Greece, the cradle of Western civilization, is a country with a remarkable history that has profoundly shaped the modern world. From its scattered islands in the Aegean to its mountainous mainland, each region of Greece tells a different story. Whether you’re sailing to Santorini’s volcanic cliffs, walking among the marble ruins of Athens, savoring olives in a Peloponnesian village, or hiking through the rugged trails of Crete, Greece rewards travelers who look beyond the postcards and embrace its timeless spirit.
From sacred sanctuaries and Byzantine monasteries to island-hopping adventures and vibrant coastal towns, Greece offers a journey through centuries of art, faith, and tradition. Guided tours here uncover the legends, flavors, and rhythms that have defined this land for millennia. So before you set out under its brilliant blue skies, take note of these tours that reveal why Greece remains one of the world’s most enchanting destinations.
Here's what you should consider before booking a guided tour in Greece
- Understand the geography: Greece’s terrain ranges from the mountainous north (Macedonia, Thessaly) to sun-soaked southern islands (Peloponnese, Crete, Cyclades), so travel times and tour logistics vary by region.
- Choose your focus early: Decide whether to explore the mainland (Athens, Delphi, Meteora, Olympia) or the islands (Santorini, Crete, Rhodes, Paros). If you are combining both then you'll need extra planning for ferries or domestic flights.
- Know the meeting points: Most guided tours start at central spots like city squares, ports, or hotel pick-up zones. For example, in Athens it's usually near Syntagma Square or the Acropolis metro stop.
- Pick the right season: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds; summer tours are best taken early in the morning or at sunset to avoid the heat.
- Dress and behave respectfully: Many sites, especially monasteries like Meteora, are religious so modest clothing and quiet conduct are essential.
- Trust your guides: Many Greek guides are trained archaeologists, offering deep insights into the country’s Mycenaean, Hellenistic, and Byzantine heritage.
- Plan for island conditions: In Santorini and other islands, expect steep terrain and strong winds. Schedule tours early or late in the day and leave a buffer before flights in case of ferry delays.
- Support sustainable travel: Choose local operators, small-group tours, and eco-conscious itineraries to help ease overtourism on popular islands and support community-based tourism.
Guided tours by region
Central Greece (Athens, Delphi): Most classical tours start from Athens, covering the Acropolis, Parthenon, Temple of Poseidon, and Delphi’s ancient sanctuary, historically known as the “navel of the world”.
Peloponnese (Epidaurus, Mycenae, Olympia): These are core stops on 3–4 day historical tours exploring ancient theaters, Mycenaean fortresses, and the birthplace of the Olympic Games, often offered as all-inclusive cultural packages with licensed guides.
Thessaly (Meteora): Famous for its cliff-top monasteries built between the 14th–16th centuries. Guided tours focus on both spiritual tradition and photography opportunities from the “hanging monasteries” carved into towering rock spires.
The Islands (Santorini, Crete, Rhodes): Island tours often focus on local crafts, volcanology, and scenic beauty. In Santorini, for instance, day tours can include the Profitis Ilias monastery, Pyrgos village, volcanic caldera cruises, and Oia’s sunset.
Top cities in Greece for taking a guided tour
1. Athens
- Cultural identity: The city is a living museum of democracy, philosophy, and classical art, balanced by its contemporary Mediterranean rhythm and strong family-oriented culture.
- Hallmark cuisine: Traditional Athenian dishes like souvlaki, moussaka, and spanakopita, accompanied by regional wines and ouzo.
- Language/dialect: Modern Greek (Demotic Greek) is the official language, with English widely spoken in major cities.
- Climate: Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are ideal for guided tours and archaeological exploration when temperatures are moderate and daylight is long.
- Key attractions: Acropolis and Parthenon, Ancient Agora, Temple of Olympian Zeus, National Archaeological Museum, Panathenaic Stadium, Plaka and Anafiotika old quarters.
- Special events: Athens Epidaurus Festival (theatre and music), Independence Day (March 25), Athens Marathon (November), and Byzantine Music Festival celebrating sacred heritage in Byzantine churches.
- Local experience: Stroll through the historic Plaka district for neoclassical charm, enjoy café life in Syntagma Square, take rooftop dinners with Acropolis views, and experience lively street art and nightlife in Psyrri and Exarchia neighborhoods.
