Ancient culture, sandy beaches, hot summer days, olives, and tzatziki are some of the things that characterize this radiant country. Perfect for history buffs, sun chasers, and hedonists, Greece caters to every taste.
With so many popular destinations, how can you know where to stay in Greece? Well, let us share some must-see attractions and accommodation choices.
Why You Should Visit Greece in 2024
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Greece has a lot of stories to tell. It’s the cradle of democracy, the origin of our Western civilization, and the original home of the Olympic games.
Then, there’s the piercingly blue sea and its countless picturesque cities and islands with histories that span thousands of years. Greece is a true gem of the Balkan Peninsula and southeastern Europe.
Its crossroads position between Europe, Africa, and Asia has made it a cultural melting pot which shows in its artists, writers, food, and architecture. Greece counts around 6,000 islands and islets, of which only 227 are inhabited.
From the perfect sandy beaches of Crete and the white-pebbled beaches of Mykonos to the sheltered bays of Zakynthos and the dark-colored volcanic sand of Santorini, the Greek coastline shows the wonders of nature’s diversity.
But it’s not only the coastline that attracts tourists to Greece. Athens, its capital, is a must-see for first-time visitors. It’s a destination where visitors can experience its grand history, contemporary charm, and the sandy beaches of the beautiful Aegean Sea.
With the famed Acropolis, the 5th century BC citadel watching over the city alongside the Parthenon temple, visitors are guaranteed a magical stay in Athens.
And then there’s Meteora, a place that appears to be otherworldly, with its Byzantine monasteries built on tall, steep rock formations. Greece is a country brimming with sights to behold and destinations to explore.
It’s nearly impossible to feel bored, even if you visit it year after year. But to make your choice easier, we’ve compiled five areas and cities we think have the most to offer. Read on to find out which one you find most attractive for your stay in this beautiful country!
The 5 Best Places to Stay in Greece
There’s something for everyone in our guide. You’ll see historical landmarks, museums, and cultural and religious institutions in Athens and Meteora.
Enjoy beautiful pebbled and sandy beaches paired with the white-blue waters of the Ionian and Aegean Seas in the Ionian and Cyclades Islands. And let’s not forget the remote, wild Crete, with its ancient cultural layers, untamed nature, and long, silvery beaches.
Our favorite areas include:
- Athens: The capital of Greece offers a great combination of fascinating history, culture, modern, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches.
- Rhodes: Rhodes is an ancient island that houses one of Greece’s most beautiful medieval cities.
- Meteora: A fascinating place where Byzantine monasteries were built atop towering rocks, it’s great for hikers and adventurers who want a taste of coastal, inland Greece.
- Santorini: A volcanic island filled with gorgeous, scenic townscapes, with whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches, grey volcanic beaches, and mouth-watering food and wines. It’s an excellent spot for pleasure seekers and those willing to spend more.
- Crete: Home to the oldest European civilization, the Minoans, Crete has a rich history, wild, untamed beaches, and breathtaking gorges. The city is ideal for adventurers and those who want a bit of isolation without forsaking the city entirely.
Where to Stay in Greece: Best Areas & Hotels
Greece is regularly featured among the most desired vacation destinations worldwide. In the Travelers’ Choice Awards for 2022, Crete takes the number one spot from the top 10 most popular world destinations.
Because of its geography and history, tourism is an essential part of Greece’s economy, so it offers a vast selection of accommodations — from budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious.
The same goes for food. You can enjoy their numerous tavernas and small restaurants that serve traditional Greek food for a reasonable price or indulge in expensive seafood and seaside restaurants.
Greece’s tourist offer is versatile, with enough choices for diverse tastes. We’ve also included museums and historical places you can enjoy for free. There are also countless amazing beaches. So let’s dig in!
