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The best beaches in Greece

With over 13,000km (8,000 miles) of coastline, Greece beach holidays are among the best in the world. Planning your next escape? Here are some top beaches:

Navagio Beach, Zakynthos

Sparkling white cliffs, turquoise waters, soft sands, and a shipwreck make Navagio – aka Shipwreck Beach – on Zakynthos one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.

Koukounaries Beach, Skiathos

Framed by a pine forest, Koukounaries Beach is Skiathos’ longest beach. It offers plenty of action with beach bars, watersports centres, and lines of parasols and sun-loungers.

Elafonisi Beach, Crete

Famous for its pink sand and clear waters, Elafonisi Beach on Crete's southwest tip is a natural beauty. Despite its growing popularity, you can still find a secluded spot to enjoy a quiet moment. Pure bliss.

Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia

Featured in the film "Captain Corelli's Mandolin," Myrtos Beach is one of Greece's best-known beaches yet remains remarkably unspoilt. Pine-topped cliffs descend to a smooth white-pebble beach with beach bars and clear waters.

Things to do in Greece

Discover Greece’s best bits – besides the beaches. Ancient archaeology, wonderful wildlife, and idyllic islands await.

The Acropolis of Athens

Greece’s iconic Acropolis should be top of any must-see list. A combination of ancient history and the myths and legends of Greek gods, it sits high above the city. Visit the modern Acropolis Museum, especially the Parthenon Gallery on the top floor with views of the Acropolis. Early morning is a great time to visit to avoid heat and crowds.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Crete

For a Greek history lesson on your next Crete holiday, visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. It features artefacts spanning over 5,000 years, including a Minoan collection and frescoes from Knossos, Tylissos, Amnissos, and Agia Triada.

The Sanctuary of Delphi

At the foot of Mount Parnassos, the UNESCO-listed Sanctuary of Delphi was dedicated to Apollo and revered as a sacred site. Its highlight is the Temple of Apollo. The Delphi Archaeological Museum next door features the 2,500-year-old bronze sculpture, the Charioteer.

Sail around the Ionian Islands

To experience the real beauty of the Greek islands, hire a boat and explore the Ionian Sea, stopping off for dips on secluded beaches or traditional mezé lunches at waterside tavernas. Lefkada, Antipaxos, and Ithaca are must-visit spots.

Palace of Knossos, Crete

On the outskirts of Heraklion, the Minoan Palace of Knossos is Crete's most mesmerizing ancient site. Built around 2000 BCE, it features spectacular Byzantine frescoes. In Greek mythology, this is where King Minos kept the Minotaur.

The flamingos of Lefkada

The Ionian island of Lefkada has one of Greece's largest natural wetlands, attracting seabirds from across the continent. October is flamingo season, a spectacular sight with flocks of pink flamingos.

Olympia, Peloponnese

The very first Olympic Games were held in Ancient Olympia in 776 BCE. Visit the ruins of the original Olympic stadium and the Archaeological Museum of Olympia to see statues of Hermes and Nike of Paionios, the Greek goddess of strength, speed, and victory.

When to go to Greece

With around 300 days of sunshine a year, Greece has some of the best weather in Europe. While it can get blisteringly hot in July and August, especially in Athens, the high temperatures are perfect for the breezier islands.

Greek Orthodox Easter (usually April) is a highlight of the calendar especially across the islands, when week-long celebrations with symbolic events, parades and festivities mean hotels book up fast. If you’re looking to travel at this time, search and compare well in advance for the best prices.

When is the cheapest time to visit Greece?

Room rates drop as fast as the temperatures in the low season from November to March (expect average highs between 13C and 19C). While the cooler days are pleasant, many resort facilities close out of season.

When should I go for the best weather?

The shoulder seasons of May, June, September and October are the best times for Greece holidays. Temperatures still reach a balmy 25C, but the bars, restaurants and beaches are much quieter. During peak summer (July and August) expect temperatures in the 30s.