The best sandy beaches in Greece for a beach holiday. The best beaches in Greece: ranking of the best places to relax

It's no secret that for several decades now, Greek resorts with sandy beaches have been extremely popular, both among local residents and among numerous tourists who come to vacation in this country from literally all corners of the globe.

What is the reason for such demand? What makes travelers buy tours to Greece, the prices of which are by no means cheap? Let's try to figure it out.

In general, this article is aimed not only at describing in detail the resorts of Greece with sandy beaches - we will also try to talk about their advantages, while simultaneously warning about possible difficulties and troubles.

Section 1. Alexandroupolis - the intersection of peoples and cultures

Alexandroupolis is the capital of Evros, which perfectly combines the distant past and the modern present.

Today the city has a port and a railway station, making Alexandroupoli an important commercial and tourist center. In addition, there are also the Church and Ethnological Museums.

A holiday at such a resort will be fun, rich in flavors and aromas, unique landscapes and a huge number of attractions. According to many experienced travelers, even the currently very popular islands of Greece are somehow inferior to this one. locality.

Cosmopolitan life, rare eco-tourism opportunities and popular ecological monuments have turned this Greek city into a wonderful holiday destination. Thanks to its very favorable geographical location - at the intersection of Greece with the countries of Europe, Asia, the Black Sea and the Mediterranean - Alexandroupoli began to occupy a dominant place in Thrace and Eastern Macedonia.

This area offers tourists rare natural beauties, wonderful landscapes, the enchanting forest of Dadias, the splendor of the Euros delta and the deliciousness thermal springs Trayanoupolis. High intellectual level The city is also highlighted by buildings of unique architecture - the Zarifios Academy and the school in the central square of Leontaridios.

The suburb of Alexandroupoli is also charming. For example, in the village of Feres you can discover the beautiful monastery of the Virgin Mary the World Savior, built in the 11th century, an ancient Byzantine aqueduct and the famous Great Fountain. In the nearby village. Souflis houses Kalesi's house, Brik's mansion and a silk factory.

The Pythian castle and the Byzantine fortress of Kale have been preserved in Didimoticho. In the Platanonoros area there is a Natural History Museum, and in the village of Avantas there is a cave, inside of which there is a chapel with amazing Byzantine frescoes.

Of course, from here you can go on an exciting excursion to another part of the country. Tourists, as a rule, very often choose the well-known island of Rhodes (Greece) as their destination.

Section 2. Thessaloniki - the most beautiful city in the country

Not everyone knows that Thessaloniki is a city that has the most important architectural and historical global significance.

It has everything an inquisitive modern tourist needs: museums, monuments, ancient buildings, the symbol of the city on the sea embankment - the White Tower, an archaeological museum, Triumphal Arch, the fortress walls of the Upper City, the tomb of King Philip, the Basilica of Hagia Sophia, the astronomical observatory, the Aristotle University and other archaeologically significant places.

By the way, the cultural and historical heritage of the three largest ancient civilizations is closely intertwined here: Roman, Ancient and Byzantine.

In Thessaloniki, rich excursion programs and shopping tours are constantly organized. And the Greek resorts with sandy beaches located in this area are known far beyond the country's borders.

Section 3. What is Halkidiki famous for?

The peninsulas and islands of Greece are very popular. And another confirmation of this statement is a settlement called Chalkidiki.

A holiday on this paradise peninsula will truly give you real pleasure at any time of the year.

Here alone the coastline with wonderful pebble and sandy beaches stretches for more than 500 km. And crystal pure water The Aegean Sea, caressing warmth, beaches with silky fine sand, centuries-old pine trees, green mountains, coves, lagoons and bays hidden in the rocks, stunning archaeological sites, well-developed tourist infrastructure will evoke a whole palette of feelings and emotions.

For the convenience of numerous travelers, excellent hotels and inns are scattered throughout the island. During the day there is silence here, and it seems that nothing will interfere with the beach bliss, and in the evening, cheerful music sounds everywhere, including the coastal area of ​​​​Porto Carras, and delicious food complements all this splendor.