1. Athens
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Athens, the capital of Greece, is known as Europe’s historical capital due to its ancient roots. Athens was home to some of the greatest minds of the ancient Western world, including Plato, Socrates, and the best playwrights of the ancient world, Sophocles, Aeschylus, and Euripides.
The city has been a cultural hub for millennia and continues to be today. To experience the heart of Athens, begin your journey at Syntagma Square and Ermou Street, Athens’ central locations for shopping and tourism.
These are the most prominent areas in Athens, leading to other parts of the city, including the iconic Acropolis.
This fifth-century BC temple stands proud, overlooking the whole of Athens, containing ancient mysteries and temples devoted to the patron saint of Greece, Athena, after whom the city is named.
When you feel like you need a break from the city dynamic, just stop by the National Garden, a beautiful green space in Athens that will rejuvenate your spirit.
When the sun goes down, head to the Gazi neighborhood, the city’s trendiest place for a great night out. Gazi was a former industrial area. The converted gasworks called Technopolis is now an industrial museum holding contemporary art spaces and concert venues.
And if you’re looking to escape the city for a day, take a trip to Glyfada, a seaside suburb of Athens. You can spend your day at Glyfada Beach, sunbathing and swimming in the Saronic Gulf of the Aegean Sea.
Athens Budget Hotels
- City Circus Athens is a hostel in the center of Athens, just a stone’s throw away from Ermou Street and a five-minute walk from the Acropolis. It’s a superb, clean hostel with a rooftop terrace and a bar restaurant. It features dormitory-style rooms with lockers and a shared bathroom with a shower.
- Victory Inn is a two-star hotel just a 10-minute walk from the National Archeological Museum. The Victoria subway station is 500 m away and can get you to the Acropolis and Athens city center. The rooms are not shared and feature an en suite bathroom. There’s Wi-Fi in all the rooms, as well as satellite TV and air conditioning.
Athens Mid-Range Hotels
- Plaka Hotel is located in Athens’ historical center, only a five-minute walk from Syntagma Square. The rooms are equipped with a minibar and a safe. There’s also free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and a rooftop bar with a breathtaking view of the Acropolis. Most rooms have views of the Acropolis and the neighboring hills.
- Athinais Hotel offers excellent value for money. It has comfortable, air-conditioned rooms, satellite TV, en suite bathrooms, and a fridge. The National Garden of Athens is a 20-minute walk, while the nearest metro station is only five minutes away. The hotel has a bar and a restaurant that serves local and international dishes.
Athens Luxury Hotels
- Electra Metropolis is located only 200 m from Syntagma Square and Ermou Street. It’s a modern, sleek five-star hotel with a sun terrace and a top-floor restaurant overlooking the Acropolis, a rooftop pool, an indoor pool, fitness, spa, and wellness center. The guests can enjoy the lounge area, featuring a sky-lit atrium decorated with artwork from the famous Greek painter Alekos Fassianos.
- The Hotel Grande Bretagne is a definition of luxury. Located on Syntagma Square, it boasts lavish rooms that make you feel like a royal. The roof garden restaurant gives you the best view of the Acropolis. You can drink the finest wines and cocktails there, dine, dip into the outdoor pool, or just gaze with awe at the view. The spa, wellness center, fitness center, and indoor pool are also available as a guest.
Read Next: Where to Stay in Athens & Best Time to Visit Athens
2. Rhodes
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Rhodes is a stunning island in the southeastern Aegean Sea and part of the Dodecanese group of Greek islands. The central city, Rhodes, is named after the island and boasts a breathtaking Old Town core.
Its medieval streets and castles are some of the most well-preserved in Europe and are part of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Old Town is surrounded by a medieval fortified wall, and among its numerous historic sites are the Palace of the Grand Master, a 14th-century castle, and the Street of the Knights with the seven inns.
Rhodes is steeped in ancient Greek, Byzantine, Italian, and Ottoman history, which can be seen throughout the island. The Acropolis of Rhodes and the Acropolis of Lindos are must-see sites for every ancient history buff.
