Burhan
- May 22
- 10 min read

15 Best Cities to Visit in Greece - Your Ultimate Guide

Greece is a country with a rich history dating back to the Bronze Age, and its cities and towns have been inhabited since the 13th century. Athens, the capital city of Greece, is known for its ancient landmarks such as the Acropolis and Parthenon. Halkidiki is another popular tourist destination in Greece, known for its beautiful beaches and charming port cities like Chania.

The cities in Greece are numerous, ranging from bustling urban areas to quaint and picturesque towns. Some of the oldest cities in Greece include Athens, which has been inhabited since at least 3000 BC, and Corinth, which was an important city-state in ancient Greece.

Speaking of ancient Greece, there were many cities that played significant roles in shaping Greek history. Athens was one of the most influential city-states during this time period, known for its cultural achievements such as philosophy, drama, and democracy. Other notable ancient Greek cities include Sparta, Thebes, Corinth, and Delphi.

It's difficult to say exactly how many cities there are in Greece today because it depends on what you consider a "city." However, some of the largest and most well-known urban areas include Athens (which has a population of over 3 million people), Thessaloniki (with over 1 million people), Patras (over 200 thousand people), Heraklion (over 150 thousand people), Larissa (over 140 thousand people), Volos (over 125 thousand people), Ioannina (over 110 thousand people) etc.

If you're looking for something a bit more off-the-beaten-path than these larger urban areas or well-known tourist destinations like Athens or Halkidiki's Chania port city - there are plenty of smaller towns throughout Greece that offer their own unique charm. For example: Nafplio is a small suburb located near Athens that offers stunning views of the sea; Kalamata is a small town in the Peloponnese region known for its delicious olives; and Kalambaka is a picturesque town located near Meteora, home to some of Greece's most impressive monasteries.

Major Cities in Greece: A Map and Overview

Athens: The Capital City of Greece

Athens, the capital city of Greece, is one of the oldest cities in the world. It has a rich history and culture that attracts millions of tourists every year. Athens covers an area of 412 km² and has a population of over 3 million people. This bustling metropolis is known for its ancient landmarks such as the Acropolis, Parthenon, and Temple of Olympian Zeus.

In addition to its historical significance, Athens is also a modern city with plenty to offer visitors. The city boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and nightclubs open until dawn. There are also many shopping districts where you can find everything from luxury brands to local souvenirs.

Thessaloniki: The Second-Largest City in Greece

Thessaloniki is the second-largest city in Greece with a population of over 1 million according to the latest census. Located in northern Greece, Thessaloniki is known for its stunning waterfront views and rich cultural heritage. The city was founded in 315 BC by King Cassander of Macedon and named after his wife Thessalonike.

Thessaloniki has played an important role throughout Greek history and has been ruled by various empires including the Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and Greeks. Today, it's a bustling metropolis with plenty to offer visitors including museums, galleries, parks, and restaurants serving traditional Greek cuisine.

Patras: A Port City with a Large Student Population

Patras is a port city located on the north coast of the Peloponnese peninsula. It's home to one of Greece's largest universities which attracts thousands of students each year. As a result, Patras has developed into an affordable place to live compared to other major cities in Greece.

The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year including Carnival which takes place before Lent each year. During this time, the city comes alive with parades, music, and dancing. Patras is also known for its vibrant nightlife scene with bars and clubs open until late.

Best Places to Visit in Greece: From Santorini to Delphi

Santorini: A Must-See Destination for Beach Lovers

Santorini is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece, and it's easy to see why. This stunning island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches that stretch for miles. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or explore the island's many attractions, Santorini has something for everyone.

One of the best things about Santorini is its stunning beaches. The island is home to a wide range of beaches, from secluded coves to bustling resorts. Some of the most popular beaches include Perissa Beach, Kamari Beach, and Red Beach. Each beach has its own unique charm and offers something different for visitors.

In addition to its beautiful beaches, Santorini also has plenty of other attractions to explore. The island is home to a number of ancient ruins and historic sites, including Akrotiri Archaeological Site and Ancient Thera. Visitors can also take a tour of one of the island's many wineries or explore its charming villages and towns.

Delphi: An Ancient Wonder

If you're interested in history and archaeology, Delphi is a must-see destination in Greece. This ancient city was once considered the center of the world by ancient Greeks and was home to one of their most important religious sanctuaries. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of this once-great city and learn about its rich history.

