Greek Mainland

While most vacationers flock to the Greek islands, very few consider exploring the Greek mainland. However, it is just as beautiful here - and definitely much less crowded. Read on to find out which cities, beaches, and attractions you absolutely must see.

Are you still searching for the perfect vacation destination in Greece? Perhaps this year you'll skip the stunning Greek islands and venture into the less crowded mainland of Greece. The Greek mainland rivals the classics like Crete and Rhodes - in addition to many archaeological treasures, the landscape offers something for every type of traveler. Picturesque sandy beaches, rugged mountains, and pristine hiking trails provide a personalized vacation experience that we are sure you will enjoy!

Peloponnese - The All-Rounder

Have you ever heard of the Peloponnese Peninsula? Unfortunately, the Peloponnese often stays in the shadow of more famous vacation spots in Greece. However, the peninsula in the south of the mainland offers everything you hope for from a dream summer vacation: Along the coasts, you can stroll along miles of sandy beaches and experience the much-desired beach getaway.

Since the region is more than twice the size of the island giant Crete, its strength lies not only in its magical coastlines: A trip across the Peloponnese gives you an incredible variety of landscapes: from completely unspoiled coastal sections in Kyllini, to bike paths in Lakopetra, to the charming old towns with authentic romantic taverns where mostly locals enjoy delicious Greek dishes.

Vacation guru tip: To explore the Peloponnese stress-free, it's a good idea to rent a car.

The city of Nafplio is considered the most beautiful in the Peloponnese, offering winding streets and picturesque squares. For excursions, the city in the east of the Greek peninsula serves as an ideal starting point - both to Athens and to Peloponnesian destinations like Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Dendria, many travelers use the well-developed bus network.

While nature lovers and beach enthusiasts are well catered for in the Peloponnese, the peninsula is especially noted for its cultural and historical significance - even reflected in its name: Also known as the 'Island of Pelops,' it was named after the son of the famous King Tantalus - an important figure in Greek mythology. In countless archaeological sites, its traces can still be found. The athletes among you can marvel at the beginnings of competitive sports: What started with simple foot races in the ancient stadium was expanded into the now historical city with venues for long jump, javelin and discus throwing, wrestling, boxing, and chariot racing. It's no wonder that this site made it onto the UNESCO World Heritage list.

However, the ancient Greeks were not the only ones who enjoyed the Peloponnese: You embark on a journey through time when you visit Mycenae or the Palace of Nestor, Methoni, Corinth, or Nafplio. From antiquity to modern times, you encounter traces of centuries-long history: from the impressive Mycenaean architectural remains to Olympia - the birthplace of the Olympic Games - and the Byzantine castle town of Mystras, to the traces of the Venetians. Your Greece vacation in the Peloponnese can be as diverse and unique as this!

Looking at a map of Greece, one immediately notices where all the natural beauties are gathered - in Chalkidiki! The region is bursting with greenery and attracts, along with sun worshippers, many nature seekers every year - Chalkidiki offers much more than just beach fun. Due to its size, it makes sense for newcomers to Greece to distinguish between mainland Chalkidiki and the coastal region.

The triplet of peninsulas in Greece couldn't be more different: The three 'fingers,' each extending 50 km from Chalkidiki into the Aegean Sea, are true celebrities among travel destinations - yet they must not be lumped together.

The title of 'Most Famous Peninsula' is undoubtedly claimed by Kassandra. Many travel guides with the label 'Chalkidiki' focus exclusively on this tourist hotspot. Kassandra boasts the most beautiful beaches and resorts, featuring fantastic beach bars and numerous water sports opportunities - a paradise for sun lovers. The region has naturally adapted to the high demand: There is no shortage of hotels and resorts.

Monastic Republic of Athos: The Holy Mountain Athos - also known as 'the garden of the Mother of God' - is a place of contemplation and tranquility, with its 20 monasteries, all of which are architectural masterpieces.

For those looking to escape the crowds and bustle on vacation and instead seek tranquility and a connection to nature, Sithonia is the place to visit. The middle finger of Chalkidiki turns away from the frantic chaos and reveals the most scenic part of Chalkidiki. Fantastic biodiversity, a well-maintained network of hiking trails, and beaches where you can still find a spot for your towel await you here.

Additionally, the 808-meter-high peak offers an exciting landscape, so hiking trips and mountain biking excursions should be on your list. If you want to explore the small towns, be sure to note places like Sarti, Nikiti, and Néos Marmaras. Interested in a Chalkidiki vacation? Find the best deals here.