As a visitor, you can explore countless ancient ruins and temples, medieval castles, and museums to learn more about the island’s fascinating past. But Rhodes is not only known for its history, its old town edifices, and its medieval and ancient remains.
It’s also home to high mountains and beautiful forests, making it great for hikes. In addition, Rhodes has some of the best beaches in Greece, such as Tsambika, Lindos, and Elli.
Visitors can swim, sunbathe, sip cocktails and coffee at the local bars, or isolate on remote spots and enjoy water sports like snorkeling and windsurfing.
When it comes to accommodation, Rhodes has a variety of options to suit all budgets. Still, overall it’s a very affordable island with a majority of budget-friendly and mid-range hotel prices.
Rhodes Budget Hotels
- Medieval Rose Hotel is a three-star hotel located in Rhodes Old Town, with the center of Rhodes being only 200 m away. You can choose between rooms with a private or shared bathroom. All of the rooms have complimentary toiletries, bed linen, and towels. There’s free Wi-Fi in the shared lounge area.
- Stavros Pension is located 800 m from the port and 500 m from the new part of the city of Rhodes. It offers air-conditioned rooms with spacious balconies, a TV, an electric kettle, a mini-fridge, and a private bathroom. The three-star pension also has a bar and restaurant. There’s free Wi-Fi throughout the whole property.
Rhodes Mid-Range Hotels
- In Camera Art Boutique Hotel is a four-star hotel 500 m away from Rhode City’s medieval castle. It’s a lovely hotel with stone-built walls and arches that blend perfectly with the old town environment. All rooms are air-conditioned and have free Wi-Fi, TV, and gorgeous views of the old town. In the garden, there’s an outdoor hot tub and a bar.
- Saint Michel is a three-star hotel in an 800-year-old building in Rhodes’ Old Town. It’s a charming hotel that welcomes its guests in stone-built rooms with private bathrooms and modern comforts like air-conditioning, TV, and Wi-Fi. The hotel is a two-minute walk from the Old Town, while the commercial harbor and Rhodes’ new part of town are only five minutes away.
Rhodes Luxury Hotels
- Olympic Palace Hotel is a five-star hotel with a private beach located in Ixia, a resort located five kilometers away from Rhodes City. It’s a super-luxury hotel with four swimming pools, a sauna, massage rooms, three restaurants, and a video games room. The rooms are equipped with Wi-Fi, satellite TV, coffee and tea facilities, a mini-fridge, and a safe box. The hotel has plenty of sports facilities for tennis, table tennis, volleyball, and mini-golf and a fitness center.
- Sperveri Boutique Hotel is a beautiful hotel in Rhodes town. Its elegant rooms offer free Wi-Fi, a TV, a safe, a coffee machine and fridge, air-conditioning, and a private bathroom. There’s a concierge service at the premises. Continental, Italian, or vegetarian breakfast is included in the price.
3. Meteora
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Meteora is a remarkable destination in central Greece, located in the region of Thessaly, near Kalambaka. What makes this place unique is the ancient rock formations that seem to float in the air and the Byzantine monasteries built on top of them.
This is why Meteora is a part of the World Heritage List. The massive rock formations are about 60 million years old (yes, you read that right), and over time the rain, wind, and earthquakes have molded them into their characteristic shapes.
Even more fascinating are the monasteries atop the towering sandstone formations, which seem to defy gravity. Meteora’s first and oldest monastery is also known as the Holy Monastery of the Metamorphosis (Transfiguration of Christ).
The seclusion and loftiness of the monasteries meant that the monks and worshipers within its walls had complete control of the monastery and were safe from political turmoil.
The only way they could be reached was by climbing a long ladder. Whenever the monks felt threatened, they could draw the ladder up, ensuring their safety. In Meteora, there’re twenty-four monasteries.
