Greece, the land of a thousand islands, ancient mythology, famous beaches, stunning scenery, and delicious food, is my go-to late summer destination to catch the last bit of summer.
For the past couple of years, Greece has been my usual destination and there are many reasons to choose the same country repeatedly: the vast array of islands to choose from, perfect weather, delicious food, friendly people, ancient history, and affordability depending on the place you choose to visit.
The Greek islands offer diverse experiences depending on their location, mainly divided into the Saronic, Aegean, Cyclades, and Dodecanese islands. Each group presents a wide range of options with unique climates, identities, and subcultures, which have something to cater to every taste and experience.
Like many other countries and islands around the Mediterranean, if you go in season, the experience can be far from enjoyable in terms of peace, relaxation, and cost. However, Greece never fails to impress as you can enjoy glorious weather during the off-season, when almost deserted islands are yours to explore. I have visited some fantastic islands throughout the years and so far Milos, Astypalea and Crete are places I cherish in my memory. And less that four hours away from London, there aren't many places that can deliver on that promise.
The many beaches of the Greek islands
The beaches of the Greek islands are simply stunning. They vary from soft sandy shores to pebbly ones, with waters ranging from clear blue to deeper shades. Some are tucked away in hidden corners, offering a sense of seclusion and tranquillity, while others are more popular, bustling with activity. You'll find stretches of coastline where you can relax under the sun or take a dip in the refreshing waters. Some beaches are perfect for swimming and snorkelling (my favourite ones), while others are great for simply lounging with a good book.
No matter which beach you choose, you're sure to be surrounded by beautiful scenery and a relaxed atmosphere. And of course, no visit to a Greek beach would be complete without indulging in fresh seafood at a seaside taverna, with the sound of the waves as the perfect accompaniment to a delicious meal.
The perfect off-season gateway
Following one of the worst springs in London, the desire and need for sun became increasingly urgent. Therefore, planning an escape to a remote island in Greece might be the perfect solution to this recurring issue for Londoners. This time though, with my partner and some friends, we decided to make an early escape and soak in the sun before the season kicks in. What a great decision that was, as we visited Paros, an island in the Cyclades that’s becoming increasingly popular but still offers a treat if you go off-season.
Paros is an island that beautifully blends traditional Greek charm with modern comforts. Known for its stunning beaches, delicious food, nightlife and picturesque villages, Paros offers the entire package without being too touristy (at least off-season). What's not to love about such a guaranteed experience that will feed your soul and spirit?
Additionally, there’s beautiful Antiparos! Just a 5-minute ferry ride away lies the island of Antiparos, a stripped-back, smaller, and more pristine version of Paros. With its tranquil beaches, charming town, and relaxed vibe, this island is a hidden gem worth exploring.
The culinary scene
One cannot talk about Greece without mentioning its food. The culinary delights of Greece are a feast for the senses. Fresh seafood, traditional meaty dishes, and delicious pastries are just a few highlights. In Paros, we indulged in local tavernas serving fresh, locally sourced ingredients, all directly by the sea, or as they love to say in the UK, "al fresco", but properly. Each meal was a celebration of flavours, from the usual tzatziki and Greek salad to the rich tastes of seafood and other earthy dishes.
Ancient villages
The historic Greek villages on these islands have a special charm that's hard to resist. They're picturesque, with narrow streets lined with the well-known whitewashed buildings and colourful flowers, usually Bougainvilleas. Walking through these villages feels like taking a step back in time. You'll see old churches, charming squares, and memories of ancient civilizations that give each place its unique character. Many of these villages are nestled on hillsides, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the sea. And in the evenings, the atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, where locals gather in tavernas to enjoy good food and drinks, creating a warm and welcoming vibe.
Exploring these villages is a unique experience, where every corner holds a new surprise. Whether you're interested in history or just looking to immerse in the local culture, each of these historic Greek villages won't disappoint.
Of course, stray cats will melt your heart because the number of them roaming around villages and beaches is insane. Every time we go, we get closer and closer to rehoming one of these furry friends, but then we think about the drastic life change it would be for them. On one hand, they're on the loose, enjoying nice weather and getting petted whenever they want. On the other hand, they'd be restrained to the British weather and the four walls of a small flat.
Greek wines
Greek wines are often overlooked but are truly hidden gems. Thanks to the country's diverse climate and landscapes, Greece produces a wide range of unique and flavorful wines. On each island, you'll find true wine artisans, and over the years, I've visited various independent winemakers who still use ancient methods for harvesting and bottling.
With many native grape varieties, Greece offers distinctive wines like Assyrtiko, known for its crisp acidity and mineral notes, and Xinomavro, which delivers strong flavours. Greek wines pair generally wonderfully with seafood, but in my experience, these are also perfect to drink in hot summer days, whether you're by the pool or the sea.
The unmissable Athens experience
A trip to most of these gorgeous islands, which do not have direct flights, requires a stop in Athens, one of my favourite capitals on earth.
Athens, which used to be a stopover city during the financial crisis of the 2000s, today offers a unique blend of historic sites and modern city life. Known for its iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and the Parthenon, Athens provides a glimpse into Greece's rich past but with a modern twist. Whether you're interested in history, food, or just exploring a vibrant city, Athens has something for you.
Having visited the capital of Greece three times, I still find there's never enough time to explore and enjoy all that this amazing city has to offer.
Below I’m sharing some of my favourite places to eat in Athens, which will promise to feed your soul and spirit.
Delicious restaurants you can't miss in Athens!
We visited this taverna and found the street buzzing with excitement as a local team was playing the final of the basketball Euroleague. Amidst the cheers and celebration (with the Greek team securing a win), we savoured delicious food at this spot. After indulging in seafood all week, switching to Greece's hearty dishes was the perfect choice for a pre-night out meal. You can anticipate classic dishes, a local ambiance, and reasonable prices here.
Tucked away in a bustling area of Athens, this seafood haven offers a refreshing twist on classic dishes. Join the locals here for a dining experience filled with flavorful surprises and a welcoming atmosphere.
This might just be the best seafood spot I've found in Greece. This cozy gem strikes a perfect balance between upscale dining and taverna-style charm. Guests have the chance to pick their fresh seafood from the counter, and the menu offers a mix of traditional and modern dishes. You can count on delicious food, a relaxed atmosphere, and excellent wine.
Head a bit off the beaten path from the touristy areas, and you'll stumble upon this upscale oyster bar and seafood restaurant. Despite its polished appearance, the food here is nothing short of fantastic.
Without a doubt, this place is a must-visit! Couleur Locale is more than just a cocktail bar with a view in trendy Psiri, it's a cultural hub, spread across multiple floors of an entire building. Here, you can enjoy stylish dishes, cocktails, and even explore an art gallery as you move between floors. It's a unique experience that combines dining, drinking, stunning views of the Acropolis and art appreciation, all in one place.
Close to the Giousouroúm taverna, there's a gem that transforms from a cosy cafe by day to an exceptional cocktail bar by night. Run by a charming owner, this spot serves up fantastic cocktails, creating a lively atmosphere and sparking a fantastic mood among the locals in Athens.
Next time you feel the urge for a late or early summer escape, consider Greece – it’s a decision you won’t regret, Parakalo.
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