Key Takeaways
- Greece's rich ancient history and culture showcase UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the ingenuity of ancient Greeks.
- Greece's stunning beaches offer crystal-clear waters, fine white sand, and picturesque scenery to suit every preference.
- Greek cuisine's mouth-watering flavors, from Greek salad to moussaka, delight food enthusiasts worldwide.
- Greek hospitality's warmth and friendliness, inspired by the concept of 'Xenia,' create a welcoming atmosphere for travelers.
Greece is a fascinating and mesmerizing destination with so much to offer; finding the best might seem impossible.
The Land of Sun and Sea has something for everyone. Its rich history and culture notwithstanding, Greece boasts stunning sandy beaches, mouth-watering cuisine, and friendly locals, which is reason enough to visit.
But today, we’re going on an adventure to discover some of the top reasons you should add Greece (both mainland Greece and every Greek island) to your travel bucket list.
Before you keep reading, save our comprehensive guide to planning a trip to Greece for later.
Reasons to Visit Greece This Year
Without further ado, here are the top nine reasons you should visit Greece this year for an unforgettable travel experience:
- A rich and ancient history and Greek culture
- Absolutely beautiful beaches
- Tantalizing and mouth-watering Greek cuisine
- A welcoming Greek hospitality
- Radiant Greek islands and island cultures
- Enticing outdoor activities
- Among the best art and architecture worldwide
- Affordable travel costs
- Vibrant city life
So now that you know what you’re in for (sort of), let’s dive into the welcoming arms of Greece.
Rich Ancient History and Culture
Greece is home to some of the world’s most significant and impressive historical sites, including a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which speak to Greece's history and culture.
From the Acropolis in Athens to the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, Greece’s ancient sites will transport you back to ancient Greece, leaving you in awe of the ancient Greeks’ ingenuity and creativity.
Walking through these ancient ruins will give you a better understanding of the origins of Western civilization and deepen your appreciation for the achievements of the past.
Plus, who wouldn’t want to be enchanted by the awe-inspiring beauty surrounding them?
Beautiful Beaches
Greece features some of the most stunning beaches. In fact, the southern European country boasts some of the world's most beautiful beaches.
Greece’s beaches are awash with crystal-clear waters, fine white sand beneath your feet, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re looking for a lively beach with water sports aplenty or a secluded cove to relax and unwind, Greece has it all.
The top beaches to visit in Greece include the scenic Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia, the secluded Navagio Beach in Zakynthos, and the Elafonisi Beach in Crete, which has the prettiest pink sand.
Mouth-watering Greek Cuisine
Greek food is world-renowned for its simplicity, freshness, and delicious blend of flavors. From the famous Greek salad and souvlaki to moussaka and spanakopita, there are plenty of Greek dishes and delicious food to try and taste.
Don't forget to sample some of the local cheeses (that aren’t feta), kalamata olives, Greek coffee, and Greek wines as well.
Locals prepare the food in Greece with fresh, local ingredients and a healthy serving of the best olive oil. It’ll surely leave you feeling satiated and as though all's right with the world.
Tip: Avoid asking for alterations to your Greek salad. This Greece travel tip will help you avoid committing a social faux pas or upsetting all the Greek gods from Greek Mythology.
Warm Greek Hospitality
Greece is famous for its warm and welcoming hospitality. Travelers know Greek people for their friendliness and generosity of spirit. In ancient Greece, Greeks considered hospitality a sacred duty known as ‘Xenia,’ where they treated guests with utmost respect and kindness.
Whether you're looking for directions or recommendations for the best restaurants in town, the locals are always happy to assist you. This adds positive vibes to your overall experience.
Feeling at home in a foreign country is an undeniably great feeling for some travelers, and who wouldn’t want that?
Fascinating Island Culture
Greece is home to over 220 inhabited islands, each with its own unique culture and traditions. This includes their various terrains and landscapes. Santorini, with its picturesque white-washed buildings and stunning sunsets, is a must-visit.
Mykonos is famous for its vibrant nightlife and party scene. But for a more laid-back island experience, visit the islands of Corfu or Kefalonia, where you can peacefully soak up the sun on the beach and explore charming villages.
Outdoor Activities
Greece offers more than just beautiful beaches and yummy, satiating cuisine (hearty moussaka, anyone?). Greece is a paradise for outdoor lovers. The rugged terrain of Greek islands offers you plenty of hiking opportunities, with stunning views and breathtaking landscapes. Plus, you’ll enjoy these lovely sights while cycling or kayaking.
Additionally, Greece is home to some of the world’s best diving and snorkeling spots, of which Elounda in Crete is one. You’ll enjoy Greece’s crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, like their cute loggerhead turtles.
Rich Art and Architecture
Greece is a treasure trove of art and architecture. This is evident in stunning artworks dating back millennia. From ancient statues like Aphrodite of Milos to stunning Byzantine churches and Ottoman-era architecture, Greece’s popular landmarks have a rich artistic and architectural heritage that’s sure to impress.
Love art and history? Then Athens’s National Archaeological Museum is a must-visit with its vast collection of ancient artifacts and art.
Relatively Affordable Travel
Greece is an affordable travel destination compared to other European destinations and the U.S. Accommodation, food, and transportation are reasonably priced, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. With plenty to see and do in Greece, you can have a fantastic vacation without breaking the bank.
Vibrant Cities
Greece has some of the most vibrant and eclectic cities in the world, each with its own unique personality and charm. Athens, the capital of Greece, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture. The city is home to the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and additional ancient sites, along with a vibrant arts and culture scene for you to explore.
Many know Thessaloniki, the second-largest city in Greece, for its beautiful beaches, excellent food, and lively nightlife. That said, other cities, such as Heraklion, Chania, and Rhodes, are also worth exploring for their unique history, culture, and architecture.
Final Thoughts | Why You Should Visit Greece in 2023
In conclusion, Greece is a destination that should be on everyone's travel bucket list. There’s something for everyone here, so pack your bags and head to Greece for an unforgettable vacation that’ll leave you with fond memories for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s So Special About Greece?
Is Greece Worth Visiting in 2023?
What Are the Top Five Things to See in Greece?
