Why You Should Visit Mainland Greece Instead

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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.

[Photo Credit: Nestoras Argiris via Unsplash]

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

[Photo Credit: Alexandros Mouratidis via Unsplash]

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!

Greece Beyond the “Big Two”

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We get it — pretty much everyone has Mykonos and Santorini on their mind, and on their bucket list, when they think about Greece.

These two popular islands have done a fabulous job of capturing the hearts and minds of American travelers. But it’s starting to have some unintended repercussions in terms of crowds, prices, and overall experience.

[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures]

When we were in Santorini last April (before the tourist season had even really kicked off) the crowds in Oia, and the lines for the cable car, were already unpleasant. Flash forward to July/August, and add in a couple of giant cruise ships making a port call for the day, and it would have been a madhouse.

[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures]

With that in mind, we have some suggestions for ways to experience Greece in a more low-key, less-stressful way:

Focus on the Peloponnese Peninsula

Athens itself merits more than the quick one- or two-night stay that most Americans give it. With a longer stay, you can use Athens as a home base for day trips to places like Meteora, Delphi, and the Corinth Canal.

[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures]

And then you can discover some of the other hidden gems of the Peloponnese, and spend a few nights in a romantic seaside town like Nafplio or Monemvasia.

[Photo Credit: Mike, view from Nafplio via Shared Adventures]

Choose More Under-the Radar Islands

Mother with her two daughters overlooking a green mountain in Greece

If you want to stick to a traditional “Athens and the Islands” itinerary, you don’t have to use Mykonos and Santorini. Choose smaller, quieter islands like Naxos, Paros, or Milos for a taste of authentic Greek culture and natural beauty. Or combine Athens with a longer stay on just one island – perhaps a larger island like Crete, which offers a wide variety of experiences in one place.

[Photo Credit: Alicia & Jay via Shared Adventures – read about their family vacation to Greece Here]

Set Sail in a Smaller Yacht

Cruising the Greek islands is a magical experience, but it can be even more magical if you stay away from the big cruise ships that can only visit the bigger/busier islands.

Join a small-group sailing adventure hosted by a tour company, if you want to make some new friends along the way. Or charter a private yacht for just you and your travel companions, and you can explore (at your own pace) smaller islands with secluded beaches and laid-back beachfront restaurants.

[Photo Credit: Mary via Shared Adventures]

Rent a Private Villa

For the ultimate avoid-the-crowds hack, why not rent a private villa with its own pool, a chef to prepare local cuisine, and onsite contacts who can arrange drivers, tours/experiences, restaurant reservations, and more.  Depending on the specific location, and the number of people you’re traveling with, this option might not be as pricey as you think. And you can’t beat the experience!

[Photo Credit: Rafael via Unsplash]

Regardless of how you structure your Greek adventure, it is still a place that should be on everyone’s list. Let us help you make the smartest choices and design the most customized itinerary so that you get the most out of the experience!

Top 6 Multi-Destination Travel Tips

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If it’s your first or second time traveling to Europe, it’s understandable to want to see it all. The flights are long and it’s difficult to choose just one destination. We always recommend creating balance in your trip and ensuring you have some days in the middle to slow down, relax, and enjoy the local experience. When you’re trying to craft the perfect multi-destination adventure, here are a few more tips to keep in mind to ensure you have the best time.

Choose Locations Which Are Close Together

If you’re going to be moving from place to place – look for destinations that are close together and easy to travel between. Take into account travel time, and find well-connected cities/towns. This will give you more time to enjoy new destinations without spending too much time in transit. Don’t forget to include travel time in your plans. If it takes 4 hours to get from one destination to the next, then that is only a half day you get to spend in the new destination.

Balance Overnight Stays with Day Trips

Moving from place to place isn’t the only way to maximize an adventure. You can stay in the same home base each night and enjoy that city in the evening while taking day trips to nearby locales — giving you the best of both worlds. Look for home bases that offer lots of fun daytrips in the surrounding area.

[Photo Credit: Kendra & Shad via Shared Adventures. Read about their adventure to Portugal here!]

buildings in Sintra Portugal

Spend At Least 3 Nights in a Destination

At least 3 days/ nights is what we recommend for almost every city, with very few exceptions. The first night you arrive is always disorienting. You’re getting used to the new destination and learning about your surroundings.

A family visiting the Acropolis in Greece

The second night is when you start to settle in. The first culture shock has worn off a little and you can enjoy the sites you’re seeing, maybe find a favorite gelato place or café. You’ll spend the day seeing the major sites and attractions – what the city is known best for.

[Photo Credit: Alicia & Jay via Shared Adventures. Read about their family trip to Greece here!]

Then comes the third day. You have a better sense of where you are and how to navigate the city. You can start to relax and enjoy where you are. Make note of the little things and find a few hidden gems. More time is always better but without three full days, you won’t get a proper taste of a city.

Pack Smart and Travel Light

Nothing’s worse than dragging a heavy suitcase from hotel to hotel through Europe. Make sure you pack light. If you have multiple destinations on your itinerary, especially with trains where you’ll need to lift your luggage up a few steps, doing your best to pack lightly will make your trip that much more enjoyable.

[Photo Credit: Liz via Shared Adventures]

Prebook The Key Attractions

To make the most of your time, make sure you pre-book skip-the-line tickets for the major sites and attractions in your destination. This way you avoid waiting in long lines and can make the most effective use of your day. If you want a good overview of the major sites of a city, booking a walking or golf-cart tour is a great way to start your stay.

