Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Greece (Plus, Itineraries)

Embarking on a Look-See Trip is an essential step when considering a move to Greece. It allows you to explore various regions, experience the culture firsthand, and determine which area suits your lifestyle and preferences best. Whether you're an expat, retiree, or digital nomad, this trip can provide invaluable insights to help you make an informed decision about where to live.

Recommended Itineraries

For a 10-day trip, consider starting in Athens, then exploring the Peloponnese region, including towns like Nafplio and Kalamata. Next, visit the Ionian Islands, such as Corfu or Kefalonia. For a 20-day trip, add the Cyclades islands like Paros and Naxos, and explore Central Greece, including towns like Galaxidi and Arachova. Finally, venture to the northern regions, visiting Thessaloniki and the surrounding towns of Halkidiki.

Athens

Athens, the capital of Greece, is a bustling city with a population of over 3 million people. It offers a mix of ancient history and modern amenities, making it a popular choice for expats and digital nomads. The is relatively affordable compared to other European capitals, and the city's proximity to beaches and islands is a significant advantage. Life in Athens is vibrant, with a rich cultural scene, diverse neighborhoods, and a growing startup ecosystem.

Travel Tip: Visit the Acropolis Museum to delve into Greece's ancient history, and dine at Kuzina in the Thissio neighborhood for a modern take on traditional Greek cuisine.

Peloponnese Region

The Peloponnese region offers a diverse range of landscapes, from stunning coastlines to rugged mountains. Nafplio, the region's capital, is a charming coastal town with a population of around 33,000 people. Its picturesque streets, vibrant cultural scene, and proximity to ancient sites make it an attractive option for expats. Kalamata, another popular town, boasts beautiful beaches, a castle, and a lower cost of living compared to Athens.

Travel Tip: Explore the ancient theater of Epidaurus near Nafplio, and try the famous Kalamata olives at the local market in Kalamata.

Ionian Islands

The Ionian Islands offer a more laid-back lifestyle, with lush landscapes and stunning beaches. Corfu, the most popular island, has a population of around 100,000 people and a rich cultural heritage. Kefalonia, another beautiful island, offers a slower pace of life and a lower cost of living. Both islands have active expat communities and are well-connected to the mainland.

Travel Tip: Visit the Achilleion Palace in Corfu, and explore the Melissani Cave in Kefalonia.

Cyclades Islands

The Cyclades Islands are known for their white-washed buildings and stunning sunsets. Paros and Naxos offer a more authentic Greek experience compared to the popular tourist destinations of Santorini and Mykonos. Both islands have a population of around 20,000 people and offer a mix of traditional villages and vibrant towns. The cost of living is generally lower than in Athens, and the islands are well-connected by ferry.

Travel Tip: Visit the Panagia Ekatontapiliani church in Paros, and explore the ancient Temple of Demeter in Naxos.

Central Greece

Central Greece offers a mix of coastal towns and mountain villages. Galaxidi, a charming coastal town with a population of around 2,000 people, is known for its well-preserved architecture and nautical traditions. Arachova, a picturesque mountain town, offers a cooler climate and proximity to ski resorts. Both towns have a lower cost of living compared to Athens and offer a more traditional Greek lifestyle.

Travel Tip: Visit the Church of Agios Nikolaos in Galaxidi, and explore the archaeological site of Delphi near Arachova.

Thessaloniki and Halkidiki

Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city, offers a vibrant cultural scene, a rich history, and a lower cost of living compared to Athens. The surrounding region of Halkidiki is known for its beautiful beaches and charming coastal towns. The three peninsulas of Halkidiki offer a mix of lively resorts and secluded villages, catering to different preferences and lifestyles.

Travel Tip: Visit the White Tower of Thessaloniki, and explore the stunning beaches of the Sithonia peninsula in Halkidiki.