One of the highlights of Delphi is its ancient ruins. The city was once home to a number of important buildings and monuments, including temples dedicated to Apollo and Athena. Visitors can explore these ruins today and marvel at their beauty and grandeur.

Another highlight of Delphi is its Byzantine churches. These beautiful churches are some of the oldest buildings on the island and offer visitors a glimpse into Greece's rich religious history. Many of these churches are still in use today and offer visitors a chance to experience the island's traditional culture.

Patras and Thessaloniki: The Best Places to Stay

Patras and Thessaloniki are two of the best places to stay. These cities offer a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. They also have plenty of links to other destinations in Greece, making them great bases for exploring the rest of the country.

In addition to their accommodation options, Patras and Thessaloniki also offer some of the best dining experiences in Greece. Visitors can sample traditional Greek cuisine at one of the many restaurants in these cities or explore their many shops and markets for local delicacies.

Exploring Rhodes Town and Ioannina

Rhodes Town: A Medieval Gem in Greece

Rhodes Town is the capital of the island of Rhodes, located in the Aegean Sea. The town boasts a rich history and stunning medieval architecture that attracts visitors from all over the world. The Old Town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe.

The town's most famous landmark is the Palace of the Grand Master, which was built by the Knights Hospitaller during their occupation of Rhodes. The palace now houses a museum that showcases artifacts from ancient and medieval times.

The Street of Knights is another must-see attraction in Rhodes Town. It features impressive Gothic buildings that once housed knights from various European countries during their stay on the island.

Aside from its historical significance, Rhodes also offers beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Visitors can also take a boat trip to explore nearby islands such as Symi or Halki.

Ioannina: A Hidden Gem in Northwestern Greece

Ioannina is a city located in northwestern Greece that boasts a rich history and stunning natural scenery. The city sits on the shores of Lake Pamvotis, which provides visitors with breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking.

One of Ioannina's most popular attractions is its old castle, which dates back to Byzantine times. Visitors can explore its walls and towers while enjoying panoramic views of the city below.

Another must-see attraction in Ioannina is its vibrant market district known as Kastro. Here visitors can find everything from handmade crafts to delicious local cuisine.

For those interested in history, Ioannina also has several museums worth visiting such as the Archaeological Museum and the Municipal Museum.

Getting There: Accessing Rhodes and Beyond

Rhodes can be easily accessed by ferry from Piraeus, the main port of Athens. The journey takes around 14 hours, and there are several ferry companies to choose from.

Once on the island, visitors can explore other nearby attractions such as Oia, a picturesque village on the island of Santorini that is famous for its stunning sunsets. Rethymno, a city on the island of Crete, also boasts a beautiful old town and lively nightlife.

Corfu Town: A Must-Visit Destination in Greece

With its rich history and stunning architecture, Corfu Town is a must-visit destination in Greece. Located on the tiny island of Corfu, this town boasts turquoise waters and a beautiful coastline that will take your breath away. If you're planning to visit Greece soon, here are some reasons why Corfu Town should count on your itinerary.

Rich History

Corfu Town has a fascinating history that dates back to 700 BC. This town was once part of the Byzantine Empire before it was conquered by the Venetians in the 14th century. The Venetians left their mark on the town's architecture, which can still be seen today in buildings like the Old Fortress and Saint Spyridon Church. Later on, Corfu was also occupied by the French and British before it finally became part of Greece in 1864.

Stunning Architecture

One of the main attractions of Corfu Town is its stunning architecture. The town's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique blend of Venetian, French, and British architectural styles. You'll find narrow streets lined with colorful houses, ancient fortresses overlooking the sea, and grand palaces with ornate balconies. Some must-see buildings include Liston Arcade, Palace of St Michael and St George, and Mon Repos Palace.

Beautiful Coastline

Aside from its rich history and stunning architecture, Corfu Town also boasts a beautiful coastline that offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. You can take a stroll along Spianada Square – one of Europe's largest public squares – or explore nearby beaches like Glyfada Beach or Paleokastritsa Beach. For those who love water sports activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding are available for rent at various locations around town.

Nafplio: A Picturesque Town with Rich History

Nafplio, a little coastal town in Greece, is a hidden gem that tourists often overlook. However, it is one of the most picturesque cities in Greece that has so much to offer with its rich history and vibrant nightlife. Here are some reasons why Nafplio should be on your travel list.