However, only six are active and open to tourists. These are:
- Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron
- Holy Monastery of Varlaam
- Holy Monastery of Rousanou
- Holy Monastery of St. Nicholas Anapafsas
- Holy Monastery of St. Stephen
Each of these monasteries was built in a unique style between the 14th and 16th centuries, featuring unusual artwork and stunning views from the surrounding area.
Meteora is an attractive destination for hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and mountaineers since there are a lot of hiking trails and climbing routes available.
The nearby city of Kalabaka and the village of Kastraki offer restaurants and accommodations that are easy on the pockets since most prices range from budget-friendly to mid-range.
Meteora Budget Hotels
- Spartacus Hotel is located in the village of Kastraki, surrounded by impressive rocks. The Monastery of Saint Nikolaos Anapafsas is within walking distance of the house. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, parking, air conditioning, private bathrooms, and balconies with stunning views. The hotel’s restaurant serves a rich buffet breakfast and Greek and international cuisine.
- Hotel Galaxy is a two-star hotel located in the center of Kalabaka, only 2 mi from the Meteora site. The hotel has free Wi-Fi, a bar, a lounge area, and air-conditioned rooms with TV and a private bathroom. Breakfast is included in the price, and the bar serves other drinks and refreshments for hotel guests.
Meteora Mid-Range Hotels
- Divani Meteora Hotel is a four-star hotel with an outdoor and indoor pool and beautiful oakwood rooms with a view of the Meteora rocks. All rooms have Wi-Fi, satellite TV, a minibar, and air conditioning. The guests can use the sauna, the steam room, and the jacuzzi. There’s also a fitness room for guests who don’t want to miss out on their daily exercise. The hotel has a restaurant and bar where you can dine and drink cocktails.
- Famissi Eden Hotel is a four-star hotel with a swimming pool and beautiful rooms with balconies overlooking the Meteora rocks. All rooms have air conditioning and Wi-Fi. Besides the outdoor pool, the hotel has a restaurant, a cafeteria bar, and free parking for hotel guests.
4. Santorini
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Santorini is a volcanic island in the Cyclades group of islands in the south Aegean Sea. It’s known for its picturesque white houses, blue-domed churches, stunning scenery, and breathtaking sunsets.
The island is exceptional because it was formed from a massive volcanic eruption 3,600 years ago, which created its unique landscape. The terrifying and fascinating fact is that, although now dormant, the Santorini volcano is still active, with its last eruption being in the 1950s.
Santorini is a popular destination because of its almost-mythical origin, crystal-clear waters, gray volcanic beaches, and charming villages. One of the most attractive island destinations is the Oia village, arguably the most scenic village in Greece.
Fira is the largest town of Santorini and its capital. Fira and Oia have similar landscapes, but the latter is smaller, more upscale, and pleasure-oriented.
Fira is a bit larger, has a more vibrant nightlife, and has more places for shopping. Another important site on Santorini is the Akrotiri prehistoric city (currently a small village) which was a Bronze Age Minoan settlement.
As a visitor, you’ll witness how developed this civilization was, with its elaborate drainage systems, multi-story buildings, and beautiful frescoes. You’ll also get a glimpse of the Minoan’s daily life.
Santorini is also home to some great wines and vineyards because of its unique volcanic soil. It also boasts incredible restaurants that serve traditional Greek dishes with local ingredients, like fresh seafood and grilled meat.
When it comes to accommodation, Santorini is more expensive than other Greek islands and vacation spots. It has several luxury and mid-range hotels, with some rare budget finds.
Santorini Budget Hotels
- Ancient Thera Studios, a three-star studio hotel, is one of the rare budget-friendly accommodations in Santorini. It’s located on the island’s west side in the small village of Perissa. It’s very close to the famous black sand beach of Perissa. The studio apartments feature a fully equipped kitchenette, a dining area, air-conditioning, TV, Wi-Fi, and a spacious balcony. Breakfast is served at the studio’s restaurant, where they also serve traditional Greek food throughout the day.
