There’s something particularly magical about Greece that shines during the summer months. Not only will you enjoy plentiful sunshine and warm temperatures, but summer is also when the country comes to life. Visitors love soaking up the Mediterranean sun as they immerse themselves in the beauty of this one-of-a-kind country. If you’re looking for all this and more, then these five destinations are sure to prove to you that summer is the best time to visit Greece.
Santorini
When people imagine the Greek islands, they normally think of the quintessential white buildings and blue roofs of Santorini. The city is surrounded by crystal clear turquoise water that beckons you to immerse yourself in the ocean. When you’ve booked cheap flights to Greece, be sure to leave one empty evening to travel to Oia to take in the island’s famous colorful sunsets.
While on Santorini, take a peek at the dormant volcano and craters that call this island home. Or, indulge yourself with a dip in the healing warm waters of Nea Kameni. Santorini also offers a number of sacred ruins, historical churches, archaeological sites, and outdoor recreational adventures. When you come to Santorini, you’ll be treated to a variety of vacation experiences.
Thessaloniki
Although the big city of Athens is certainly a star of any Greece travel itinerary, you also owe it to yourself to visit the country’s second-largest city of Thessaloniki. This popular destination has it all, ranging from historic archaeological sites to contemporary art museums. Thessaloniki is an extremely easy city to navigate on foot, making it easy to hit all the sites on your list. The port city boasts a stunning seaside location with easy access to many of the Greek islands. Be sure to spend your evenings strolling the promenade and taking in the action of this bustling city. There’s truly something for every traveler in Thessaloniki.
Crete
The island of Crete offers a number of interesting natural landscapes as well as a welcoming vibe that’s the perfect example of classic Greek hospitality. A highlight of a trip to the largest Greek island is the ancient palaces of Knossos and Phaistos. History lovers will also appreciate a trip to the Roman settlements and the beautiful churches from the Byzantine era. Crete is also known for its world-famous beaches. Notable places to include on your itinerary include the pink sand beaches of Elafonisi, Balos, and Falasarna. You should also check out the shores of Vai and Preve with their lush palm tree landscapes.
Mykonos
There’s no doubt that Mykonos has some of the best coastlines in Greece. With over 30 beaches, it won’t be difficult to find the stretch of sand that meets your needs. Mykonos is also home to a variety of restaurants and nightclubs, providing the perfect balance of relaxation by day and fun by night. There’s incomparable energy on Mykonos that can’t be found on any other Greek island.
Mykonos Town makes a great home base with its eye-catching architecture, a vast collection of museums, and gorgeous churches. The island also features a diverse foodie scene. You can expect to find all of the classic Greek favorites and tons of fresh seafood thanks to its coastal location.
Corfu
Located on the Ionian Sea, Corfu is a splendid island to visit during the summer. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Town of Corfu takes you on a historical journey. Start your tour at the famed Liston, a pedestrian street dating back to the times of French rule in the early 1800s. You can then stroll to the Spianada, the biggest square in Greece and a fabulous place to people-watch.
While at the Spianada, it’s easy to visit the Venetian Fortress, a castle built back in the 18th century. In addition to historical sites, Corfu also boasts dramatic natural settings. Cape Drastis is a popular spot to spend the day with its sandy beaches and towering white cliffs.
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