Old Town: A Walk Down Narrow Cobbled Streets

The old town of Nafplio is a must-see attraction for every tourist visiting the city. The narrow cobbled streets are lined with many tavernas, cafes, and historic buildings that make it feel like you have stepped back in time. The Venetian architecture adds to the charm of the town and makes it a perfect spot for taking pictures.

Historic Center: Explore the Venetian Castle

Visitors can explore the historic center of Nafplio by visiting the Venetian castle which stands tall on top of a hill overlooking the port. The castle has been well-preserved over time and offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding mountains. It is an excellent place to learn about Greek history while enjoying panoramic views.

New Town: A Great Destination for Tourists

In addition to its old town, Nafplio also has a new town with many cafes and shops that cater to tourists' needs. The new town's modern architecture blends well with the old town's traditional style, making it a great destination for tourists who want to experience both worlds.

Vibrant Nightlife: Experience Greek Culture

One cannot talk about Nafplio without mentioning its vibrant nightlife. The city comes alive at night as locals and tourists alike pour into bars, clubs, and restaurants that line up along the port. Visitors can enjoy live music performances while savoring local delicacies such as moussaka or saganaki.

Knossos and Meteora: Two of the Best Places to Visit in Greece for History Lovers

Ancient monuments and historical sites are abundant in Greece, making it a perfect destination for history lovers. Among the many cities and towns that showcase Greece's rich history, Knossos and Meteora stand out as two of the best places to visit. Both locations offer visitors an opportunity to explore ancient ruins, archaeological sites, interesting museums, and much more.

Knossos: An Ancient Citadel on Crete

Knossos is an ancient citadel that dates back to the Bronze Age and is located on the island of Crete. The city was once a major center for trade, culture, and art. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of this once-great city at the archaeological site of Knossos.

The main attraction at Knossos is undoubtedly its ancient palace complex. Visitors can wander through the labyrinthine corridors of the palace, which was built around 2000 BCE. The palace features impressive frescoes depicting scenes from everyday life in ancient Crete, as well as intricate architectural details such as columns with spiral motifs.

In addition to exploring the palace complex itself, visitors can also check out other nearby attractions such as the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion. This museum houses artifacts from throughout Crete's long history, including Minoan pottery and tools.

Meteora: A World Heritage Site with Stunning Monasteries

Meteora is a world heritage site that features six monasteries built on top of towering rock formations in Kalambaka. These monasteries were constructed by monks seeking refuge from invading armies during medieval times.

Today, visitors can hike up to these stunning monasteries along well-marked hiking trails that offer breathtaking views over Kalambaka. Visitors who prefer not to hike can take a bus or drive up to some of these monasteries instead.

In addition to the monasteries themselves, visitors can also check out other nearby attractions such as the Museum of Natural History and Meteora Art Gallery. The museum showcases the unique flora and fauna of the region, while the art gallery features works by local artists.

Exploring the Best Cities in Greece

From the ancient ruins of Athens to the picturesque streets of Nafplio, Greece is a country rich in history and beauty. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure exploring ancient sites, there's something for everyone in this Mediterranean paradise.

One of the major cities in Greece is Athens, a bustling metropolis that boasts some of the most famous landmarks in history. The Acropolis and Parthenon are must-sees for anyone visiting Athens, as they offer a glimpse into the city's ancient past. But Athens isn't just about history; it's also home to some of the best nightlife and cuisine in Europe.

If you're looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, head to Corfu Town. This charming city on the island of Corfu offers visitors beautiful beaches and stunning architecture. With its winding cobblestone streets and colorful buildings, Corfu Town is one of Greece's hidden gems.

Another great destination is Rhodes Town, located on the island of Rhodes. This medieval city is home to an impressive castle and a vibrant Old Town filled with shops and restaurants. For those looking for something off-the-beaten-path, Ioannina offers visitors a chance to explore traditional Greek culture while surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

For those interested in ancient history, Knossos and Meteora are two destinations not to be missed. The Palace of Knossos on Crete is one of the most important archaeological sites from Minoan civilization while Meteora boasts stunning monasteries built high atop towering rock formations.

No trip to Greece would be complete without visiting Santorini. This iconic island features white-washed buildings perched precariously on cliffs overlooking crystal-clear waters below. And if you're looking for even more breathtaking scenery, head inland to Delphi where you'll find stunning views of Mount Parnassus alongside ancient ruins.