It is impossible to imagine the enchanting nature of the peninsula without mysterious lush gardens and pleasant aromas of flowers.

Those who have already managed to go on tours to Greece (prices of 500-700 euros per week, by the way, allow you to make even several trips a year), often compare Halkidiki with the “trident” of the god of the seas, Poseidon. Why? The thing is that geographically this settlement is located in the region of Central Macedonia and is connected to the mainland only in the northern part.

Section 4. Thassos - a real emerald of the Aegean Sea

It is impossible to even imagine Greek resorts with sandy beaches without this amazing place.

The rich vegetation of the island has forever given it the status of the greenest Greek city. Here are lush valleys, olive groves, pines, fir, dogwood, cedars, centuries-old plane trees and many other representatives of the flora.

The coastline of the island with beautiful clean beaches and crystal water stretches for 115 km.

The emerald landscapes of the island, amazing waterfalls, rocks from which snow-white marble is extracted make up the rare uniqueness of Thassos.

The island is perfect for romantics and lovers of solitude, as well as family vacation with kids.

Due to its climate, this corner of the globe is considered a wonderful place for healing the body. Summers here are very comfortable, and winter on the island is more like our spring.

Section 5. The legendary and mystical island of Crete (Greece)

It so happens that this place has long been called the real cradle of Europeans. What is the reason? The thing is that here, like nowhere else in the world, there is a surprising combination of mesmerizing landscapes, a delightful azure sea, ancient cities with a thousand-year history, gorges known from ancient Greek myths, unique museum complexes, a comfortable climate, an excellent upscale coastline, colorful traditions and excellent Mediterranean Kitchen.

Today we can say with confidence that the island of Crete (Greece) is the largest region of the country. Its coastline lasts more than 1000 km and its area is 8000 km2.

Section 6. Rhodes Island (Greece). Features of local recreation

This is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful corners of the planet. Rhodes enchants and attracts travelers with its rare architectural structures, knightly buildings, wonderful squares, religious monuments, old streets and marvelous parks.

The area of ​​the island is approximately 1.5 thousand km 2. It should also be noted that Rhodes is the largest island of the Dodecanese archipelago.

Its resorts are famous all over the world for their luxurious hotels, magnificent beaches, various entertainment venues and the possibility of secluded relaxation.

The history of the geographical object goes back more than 2500 thousand years. The island's attractions include traditional villages, green hills, valleys and a proud history. By the way, not everyone knows that Rhodes is also called the Island of Knights.

Section 7. Corfu - home of the local nobility

Corfu is an equally famous and beautiful island of Greece. It is located in the Ionian Sea, has amazing natural beauty and a rich, centuries-old history. This locality is famous throughout the world for its turquoise waters and exotic beaches, orange orchards, olive groves and green forests.

This amazing island enchants tourists with its special, almost Venetian aura, unique architecture, wonderful villages and fabulous alleys.

Royalty, celebrities, and aristocrats prefer to relax in Corfu. It is also here that the Princess of Morocco, the sheikhs and emirs of Qatar and other richest people on the planet come to vacation every year.

True, recently the most ordinary travelers have begun to appear here, trying to escape the hustle and bustle of Athens, Heraklion and the settlement under the name Loutraki (Greece), which is difficult for the Russian ear.

Section 8. Ancient Pieria

Geographically, this settlement is located in the very center of Macedonia. About 40% of the region's territory is coastal zone (a plain rich in vegetation), and the south and west of the region are occupied by mountains.

By the way, not everyone knows that this place, thanks to Mount Olympus, is also called the home of the mythical gods.

It should be noted that three Greek mountain ranges end in Pieria: Pieria, Titara and Olympus. That is why there are many deep mountain rivers and modest rivulets in this area.

Katerini is the capital of Pieria, located in the valley between Olympus and the mountain range of the same name.

I would like to note that this is a very popular tourist destination, which, like the village called Glyfada (Greece), located in the suburbs of the capital of the state, combines the extraordinary beauty of majestic mountains and the clearest turquoise sea. There really is no shortage of tourists here.

