The Best Beach Towns In Greece 2025
Greece is home to some of the best beach towns in the world. Whether you’re looking for a lively town with plenty of nightlife or a more relaxed atmosphere, there’s sure to be a beach town that’s perfect for you.
Greece is famous for its beautiful beaches, but what you often don’t hear about are the beach towns that surround them. From stunningly clear waters to delicious food, to beach parties and watersports.
Whether you’re looking for a lively town with plenty of nightlife or a more relaxed atmosphere, we’ve got you covered.
After sailing Greece for over four years we really do know the best beach towns here, and have some of the most popular as well as some that you won’t usually find in travel brochures. We will give you a true insight into the best places for you.
We’ll provide information on how to get there and what to do when you arrive. We’ve also got the low down on the best time to visit Greece (spoiler: it isn’t always the summer!)
So pack your swimsuit and sunscreen – it’s time to explore some of the best beach towns that Greece has to offer!
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Quick Menu For The Best Beach Towns In Greece
- The best beach towns near Athens
- Nafplion
- Parga
- Monemvasia
- The best beach towns for couples
- Assos
- Symi
- Naousa
- The best beach towns in Greece for families
- Lindos
- The best beach towns in Greece for history
- Rhodes town
- Pilos
- The best Greek beach towns for watersports
- Paradisi
- Lefkada
- The best Greek beach towns for nightlife
- Mykonos town
- Ios Chora
- Fira
Best Beach Towns Near Athens
Athens is by far the easiest airport to fly into, and it’s also a stunning city. One of the best ways to see the best beach towns Greece has to offer, while not missing out on the culture and history in Athens, is to pick one of the best beach towns near Athens.
Don’t worry, there are a lot to choose from! But here are some of our favourites.
Nafplion on the mainland
Nafplion is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece, thanks to its Venetian architecture, beautiful beaches, and its proximity to important archaeological sites like Mycenae. Nafplion was the first capital of modern Greece, from 1829 to 1834.
The best things to do in Nafplion include exploring the Venetian fortress, taking a boat trip to nearby Bourtzi island, visiting the archaeological sites of Mycenae and Tiryns, and relaxing on one of the town’s many beaches. You can find out more about this stunning island in our best Greece itinerary guide.
How to get to Nafplion
The town is located on the Peloponnese peninsula, about two hours from Athens by car. It’s an easy drive and the quickest way to get here, plus if you hire a car you’ll have some freedom to explore some of the beautiful surrounding areas too. Why not do a little coastal road trip and stay in Monemvasia too (listed below)
You can also reach Nafplion by coach from Athens, though it will take a little longer.
Where to stay in Nafplion
Budget option
Step into a world of old-time charm with the Ilion Hotel. The hotel’s classical furnishings and rooms are lined with different themes but all have one thing in common: They’re perfect for stays near Nafplion’s central location!
Check current prices and book here.
Luxury option
Hotel Ippoliti is a quaint, old-fashioned hotel with all the amenities you would expect from modern accommodation. You’ll love the communal outdoor pool and authentic features in the bedrooms.
It’s located in central Nafplion near historic attractions Bourtzi Castle – some rooms even have a balcony that overlooks it for the ultimate wake up view!
Check current prices and book here.
Parga on the mainland
Parga is one of the best beach towns near Athens. With its clear turquoise waters, lovely beaches, and charming town centre, Parga is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
There are plenty of things to do in Parga, from swimming and sunbathing on the beaches to exploring the Venetian castle and enjoying the views from Lichnos Beach.
For those who enjoy a bit of nightlife, there are also several bars and clubs situated along the waterfront.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday by the sea or a lively town to enjoy some nightlife, Parga is the perfect destination.
How to get to Parga
Parga is a little further away from Athens than Nafplion but it’s still just half a day away. The easiest way to reach Parga is to hire a car and drive yourself. The journey should take under 5 hours. You can always choose to stop along the way if you want to break up the journey.
Another way to reach Parga is by bus. KTEL buses run from Athens to Parga and will take around 8 hours.
