Fall in love with Greece: Where to stay and what to do, according to those in the know

Dreaming of crystal clear waters, bright sand beneath your feet, and a historical experience that’s second to none? Greece has beauty in every corner. A destination sparkling with sights, experiences, and versatile nature, meet your new holiday haven—be it Crete, Mykonos, Corfu, Rhodes or other Greek wonders—and with it, a new luxe guide to help you discover the hidden wonders of this beautiful nation.

Bazaar Arabia and Greece Now magazine, recently joined forces to bring you our editors’ recommendations when it comes to where to stay and what to do when visiting Greece.

“Many believe that Greece is only about what they have learned from the history books at school,” Vassilios Nicolaos Vitsilogiannis, Greece Now’s acting editor. “Together with my team, we try to show that things are evolving in Greece, the country where culture and philosophy flourished.”

Here, we share a comprehensive list of where to stay and what to do while vacationing in Greece.

Where to stay

Greece offers something for everyone, including both traditional accommodations and newly built hotels, resorts and bungalows. Many room reservations are now made via Airbnb, allowing Greece-hungry travellers to choose their ideal location, season, price point and services. 

For a true Grecian experience, choose accommodation in Neoclassical buildings featuring dramatic staircases, high ceilings and majestic facades—the building style pays tribute to the glory of eras past. 

The Zillers Athens Hotel, Athens 

Kyria Boutique House, Athens

The Bold Type, Patras

1900 Hotel, Symi

Aristide Hotel, Syros

What to do

While the country is known for its mile-long beaches or feverish nightlife, visitors can immerse themselves in architecture and history. Discover unique landscapes, caves and secluded destinations–often combining the sights of both mountains and seas. For explorers, Greece treats visitors to impressive stone tower houses and coastal regions sparkling with rich history and tradition. Special recommendations are the preserved Vathia and Kardamili and Instagram-worthy towns such as Areopolis, Gythio and Monemvasia.

Relax and unwind in stunning coves and beaches, a mix of sand or pebble surfaces, crystal clear waters and rich marine life, giving visitors the chance to see seals, dolphins and sea turtles up close. Bring a taste of your holiday home with you, choosing from an array of olive oil, honey, spices, local herbs and salt flowers.

For those seeking a more active holiday, choose from long days on crystal blue seas with sailing, scuba diving, cave exploration or water sports, or explore your adventurous side by immersing yourself deep in Grecian nature with horseback riding, mountain biking or trekking. Unwind after an active day out at many of the country’s spa and relaxation centres. 

This piece originally appeared in Harper's Bazaar Arabia

Feature image: _mzvikay_/Instagram