Greece’s Hidden Gems: Lesser Known Places to Visit

With idyllic beaches, amazing cuisine and tangible history everywhere you look, Greece is understandably popular. However, if you want all this without the crowds, you may have to visit some of the lesser known destinations the country has to offer.

Take a look at some of Greece’s hidden gems below...

Paros

Where?

The Cyclades group of islands

Why?

Quieter than its neighbours Santorini and Mykonos, Paros boasts traditional Greek Villages and peaceful beaches.

How to get there?

Ferry: from Athens (4 hours), Mykonos (1 hour), Santorini (3 hours), Naxos (30 minutes).

Flight: via Athens.

Swimming pool at Parillo resort in Paros, Greece

Naxos

Where?

The Cyclades group of islands.

Why?

The largest of the Cyclades, Naxos has miles and miles of sandy beaches (rare to find in this group of islands), ancient Greek ruins and stunning mountains - you can hike mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades.

How to get there?

Ferry: from Athens (4 hours), Mykonos (1 hour), Santorini (3 hours), Paros (30 minutes)

Flight: via Athens.

A balcony with a hot tub overlooking a golden beach in Naxos, Greece

Spetses

Where?

A small island near Athens in the Saronic Gulf.

Why?

Rich history, stunning beaches and only a short distance from Athens. A car-free island, visitors can explore by bike or horse and cart. It’s also easy to do day trips to islands like Hydra.

How to get there?

Ferry: from Athens (2.5 hours).

With a hire car from Athens: take a scenic drive through the Corinth Canal and Mycenae to Kosta (3 hours) and take an 8 minute water taxi to Spetses (leaving the car at the port for €5 per day).