Where to stay in Parga
Budget option
The Acrothea Hotel in Parga, Greece is a unique and beautiful place to stay. The hotel offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea. With easy access to the beach, the hotel is perfect for those who want to enjoy the sun and sea.
The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, with in-room amenities that include plasma TV screens and fridges. All rooms have balconies, some with views of the sea and others with views of Parga’s narrow streets.
The Acrothea Hotel is a perfect base for exploring this picturesque town, and a great budget option for anyone wanting to explore one of the best beach towns near Athens.
Luxury option
Parga Beach Resort is a 5-star hotel located right on the seafront in Parga Town, surrounded by olive trees and flowers. The resort offers stylish rooms with views of the Ionian Sea or the garden, a beachfront restaurant and café, a swimming pool, and nearby sports activities. Boats to beaches such as Kryoneri and Sarakiniko are available from the hotel.
Monemvasia on the mainland
Monemvasia is one of the best beach towns near Athens. Just a short drive from the city, Monemvasia offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The town is situated on a small island, and its main attraction is the medieval castle perched atop a rocky outcropping. The whole old town is absolutely stunning, and you could easily spend days wondering the little streets and stopping frequently for coffee (beer) breaks!
One of the best beaches (though you couldn’t technically call it one) is in Monemvasia old town itself. Follow the pathways down to the sea and you’ll find a rocky platform with steps leading down to the sea and a safe buoyed-off area for swimming. Take a towel and relax on the rocks before swimming out to get an impressive view of the town from the water.
Visitors can also enjoy the town’s sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and scenic hiking trails. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous escape, Monemvasia is the perfect place to explore.
Where to stay in Monemvasia
Budget option
Guesthouse Kellia is at the foot of the lower castle, which in itself is a pretty impressive boast. The rooms have cosy exposed stonework and incredible sea views.
There is also a lounge area with a fireplace and board games (though you won’t be going anywhere near a fire in the summer months!)
Check current prices and book here.
Luxury option
The Castle Mansion of Casa Felicia is just beautiful. A stay here is pure luxury.
The property has three bedrooms and has been done out to the highest of standards, with mod-cons and even a hot tub! You have to see it to believe it!
Check current prices and book here.
The Best Beach Towns In Greece For Couples
Greece is renowned for being one of the most romantic countries in the world, and where better to wine and dine your loved one than in one of Greece’s best beach towns for couples.
It’s been pretty to narrow down the most romantic, as pretty much every beach town in Greece can tick that box, but here are our top three.
Assos beach town on the island of Kephalonia
Assos is a serene beach town located on the island of Kefalonia. It was one of our favourite stops on our trip, and in our opinion, it’s a must-visit beach town for anyone visiting Kephalonia.
Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Ionian Sea from the town’s harbor, and even better views from climbing the rocky outcrop next to the town. It’s a truly romantic spot.
There are plenty of things to do in Assos to suit all holidaymakers, from swimming and sunbathing to exploring the nearby caves.
The town is also home to a number of restaurants and cafes, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere.
For those looking for a more active vacation, Assos is an excellent base for exploring the island’s hiking trails. With its beautiful setting and range of activities, Assos is one of the best beach towns in Greece.
Where to stay in Assos
Budget option
The Linardos Apartments are the perfect budget option for a stay in Assos. The apartments are just 50 feet from the beach, and offer panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, the village and the castle. They are close to all the action (well, what action there is for a little Greek town!) and all apartments are air-conditioned.
Luxury option
Assos View is a beautiful place to stay. The year-round outdoor pool is perfect for a refreshing dip or to lounge around and soak up some sun. Each unit features a kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave, as a seating area with a sofa. Some units have a patio and/or a balcony with pool or garden views. You can even do a spot of fishing from the villa! This is the perfect spot for a relaxing vacation.
Symi on the island of Symi
There are few things more idyllic than a romantic getaway to the Greek Isles. And Symi is one of the most scenic beach towns in all of Greece.