- Sunny Days is a two-star hotel with an outdoor swimming pool in Fira. It has a terrace and a garden, and a shared lounge that guests can use. The hotel offers room service and free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, a flat-screen TV, a fridge, and a wardrobe. Guests can choose between à la carte and continental breakfast.
- Zorbas Hotel Santorini is a three-star hotel located in Pyrgos. The rooms are decorated in an elegant, Cyclades style way. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and a lovely sun terrace overlooking the Aegean Sea and the countryside. All rooms have en suite bathrooms, a minibar, air conditioning, TV, and free Wi-Fi. Some rooms have balconies. Breakfast is served in the dining area, and drinks and coffee are served in the pool area.
Santorini Mid-Range Hotels
- Milos Villas Hotel is situated in a quiet area 800 m from the center of Fira. The three-star hotel offers excellent value for money, allowing visitors to enjoy stunning views of the Aegean Sea, a swimming pool, a terrace with views from Santorini, a hot tub, and a barbecue. All rooms have Wi-Fi, a TV, and a fridge.
- Agia Irini is a three-star hotel with an outdoor pool in Imerovigli village in Crete. It has air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, and balconies with either sea or mountain views. The rooms are decorated in the traditional Cycladic style, with private bathrooms, a TV, and a refrigerator. A pool bar allows guests to get drinks and snacks while sunbathing.
- Kafouros Hotel is a two-star hotel 100 m away from Kamari Beach and a 10-minute drive from Fira. It has an outdoor swimming pool and a beautiful sun terrace with flowers. The rooms have free Wi-Fi, a fridge, and a dining table. Guests can enjoy an English breakfast upon request for an extra charge. There’s also a poolside bar where guests can get drinks and snacks all day.
Santorini Luxury Hotels
- Anteliz Suites is a four-star hotel in Fira with an outdoor swimming pool and an open-air hydromassage tub. It has beautifully decorated air-conditioned rooms with Wi-Fi, TV, private, marble-floored bathrooms, and a minibar. Breakfast is served every morning on a wonderful terrace by the pool. The hotel is only a five-minute walk from the top nightlife spots in Fira.
- Phos The Boutique is a five-star luxury hotel located on the edge of the Caldera crater in Akrotiri. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, sun terraces, and lounges with a beautiful sea view. All the rooms have Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and king-size beds. Breakfast is served a la carte and can be enjoyed by the pool, in the hotel’s restaurant, or in your room.
- Sun Angelos Oia – Luxury Cave Suites is a four-star hotel with an outdoor pool in Oia. The air-conditioned rooms have free Wi-Fi, a balcony with gorgeous sea views, a private bathroom, coffee and tea-making facilities, and satellite TV.
Read Next: Where to Stay in Santorini & Best Time to Visit Santorini
5. Crete
Streets of traditional village of Paleochora, Crete, Greece on June 25, 2019
Crete is the south’s largest and most populated island, separating the Aegean Sea from the Lybian Sea. The island is majestic, brimming with untamed nature, out-of-this-world beaches, impressive mountainscapes, valleys, and 36 gorges.
Crete was home to one of Europe’s oldest and most advanced civilizations, the Minoans, who date back to 3500BC-1100BC.
One of the main attractions is the Minoan palace of Knossos in Heraklion, which still stands tall and proud, attracting historians and curious tourists who want to uncover Crete’s ancient, mysterious past.
As we mentioned, Crete is also known for its wild, rugged nature and gorgeous beaches. A must-see spot is the Samaria Gorge in the White Mountains, alongside the numerous beaches across the island.
Here is a small selection of beaches in Crete you should visit:
- Balos Beach
- Elafonissi Beach
- Vai Beach
- Falassarna Beach
- Agiofaraggo Beach
Heraklion is the largest city on Crete, after which come Chania and Rhetymno. Heraklion is a beautiful example of a cross-centuries multicultural influence where Minoan, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman times collide.