Traveling Off the Beaten Path Takes Time

Finding local experiences and hidden gems of a city takes time. The longer you spend in one city the more time you have to truly understand the city and explore the unexplored. You’ll enjoy the local culture and local experiences. Although it may not seem like it, sometimes maximizing your travel means visiting a few places more profoundly.

[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures. Read about her week in Rome here!]

If you’re ready to strike the perfect balance in your multi-destination adventure – let us know! We’ll give you expert advice and help you to plan a customized itinerary that maximizes your experience!

Deciding Between Mykonos and Santorini

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Ah, the Greek Islands – sun-drenched landscapes, turquoise waters, and ancient charm. But when it comes to Mykonos and Santorini, two of the most famous islands, choosing the perfect one can be daunting. Which one is right for your travel style? Below we consider the vibe (atmosphere), pros, cons and key questions to consider when deciding between these two incredible islands.

Mykonos

What can you expect from a stay on Mykonos? Think endless stretches of golden sand, vibrant beach clubs pulsing with music, and cosmopolitan charm. Mykonos caters to the social butterfly: those seeking lively nightlife, trendy boutiques, and the chance to rub shoulders with celebrities.

waves and windmills in Mykonos Greece

Imagine yourself indulging in champagne showers at Paradise Beach, dancing into the sunrise at Super Paradise, or exploring the narrow, whitewashed alleys of Mykonos Town. Mykonos offers charming Mykonos Town, windmills, and scenic coastal walks. This island perfectly caters to diverse interests, whether you want to relax on golden beaches, indulge in luxurious spas, explore Delos Island’s ancient ruins, or hit the vibrant nightlife scene.

Pros

  • Perfect for short trips 3-4 days
  • Flatter landscape – better for those with mobility concerns
  • Lots of variety available
  • Soft-sand golden beaches

Cons

  • Not as dramatic scenery as Santorini
  • Fewer activities are available in the off-season – most of the island is closed.
  • Not very many wineries to enjoy

Questions to Ask When Considering a Mykonos Vacation

Who am I traveling With? – Mykonos is perfect for families, large friend groups with diverse interests, and multi-generational trips or folks with mobility concerns.

How do I feel about Crowds? – In the quieter “shoulder” season you can actually escape the crowds on Mykonos. The slightly wider streets and larger island also offer some crowd relief, so if crowds aren’t your thing Mykonos is the best option.

Do I want an Active Adventure or More Relaxation Time? – Mykonos offers more relaxing on soft sand beaches, go with the flow vibes. There is a greater focus on wandering, relaxing and indulging.

[Photo Credits: Courtney via Shared Adventures Travel]

Santorini

What can you expect from an adventure to Santorini? Picture dramatic cliffsides crowned by whitewashed villages, breathtaking volcanic landscapes, and panoramic views that melt your heart. Santorini entices the romantic soul: those yearning for candlelit dinners with caldera views, intimate sunset strolls through Oia’s charming streets, and exploring ancient ruins steeped in myth.

A happy couple with the white washed walls and blue domes of Santorini Greece behind them

Witness the fiery magic of the sunset, sail around the volcanic caldera, or indulge in a wine tasting amidst the vineyards. Santorini offers volcanic hikes, wine tastings, boat tours, and cultural immersion. It’s the perfect destination for outdoor adventures.

Pros

  • Unbelievably stunning dramatic views and vistas
  • Perfect for hiking and outdoorsy activities
  • Romantic atmosphere which caters to honeymooners and couples
  • Over 20 wineries to enjoy
  • Plenty to do and see – could easily spend a week on the island

Cons

  • Lots of hills and stairs – challenging for those with mobility concerns
  • Longer tourist season – expect to find crowds from early April – November
  • Volcanic pebble, rocky, or course sand beaches

Questions to Ask When Considering a Santorini Vacation

How much Time do I have? – There’s enough to do to spend a whole week here and you can take your time to enjoy Santorini. It’s worth spending more than a few days, if budget permits.

sunset over the ocean santorini greece

Do I want an Active Adventure or More Relaxation Time? – You can, of course, spend time relaxing on Santorini but with its dramatic cliffs and volcanic landscape it’s great for active travelers who enjoy hills, stairs, hiking and water adventures like kayak and boating.

How do I feel about Crowds? – Santorini is well known and its narrow streets don’t offer a lot of breathing room. While the shoulder season is less crowded there will almost always be crowds. But, as Santorini makes an effort to become a year-round destination, more hotels and activities are available in the cooler months. (The only thing you won’t find open in winter is beach clubs/ pools)

[ Photo Credits: Alicia & Jay via Shared Adventures Travel – read about their family adventure to Greece here! / Christina via Shared Adventures Travel]

No matter which famous island destination you choose – you’re sure to have an incredible time soaking up the sunshine and beautiful Greek culture! If you’re ready to start planning your Greek Island Adventure – or want to find out about some hidden-gem island options — let us know!

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You provided excellent guidance for us. I appreciated that you really had us think about what was most important to us when we were selecting the right cruise – and not to totally focus on what other people had to say. THANK YOU for helping to make this a memorable trip for our family! It really was a trip of a lifetime!

– Clare and Mark (family cruise to Alaska)

The level of service we experienced was out of this world (and we did NOT make it easy on Ann). We weren’t quite sure where we wanted to go, when we would be able to go, or what “vibe” we were going for. After asking us some key questions (what we liked, didn’t like, why, etc.) Ann helped us narrow down our trip details and planned the honeymoon of our dreams. She helped book some of our excursions, answered some emergency questions while abroad and was always available/willing to help. I think it’s safe to say we won’t be using anyone else for future travel planning – Ann is a rockstar!

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