This small Greek island is home to towering cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and whitewashed houses that seem to glow in the sunlight. With its turquoise waters and bright bougainvillea blossoms, Symi looks like it was plucked straight out of a postcard.
But this town is more than just a pretty face. There’s plenty to do here, from exploring the hillside villages to snorkeling in the clear waters. Check out some of the best things to do in Symi.
So if you’re looking for a breathtaking beach town with plenty to keep you busy and romance around every corner, add Symi to your list.
Where to stay in Symi
Budget option
Pitini apartment is only a few minutes walk from the harbour and all the restaurants and bars.
It’s got a real traditional vibe, and coffee on the balcony in the morning with those views is like something from a movie set! You have to stay here to believe it! You can book here now but be aware this place sells out quickly during peak season!
Luxury option
Hotel Thea is one of the highest rated places to stay in the whole of Symi and we can see why! With incredible views and in a great location, this is a real luxury option. The highlight of the room though, has to be the bathroom! With its large window and beautiful view of the sea, it was unlike any other bathroom you’ll have ever seen. We highly recommend staying at Hotel Thea next time you visit Symi island!
Naousa beach town on the island of Paros
Naousa is a charming beach town located on the island of Paros in Greece. What makes it romantic is the pretty little alleyways filled with bright pink flowers and intimate cafes and restaurants.
The town is known for its picturesque harbor, with its white-washed buildings and blue-painted shutters. There are also a number of beaches within easy reach of Naousa, making it the perfect base for exploring the island.
For couples looking for things to do, there are plenty of options. Take a walk through the town’s winding streets, go for a swim at one of the nearby beaches, or take a boat trip to see the island’s iconic windmills.
Naousa is also home to a number of art galleries and museums, making it the perfect place for culture lovers.
Whether you’re looking for things to do during the day or night, Naousa has something to offer everyone.
Where to stay in Naousa
We’ve included some of our favourite options below, but head here for a more detailed guide on the best places to stay in Paros.
Budget option
Naousa Boutique Apartment is a super cute little apartment in the centre of Naousa. It’s a romantic little place to stay with a lot of charm, and the fact it’s a stones throw from some great restaurants is an added bonus!
Luxury option
Kallisti Paros is the perfect place to treat your love. It has a large pool, tastefully decorated air-conditioned rooms with a private balcony or ground-floor veranda, and the comfiest looking sun loungers.
The Best Greek Beach Towns For Families
Lindos on the island of Rhodes
Lindos is one of the best beach towns in Greece with a mix of history and beautiful beaches, so it’s perfect for everyone in the family. It is situated on the east coast of the island of Rhodes and is known for its sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and quaint, whitewashed buildings.
The main attraction here is the ancient Acropolis overlooking the town. There is a small charge to enter, but the impressive ruins inside are well worth the money. The walk up is slippery so wear grippy shoes, and make sure you pop up there at night for a romantic view over the old town.
If you’ve come to one of the best beach towns in Greece to enjoy the beaches, then Lindos won’t disappoint. Head to Pallas beach for sun umbrellas, sand, and an expanse of clear water, or visit St Paul’s beach for a more intimate experience and impressive views. Both are well worth a visit.
There are a number of restaurants and cafes lining the main street, where you can enjoy traditional Greek dishes while taking in the beautiful views. There are also a range of more active things to do in Lindos, including snorkelling, boat trips, and a range of watersports.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a taste of the fascinating Greek history, Lindos is the perfect place to visit as a family.
Where to stay in Lindos
Budget option
In the heart of Lindos, Captains House needs to be seen to be believed! This traditional 17th century villa has all you could need from a house, but in the style of a traditional 17th century building. It even has a beautiful mosaic terrace.
Find out about availability and prices here.
Luxury option
This adults-only hotel is a short walk from Lindos town, but its worth it for the pool views over the whitewashed buildings and the acropolis! The attention to detail in this hotel is just lovely, with comfy poolside seating, hammocks, and a dining area.
Find out availability and prices here.
