Greece is like the go-to spot for beach lovers in Europe, pulling in folks who dig the whole Cote d'Azur vibe from every corner of the globe. But here's the cool part – it's not just your typical sandy beaches. Greece throws in some volcanic landscapes and chill pine forests into the mix. Some spots are all about the wild parties, while others are more into that peaceful nature connection.
No matter what, a beach getaway in Greece is gonna stick with you. Just gotta figure out which part of the country suits your holiday mood. So, in this article, we take a cloder look at the best regions for beach vacations in Greece.
Mykonos - luxury hotels, celebrities and parties
Mykonos emerges as a haven for enthusiasts of vibrant parties, opulent brands, and lavish accommodations. The cost of a getaway on this island ranks among the loftiest in Greece, and throughout peak periods, it frequently attracts global celebrities.
Beyond its pulsating nightlife, Mykonos is famous with the allure of Venetian-built windmills and the romantic charm of Little Venice, adorned with its quaint, colorful houses.
Santorini - volcano and incredible sunsets
The island of Santorini is intimately connected to an ancient volcano that has profoundly shaped its landscape. Blanketing the ash-gray cliffs are snow-white houses and churches, while the island's capital, Fira, is even located on a volcanic crater.
Santorini beckons travelers seeking a distinctive escape to its red and black beaches, soothing hot springs, and globally renowned sunsets. It even has its own little Pompeii - an ancient settlement preserved under a layer of lava. Such diversity makes a beach holiday in Santorini more expensive than average and definitely rich in impressions.
Corfu - Venetian heritage and picturesque bays
The small and picturesque island of Corfu in the Ionian Sea is a unique place in Greece. It is famous for its shrines, in particular the local patron saint Saint Spyridon, Venetian architecture and unique nature. Notably, Corfu holds historical significance as the birthplace of Prince Philip, husband to Queen Elizabeth II. Additionally, the celebrated British writer Gerald Durrell found inspiration within the island's captivating landscapes, describing them in his novels.
The coast of Corfu is indented with cozy bays. One of them, near the village of Paleokastritsa, resembles a heart in shape and is surrounded by green rocks. The south of the island is considered a more party place and is dotted with beach bars that attract partygoers. Corfu is especially popular during the summer months, so it’s worth making your accommodation reservations in advance.
Crete - Minoan heritage and pink beaches
In the heart of the Aegean Sea lies the largest island in Greece—Crete. It was once the epicenter of the flourishing Minoan civilization, celebrated for its enigmatic language, sophisticated culture, and bustling trade. Near the city of Heraklion stands the renowned Knossos Palace adorned with uniquely preserved frescoes. Moreover, Crete is a mythical island; according to legend, it was the site of a labyrinth where the Minotaur dwelled.
Crete is also famous for its beaches. Here you can relax on the coast with white and pink sand or visit the famous Balos Lagoon - the symbol of the island. The main thing is to think about how to get to the natural beauties of Crete - the best option would be to rent a car.
An imteresting fact: in close proximity to Crete lies the island of Gavros, marking the southernmost point of Europe. Beyond it, only the African coast stretches. Accessible by boat from the town of Paleochora, Gavros provides a unique journey.
Another distinctive locale in Crete is the island of Spinalonga. Once a haven for lepers in exile, today it invites visitors to stroll through its former colony, delving into the unique and somber history of the place. Daytime boat trips from either Plaka or Elounda offer a chance to explore this intriguing island.
Halkidiki - bays, mountains and Greek Maldives
Not far from the bustling life of Thessaloniki is the Halkidiki peninsula - the pride of Northern Greece and a point of attraction for beach lovers. Halkidiki consists of three peninsulas - Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos. Each of them is unique and offers a combination of a relaxed beach holiday, history, activities and good infrastructure.
The advantage of Halkidiki is its diversity. You can find a calm family resort, wild beaches or beach bars fully equipped for summer holidays with sun loungers. Thus, the western Kassandra peninsula is known for its untouched nature, which is adjacent to entertainment facilities, cafes and taverns right on the shore and developed nightlife. You can explore the local authentic villages, such as Afitos, where many stone houses and narrow streets have been preserved.
Not far from the Kassandra mountain range is the resort village of Hanioti. In addition to crystal clear water and stunning views, this place is known for its well-developed infrastructure. For tourists, the option to rent jet skis, boats, and even water skis is readily available here. Nearby is another picturesque village of Pefkohori, which attracts holidaymakers with its tranquility, vibrant scenery and idyllic beach holiday.
The middle peninsula of Sithonia is a magnet for lovers of nature, hiking and incredible beaches. The town of Vourvourou can compete with the Maldives in the beauty of its bays with turquoise waves, and the surrounding sandy cliffs and tall pine trees provide shelter from the hot sun.
The largest city on the peninsula, Nikiti, has ancient ruins, a 4-kilometer sandy beach, and is one of the honey production centers in all of Greece. It's seldom crowded, yet there's an extensive array of taverns, restaurants, and bars. Moreover, Nikiti boasts numerous cottages and villas available for rent, perfect for holidays with the entire family or a group of friends.
On the third peninsula stands the renowned Athos, nearly entirely dedicated to a monastic state. Exclusive access is granted only to men with prior special permission. However, the famed monasteries can be admired from the water, as pleasure boats embark from numerous Sithonia towns and Ouranoupolis, bordering the region in the summer. The western coast of Sithonia also offers a picturesque vantage point for a captivating view of the sacred mountain.
Numerous beaches in Halkidiki are thoughtfully equipped for active recreation, offering opportunities for boating, SUP surfing, and even paragliding along the coastline. Whatever your preference, there's something here for everyone to enjoy.
What to keep in mind planning holidays in Greece
When contemplating a holiday in Greece, it's essential to bear in mind that, whether on the islands or the mainland, a significant number of beaches and attractions are best accessed by car. Renting a car proves to be the optimal choice, providing convenience for exploring the local beauty at your own pace.
During the summer, Greece experiences a tourist surge, underscoring the importance of securing comfortable accommodation. The experts at Aktis Group are poised to assist you in selecting the optimal options tailored to your preferences. This not only saves you time but also ensures an uninterrupted vacation experience. Additionally, you have the opportunity to choose a villa from Aktis Villas' premier offerings, along with the option to rent a yacht or book excursions for an unforgettable and immersive experience.
