With sun-drenched islands, crystal-clear waters, whitewashed villages, and ancient ruins, Greece is one of the most beautiful countries in the world to explore. Whether you’re after a glamorous beach escape, a cultural deep dive, or a peaceful village stay, Greece delivers. Here are ten of the prettiest places to vacation—each offering its own kind of magic.
1. Santorini
Famous for its iconic blue-domed churches and whitewashed buildings cascading down volcanic cliffs, Santorini is postcard Greece at its finest. The sunsets over the caldera are legendary, and the dramatic views pair perfectly with the island’s boutique hotels and excellent local wine.
2. Nafplio
Often overlooked by international travelers, Nafplio is a gem of a seaport town in the Peloponnese. With its neoclassical architecture, winding alleys, and fortress-topped hills, it’s one of the most romantic and photogenic places on the mainland.
3. Zakynthos (Zante)
Home to the famous Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach, Zakynthos offers jaw-dropping cliffs, turquoise coves, and lush green hills. The island is ideal for nature lovers and beachgoers looking for both iconic beauty and off-the-beaten-path serenity.
4. Meteora
Otherworldly and awe-inspiring, Meteora is known for its monasteries perched atop towering rock formations. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a mystical mix of spirituality, natural beauty, and hiking opportunities.
5. Mykonos
Known for its boho-chic energy, whitewashed Cycladic architecture, and buzzy beach clubs, Mykonos is as pretty as it is glamorous. Wander the winding alleys of Mykonos Town, relax on golden beaches, and soak up that Aegean sun.
6. Corfu
A lush Ionian island with Venetian charm, Corfu is dotted with olive groves, pastel-colored buildings, and hidden coves. The Old Town is a UNESCO site, and the island’s mix of Greek, French, and Italian influences makes it feel cosmopolitan yet timeless.
7. Symi
Small, elegant, and brightly painted, Symi is one of the prettiest of the Dodecanese islands. Its colorful neoclassical harbor is a photographer’s dream, and the island offers a peaceful escape from the crowds with crystal-clear waters and charming tavernas.
8. Crete’s Elafonissi Beach
Crete is Greece’s largest island, but Elafonissi Beach feels like a remote paradise. With its pink-hued sand, shallow lagoons, and aquamarine water, it’s one of the most stunning beaches in the entire Mediterranean.
9. Paros
Less flashy than neighboring Mykonos but just as lovely, Paros has whitewashed villages, bougainvillea-lined streets, and excellent beaches. The fishing village of Naoussa is especially charming, with its waterfront cafés and glowing sunsets.
10. Monemvasia
Dubbed the “Gibraltar of the East,” Monemvasia is a dramatic medieval town carved into a rocky island off the Peloponnese coast. With its stone mansions, Byzantine churches, and car-free cobbled streets, it’s a fairytale fortress frozen in time.
Whether you’re dreaming of lazy beach days, ancient ruins, or scenic mountain walks, Greece has a corner that will steal your heart.