Today, Katerini, thanks to its proximity to Thessaloniki, has very quickly turned into a modern developed city with a rich economy and a high-quality social and transport structure.

9. Kastoria

Kastoria is an ancient city that can boast amazing pictures of nature, clean air, charming churches, picturesque streets and the mirror surface of the Orestiada mountain lake.

This is a delightfully beautiful, tranquil town located at 650 meters above sea level, whose history has been lost since time immemorial.

By the way, this is where numerous shopping lovers come from Thessaloniki, Athens and Vouliagmeni (Greece). Why? The thing is that this is where, according to travelers, the cheapest and most original fur coats are sold.

Section 10. Revived mythology of Mykonos

Mykonos is a prestigious, fashionable and world-famous resort city. This is the place where the golden youth and successful representatives of the world's bohemians spend their summer.

Since ancient times, it has retained its natural beauty, but despite this, it has become the center of Mediterranean fashion. What awaits travelers here is not only natural beauty, but also a highly developed infrastructure. By the way, in terms of the number of modern hotels, Mykonos is not inferior even to the suburb of the capital, a settlement called Loutraki (Greece).

This island is, in fact, not only a wonderful kaleidoscope of wonderful beaches and charming streets, but also a crossroads of modern fashion, fun and brilliant vacation ideas.

Section 11. Santorini Island - Lost Atlantis

Santorini is perhaps the most mysterious tourist island in Greece. Legends call it either the lost Atlantis or the Pompeii of the Aegean Sea.

This is the most romantic and most beautiful island on the planet. In the last few years alone, Santorini has received many popular tourism awards from the international media.

Today the island is considered a world pearl of tourism. The tourist season here lasts from the beginning of March to the end of November.

The city of Fira, the capital of the island, the picturesque Cape Akrotiri and the ancient village of Ia are also of great archaeological interest.

The sandy beaches of Greece or the textured pebble coasts of its dazzlingly beautiful islands are what attract thousands of vacationers every holiday season. Greek culture with its delicious Mediterranean cuisine invariably attracts tourists who want to combine their vacation with walks along colorful streets and visits to local taverns. The best tour operators in Russia will select a suitable package tour for your taste, in which a beach holiday can be combined with visits to local attractions and a program of exciting excursions.

The most beautiful beaches in Greece:

  1. Elafonisi, Crete island
  2. Mylopotas, Ios island
  3. Plaka, Naxos island
  4. Platys Gialos, Mykonos island
  5. Ornos, Mykonos island
  6. Myrtos, Kefalonia island
  7. Paleokastritsa, Corfu island
  8. Stafilos, Skopelos island
  9. Koukounaries, Skiathos Island
  10. Tigaki, Kos island
  11. Sarakiniko, Milos island
  12. Kamares, Sifnos island
  13. Matala, Crete island
  14. Navajo, Zakynthos island
  15. Vai, Crete island
  16. Perissa, Santorini island
  17. Vouliagmeni, near Athens
  18. Lalaria, Skiathos island

Elafonisi beach, Crete island

Sandy beach of Elafonisi on the island of Crete (photo: @ieva.rimaite)

Elafonisi on the southern coast of Crete is considered by many to be the best beach in Greece. The infrastructure here is not as developed as on other coasts, so people from Chania usually come here for one day.

Mylopotas beach, Ios island


The bright sandy beach of Mylopotas based on Ios (photo: @jayclass777)

Ios is one of the most popular islands of the Cyclades, and Mylopotas is one of its best beaches. It is about 1 kilometer long, dotted with sun loungers and umbrellas, as well as many cafes, bars and restaurants.

Plaka Beach, Naxos Island


The sandy beach of Plaka is the best on Nyxos island (photo: @barenka)

Naxos has many beautiful beaches, including St. George, Agia Anna, Agios Prokopios, Mikri Vigla, Pyrgaki, but probably the best one is Plaka. This is the oldest beach on the island, about 5 km long. Due to the fact that the beach is wild, created by nature itself, you can see naturists (nudists) here.

