For many of us, Greece is just about ancient ruins, Zorba The Greek and Santorini.
But in reality, things are much more different and complicated and there are many hidden places to visit in Greece.
Unique places to visit in Greece
Greece is about many things! It is about culture, traditions, monasteries and churches, breathtaking islands, welcoming people and incredibly good food.
Greece has more than 6.000 island and islets, some of the inhabited while others are totally wild and untouched.
Among these islands, you can find one of the most amazing places to visit in Greece!
There are plenty of amazing beaches and interesting attractions spread all over the islands and mainland and you will need more than one holiday in Greece to explore them all.
I chose from all these incredible attractions the most unique and special ones. Here is my list:
1. Meteora
Located on the mainland, in the central part of Greece, the Unesco World Heritage site of Meteora is home to one of the most complex and unique Orthodox monasteries in the whole world.
After Mount Athos, a place located also in Greece accessible only to men, Meteora is the second important place for orthodox Christians.
In total there are 6 monasteries built on the huge rock formations and on the hills around the area.
Some of the Christian settlements from Meteora dates from XI century and are one of the oldest in Europe.
You will be amazed by the way the constructions are suspended on the mountain, at a maximum height of 400 metres.
The oldest and largest monastery which is still functional is The great Meteoron Monastery, one of the most amazing places to visit in Greece.
Meteora is a very popular place among curious tourists so expect to hundreds of people roaming around.
Wake up early in the morning and climb Meteora among de first ones.
Where to sleep
Kalabaka, at the bottom of the mountain, is the right place to search for accommodation.
We recommend you a cosy apartment complex with private kitchens named Meteora House .
The studios and apartments are very clean and spacious and the good news is that the parking place is free.
2. Ikaria
Ikaria is one of the most beautiful Greek islands and listed as unique places to visit in Greece by many tourists.
It is located close to the Turkish coast and the best way to get there is by ferry from Mykonos.
So, once in Mykonos, you are just 2 hours away from this small paradise.
Do you know why this island is so unique?
Because it is considered by international publication to be one of the five „Blue Zones” from the entire world.
A Blue Zone is a place which offers outstanding conditions for humans.
In other words, people who live in these places live longer and are happier than the rest of the world.
This is one of the hidden places to visit in Greece and a place where I would like to live!
By the way, do you know which are the 5 Blue Zones from Earth?
The Blue Zones from Earth are Okinawa (Japan), Sardinia (Italy). Loma Linda (California), Ikaria (Greece) and Nicoya (Costa Rica).
You definitely have to see this magnificent island!
Where to sleep
Atheras Hotel Ikaria is our recommendation for Ikaria.
It is a great hotel located just 50 metres away from the beach in the centre of the city of Evdilos.
Evdilos is one of the most traditional towns from the whole island and is located in the northern part of Ikaria.
3. Delos
One of Greece best-hidden secrets is the island of Delos.
This uninhabited island is located in the Cyclades Archipelago, very close to Mykonos.
Delos is an ancient Greek site, an archaeological site from ancient times that is considered by historians as the birthplace of Apollo.
Apollo was according to the greek mythology the son of Zeus and Leto, the god of healing, medicine, archery, poetry, music and the sun.
The ancient ruins from the island consist of Doric temples, an amphitheatre, human settlements with mosaics and the emblematic Terrace of the Lions statue.
All the items displayed at the open-air archaeological museum on this island have been excavated from there.
Stay safe while abroad
- medical safety abroad
- medical assistance including COVID-19
- emergency medical evacuation
- trip interruption -up to $5.000
- travel delay - up to $100/day
4. Monemvasia
One of the unique places to visit in Greece is Monemvasia.
Monemvasia is a beautiful town from Laconia, Greece, located on a small island on the eastern coast of Peloponnese.
The medieval fortress dating from the 17th century is built on top of a hill and offers wonderful views of the surrounding area.
This small town is very charming and you will definitely fall in love with it fast.
This is one of the hidden places to visit in Greece for your next holiday!
Book some time and explore its narrow and old streets, stop for a coffee in a beautiful coffee shop or eat a traditional meal in an authentic greek taverna.
Where to sleep
Kinsterna Hotel Monemvasia , rated as one of the most beautiful hotels from Greece is a wonderful boutique hotel which offers wonderful views over the Monemvasia Castle and the sea.
Located in a Byzantine mansion fully restored, the hotel offers a great outdoor pool, a traditional hammam and a world-class spa.
Kinsterna hotel is surrounded by a lush garden where you can sit and enjoy your breakfast or a cup of coffee.
5. Kefalonia
Kefalonia is definitely a great choice for your Greece holiday and among the best unique places to visit in Greece! It is located in the Ionian Sea in the western part of Greece mainland.
This wonderful island is famous for its sandy beaches and dry landscapes.
Cosy and picturesque villages are spread all over the island and are a good place to chill and try the local cuisine.
On your tour across the island stop by Asos village and book some time to visit Asos Castle, a beautiful castle dating from 16th century on top of a steep cliff.
Myrtos beach from the north side of the island is also a very popular destination for those looking for sandy beach and turquoise waters and is considered by many ones of the most beautiful hidden places to visit in Greece.
A good thing is that you can find some very beautiful beaches on the island which are still untouched by humans and they are accessible only on foot.
The very well known movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin was filmed here, on Kefalonia.
Where to sleep
For an outstanding getaway, you should definitely try F Zeen Kefalonia .
It is a remarkable adults-only resort with 2 swimming pools, amazing massage treatments and yoga classes for those looking to relax.
The resort is located close to Lourdata village, just 50 metres away from the beach.
It is a beautiful and peaceful place, perfect for those looking for a hidden retreat where to chill off and enjoy the Greek sun.
All these unique places to visit in Greece have their own beauty and charm.
They show a new face of Greece, completely different than the one you’ve already seen!
Check them out and don’t forget to share with us your memories and experiences from your trip once you come back home!