gastronomy
Walk in the footsteps of philosophers, heroes, and gods and enjoy breathtaking landscapes, ancient arts, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. From whitewashed villages and sapphire waters, to the ancient ruins of Athens and Delphi, every corner of Greece tells a story. Are you seeking sun-drenched beaches, vibrant city life, or quiet mountain escapes? Greece is filled with unforgettable flavours, traditions, and experiences that appeal to everyone.
Beyond its historical treasures, the country is celebrated for its cultural richness, warm hospitality, and vibrant contemporary cuisine. Greece provides an experience that is timeless and modern. Read on to learn more about this captivating destination.
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Culture & sustainability
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Sustainable tourism
Greece is emerging as a leading destination for sustainable tourism, offering authentic experiences with a positive environmental footprint. Travellers can engage in purposeful travel by choosing eco-friendly accommodation, volunteering in sea turtle conservation, or exploring nature trails with local guides. Hotels, and resorts are adopting green practices to reduce their environmental impact and support local communities. They prioritize local sourcing for farm-to-table dining, using organic, seasonal produce to minimise emissions and food waste. Many invest in renewable energy (solar, geothermal), and smart water management for efficient operation. Plastic reduction is also key, with facilities replacing single-use plastics with reusable alternatives. Traditional celebrations like "panygheri" are adopting sustainable twists, with communities replacing plastic cups with handmade pottery, as seen at Schoinoussa's Fava Festival. By choosing these options, visitors help preserve Greece's natural beauty and cultural heritage, fostering a greener tourism future.
The Minoan palaces
The Minoan palaces of Crete, including Phaistos, Malia, Zakros, Zominthos, and Kydonia, are recognized for their outstanding universal value, authenticity, and integrity by UNESCO. The decision to include Knossos on this list was made at the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee.
The Minoan palace of Knossos is renowned for its complex architecture, and elaborate frescoes. The palace is also associated with other myths including Daedalus and Icarus. It was built around 1700 BC and was destroyed by a fire around 1450 BC. It is believed to have been the home of King Minos and his legendary Labyrinth, where he kept the Minotaur, which featured prominently in Greek mythology. It represents the earliest advanced civilisations in Europe.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Greece is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to its rich history, and cultural significance. Walk among the ruins of the Acropolis of Athens, a symbol of classical civilisation. Discover the archaeological site of Delphi, the legendary oracle of Apollo. Be in awe of the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, the oldest stadium in the world built entirely of marble and which hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Or, visit the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, built in the 4th century BC and renowned for its exceptional acoustics and architectural beauty.
Greece can now add a 20th UNESCO World Heritage Site to its bow. The Palace of Knossos has now been officially recognized as a World Heritage Site, joining the list alongside other significant Minoan palaces on Crete.
Golf might not be the first thing you think of when thinking about Greece, but it's growing rapidly, with scenic courses that combine Mediterranean landscapes, sea views, and challenging courses.
Greece is investing in golf tourism and attracting international players. Peloponnese is considered Greece's premier golf destination. Costa Navarino has two award-winning 18-hole courses—The Dunes and The Bay—and both have spectacular sea views. The resort has earned accolades such as "Europe's Best Golf Resort" by Golf World, "Europe's Best Golf Resort 2025" by Leading Courses, and several World Golf Awards including "World's Best Emerging Golf Destination" by Golfmagic.
Costa Navarino has high-end private residences, wellness centers, state-of-the-art tennis courts, gastronomic restaurants, variety of year-round sports, and outdoor and cultural activities.
Peloponnese golf tourism
Greece combines crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and fascinating underwater history. With thousands of islands, rugged coastlines, and warm Mediterranean seas, Greece is a top destination for beginners and experienced divers.
There's a variety of diverse dive sites including volcanic reefs and caves to shripwrecks and underwater archaeological sites. The largest natural marine park of the Mediterranean sea is found in Alonissos. Natural beauty meets ocean myths and legends. There are old shipwrecks which date back to the 4-5th centuries or the Byzantine period. Explore the hidden depths on the bay of Spartina and discover the natural habitat of the Mediterranean monk seal and other rare wildlife species. Learn more about diving in Alonissos.
