Thanks to movies and social media, the Greek Islands are usually the star of the show when planning a trip to this fabulous country. But there’s much more to Greece than just Santorini and Mykonos. The Greek mainland offers incredible sites, beautiful photos, and ancient history just as much as the islands. But without the throngs of tourists.
Mainland Greece is a perfect option if you want to enjoy all the typical experiences of a Greek adventure without the crowds and higher price tag. A classic week-long Greek adventure includes Athens for history and a few islands for stunning beaches and unique towns. Here are three regions of mainland Greece that include all of that and more.
If you’re excited about the idea of the Greek Islands with their stunning blue water, consider a trip to….
The Peloponnese
This peninsula, located in southern Greece, has a little bit of everything. From beaches to history, this region is the perfect spot to while away a week or two. You can go sailing and wine tasting, enjoy pristine beaches, and hike dramatic gorges. It’s ideal to explore by car, with short drives and good quality roads.

Home Base: Nafplio
Nafplio is one of the most photogenic towns on the mainland. Tucked into a bay, Karathona Beach is a beautiful stretch of soft white sand and blue water. The city itself offers tranquil views, interesting architecture, and food. You’ll see a variety of architectural styles from Ottoman to Venetian. It’s a good home base as you explore the rest of the Peloponnese peninsula.
[Photo Credit: Despina Galani via Unsplash]
Explore: Marathopoli, Navarino Bay & Areopoli
Marathopoli
This quaint fishing village is about three and a half hours from Athens. It’s a small, laid-back town with stunning coastal scenery. The perfect place to relax.
Navarino Bay
A bay with a unique shape, surrounding cliffs, and amazing blue waters. It’s an incredibly scenic beach with calm, shallow waters close to a nature reserve. You can hike to the Neda waterfalls through a lush gorge with a series of waterfalls.
Areopoli
Historic stone villages with crystal-clear waters and seaside tavernas. The Mani Coast is wild and perfect with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and clear waters. This region is good for slow travel, peaceful coasts, postcard-perfect villages, and excellent snorkeling.
[Photo Credit: greece-newstart via Unsplash]

If you’re most interested in unique experiences, a bit of history, and lots of natural beauty, consider heading to:
Thessaly
Between Macedonia and central Greece, this natural scenery inspired the ancient Greeks. There are archaeological sites including amphitheaters, bridges, castles, Byzantine churches, Orthodox monasteries, and stone-age ruins. You can visit one of the best preserved monuments in archaeological history – the tomb of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. On top of that, you can enjoy lush forests, natural beauty and plenty of hiking.

Home Base: Volos
From beaches to shopping to history, this vibrant town is a great stop on your Thessaly road trip. It’s also a gateway to some of the lesser-known islands (and filming locations for Mamma Mia!) – Skopelos, Skiros, and Alonissos. Volos is home to an advanced Neolithic history, which shows in the city’s Archaeological Museum. In this museum, you’ll find artifacts from the time associated with the legends of the Trojan War and Jason and the Argonauts. The surrounding area boasts several archaeological sites and plenty of hiking in leafy green forests.
Explore: Pelion, Mount Olympus & Meteora
Pelion
A stunning blend of natural beauty, history, and architecture. Known for its captivating landscapes, this is a hidden gem of an authentic traditional village. Surrounded by lush forests and the Aegean Sea, Pelion is often referred to as the mythical home of the Centaurs. With cobblestone streets and centuries-old stone houses, this is the perfect place to slow down and relax.

Meteora
The destination offers striking rock formations and sprawling Eastern Orthodox Monasteries perched on top. You can drive or hike up to the monasteries. At the top of these rock formations, you’ll experience a serene, magical, and mystical view that you won’t soon forget.
[Photo Credit: Luna Zhang via Unsplash]
Mount Olympus
Yes, that Mount Olympus. The legendary home of the gods has hiking trails, scenic walks, and serious climbs. You’ll be struck by the dramatic views as you zig zag across this famous mountain.
If you’re most excited about the contrasts, the dramatic scenery, and enjoying a little bit of everything all in one place, you should visit…
Central Macedonia
Central Macedonia is full of contrasts – ancient ruins, bustling cities, towering mountains, and sunny beaches. With history, nature, and charm, this region has something for everyone. This is the birthplace of Alexander the Great and the home of incredible mosaics and artifacts from that era. Additionally, it hosts some of the best blue flag beaches in Greece.
Home Base: Thessaloniki
Greece’s second-largest city with a major airport and seaport. A UNESCO city for gastronomy – this is a perfect place for foodies. There’s a vibrant coffee culture, and a variety of modern to historic cooking techniques to enjoy. Plus historical sites, quality restaurants, bustling nightlife, and plenty of shopping. This is a lively, fun, and extremely walkable city. Possibly even more accessible than Athens. Here you’ll find a bustling waterfront with hundreds of traditional Greek and international restaurants.
[Photo Credit: Miltiadis Fragkidis via Unsplash]

Explore: Sithonia Peninsula, Pella & Halkidiki

Sithonia Peninsula
East of Thessaloniki, this peninsula resembles the Greek Isles without the whitewash. Instead, you have red terracotta rooftops, mild climates, pristine beaches, and quiet hamlets. The Aegean beaches are also blue flag beaches.
Pella
Once the capital of ancient Macedonia, this town is steeped in history and culture, with the ruins of ancient structures, including the palace of Alexander the Great. The old town has charming cafes, traditional tavernas, and will transport you back in time.
Halkidiki
A region just south of Thessaloniki, with 1,000 beaches and most of them with shallow waters, this is the best destination to enjoy a beach holiday. It is the number 1 blue flag destination in Greece, and it’s worth taking time to explore them all. Traditional villages are dotted around the area and offer a beautiful stop between beaches.
Which region in mainland Greece appeals to you most? Are you ready to plan an adventure full of hidden gems and incredible experiences? Let us know! We are always excited to help our clients discover and plan unique, one-of-a-kind trips!