Tours we recommend
Opt for the Acropolis Parthenon Tickets with Optional Audio Guide for the ultimate introduction to ancient Greece. These include timed entry to the Acropolis and the option to add a two-hour guided tour. It's a great way to save time while exploring with an expert. For a memorable experience beyond Athens, consider the Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion Sunset Half-Day Trip. This tour is great for getting some amazing pictures of the stunning coast with fascinating stories about ancient seafaring, mythology, and Greek culture.
Checkout top guided tours in Athens
Full-day tours from Athens
There are plenty of full-day tours from Athens, many of which focus on specific themes. If you’re interested in visiting the peaceful monasteries, the Meteora full-day trip is a must! It can include lunch, a hike to the top for amazing views or even a 2 day stay. History enthusiasts can make a day of visiting the ancient archaeological site of Delphi, learning about its famous Oracle set amidst rolling mountains. Another fantastic option is the Nafplio-Mycenae-Epidaurus Day Tour, which takes you through iconic sites like Mycenae and Epidaurus. These tours are perfect for those eager to explore Greece’s rich history and see stunning monuments that predate even classical Greece.
2. Santorini
- Cultural identity: Born from one of history’s largest volcanic eruptions, it evolved into a symbol of Cycladic identity with its whitewashed cliffside villages, blue-domed churches, and stories rooted in resilience, mythology, and seafaring life.
- Hallmark cuisine: Iconic island dishes such as fava me koukia (yellow split pea purée), domatokeftedes (tomato fritters), melitzanosalata (eggplant dip), and local seafood.
- Language/dialect: Modern Greek is the main language, but due to Santorini’s international tourism scene, English and other European languages are widely spoken.
- Climate: Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild winters.
- Key attractions: Caldera viewpoints in Oia and Fira, Akrotíri Archaeological Site (Bronze Age ruins), Red and Perissa beaches, Ancient Thira, Ammoudi Bay, Pyrgos village, and Profitis Ilias Monastery.
- Special events: Ifaisteia Festival (fireworks commemorating the ancient eruption), Megaron Gyzi Festival (music and art), and traditional village “panigiria”
- Local experience: Sip Assyrtiko at family-run wineries, wander quiet lanes of Megalochori or Emporio, watch artisans in Oia’s ateliers, and join locals for coffee and conversation at a kafeneio.
Tours we reccommend
Opt for the Santorini Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit, Volcano Hike, Thirassia & Oia for an unforgettable day exploring the natural wonders of the island. This tour includes a scenic cruise around Santorini’s volcanic islands, a guided walking tour and hike on Nea Kameni, and a visit to the charming island of Thirassia. Depending on your chosen option, you can also enjoy round-trip transfers and an Oia sunset tour, perfect for capturing breathtaking views and photographs.
Checkout top guided tours in Santorini
3. Peloponnese
- Cultural identity: The Peloponnese is a mythic land where ancient Greek civilization was born, embodying a deep historical legacy from Mycenae and Sparta to Olympia and Epidaurus.
- Hallmark cuisine: Rich and diverse, Peloponnesian cuisine focuses on fresh, local ingredients. Highlights include hand-made pasta like hilopites, grilled lamb or goat cooked in traditional pots, feta cheese matured in beechwood barrels, fresh trout from mountain rivers, and seafood from the coastal villages.
- Language/dialect: Modern Greek with some local dialectical influences reflecting the historical presence of Aeolians, Dorians, and Ionians.
- Climate: Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild springs and autumns.
- Key attractions: Mycenae with its iconic Lion Gate, Olympia, the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus known for its acoustics, Palamidi Castle in Nafplio, archaeological sites of Mystra, and natural beauty along the Mani Peninsula.
- Special events: Epidaurus Festival with classical theatre performances, religious festivals in villages like panigiria and olive and wine harvesting celebrations.
- Local experience: Experience slower-paced life with outdoor markets, artisanal ceramics, and local honey shops.
Tours we reccommend
Discover the best of ancient Greece with the Mycenae Archaeological Site & Museum and Ancient Olympia Archaeological Site & Museum tours. At Mycenae, explore the legendary ruins and fascinating museum artifacts with an audio guide that brings the stories of kings and heroes to life. In Olympia, walk through the birthplace of the Olympic Games, visit its archaeological site and museums, and learn about the traditions, temples, and legendary athletes that shaped this historic center.
