When you think of Greece, the first things that comes to mind are probably picturesque fishing villages and tiny towns teeming with blue and white houses. While the country has all of that in spades (and we adore it for that reason), the cities are just as captivating. From ancient ruins straight out of the pages of mythology books to boutique shops and metropolitan restaurants serving up homemade delights, there are so many reasons to visit Greece’s iconic cities. Here’s a run-down of the top five most beautiful cities in Greece, and just why they deserve your visit.
1
Athens
The capital of modern Greece and the heart of ancient Greece, Athens is a patchwork of antique and metropolitan delights. This urban sprawl has it all. Mythology buffs will want to get a flavour for the country’s old soul at the Acropolis – the 2,500-year-old ruin that looks down over the town. The Parthenon Temple is another must see – built in dedication to the goddess Athena. There’s the Temple of Poseidon, too, a worthy spot to take in Athens’ coastal views at sunset. And if mythology isn’t quite your bag? Delve into the Monastiraki neighbourhood and snack on deli treats at the varvakios agora indoor/outdoor market or browse the flea markets for a bargain. Finish up at Lycabettus Hill – one of the highest peaks in Athens – for an unforgettable panorama of the city’s ancient and modern contrasts.
2
Rhodes Town
Rhodes Town offers a slightly slower pace than Athens but the same ancient charm. Divided into two parts, the old and the new, it’s steeped in cultural and historical sites. The Old Town is a perfectly preserved medieval settlement, enclosed in fortified walls – another UNESCO World Heritage site to tick off your list. Here, you can immerse yourself in ancient Greece at the Knight’s Quarter and the Palace of the Grand Master or snap a selfie at the D’ambrose Gate. Then get your fill of traditional Greek grub at Mama Sofia’s in the very heart of the medieval quarter. Dine on the terrace to watch local life pass you by and don’t forget to try the moussaka – trust us, eggplant has never tasted this good.
3
Corfu Town
With its cobbled streets and vistas stretching out into the Ionian Sea, Corfu Town is worthy of a spot on our list of most beautiful cities in Greece. The first thing you’ll notice when you arrive on the island is the commanding Old Fortress of Corfu that sits atop a hill overlooking the town. If that wasn’t enough to charm you, the Venetian architecture is sure to be. Take your time and wander the narrow streets and shady plazas, snapping shots of the regal, pastel-hued buildings as you go. There’s plenty to keep you busy over a long weekend from the Holy Church of Saint Spyridon to the Achilleion Palace, the lush Spianada Square and even the local water park. The nightlife here is thriving, too, with a generous smattering of chic wine bars and traditional tavernas. Grab a seat on the patio at Arthaus Cafe Wine Bar to the north of the city to sample local wine and homemade meze.
4
Nafplion
With its sea of red-roofed houses and bluer-than-blue shores, the coastal city of Nafplion couldn’t have been forgotten from our list. Less popular than its Ionian neighbours (but no less beautiful), Nafplion offers a laid-back pace for a romantic break. There are ancient ruins aplenty here. From the Fortress of Palamidi (be prepared to climb the 999 steps to the top) to the Mycenean Acropolis of Tiryns, this quaint city is brimming with folklore and history. Head to Syntagma Square and take a seat in one of the many cafes to soak up the atmosphere before taking to the cobbled streets of the old town on foot, looking up at the pretty, plant-lined balconies. If your feet are too tired from your climb to the castle, you can also take a tour by horse-drawn carriage. Ancient sights seen, dip into the boutique shops and pick up handmade leather goods, from sandals to bags, from one of the local craftsmen.
5
Thessaloniki
Last up on our list of the top five most beautiful cities in Greece is Thessaloniki. The perfect destination for foodies and culture junkies, this city has a youthful energy and must-see sights at every turn. Head to the centre to see the Roman Agora and the Arch of Galerius to satisfy your inner historian. For art lovers, there’s the Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art and the beautiful mosaics of the Museum of Byzantine Culture or if it’s a spot of retail therapy you’re after, join the crowds on Tsimiski Street to bag a designer bargain and rub shoulders with the locals. Then, fuel up on bougatsa – a custard filled, cinnamon topped filo pastry treat that’s sold on just about every corner of the city. It wouldn’t be a great Grecian city without a castle now, would it? So, top off your trip by heading up to the Eptapyrgio Castle – again, prepare for lots (and lots) of stairs – and watch the city light up below you come nightfall. Greece, you’ve been stunning.
Header image © Faustine Poidevin