Platis Gialos beach, Mykonos island


White sand beach of Platis Gialos on Mykonos island (photo: @puzzleviaggi)

The best beach in Mykonos, where there is everything for a tourist's holiday, including a wide variety of hotels and restaurants. There is an atmosphere of fun and celebration here, which in the evening becomes saturated with romance.

Ornos beach, Mykonos island


Sandy Ornos Beach for a family holiday on Mykonos Island (photo: @evaanmoose)

The most family-friendly beach in Mykonos. Children will be very comfortable here due to the extensive sandy area and calm water. The beach is a 10-minute bus ride from Mykonos Town.

Myrtos beach, Kefalonia island


Beautiful Myrtos beach on Kefalonia island (photo: @siheff13)

Myrtos Beach is called the “pearl” of Kefalonia, and many consider it one of the best beaches in Greece.

Paleokastritsa beach, Corfu island


Paleokastritsa beach for a family holiday on the island of Corfu (photo: @francescaderegibus)

Paleokastritsa consists of several bays on the island of Corfu, where there are several sandy and pebble beaches. Paleokastritsa is a small beach that is suitable for families with children.

Stafilos beach, Skopelos island


Sand and pebble beach of Stafilos on Skopelos island (photo: @jeroenharle1)

Stafilos is a sand and pebble beach on the southern coast of Skopelos island. It is located 5 km from the town of Skopelos, the capital of the island.

Koukounaries Beach, Skiathos Island


The picturesque sandy beach of Koukounaries on the island of Skiathos (photo: @whygreeceisunique)

Koukounaries Beach on Skiathos is so beautiful that it is called one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. The name of the beach comes from the word “cucunaria” - this is the name of the species of pine trees that grow on this coast.

St. Paul's Bay, Rhodes Island


The picturesque St. Paul's Bay on the island of Rhodes (photo: @jk_in_luv)

St. Paul's Bay can hardly be called suitable for a secluded couples or idyllic family vacation. This unusual place attracts tourists with its beauty. Nearby is St. Paul's Chapel, where couples come to get married. Lindos Beach is located on the other side of the cliff with the Acropolis on top.

Tigaki beach, Kos island


Sandy beach of Tigaki on Kos island (photo: @belli0711)

The sandy beach in the central part of the island of Kos, which is considered one of the most popular, is perfect for families with children. Not only is it dazzlingly beautiful, Tigaki has been awarded the Blue Flag several times, which is a sign of the highest quality for beaches. Here you will find everything a vacationer needs: clean water, soft White sand, sun loungers, cafes, bars, restaurants, the opportunity to engage in water activities, stroll through the vast territory. The surrounding area of ​​Tigaki Beach boasts attractions such as the Castle of the Knights of St. John, an archaeological museum and the ruins of ancient Kos.

Sarakiniko beach, Milos island


The dazzling white beach of Sarakiniko on the island of Milos (photo: @garypeppergirl)

One of the most unusual beaches in Greece, it is located in the northern part of the island of Milos. Do not forget to arm yourself with a camera, because the beach will give you a non-trivial Greek resort landscape with white rocks contrasting with the dazzling blue sky.

Kamares beach, Sifnos island


Beautiful family beach Kamares on Sifnos island (photo: @jdolias)

Sifnos is a quiet island in the western Cyclades, rich in beautiful beaches. Kamares is one of the best beaches in Sifnos and is also ideal for families with children and big companies friends. The sea here is shallow, and there are many cafes, taverns and hotels nearby.

Matala beach, Crete island


Beach with rocks in the village of Matala on the island of Crete (photo: @brigittemylene)

Matala is a village located 75 km southwest of Heraklion. The cliff at the end of the beach is filled with caves that you might be interested in visiting.

Navajo beach, Zakynthos island


The legendary and dazzling Navagio beach on Zakynthos island (photo: @kin_sem)

This beautiful beach in Zakynthos is one of the most famous and picturesque beaches Greece. It is also famous for its inaccessibility: the beach is surrounded on all sides by white limestone cliffs, and can only be reached by water.