It’s a great city if you want to experience the urban side of Crete but also want a taste of Greece’s ancient culture. If you visit Heraklion, you cannot miss visiting the Knossos Palace, the Koules Fortress, and the Venetian Port.
Chania is the second biggest city on Crete and bears a lot of Venetian-style architecture.
A must-see is the Venetian Lighthouse and the Samaria Gorge. Accommodation in Crete is versatile when it comes to prices. Here we’ve included a bit of everything for every pocket and taste.
Crete Budget Hotels
- Intra Muros Hostel is a hip hostel in the center of Heraklion, close to many city attractions. It’s an excellent, clean, budget option for travelers with limited means. The hostel has dormitory rooms with shared bathrooms and balconies that offer city views. There’s a kitchen and shared coffee machine for those who want to cook.
- Astoria Hotel is a two-star hotel located in the idyllic seaside village of Agia Galini. This family-run hotel is a perfect budget-friendly option for travelers who want extra comfort and coastal views. All rooms have an en suite bathroom, air conditioning, and fridge. Guests can enjoy breakfast in the hotel breakfast room or the comfort of their own rooms.
Crete Mid-Range Hotels
- Astoria Hotel is a two-star hotel in the picturesque seaside village of Agia Galini, the southern part of Crete. It’s a small, family-run hotel that offers comfortable, air-conditioned rooms with en suite bathrooms and beautiful views of the Lybian Sea and the surrounding mountains. Breakfast is included in the price. The hotel is an excellent choice for budget travelers who don’t want to save on comfort since it offers fantastic value for money.
- DOM Boutique Hotel is a four-star hotel located in the center of Heraklion. It’s only within walking distance of Heraklion’s famous Amoudara Beach. The hotel offers comfortable, modern, air-conditioned rooms with a coffee machine, wardrobe, and a private bathroom. The hotel units all have fabulous city views, and breakfast is included in the price. The hotel is only four minutes away from Morosini Square, five minutes away from the Venetian Port, and seven minutes away from Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
Crete Luxury Hotels
- Radisson Blu Beach Resort is a five-star hotel in Milatos village, an hour away by car from Heraklion, a great choice if you want more secluded luxurious accommodation. The hotel offers gorgeous views of the Aegean Sea and the quiet, serene landscape of Crete that you can enjoy sitting at one of its six restaurants where guests can dine supreme cuisine prepared by their Michelin-awarded chef. Radisson Blu has a spa, a private beach, seven swimming pools, a water park, and a kids club.
- Domus Renier Boutique Hotel is also a five-star hotel in Chania’s old Venetian Harbour. It has impressive views of the old port and lighthouse and boasts fabulous interiors decorated in earth tones, combining Greco-Venetian style. The hotel is close to many restaurants, bars, and attractions in Chania, such as The Archaeological Museum of Chania and the Municipal Art Gallery of Chania, which are only 200 m away. Guests can enjoy the traditional Cretan breakfast prepared from fresh, local ingredients.
Read Next: Where to Stay in Crete & Best Time to Visit Crete
Book Your Trip to Greece Today!
Greece offers many breathtaking destinations, and it’s super hard to choose which one to visit first. To recap, the best areas to stay in Greece include:
| ✅ Best Area to See Everything | Athens |
| 🏰 Most Historic Area | Rhodes |
| 🥾 Best Area for Hiking | Meteora |
| 🦞 Best Luxury Area | Santorini |
| 🌳 Best to Experience Nature | Crete |
Overall, Greece is a terrific choice for your vacation, regardless of whether you want to spend the whole day basking in the sun, swimming, visiting ancient sites or medieval castles, hiking, or just admiring human persistence and spiritual belief in combination with natural wonders.
So, with so much to see and do, and no bad areas to stay, what are you waiting for — book your trip today to experience all that Greece has to offer!