10 places to visit in mainland Greece

This very special part of Greece is one of my absolute favorites. Just a couple of hours from Athens, the peninsula is full of adorable towns like Nafplio, Kalamata, and Pilos. Additionally, many of the beaches rival those of the islands — and don’t tell the Italians, but some of the best gelatos in Europe can be found here!

Up north in the mountains is a movie-like part of the country, Meteora. This region is home to 24 monasteries that date back to the 1920s. Carved into the rocks of the mountainside, you can hike from the nearby villages of Kalambaka and Kastraki or drive up and walk between them. Make sure to bring a scarf and long skirt, or be prepared to borrow one before entering!

Greece’s second city is totally worth a visit! In the northeastern corner lies this beautiful city full of history. There are numerous archeological sites, particularly of the Byzantine era, and plenty of museums. Additionally, it’s better situated along the Aegean than Athens, a sunset stroll along the promenade is a must!

Most of us have heard of Sparta; yes, it is a real place you can visit! This city is full of history and archeological remains just south of the Peloponnese! There’s even a quirky olive oil museum! And just a few miles away, enjoy the UNESCO site, Mystras — some of the best-preserved ruins in the country.

One of the most popular (and easiest) day trips from Athens, Delphi is just a couple of hours by car or bus but feels a world away. The ride will take you through Greek farmland before entering the mountains just before entering the ancient city ruins. Make sure to plan for a full day here, or better yet, stay the night!

In the lesser-visited northwest corner of Greece lies beautiful Ioannina and the surrounding area. Unlike other places on this list, there aren’t many sites or activities in the city, but it’s nice just to stroll and relax and enjoy a slower pace of life. It also makes a nice stop between Albania and Greece if you’re traveling between the two.

On the Peloponnese Peninsula lies another must-visit, Olympia, the location of the original Olympics. You can tour the Ancient Stadium, temples, and an amazing museum. Next to the site is an adorable village with many amenities, making for a great day!

Popular with Greeks, Nafpaktos is still relatively unknown to international tourists. This means fewer crowds and a new kind of experience. The relaxed, former Venetian town is similar to Nafplio on the Peloponnese but with a less hectic vibe. Above the town, there’s also an incredible castle you can’t miss!

On the southernmost tip of Greece lies the Mani Peninsula, home to undiscovered beaches and mostly empty villages that cling to the cliff sides. Rent a car to follow the meandering roads and enjoy the rugged landscape.

On the way to both the Peloponnese and Mani Peninsulas from Athens, you’ll drive by the canal that links the Ionian and the Aegean Seas. An important accomplishment when it first opened 130 years ago, it forever changed maritime navigation in the area. Today, you can pull over, watch boats pass through the narrow passage, and marvel at the centuries-old formation that still holds up.