Vai beach, Crete island


Vai beach with white sand and palm forest on the island of Crete (photo: @tomspro)

The best beach in the eastern part of Crete, which is famous for its unique palm forest (the only one in Europe). Vai makes a great day trip destination from Sitia.

Perissa beach, Santorini island


Perissa beach with black volcanic sand on the island of Santorini (photo: @sang_mina)

Perissa is a village on the southeast coast of Santorini that is famous for its volcanic black sand beach.

Red Beach, Santorini Island


Unusual Red Beach on the island of Santorini (photo: @lora_chalich)

In addition to Perissa with black sand, Santorini has another unique beach that will appeal to lovers of originality and exoticism. Here, of course, you will not be able to enjoy being on soft white sand - it simply is not here. But a trip to this beach, which is 1.5 km from ancient city Akrotiri will be remembered for a long time thanks to its unusual red sand.

Vouliagmeni Beach, Athens


Convenient Vouliagmeni beach 23 km from Athens (photo: @annou_x)

The geographical location of the capital of Greece does not provide for the presence of beaches, so those who visit Athens during the season should consider the possibilities of relaxing by the sea. Vouliagmeni Beach is one of the most well-organized beaches with excellent infrastructure. Located 23 km south of Athens.

Lalaria beach, Skiathos island


Amazingly beautiful Lalaria beach on Skiathos island (photo: @tinabozak)

The stunning Lalaria Beach is one of the most photographed beaches in Greece and a true landmark of Skiathos Island. Lalaria is a beach with huge white cliffs and crystal clear waters. You can only get to it by boat from the port of Skiathos, and when you come here on an excursion, you can not only swim, but also visit the sea caves.

Tatiana Solomatina

Which resort to choose in Greece?

Hello again, dear readers! It's December and summer is still far away, but many are already thinking about vacation. I would like to draw your attention to sunny Greece.


Kos

Kos is a chic and expensive resort for the elite, it is not without reason that Hollywood stars choose it for their holidays. The island is small, located in the southeastern part of the Aegean Sea. There is a lot of greenery here, the nature is very beautiful.


Prices are high, so you probably won’t be able to relax on a budget.

Zakynthos

Zakynthos is an amazingly beautiful island that you want to return to. Two rows of mountain ranges protect the valley from bad weather. Lush vegetation, steep cliffs, picturesque bays with golden sand closed from the sea - a real paradise for tourists.


Unfortunately, landing on the island is rare and can only be reached by local airlines or ferry.

Santorini

Santorini is a small island of volcanic origin, with a coastline of 70 km. The white houses of local residents are laconically integrated into the mountain landscape. It has its own, kind of aristocratic, cozy atmosphere. Life flows slowly, time seems to stop.


If you go a little away from the tourist trail, you can find wild places and enjoy solitude. The beaches of the island are very diverse, even the sand in each place has its own shade, from soft yellow to bright red.


Holidays on the island are expensive. As a rule, tourists come here for one day as part of excursion groups.

conclusions

There are many resorts in Greece and it is really difficult to choose. Beautiful nature and gorgeous beaches can be found in almost every corner of this sunny country. So where is the best place to relax in Greece? How many people, so many opinions. Where one person likes it, it won’t necessarily be good for another.

If you, dear readers, are interested in my opinion, then now I would act in the following sequence:

  1. Reading general information about the country and the main resorts
  2. We look at prices for tours or accommodation and air tickets (you may come across cheap tickets and it will be more profitable to travel on your own)
  3. Based on the second point, we decide how to relax, through a tour operator or on our own. How to accept correct solution I wrote
  4. Most likely, for my first acquaintance with the country, I would choose one of the islands, focusing on price-nature-quality-easy transfer (in that order). You may have other priorities
  5. Having decided on the island, read detailed information about the resorts of this place, based on latest reviews online
  6. Next, choose accommodation, a hotel or a house (if not a tour)
  7. Now buy a tour or tickets (if you are traveling on your own)

This plan is not suitable only for those who purposefully go to see certain attractions. It’s easier for such tourists; they just need to choose a resort closer to their desired places to visit.

