Photo: Alex Igna Oficially open: the much-anticipated tourist season in Greece has officially opened at the start of the month. While the weather might not yet be perfect and the water is still too cold for a swim, hotels, taverns, shops, and basically everyone and everything related to tourism have come to life.
Just before you start packing, we have prepared a complete list of the destinations you can reach this summer on a direct flight from many countries, with a variety of airlines.
The largest city in Crete, located at the center, is also considered the capital of the island. What to expect there? A nice mix of ancient history and modern pace, familiar beaches, with classic Greek alleys and authentic Venetian walls. You can also take a trip from here to the famous Minoan Palace of Knossos, officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2025, and visit the excellent archaeological museum.
Heraklion, Crete. Photo: ShutterstockOn the western side of Crete you will find beautiful Chania, a smaller and equally impressive picturesque city. Alongside the magnificent Venetian harbour, Chania is also a starting point for some of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, whether it is Balos, Falassarna, Alfonsini or the southern town of Paleochora.
The coast of Crete. Photo: Amit CotlerThe beloved island offers a solid selection of family hotels and beautiful beaches. Alongside Rhodes Town, the main city on the island, you can also take day trips to Lindos, and climb to the Acropolis of Lindos for a spectacular view.
Rhodes. Photo: ShutterstockThe hidden, calm, and fully Instagrammable gem of the Greek islands offers mountainous landscapes, breathtaking white beaches with clear turquoise waters, and a sort of tranquility that you can rarely find when traveling. Beware: this is not a party island or one particularly suitable for the young crowd. Water sports enthusiasts will be able to enjoy windsurfing here and a variety of other offers in this field. You can also go on trips on comfortable walking trails between the villages.
Karpathos. Photo: ShutterstockOne of the most famous of the Greek islands, it is still considered a big hit among young people and partygoers. During the summer, you will find a host of parties and attractions on the island that never sleeps on the beaches, in bars and clubs. Mykonos is considered a very expensive island compared to the rest of Greece, both in hotels and in food and drinks. Take this into account before you decide where to go this summer.
Mykonos. Photo: ShutterstockSantorini is also considered a relatively young island and very popular among tourists from all over the world. The island is also considered very romantic and very classic in its appearance - with the classic blue domes of the churches, the white walls and the steep paths. Although most tourism is concentrated around Thira, the largest city on the island, don't miss the most beautiful sunsets in the world, in the village of Oia.
Santorini. Photo: ShutterstockThis gorgeous island is different much greener than the rest of the islands in Greece, combining amazing beaches, classical Greek history, and breathtaking views.
Corfu. Photo: Alex IgnaAs in Crete, here too you will find Venetian influences and excellent food in the classic taverns. Highly recommended for more relaxed holidays.
Corfu. Photo: Alex Igna
Tzatziki in Corfu. Photo: Alex IgnaAnother option for white sands and some of the clearest, cleanest water in Greece. Alongside the central town of Kos Town, you'll find typical Greek villages here, and a host of options for hiking, biking, and especially stunning stretches of beach that you'll want to stay on for longer.
Kos. Photo: ShutterstockThe Greek capital is popular all year round, and of course also in the summer season. Although most tourists prefer the islands, Athens is also enjoyable in the hot season (although it can be very hot). In the summer, most of the attractions move from the city center to the coastal strip between Piraeus and Glyfada, and alongside the beautiful beaches you will also find very active bars here throughout the day.
Athens, Greece. Photo: SHUTTERSTOCKThose who are a little tired of Athens can try going to Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece. A fascinating destination with a rich history, an authentic Greek atmosphere and lots and lots of excellent tavernas. Throughout the city you will find remains from the Roman, Ottoman and Byzantine periods. You can also visit some of the best bars and clubs you will find in Greece.
Thessaloniki. Photo: SHUTTERSTOCK