Often referred to as Saloniki for simplicity's sake in Germany, the metropolitan area of Thessaloniki, with over 1 million inhabitants, fulfills the image of a metropolis: narrow streets, busy roads, a good public transport network. Most tourists arrive at Thessaloniki International Airport, from where many direct flights to Europe are available, making connections to other top travel destinations in Greece ideal. Shopaholics will not be disappointed: As one would expect from a proper metropolis, the streets are well-stocked with shopping options.

In addition to great nightlife options, many significant historical monuments on the Greek mainland contribute to the city's popularity among travelers. Buildings from the early Christian and Byzantine periods afford Greece another entry on the UNESCO World Heritage list, and the White Tower on the waterfront is rightly regarded as a symbol of the metropolis.

Are you one of those trendsetters looking to discover something great that your friends might not have heard of yet? Then head to Pilion! This Greek peninsula belongs to the Thessaly region and is located exactly halfway between Athens and Thessaloniki, the only two metropolises in Greece. A strategically sensible stop if you're considering a road trip through Greece.

Far from mass tourism, the area is often referred to as the 'Mountain of the Centaurs,' which (as it should!) relates to Greek mythology. You'll get used to the fact that while traveling through this small country, you will encounter at least one anecdote from Greek mythology in every place you visit. Upon arriving in Pilion, it won't surprise you how they can speak of mystical figures and legends here. Rocky coves and lush forests characterize the landscape, which will delight any hiking enthusiast. Rightly so, as hiking in Pilion is much more pleasant with well-paved trails and bilingual signposts than at other vacation spots.

With the Pagasetic Gulf on the west and the Aegean Sea on the east coast, Pilion is an absolute bathing paradise for all beach lovers! We particularly recommend Papa Nero Beach on the east and the resort town of Agria on the west: both are regarded as beautiful places to relax under the Greek sun. You can gain deeper insights into local culture in the fishing village of Kala Nera and the village of Afissos. These places can be considered tourist centers compared to the rest, possibly due to the wonderful view one can enjoy from Afissos over the Pagasetic Gulf.

In the village of Trikeri, whitewashed mansions align the streets offering a dreamy backdrop for your vacation photos. Behind the charming architecture lies a historical background: between 1750 and 1850, aristocrats built mostly three-story mansions known as Archontika. Today these are mostly used as private hotels where you can experience the villages of Pilion. When visiting Greek villages, you should always orient yourself towards the Platia, the marketplace, which is usually located centrally. This is where eating, going out, and discussing life in coffee houses takes place.

If you ever crave more hustle and bustle, visit the former trading city of Volos - you might pass through during your arrival as the nearest airport is located here as well. A special highlight of the city is the lively ouzeries that offer a variety of culinary tidbits to all gourmets! An extraordinary bus network also adds to Volos's charm: from the bus station, you can quickly and affordably reach almost anywhere. As a counterpoint to the fast public transport, you can also take the 90-minute ride on the historic Pilion Railway from Ano Lechonia to Milies. The 15 kilometers are taken at a leisurely pace, with coffee breaks included, and upon arrival, you can even help turn the wooden carriage.

When we talk about the beauty of the Greek mainland, we must not neglect to mention Delphi. Once known as the center of the world, this ancient city hosts one of the most famous sights in Greece: the Oracle of Delphi. Many important figures of antiquity sought its counsel on this mountainous ridge, approximately 2500 meters above sea level - popular questions concerned war or territorial conquests. The excavations are also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, uniting an incredible number of historical events, myths, and cultural peculiarities. As a history buff, you cannot miss this sightseeing trip.

To conclude our Greece road trip, we want to introduce you to a very special highlight of the Greek mainland: the suspended Monasteries of Meteora. Located near the city of Kalambaka, you will find the monasteries, some of which were breathtakingly built onto the local sandstone cliffs as early as the 14th century. The six still-inhabited monasteries are home to nuns and monks and can also be visited. The suspended monasteries of Meteora are on the UNESCO World Heritage list and are definitely worth a visit if you decide to explore the Greek mainland.

The Greek islands are undeniably popular travel destinations for a reason - after all, you can have a wonderful vacation on Rhodes, Crete & Co. especially tourists receive a wide array of attractions on a silver platter. However, the undiscovered destinations of the Greek mainland should not be forgotten! As you can see, you can experience a very diverse cultural vacation there, visit countless historical landmarks of the Greek mainland, and still get a nice tan while sunbathing on the fine sandy beaches. So what are you waiting for? Take a look at our current Greece offers, search through our flight finder for cheap Greece flights, or opt for a cruise and soon embark on your own adventure!