best cities to visit in Greece (2026)

Find here the best cities to visit in Greece in 2026. From popular destinations such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Santorini, Crete to impressive islands such as Rhodes and more. Not only is Greece affordable with hotel prices ranging from €70 to €150 per night but it's one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Discover through this guide cultural highlights, useful travel information, insider tips and much more.

• Athens hotel costs average €100/night. metro tickets are €1.40.
• Thessaloniki offers lively nightlife with hotels at €85/night.
• Santorini’s peak season can inflate prices. book early to save.
• Heraklion, Crete, has affordable hotels at €70/night and car rentals for €30/day.
• Rhodes hotels average €90/night. plan visits as sites close early on Sundays.

Greece is known for great value, lively culture and a large community of like-minded foreigners. Hence the reason why it’s a travelers number one choice for holidays.

Best Cities to Visit in Greece 2026

Plan a trip to Greece and want to know which are the best cities to visit in Greece? Each of our cities gives you a glimpse into Greek life. from the ancient ruins of Athens to the impressive sunsets of picturesque Santorini. These cities will remain among the top destinations in the world through 2026, as they continue to offer visitors access to a wealth of historical and cultural attractions combined with the modern infrastructure needed to support their growth into iconic tourist destinations.

Athens

Athens is a unique blend of past and present as the capital of Greece. From ancient monuments like the Acropolis to the incredible ancient treasures within the National Archaeological Museum, there's no shortage of notable sites to explore. The old neighbourhood of Plaka has narrow cobbled lanes, filled with souvenir shops, cafes and authentic Greek tavernas.

Hotels in Athens: Average price €100/night We found the public transport in Athens to be very good and affordable. The price of a single metro ticket is €1.40. It’s also wise to try and avoid the Acropolis and Parthenon at midday when the heat is at its highest and when there are the most visitors. Better to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Although all of the sites can be visited without a ticket, buying a ticket for more than one site can sometimes prove to be good value and can also prevent queuing for tickets on site.

Thessaloniki

The second largest city in Greece, Thessaloniki boasts one of the world’s most exciting nightlife scenes and is a culinary haven, too. Must-see Thessaloniki sights include the White Tower, the Rotunda and aristocratic Aristotelous Square, with its memorable views and fascinating blend of Byzantine, Ottoman and western styles.

Hotel prices in Thessaloniki average €85 per night. Eating out here's also reasonable with meals averaging €15. A real foodies paradise, Greek cuisine is world renowned, but Thessaloniki also offers an eclectic mix of other dishes to sample.

It's time to see Ladadika district and live the Greek nightlife and music.

Santorini

Santorini is known as one of the most beautiful and romantic places in the world. Wonderful sunsets are visible every evening in Oia and also in Fira, the capital city of Santorini. If you have a chance, don’t miss to visit the Red Beach (Petrified volcano’s ashes in the sand). Santorini is actually a dreamland for everyone. Santorini is all about beauty and balance between entertainment and rest.

Average nightly price for a hotel in Santorini: €150 Prices for local transport are very reasonable with bus tickets costing €1.80. Last minute booking may incur a penalty with far greater rates being charged to those who book during peak season.

Crete (Heraklion)

Ancient Heraklion is situated in the capital city of Crete, which is home to some incredible historic landmarks such as Knossos Palace and Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Here you'll find incredible examples of ancient Minoan culture, a truly historic and enlightening period in Greek history.

Hotels in Heraklion can cost about €70 per night. Hiring a car, which will cost about €30 per day, can allow you to get into some of the island's more off-the-beaten-path areas. Even in cities like Heraklion, Greeks are known for their friendly attitudes, so try greeting them with "kalimera" or good morning.

Rhodes

MEDIEVAL ARCHITECTURE IS SCARCELY ANYWHERE BETTER EXHIBITED than in Rhodes. A visit to the Old Town, which has been made a UNESCO World Heritage Site, can be recommended. Here, right in the heart of the medieval city, stands the Palace of the Grand Master of the Order of Rhodes. Walking through the narrow, cobble-stone streets and staircases, you can easily imagine the Knights in their richly embroidered mantles, while the acoustics of the banqueting hall are particularly effective. Another excursion which casts light upon the historical evolution of the island is a visit to the ancient city of Lindos, dramatically situated 300m up a rocky hill.

Price of accommodation in Rhodes average €90 per night. A traditional Greek meal in a taverna costs around €12. Sunday opening hours tend to be limited, so bear this in mind when planning visits to museums and other attractions. Rhodes blends culture and beach life in the perfect combination.

Visit Rhodes during the shoulder season.

Practical Information

Please check visa requirements and regulations before traveling to Greece. EU citizens don't need a visa to enter Greece, while non-EU citizens should check any changes to entry requirements. The local currency in Greece is Euro (EUR). Current exchange rate 1 EUR = 1.10 USD.

All necessary information on entry regulations, hygiene measures, safety guidelines, banned items, dress codes and tobacco ban is available here. Smoking is prohibited in all indoor public places. Failure to comply with the smoking ban is punishable with a fine.

Cultural Tips

Knowledge of local customs is important when visiting Greece. In this country shopping hours often vary and some shops remain closed during the long siesta period between 2-5 PM. This doesn't apply to mini markets, which remain open throughout the day. there's no obligation to tip, but tips are generally appreciated. Rounding up the bill or leaving an additional 5-10% is acceptable.

Greek hospitality is renowned worldwide and by learning a few basic phrases such as Efharisto (thank you) you'll make a real connection with the people of Greece. Life in Greece moves at a slower pace and you'll experience a way of life that's rich in culture.

Comparisons with Other Countries

In general, the cost of living in Greece is lower than in other countries in Europe — lower than Western Europe, but a bit higher than in Eastern Europe. Overall, you’ll find the crowds of tourists that are present in Italy aren't as prevalent in Greece.

Greece is one of the most competitively priced countries in Europe at the same time as being exceptionally rich in terms of history, culture, and also natural beauty. A relatively low level of tourism makes it possible to enjoy all of these assets in complete tranquillity without the chaos which currently afflicts other parts of southern Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Greece

What is the best time to visit Greece?

Peak Season (May to September) If you prefer milder temperatures, consider visiting Greece in late spring (May) or early autumn (September). Shoulder Season (April to May and September to November) Shoulder season coincides with local holidays and festivals, adding to the unique holiday experience.

Do I need a car to travel around Greece?

In cities with decent public transportation systems, a car isn't needed. However, there are occasions when a car may be in order in order to get to islands and rural areas.

Is Greece safe for tourists?

Is Greece safe to visit? Yes, but there are always basic precautions you can take to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time. you'll most likely only experience petty theft andPickpocketing is very common in tourist areas, so be wary of locals distracting you while an accomplice steals your belongings.

Can I use credit cards in Greece?

Credit cards are widely accepted in towns and cities but we would always recommend that you carry cash in smaller towns and in rural areas.

What is a must-try dish in Greece?

Moussaka, a Greek dish made from layers of eggplant, potatoes and minced meat is certainly a dish to try while in Greece.

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