Last summer I went on an incredible two week trip to Greece! I planned this with the help of my family and some travel shows- no tour guide or travel agency! It was an amazing experience that was a combination of sight-seeing, scenery, beaches, recreation, food, and fun- and it encompassed all aspects of Greek culture. Check out this guide to live your best Mamma Mia life (credits to my friend Lindsey for coming up with this phrase while I was vacationing in Greece)!
!. For history buffs
Amphitheater in Athens
Meghan Scott
Athens is an absolute must. Visit the famous Agora, Parthenon, and incredible museums. The airport has a free archaeological exhibit with authentic artifacts from the region. Most people in Athens speak English.
Best hotel: Meliá Athens
Best place to eat: I Kriti (traditional Greek cuisine)
2. For mountain scenery
Mountainside views
Meghan Scott
Delphi is about a two hour drive away from Athens and is an ideal day trip. Lots of companies offer guided bus tours through this region. Ours included a stop at the ruins, a nearby museum, an Orthodox monastery, and a ski resort.
3. For stunning sea views
Stunning views looking over the Hotel Kavalari
Meghan Scott
Do I even have to say it? No trip to Greece is complete without a visit to the iconic island of Santorini. This gorgeous island has some of the most breathtakingly beautiful views you will ever see. Thira is the main town of the island where all of the shopping and clubs are at, along with some of the more luxurious hotels. We stayed a couple of nights here but found it too noisy and crowded. Oia, on the opposite side of the island has a much more relaxing atmosphere and offers the best sunset views. Definitely take a boat cruise to the Caldera. Ours included a stop at the hot springs where you can swim in the Aegean Sea and a volcanic hike.
Best hotel: Oia's Sunset (this is an apartment style with a pool)
Best restaurant: Lucky's (serves gyros)
4. For the beach bum
Agia Anna Beach
Meghan Scott
Naxos is a lovely island, not far from Santorini that is family friendly, and therefore way more quiet and less crowded than the more popular islands. Here you will find the most beautiful beaches to kick back and relax!
Best hotel: Colosseo Studios and Apartments (has housekeeping service and jacuzzis with beach views)
Best restaurant: Colosseo (right next door to the complex, serves delicious pizza and appetizers)
5. For the party girls and guys
Walking the side streets of Mykonos Town
Mark Scott
The island of Mykonos, made Instagram famous by Lindsay Lohan, is THE place to be in the Greek islands. Delightfully modern with hip shops, cool clubs, and good grub, Mykonos is a thriving island. Literally, the whole place is an Instagram influencer's dream. Check out the windmills, Little Venice, and of course the lovely beaches. Here we experienced the best hospitality.
Best food: D'Angelos (Italian food) or Captain's (in case you are missing good ole' American fare)
Best hotels: Lithos by Spyros & Flora or Myconian Inn
6. For a blast from the past
Ancient ruins on Delos
Meghan Scott
The island of Delos takes you back thousands of years. This island is devoted entirely to archaeology- no restaurants, no cars, no roads- just ancient ruins, housing for the archeologists, and facilities at the entrance. This island is absolutely incredible and is a 30-minute boat ride from Mykonos. Take a self-guided tour and explore ancient marble furnishings, temples, homes, and mosaics.
