- whitneykamerzel
- Jan 2
- 5 min read
Updated: Jan 20
Greece’s Top 5 Adventures: A Local Expat’s Guide
Crafted by an American expat living in Greece,
this guide showcases the very best experiences in this enchanting country.
Hi, I’m Whitney! As an American living in Greece, I’ve been lucky enough to explore this stunning country and its hidden gems. Over the past year, I’ve traveled to countless islands and mainland destinations, discovering experiences that embody the magic of Greece. Here are my top five recommendations for anyone looking to fall in love with this beautiful country.
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1. Riding 4x4s Through the Mountains of Naxos
Naxos is my favorite island in Greece, and for good reason. It’s one of the largest in the Cyclades and renowned for its untouched natural beauty and authentic Greek charm. Unlike many islands, Naxos remains largely undeveloped and doesn’t depend on tourism to thrive. As one of Greece’s agricultural hubs, the island produces incredible food and products, making it a foodie’s dream!!
One of the best ways to explore Naxos is by renting a 4x4 and heading into the mountains. On a 4x4 tour, you’ll wind through traditional villages, ancient ruins, and panoramic vistas that will leave you speechless.
I recommend first stopping in Eggares village to visit the Olive Press Museum. Owned by the same family for generations, they offer a FREE olive oil-making tour and tasting. Learn about the traditional methods of olive oil production, from harvesting to pressing, and sample some of the freshest olive oil you’ll ever taste.
Then visit Apiranthos village (for mountain desserts and a Greek bookstore called CaptainBooks that sells books of greek poetry that are themselves pieces of art).
Lastly, visit Lefkes village for the best shopping and wander through the winding, picturesque alleys.
Pro Tip: Rent your 4x4 in town. While you can book online in advance, it will be expensive. Instead, visit one of the local rental shops when you arrive and ask to book for the next day. Expect to pay around $100 per day for a 2-4 seater.
BONUS experience: Attend a cooking class in naxos.
Known as Greece’s agricultural heart, Naxos is famous for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients like potatoes, olive oil, cheeses, and meats. In a hands-on class, you’ll learn to prepare authentic Naxian dishes, from savory pies to slow-cooked meats, while hearing the stories behind these recipes passed down through generations.
Recommended tours:
2. Catamaran Ride in Milos
Thankfully, Milos doesn’t have the fame of Santorini or Mykonos, yet it’s home to one of the MOST unique landscapes in the world. This volcanic island is famous for its moon-like rock formations and crystal-clear waters. If you’re a first-time visitor to Greece, Milos is an absolute must.
For the ultimate Milos experience, book a catamaran tour. These massive sailboats are incredibly stable thanks to their double hulls, making them perfect for anyone (like mee) prone to seasickness. You’ll sail past the island’s famous rock formations, including the jaw-dropping Kleftiko caves, and visit charming fisherman’s villages.
Make sure your tour includes lunch—the onboard chefs often serve some of the best Greek food you’ll ever taste. One of my favorite memories is floating in crystal-clear water with friends, then coming back on board to a table full of Greek dishes, wrapped in a towel and savoring a glass of white wine. Life is good!
There are a ton of tours to choose from: however, this one that I personally attended was 10/10. Growing up on boats, including a large catamaran, I chatted with the captain during the journey and was really impressed by the whole operation. So much so that I plan to go again with friends this year.
3. Dining at a Winery in Crete
Crete is Greece’s largest island, and its wine scene is an experience you’ll never forget. One of my favorite stops is this gorgeous winery estate that redefined what I imagine my dream home to look like. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and olive and orange groves, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely Greek meal paired with local wines.
Beware: the narrow mountain roads in Crete can be dangerous, especially if you plan on drinking. Consider booking a guided tour that includes transportation so you can relax and enjoy the experience to the fullest. Trust me, it’s worth every penny.
4. Watch the Sunset on the Athens Riviera at Poseidon’s Temple
Why does no one talk about this?! The Athens Riviera is a rugged stretch of coastline just outside the city, filled with unique beaches, dramatic cliff views, and one of Greece’s most iconic landmarks: Poseidon’s Temple. It’s my favorite weekend escape when I’m in Athens and hands down the best sunset in the area.
Spend the day beach-hopping along the Riviera before heading to Cape Sounion for sunset at Poseidon’s Temple. The ancient temple perched on a cliff offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
Pro tip: There’s a secret hiking trail below the temple that leads to a secluded cove. First, spot the beach from the giftshop. Then wander downhill from the giftshop for about 5 minutes and you’ll see a fence on the right. To the right of that fence is a public trail that leads down over a pretty simple 10 minute hike.
If you don’t have a car, your best bet for visiting the temple at sunset is to book a tour!
5. Meteora and Zagori Mountain Trip
Meteora and Zagori may be three hours apart, but they share a mystical mood that makes them perfect to combine into one trip.
Meteora: Imagine ancient monasteries perched atop towering rock formations, built to protect Christian relics during the Ottoman rule. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most awe-inspiring places in Greece. Even if you’re not religious, the sheer scale and beauty of Meteora will leave you breathless.
If you don’t have a car, you can rent a car or take a day trip from Athens:
Zagori: Nestled in the Pindus Mountains, Zagori is a region of stone-built villages connected by ancient arched bridges. It’s like stepping back in time. Spend your days hiking moss-covered trails or exploring Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world. Don’t forget to hunt for the hidden stone bridges along the way! This tour will you show you the way.
Time to Build Your Bucket List
These five experiences represent the best of Greece—from rugged mountain adventures to serene seaside escapes, ancient history to incredible food and wine. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning to explore more, these recommendations will give you a taste of the authentic beauty and magic that Greece has to offer. Let me know what’s on your Greek bucket list!