Corfu Town
Corfu Town is a great destination for families looking to enjoy some of the best that Greece has to offer. The town is located on the northeastern coast of the island of Corfu, and it is home to a number of attractions that will appeal to visitors of all ages.
There are a number of excellent museums and galleries to explore. The Archaeological Museum is a particular highlight, and it is perfect for families with kids who are interested in learning about Greek history.
There is also a famous aqua park nearby that kids of all ages will love! It’s one of the biggest in Europe, and has something for big kids and little kids alike.
With so much to see and do, Corfu Town is the perfect place for an enjoyable family holiday.
Where to stay in Corfu town
Budget option
Liston Square Victorias is the perfect budget option for families. It’s small but functional and has all you could need for a holiday here. The two-bedroom apartment has a fully equipped kitchen and is in a central location, close to all the major attractions.
Luxury option
Lighthouse apartments is just a few steps from Byzantine Museum and close to the beach (with the obvious sea views!) It’s a comfortable and beautifully decorated space, and who doesn’t love walking just a few steps for a sea dip!?
The best beach towns in Greece for history
Greece is brimming with ancient architecture and incredible ruins. One of the best ways to holiday in Greece is to get a good mix of all it has to offer – great beaches, great nightlife, and of course, incredible historic sightseeing. In the towns we’ve listed below you can have it all.
Pilos on the mainland
Greece is renowned for its stunning coastline, and there are plenty of beach towns to explore. However, if you’re looking for a town with a rich history, then Pilos is a great choice.
This picturesque town is located on the Peloponnese peninsula, and it was once an important port city. Today, it’s a popular tourist destination, and there are plenty of things to do.
Visitors can explore the remains of the ancient city of Nestor just outside of Pilos, which was once an important center of trade. Nestor was also the site of the Battle of Pylos, which was fought between the Greeks and the Spartans in 425 BC.
The ancient castle on the other side of the bay from Pilos is an absolute must-visit and has been one of our top highlights while sailing throughout Greece. The castle is free to climb at your own risk, and the views at sunset need to be seen to be believed!
In addition to its ancient ruins, Pilos is also home to a number of traditional Greek taverns, making it a great place to relax and enjoy some good food and wine.
Where to stay in Pilos
Budget option
This is one of the best budget options in Pylos. The area is perfect – quiet and tucked away without being far from the action. The owners are friendly and helpful, and the rainfall shower is perfect for cooling off under after a long day of exploring!
Luxury option
Hotel Anezina in Pylos, Greece is a beautiful, luxury hotel overlooking the bay. It’s perfect for couples or families looking for a relaxing vacation. The staff are incredibly friendly and accommodating, and the rooms are spacious and clean. Plus, the homemade lemonade is a lovely touch!
Rhodes old town on the island of Rhodes
Rhodes is one of the most popular Greek islands, and it’s easy to see why. The island boasts stunning beaches, a lively nightlife scene, and plenty of things to see and do.
However, Rhodes is also home to a wealth of history, and its Old Town is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the island’s past.
The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. The streets are lined with medieval buildings, and there are plenty of historical landmarks to explore including visiting the Acropolis of Rhodes and the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights. In addition, the Old Town is home to a number of museums and galleries, making it the perfect place to learn more about Rhodes’ rich history.
With its rich history and abundance of things to do, Rhodes old town is the perfect place to spend a few days exploring Greece’s past.
Where to stay in Rhodes Old Town
Budget option
Rhodes town isn’t the cheapest place to stay, but Attiki Hotel is a great mid-range option. It’s just a 10 minute walk from the beach, in the centre of the action, and has a beautiful garden to relax in.
Luxury option
Spirit of the Knights Boutique Hotel is one of a kind. It features uniquely designed and luxurious accommodations styled on Rhode’s ancient history.
The pool here is the perfect place to rest your feet after a full day of exploring, and the breakfast is also pretty special! There’s a library here, so you can grab a good read and sit in the shade in the courtyard while you wait for the cooler weather to go exploring in the evening.
