Junior Rasmussen
Greece is a coveted honeymoon destination for good reason. The country offers breathtaking coastlines, dreamy islands, glorious Mediterranean weather, and a vibrant culture. With 227 inhabited islands, Greece has a range of options for couples to choose from, whether they're looking for a party scene, a rustic escape, or a blend of both relaxation and nightlife. The Greek islands are known for their blue waters, black sand beaches, and fresh seafood. The mainland is also worth a visit, with its rich culture and history. Athens, the nation's capital, is a popular destination, with peak season between May and September. Mykonos is known for its luxury resorts, picturesque windmills, and sunset in Little Venice. Santorini is famous for its legendary sunsets and natural thermal pools. Couples can also find unique home rentals on the island of Tinos, known as the spiritual heart of Greece.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | May to September, with average temperatures in the 70s and 80s |
| Peak season | Early July to the end of August |
| Party scene | Mykonos |
| Most rustic island | Naxos |
| Northern Cycladic island | Mykonos |
| Largest island | Crete |
| Best for local culture | Naxos and Crete |
| Best for relaxation | Imerovigli, Santorini |
| Best for a blend of relaxation and nightlife | Mykonos |
| Best for foodies | Santorini, small traditional villages, local wineries |
| Best for luxury | Santorini, Mykonos |
| Best for nature | Milos |
| Best for privacy | Tinos |
| Best for history | Athens |
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What You'll Learn
Exploring the islands
Greece is a coveted honeymoon destination, renowned for its breathtaking coastlines, dreamy islands, and glorious Mediterranean climate. With 227 inhabited islands, you are spoilt for choice.
One of the most popular islands is Santorini, famed for its legendary sunsets, black sand beaches, and natural thermal pools. The small village of Imerovigli is a great place to stay, with its quiet charm, stunning views, and access to Fira and Oia. Oia, in particular, is known for its romantic sunset views. Santorini also offers food and wine tours, where you can sample local wines and gastronomic delights.
If you're looking for a blend of relaxation and vibrant nightlife, Mykonos is the place to be. Known for its party scene, luxury resorts, picturesque windmills, and stunning sunsets, it offers everything from trendy beach clubs to world-renowned DJ sets. However, be prepared for higher prices and long lines during peak season.
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider the island of Milos. With its narrow streets and dirt roads, it's the perfect place to explore by four-wheeler. You can easily go from one gorgeous beach to another, and end your day with a glass of wine and delicious seafood at the seaside cafes. If you want to explore more remote areas, like the Sikia sea cave, you can book a private boat charter.
Another option is the island of Naxos, which offers a balance of local culture and tourist attractions. You'll be greeted by the beautiful Temple of Apollo's Portara of Naxos, a marble door from 530 BC, upon your arrival at the port. Naxos provides affordable dining and accommodation options, along with stunning beaches like Plaka.
If you're looking for a spiritual experience, try Tinos, known as the "spiritual heart of Greece." This island is filled with churches and religious feasts and is a favourite among Greeks for domestic getaways. You can enjoy the beautiful shoreline and sample fresh seafood at tavernas in the traditional fishing village of Panormos.
Lastly, Crete, the largest island in Greece, offers a mix of local culture and a variety of attractions. It is often suggested by travel agents and offers a range of experiences to suit different preferences.
When exploring the islands, keep in mind that roads can be unpaved, and navigation can be challenging. It's best to book your stay and experiences early, especially during peak season, to avoid sold-out properties and higher costs.
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Relaxing on the beach
Greece is a great choice for a honeymoon, with its amazing beaches, delicious food, and rich history. There are over 6,000 islands to choose from, so you can find the perfect beach to relax on.
The Cyclades are the most iconic Greek islands for a romantic getaway, with their dramatic cliffs, vibrant towns, and white-washed villages. Santorini, with its cliffside villages, and Mykonos, with its famous party scene, are popular choices. But if you're looking for something a little more low-key, try the island of Paros, which offers a blend of lively and quiet beaches, or Antiparos, a small island with beautiful beaches and a sleepy seaside village.
