greece
Greece, Handpicked.
From Cycladic cliffs to Ionian coves, ancient ruins to rooftop dinners in Athens, we’ve combed the country for places that feel both rooted and rare. Beyond the tourist trails lie sculptural villas with sea views, quiet tavernas tucked into stone alleys, and islands where time moves differently. We’ve skipped the cruise crowds and Instagram traps in favor of what’s timeless—and what’s worth your time.
Whether you’re navigating marble-paved streets in the Peloponnese, sipping wine in Naxos, or sailing between secret beaches, this is Greece done thoughtfully. Beautifully. On your terms.
Where to go. Where to stay. What to skip. What to savor.
Every moment, considered.
Looking for a region?
Need to know
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Late spring (May–early June) and early fall (September–mid October) are ideal—warm water, fewer crowds, and just enough buzz. July and August bring the heat and the high season energy, but also higher prices and full ferries. Winter is quiet and moody in the cities, though most islands shut down completely.
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For first-timers, a few days in Athens followed by one or two islands is more than enough. Crete and the Peloponnese work well as standalone trips. Island-hopping sounds romantic but can be a logistical headache—stick to island clusters (like Paros, Antiparos, and Koufonisia) if you’re moving around. Avoid one-night stays.
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Dinner is late, plans are fluid, and no one’s in a rush. Even in buzzy spots, there’s a softness to Greek hospitality—curious, warm, never overbearing. Tipping is appreciated but not expected. You won’t always find menus in English or perfect service, but you will find moments of magic in unexpected places.
the ones you should know
hydra
folegandros
sifnos
milos
crete
paxos
antiparos
naxos
symi
koufonisia
Hala hit list
A few of our forever favorites.
Dinner at To Petrino, Sifnos
No menu, no pretense—just whatever came in fresh that morning, served in a candlelit courtyard.
Golden hour swim at Sarakiniko
Lunar white cliffs, translucent water, and a silence that feels cinematic. Milos at its best.
Lunch in the hills at Taverna Leonidas
Wood-fired everything, raki on the house, and views that go quiet. Deep Crete magic.
One of the world’s top bars—without the attitude. Order whatever the bartender’s having.
Drinks at The Clumsies, Athens
Hydra in shoulder season
No cars, no noise, just stone mansions, slow mornings, and swims off the rocks.
Herbs from Daphnis and Chloe
Hand-harvested mountain tea and pantry staples you’ll end up shipping home. Athens-based, globally loved.
if you have 48 hours
START IN ATHENS
Land early. Coffee at Underdog Cafe, then a slow walk through Plaka and Anafiotika. Visit the Acropolis just after opening, lunch at Nolan, and a golden hour drink at Couleur Locale. Dinner at Linou Soumpasis or a classic taverna in Petralona.
HEAD FOR THE SEA
Take a ferry to Hydra, Paros, or Sifnos—close enough to keep it simple, far enough to feel elsewhere. Drop your bags, dive straight in, and have a sunset drink by the harbor. Dinner should be slow, fresh, and feet-in-the-sand.
SLOW IT DOWN
Sleep in. Swim again. Wander the backstreets, buy something handmade, and say yes to a second round of ouzo. This is where Greece starts to stretch out.
END WITH A VIEW
A final swim if you’re lucky. Breakfast under bougainvillea. One last look at the water before the ferry back. Greece doesn’t rush goodbyes—and neither should you.
what to bring home: In a jar, tin or bottle
Wild thyme honey from Melira in Athens
Santorini capers and sun-dried tomatoes from the Santorini Bios Cooperative in Pyrgos.
Carob syrup from Cretan Nectar, best picked up in Chania or Heraklion
Mastiha liqueur from Skinos
Organic Kalamata olives from Liocharis in the Peloponnese
Sardines in olive oil with oregano from Trata
Red saffron threads from the Krokos Kozanis Cooperative
Dried mountain tea from Daphnis and Chloe
Fig spoon sweets or quince preserves from family-run vendors inside Varvakios Market in Athens
Olive oil soap bars from Patounis Soap Factory in Corfu
Let’s Plan Something Unforgettable
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