Dive into Greece's history
From rugged mountains to coastal trails and volcanic islands, Greece offers something for every level of hiker. Think dramatic cliffs, turquoise seas, lush forests, and deep gorges. Many paths pass ancient ruins, monasteries, and Byzantine churches. Explore the hiking trails in Samos, on the north Aegean. Discover lush island forests, remote beaches, explore local villages and meet the people and try their local products. Walk from Agios Konstandinos to the waterfalls of Ambelos. Or, go on the Kakoperato canyon hiking tour. Start in the charming Kosmadei village and follow the Kakoperato gorge which leads to Megalo Seitani beach, then proceed into the cave to find the monastery of Zoodochos Pigi. Hike the trekking trails network of Lesvos. Trekking tourism is flourishing in Lesvos thanks to its varied natural environment, rich flora and fauna, and cultural assets. Walk along the course of the Roman aqueduct, trek the trails of Petra, or explore the Polichnitos' hot springs circular trail.
Trekking tourism
Outdoor pursuits
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Media & more
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Greece on the big screen
The Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) and streaming giant Netflix have released a promotional video showcasing Greece's landscapes through international films. The film features clips from well-known series and films that used Greek locations. Clips include "Maestro in Blue", "A perfect story", "Beckett", the Hollywood blockbuster "Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery", and "Lighthouse Lesvos". 2026 is set to be a big year for Greece, with the release of Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey".
Mamma Mia! played a huge role in putting Greece on the global tourism map in the early 2000s. The movie was filmed on Skopelos and Skiathos in the Northern Sporades. It helped spark interest and attracted thousands of visitors wanting to see key filming spots. Now there's "Mamma Mia! The Party", an unbeatable immersive experience at London's O2. For one night only, we're hosting "Mamma Mia! The Party" exclusively for Travelzoo members. Dance to ABBA hits and dine on a Mediterranean meal with us and The Greek National Tourism Organization.
Michelin stars
Greece isn't just about local tavernas and preserving grandma's best recipes. The country is receiving more and more Michelin awards based on their high-quality cooking. Athens is fast acquiring a reputation as a gourmet destination. Athens is on the Attica peninsula and bordered by the sea, so it's well-positioned and well-known for its seafood. However, it is now offering a range of Michelin-recommended restaurants where meat is taking centre stage. Gallina was founded by an art collector, think marble tables, terrazzo floors, and a bustling open kitchen. Dishes include Wagyu beef tartare served with Aegean shrimp and caviar. If you like Texan-style barbecue flavours then try Fine Mess Smokehouse. They specialise in low and slow barbecue and creole cuisine. Try the salt, pepper, and smoke brisket with maple-glazed sweet potato. Athens is also proud to offer three restaurants with the Michelin Green Star. This is awarded to restaurants in the Michelin Guide that lead by example in sustainable gastronomy. It highlights dedicated efforts and concrete initiatives aimed at transforming the industry, raising awareness, and driving action.
Greece's wine renaissance
Greece has a winemaking tradition that dates back over 4000 years. Ancient Greeks considered wine a gift from Dionysus, the god of wine, and it played a central role in their culture, trade, and daily life. Today, Greek wines are gaining global recognition for their unique character, indigenous grape varieties, and diversity of their terroirs. Greece has over 300 native grape varieties. Due to the mountainous landscapes, volcanic soils (like Santorini), coastal breezes, and abundant sunshine, this gives Greek wines their vibrant acidity and minerality.
Dive into a glass of Assyrtiko (from Santorini). It's crisp, mineral, and pairs deliciously with seafood. Or try a Xinomavro from Macedonia. This grape is often compared to Nebbiolo (used in Barolo) and has high acidity, and tannins. This noble grape has complex aromas (olive, red fruits, and dried herbs), and pairs well with roast lamb, or braised beef. Learn more about Greek wines.
Greek cuisine holds a prominent place in the global culinary world, celebrated for its rich diversity, high-quality ingredients, vibrant flavor combinations, and cooking traditions that span thousands of years. It is grounded in a few simple principles: the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, aromatic herbs and greens, and the world-famous Greek olive oil. The best way to experience Greek culture is by eating the Greek way. Seek out traditional fish restaurants and tavernas, but don't overlook the modern twist—some contemporary Greek eateries can even be found inside museums. Whatever your choice, dine like a local. Try a mezedopolio, where an array of small plates called mezedes are served with wine, beer, or ouzo. Similar to this are ouzeri and tsipouradiko, where the focus is on seafood and fish delicacies paired with ouzo or tsipouro. The taverna is perhaps the most iconic Greek dining spot, known for its hearty traditional dishes and the warm ambiance of popular Greek music.
Dine like a local
Greek gastronomy
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@Costa Navarino