If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April to early May or late September to late October. The temperatures will be cooler, but you'll still be able to take a dip in the Mediterranean, and you'll have the beaches mostly to yourself.
For a truly relaxing beach honeymoon, consider the island of Milos, known for its gorgeous beaches and delicious seafood. Or, try one of the four inhabited Sporades islands, nestled in the Aegean Sea, which offer sandy beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. The islands of Skiathos and Skopelos are great choices, with their mix of tourist development and peaceful natural beauty.
Another option for a peaceful beach honeymoon is the island of Patmos, known for its calm beaches and the famous Monastery of Saint John. Kos is another beautiful and affordable choice, with white beaches, ancient ruins, and charming villages. Don't miss Therma Beach's natural hot springs, perfect for relaxing.
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Touring ancient ruins
Greece is home to a plethora of ancient ruins, making it a perfect destination for those who want to explore the past while celebrating their future together.
Athens, the nation's capital, is a great place to start your honeymoon. The city is known for its ancient ruins, with the Acropolis being the most iconic site. The Acropolis is home to four separate ruins, including the Parthenon, the Propylaea (the gateway to the Acropolis), the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. All of these ruins date back to the 5th century BC and are well-preserved, making them a must-see on your trip.
While in Athens, you can also visit the Temple of Zeus and the National Gardens. A day tour covering these sites and the Acropolis Museum is a perfect way to explore the city and learn about ancient Greek culture.
If you're looking for a more relaxed island experience, the islands of Crete and Santorini offer plenty of opportunities to explore ancient ruins. Santorini is known for its colourful cave houses and ancient ruins, including the Akrotiri of Thera and the Temple of Poseidon. The island also offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and active volcanoes, providing a romantic backdrop for your honeymoon.
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider the island of Milos. Known for its turquoise-blue waters and volcanic beaches, Milos offers a unique landscape that includes the famous Moon Beach (Sarakiniko Beach). You can explore the island by four-wheeler, visiting its many gorgeous beaches and ending your days with delicious seafood and wine at seaside cafes.
Another option is the island of Tinos, accessible by ferry from the mainland. Tinos is known as the "spiritual heart of Greece" due to its numerous churches and religious feasts. It offers beautiful shorelines and more secluded beaches, such as Agia Thalassa.
Finally, if you're interested in exploring northern Greece, the region is home to the stunning monasteries of Meteora and Mount Athos. These monasteries are set against a dramatic landscape and offer a glimpse into the religious history of the country.
Remember to book your stay and tours in advance, especially during the peak season, to avoid sold-out properties and higher costs. Also, respect the local culture and ancient ruins by refraining from carving your names or causing any damage.
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Sampling local food and wine
Greece is a haven for foodies and wine enthusiasts, with a plethora of options for couples looking to sample local delicacies on their honeymoon. Here are some ideas for a culinary-focused honeymoon in Greece:
Naxos
Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades, offers diverse terrain, stunning beaches, mountains, and picturesque villages. It is known for its delicious wines and eats, especially in the mountainous village of Aeiranthos. Stroll through Chora and sample crepes with local jams in hidden cafes, or enjoy a refreshing drink on a rooftop patio overlooking the Aegean Sea.
Santorini
Santorini is renowned for its gastronomic experiences, including wine and history tours, as well as cooking classes where you can learn to create traditional Greek dishes. Indulge in local wine and appetizers while getting a brief introduction to the island's cuisine and gastronomy. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Boutari Winery and Vassaltis Vineyards to discover the local volcanic wines.
Crete
Crete, the largest island in Greece, offers a wealth of culinary delights. You can visit a family-owned winery, tour the traditional old cellar, and learn about local viticulture and grape varieties. Sample a variety of Cretan and international wines, and then head to a local cheese factory to taste local cheeses like "Graviera" and "Anthotiros." Crete is also known for its world-class restaurants, so be sure to indulge in the local cuisine.
