the nation’s first UNESCO World Heritage registration.
In 2023, the Zagori Cultural Landscape in the mountainous Region of Epirus became the newest UNESCO World Heritage Centre in Greece.
The Zagori mountain communities connect via stone pathways, stone stairs, and stone arch bridges hand-built in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Besides the 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Greece presently has 13 archaeological sites, historical sites, and cultural sites pending on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative Lists.
Additionally, Greece has one entry in the UNESCO Memory of the World, the Derveni Papyrus.
Reasons to Visit Greece: Vibrant Culture
Besides beach day trips, boat excursions, outdoor adventures, and historical tours, Greece features wonderful culture and community.
The Greek cultural scene flourishes not only in the major cities of Athens, Thessaloniki, and Patras. But also in smaller cities, towns, and villages.
Acclaimed cultural events such as the Athens Epidaurus Festival since 1955, and the Thessaloniki International Film Festival since 1960, put Greece on the global arts and cultural map.
Befitting the vital Greek culture, best-in-class museums in Greece include archaeological, artistic, and special collections, for example:
- Acropolis Museum in Athens
- National Archaeological Museum in Athens
- Heraklion Archaeological Museum in Crete
- National Historical Museum in Athens
- Byzantine Museum of Kastoria
- Museum of Byzantine Culture in Thessaloniki
- Victoria G. Karelias Collection of Traditional Greek Costumes in Kalamata
Art galleries showcase works by contemporary Greek and international artists. Artisans continue centuries-old crafts handed down through generations.
You’ll be inspired by the artifacts of antiquity. And also the current performing arts, fine arts, mural arts, and handicrafts. As well as the artistry, creativity, and legacy of the Greek people.
Come discover the awe-inspiring culture and awesome community in Greece.
Reasons to Visit Greece: Delicious Food
Quite simply, food in Greece is fabulous. It’s the original Mediterranean diet: fresh, hearty, healthy, and delicious!
The sun, sea, and soil nourish the farms, vineyards, orchards, and olive groves in Greece. Greek food, wines, and spirits, and olive oil make the most of this farm-to-table harvest.
You’ll savor classic Greek cuisine in traditional tavernas. As well as innovative Greek gastronomy in fine-dining restaurants and Michelin-starred restaurants.
You’ll sip fine wines from estate vineyards elevating Greek wines to new heights of excellence. Traditional Greek spirits such as ouzo and raki. As well as craft cocktails in chic bars.
Oh yes, let’s not forget to mention, there’s a thriving culture of specialty coffee in Greece.
You’ll order traditional Greek coffee, frappe, or freddo anywhere. As well as excellent cappuccino and other specialty coffee, too.
Even remote places off the beaten track and, surprisingly, service stations have cafes with espresso machines.
Come discover the delectable celebration of culinary joys and liquid delights in Greece.
Reasons to Visit Greece: Year-Round Travel
Each of the four seasons in Greece can be a great time to visit. Every season presents a different perspective and distinct pleasures.
Summer is the peak season or high season for travel and tourism. Summer temperatures are the hottest, crowds are the biggest. Everything is open everywhere in the summer months.
Spring is the first shoulder season, with warming temperatures and emerging blooms. Ferries and cruise ships begin to sail for island hopping. Hotels and seasonal services in resort destinations begin to open around mid to late April.
Fall is the second shoulder season, a time of cooling temperatures and changing leaves. Many accommodations, attractions, and services remain open until mid-October.
Winter is the low season, or off season. Winter months are the quietest time of year with fewest tourists. Except, that is, for local Greek tourists enjoying the ski resorts in mainland Greece.
You’ll find that any time can be a great time to travel to Greece. In fact, now is the perfect time to start planning your trip with these travel tips.
Come discover the unique pace and special pleasures of different seasons in Greece.
Reasons to Visit Greece Interactive Map
We’ve shared the top reasons to visit Greece, a country near and dear to our nomadic hearts.
You’ll surely fall in love with Greece, too, both on your first vacation here and on repeat trips to see, do, and learn even more.
Wherever you travel on or off the beaten path in Greece, landmarks aplenty await. Ancient sites, modern monuments, and cultural treasures beckon.
Just look at all the fabled and famous Greek landmarks in every region to explore, experience, and inspire your journey!
Spectacular nature, phenomenal history, dynamic culture, hospitable community, and incredible food make for magical and memorable vacations.
So, come visit Greece. Come experience what makes Greece unique. Come discover yourself why Greece is worth visiting.
•••
Check Out More Recommendations
Famous Landmarks in Greece to Visit in All 14 Greek Regions
Plan Your Trip to Greece: Top Tips for Planning and Traveling to Greece
Hidden Gems in Athens, Greece: Explore the Historic City Center
Athens to Epidaurus, Greece: Travel Guide to the Ultimate Ancient Theater
Nafpaktos, Greece: Travel Guide to a Venetian Gem
Bridges in Greece: Famous Spans and Historic Hidden Gems to Visit
Rio-Antirio Bridge: Modern Engineering Masterpiece in Greece
3 Days in Lisbon, Portugal: Complete Lisbon Itinerary and Travel Tips
Vienna in Winter: Best Things to Do in a Magical Season
GET: Now that you know the reasons to visit Greece, get your exclusive free storytelling guide to tell your travel stories easily.
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Why Visit Greece: FAQs
Is Greece worth visiting?
Greece is indeed worth visiting! Nature flourishes from the seashores to the mountains of beautiful Greek Islands and mainland Greece. History, culture, and the arts thrive in Greek cities, towns, and villages. Plus, Greek food is fresh, simple, and delicious.
Why go to Greece?
There are many reasons to go to Greece, for instance: Beautiful beaches, clean seas, and rugged mountains. Ancient ruins, modern monuments, and remarkable history spanning antiquity until today. As well as delicious Greek food, wines, and traditional spirits.
Why should you visit Greece?
If you’d like a memorable trip to one of the world’s best places, then you should visit Greece. This small European country offers great appeal and delivers overall satisfaction due to amazing history, award-winning beaches, exciting culture, and also mouthwatering Greek cuisine. Many first-time visitors later return on repeat trips to Greece.
All opinions expressed are Spotlight Sojourns’ own.
All content and images are original, created with care by yours truly, Marilee Kostadimas and Paul Kostadimas, not AI. We’re the Hidden Gemologists of Spotlight Sojourns: Award-winning travel experts, storytellers, and advocates of meaningful travel. Because meaningful travel is part of a meaningful life. And stories enrich the meaning.