The Best Beach Towns In Greece For Watersports Lovers
Paradisi on the island of Kos
If you’re looking for the best beach town in Greece for watersports, look no further than Paradisi. This small town on the island of Kos is a haven for things to do in the water, from windsurfing and sailing to scuba diving and stand-up paddleboarding.
If you’re looking for a little bit of everything, you can find it here too – Parasidi is home to some of the most popular beaches in Greece, including Psalidi Beach, which is renowned for its crystal clear water and stunning shores. You’ll also find wetlands here where you can try a little bird spotting, or check out local ruins.
So whether you’re a seasoned watersports enthusiast or simply looking to dip your toes in the water, Paradisi is the perfect place to be.
Where to stay in Paradiso
Budget option
Andromeda Hotel Apartments offers an outdoor pool, a sun terrace with sun loungers and a pool-view snack bar. These self-catering apartments have a balcony and tastefully decorated rooms, and are in a great location.
Luxury option
The Mediterranean-style Platanista just screams luxury from the minute you enter. It is located just 500 feet from the beach and offers 2 large outdoor pools (and a shallow pool for the kids), spa facilities, and free private parking.
If you’re still feeling energetic after a day out on the water then you can enjoy tennis or mini golf in the resort. It’s close to all the action, with plenty of traditional tavernas nearby.
Lefkada on the mainland
Lefkada is one of the best beach towns in Greece for watersports. It’s home to some of the best sailing and windsurfing in the country, and there are also plenty of things to do for those who don’t want to get wet.
Nidri is a great place to start your exploration of the island, with its many restaurants and bars lining the waterfront. It’s also home to some of the best sailboat charter companies in Greece. You can either hire a sailboat and go alone, join a flotilla (if you have your skipper’s qualifications), or hire a sailboat with a skipper to take you to all the best sights in the area.
The town of Nydri is also a great base for exploring the rest of the island, with its many beaches and hiking trails. Take a sea kayaking tour to see the island from the water.
The neighboring village of Vassiliki is a mecca for windsurfing, and there are several schools offering lessons for beginners.
Where to stay in Lefkada
Budget option
Old town apartment is simple but tasteful, and is all you really need for a beach town holiday in Greece. It’s in a central location and is self-catering, so you can choose where you eat. The apartment is air-conditioned, which you’ll be thankful for in the Greek heat!
Luxury option
Ianos Hotel has a marina front location and most rooms have balconies overlooking the sea. You can enjoy a breakfast buffet by the swimming pool and watch the yachts come and go (before you jump on one yourself!)
The best beach towns in Greece for nightlife
Greece is well-known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and gorgeous sunsets. But what many visitors don’t realize is that the country’s beach towns offer a wide range of nightlife options.
Mykonos Town on the island of Mykonos
Mykonos is one of the most popular beach towns in Greece, and it’s easy to see why. The town has a lively atmosphere with plenty of things to do both during the day and at night.
You can enjoy a wide range of activities here, including swimming, sunbathing, windsurfing, and exploring the many shops and cafes. One of the most popular daytime activities is a catamaran trip. You can also take a day trip to the incredible ruins on the tiny island of Delos.
When the sun goes down, Mykonos comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. There are dozens of clubs and bars to choose from, as well as a wide variety of restaurants serving traditional Greek food and international cuisine.
If you’re looking for a place to let loose and have a good time, Mykonos is the perfect spot.
Where to stay in Mykonos Town
Budget option
Mykonos town isn’t the cheapest place to stay, but it is possible to pick up a bargain if you search hard enough. La Maison Kalogera is one of these! It offers uniquely decorated rooms with views over the city, and is super close to all the action.
Luxury option
If you’re looking for the ultimate in luxury then look no further than Absolute Mykonos Suites. The rooms here are swish you won’t want to party all night!
The pool, with sea views, is just stunning. There is a fitness center, spa and wellness facilities and the hotel offers car and bike rental. This will be a stay to remember.
Chora on the island of Ios
If you’re looking for a place to party into the small hours, Chora on the island of Ios is the place for you.
The town’s main street is lined with clubs, bars, and restaurants, and there’s something to suit every taste. Whether you want to dance the night away or enjoy a leisurely meal with friends, Chora has it all.