Milos
Milos is a small island perfect for honeymooners looking for a quiet escape. You can explore the island by four-wheeler, visiting gorgeous beaches and ending your days with a glass of wine and delicious seafood dishes at seaside cafes. For a more remote experience, book a private boat charter to explore places like the Sikia sea cave.
Mykonos
Mykonos is known as the "capital of Greek fun" and is perfect for couples looking for a lively atmosphere. The island offers trendy beach clubs, world-renowned DJ sets, and a vibrant party scene. Enjoy a tasteful brunch and indulge in the local wine and cuisine, but be prepared for higher prices during peak season.
Athens
Athens, the nation's capital, offers a vibrant food and wine scene. Explore the central food market, tasting sweet and savoury local treats. Join a cooking class with a local chef, who can guide you through Greek cuisine and wine pairings. Wind down your trip in Athens, enjoying the city's vibrant energy and toasting your new life together.
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Enjoying the nightlife
Greece is known for its lively nightlife, and there are plenty of options for couples to enjoy after the sun sets. The Greek islands are particularly renowned for their buzzing party scene and vibrant nightlife, with something to suit every taste and preference.
Mykonos, for example, is famous for its trendy beach clubs, luxury resorts, and world-renowned DJ sets. The island's capital, Adamas, offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of options for dancing and partying. The island of Santorini is also known for its nightlife, with streets filled with high-end dining restaurants and clubs after the sun sets.
For a more relaxed and romantic evening, consider a sunset cruise or catamaran ride. Many vendors offer half-day or full-day excursions, allowing couples to enjoy the sunset, go swimming or snorkelling, and even find a private beach to enjoy a romantic dinner. A private yacht excursion around Santorini's breathtaking caldera is another option, offering a peaceful sail and the opportunity to marvel at the iconic sunset from the water.
If you're looking for a unique evening activity, consider a cooking class or a wine tour. Greece is known for its delicious food and wine, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about and taste the local cuisine and wines. Couples can also enjoy luxurious spa treatments at some of Greece's most stunning locations, offering a range of modern and ancient therapeutic traditions.
When planning your honeymoon in Greece, it's important to consider the timing. The peak season in Greece is typically from June to August, with big crowds and higher prices. For a more romantic and private experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, such as May, September, or October, when the weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer tourists.
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Frequently asked questions
There isn't a bad time to visit Greece, but a few months offer warmer weather. Athens, the capital, is at its peak between May and September, with average temperatures in the 70s and 80s. The summer is the height of tourism, between early July and the end of August, with bars, restaurants, and beach clubs open and packed with vacationers. The shoulder seasons, April through early May and late September to late October, are great for thinner crowds and warmer weather.
There are 227 inhabited islands in Greece, so there are plenty of options to choose from. Santorini is known for its legendary sunsets and natural thermal pools. Mykonos is great for a blend of relaxation and vibrant nightlife, with upscale shopping and beach clubs. Milos is a small, manageable island with gorgeous beaches and delicious seafood. Crete is the largest island in Greece and has a lot to offer.
Greece has breathtaking coastlines, so snorkelling and swimming in the sea are popular activities. There are also culinary experiences, such as food and wine tours, cooking classes, and visits to local wineries. You can also enjoy luxurious spa treatments or take a private tour with an expert guide.
Greece is a very popular destination, with nearly 28 million tourists in 2022, so it is important to book your stay and experiences early to avoid sold-out properties and higher costs. It is also important to respect the local culture and be mindful of the differences in driving patterns and navigation.
Some suggestions include staying in the small village of Imerovigli in Santorini, which is quiet and charming, or the Plaka neighbourhood in Athens, which offers beautiful views of the Acropolis and cobblestone streets. For a unique experience, try a private boat charter to explore the remote parts of Milos, such as the Sikia sea cave.