But don’t limit your trip solely to the night time (hangovers permitting) as there are some really great things to do other than sunbathing and partying. One of the most popular activities is a scuba diving discovery tour, where you’ll get the chance to check out the underwater world (alongside a super qualified instructor of course!)
Where to stay in Chora
Budget option
Markos village is a great budget option for a stay in Ios Chora. It’s in the heart of nightlife and 5 minutes by bus to Mylopotas beach and port.
It’s unusual for budget accommodation here to have a swimming pool, so make sure you take advantage of that! The air-conditioned rooms feature a TV and a private bathroom with shower. You can also eat lunch and dinner at the on-site restaurant, and the on-site playground is great for families.
Luxury option
Relux Ios Hotel is a traditional Greek hotel, with clean white backdrops everywhere you look and a beautiful swimming pool to relax in or beside. It’s centrally located in Ios and just 300 m from the port. This is the perfect place to spend your days recovering from an awesome night out in Ios Chora.
Fira on the island of Santorini
Fira is the capital of the island of Santorini and one of the most popular beach towns in all of Greece. We would recommend at least 4 days in Santorini to really see it all.
The nightlife in Fira is some of the best in Greece, and you won’t be disappointed by the variety of clubs and bars here. In addition, there are many excellent restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines, including delicious traditional Greek food.
There are also a number of things to do during the day, including exploring the town’s many shops and cafes or heading to one of the many beaches, which are perfect for relaxing or swimming.
If you haven’t had your fill of drinks during the evening, then head off on a vineyard tour and see where some of that great wine is coming from. Or drink to the end of the day on a sunset Santorini catamaran cruise for something extra special.
The town is also a great base for exploring the rest of the island. Santorini is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece, and Fira is a great place to experience all that the island has to offer.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a night out with friends, Fira has everything you need.
Where to stay in Fira
Budget option
It’s hard to believe somewhere like A&G Suites could be one of the cheaper places to stay in Fira – just take a look at the spa bath! The property is in the perfect location, and has air-conditioned rooms, a garden, free WiFi and each room has a balcony.
Luxury option
Astro Palace Hotel & Suites is about as idyllic as it gets. Just a short walk from Fira and the caldera but worlds removed from the hustle and bustle, this is a place to truly relax. It offers a spa center, a swimming pool, and rooms with unobstructed Aegean Sea views.
Pleiades restaurant serves delicious food all day and refreshments and snacks are provided at the pool bar, so you can completely relax without leaving the hotel if you choose. Laptops and i-pads are available upon request and free private parking is available nearby.
This is honeymoon-worthy accommodation that is worth a splurge.
How To Get To Greece
The easiest airport to fly into when visiting Greece is Athens international airport. Flights land here from all over the world, and you can usually find a good deal, especially if you choose to visit Greek during their shoulder season (April, May, September, October).
From Athens airport it is easy to catch internal flights to many of the islands. Even a lot of smaller Greek islands have airports so be sure to check out the prices of flights before booking a ferry. It’s often cheaper and far quicker.
We use Skyscanner to book all our flights, as they find the cheapest deals and best times to fly, plus you have a range of filter options that make finding flights super convenient.
How To Get Around Greece
By car
If you’re travelling on the mainland then the best way to reach your destination is by hiring a car. The roads in Greece are easy to navigate and a lot of them are main highways that are well maintained and fast. Find the best deals for car rentals in Greece through Discover Cars.
By ferry
The easiest way to get around the Greek islands is by ferry. There are several different major ferry lines that run daily during the summer period. Be sure to check Ferry Scanner to make sure you’ve found the best price and travel times. Some ferries are much faster than others, though you’re likely to pay a little more.
Conclusion: Best Beach Towns In Greece
If you’re looking for breathtaking beach towns in Greece, then look no further than the list we’ve provided. Each of these towns has its own unique charm and personality that will make your vacation unforgettable.
So pack your bags and get ready to enjoy some of the best beaches in the world!