That's all I wanted to talk about, I hope you have a general picture about the resorts of Greece.


You can soon learn about my personal impressions from the stories in the “My Travels” section. In the meantime, I suggest you read the article. It seems to me that this is a relevant question.

In the near future I will write about the island of Rhodes. Subscribe to my newsletter and be the first to receive new publications.

Recently, in some minor magazine, I came across a note that this country will also soon be closed to Russians. Allegedly, they will make a couple of provocations for this purpose. Haven't you heard anything? It will be a great pity. Write in the comments what you think about this. Very interesting read.

And I’ll say goodbye to you for a moment. Share the article on in social networks, convenient buttons are located below.

Tatiana Solomatina

Those who are tired of the eternally gray sky, rain and concrete jungle should definitely visit Greece. An incredible combination of bright blue sea merging with the sky, white houses, green mountains and sun-soaked air. The special atmosphere of this country pacifies and gives a feeling of happiness. These are not just words, these are the impressions of many people who have been there. Join them!

Sandy beaches are the most popular among tourists. Convenient entrance to the sea, pleasant sensations for the body, comfort for children - all this is just a small part of the benefits sandy shore. Greece has a huge number of such beaches. We will try to talk about some of them.

Halkidiki peninsula

Consists of three prongs, each of which has sandy beaches. Athos is considered a closed territory. Yes it is. But the monastic state does not occupy the entire territory of the peninsula.

Its northwestern part belongs to the region of Macedonia. Access there is absolutely free. On each side of the isthmus, guests will find excellent sandy beaches.

Sithonia is wooded and mountainous, but there are also some excellent beach places– Vurvourou, Nikiti, Metamorphosi. Beaches to the south are becoming more and more rocky. Kassandra is famous for its family-friendly hotels.

Due to the fact that the beaches are located in the depths of the bays, waves and storms practically never happen here. There is sand on the beach on the west coast - in Nea Moudania and Nea Potidea. On the east - to Kallithea, Kriopigi, Perfochori, Hanioti, Palyuri, Afytos.

Mainland Greece

For those who do not want to move away from large cities, we can recommend a series of beaches located near Thessaloniki, on the right bank of the Thermaikos Gulf - in Perea and to the south. Left-hand side Gulf - Pieria region, will delight you with the beaches in the Paralia-Katerinis area.


The Athens Riviera also has several sandy beaches, but the entrance to the water here is often interspersed with pebbles. If you drive a little north from Athens, to the town of Nea Makri, here you can relax on a sandy beach.


Mainland Greece, rugged by bays, cannot boast of sandy beaches. The area is filled with mountains, which influenced the composition of the coastal strip. Having driven a little from the capital by sea to the island of Aegina, you can get to good sandy beaches and enjoy pistachios. Local nuts are considered the best.

The entire coastal part of the bay, 10 kilometers south of the cozy town of Nafplion, is covered with sand mixed with pebbles. The western Peloponnese, from Kalogria to Finikoundas, is a popular holiday destination for the Greeks themselves. There are huge sand spits stretching for tens of kilometers and beaches with ideal entry into the sea.


Not far from the town of Valtaki in the Lakonikos Gulf, there is a long sandy beach with a discarded rusty ship "Dimitros".


The most sandy beaches are on the Greek islands. After all, they cover a fifth of the entire territory of the country. Let's start with the biggest ones.


Many say that almost all Northern part The islands are covered with sandbanks. This is true. But only partly. Many hotels cut down coastal rocks so that guests can sit on the sand. But when entering the water you can still "to run into" on the stones. Balos is considered the ideal sandy beach. It is located far from civilization and is considered wild. But it's already so "promoted" that you will be surprised by the number of people present.

There is a lot of sand on the northwestern beaches of the island. The south is less popular in this regard, but you can find this option here too. For example, in Frangokastello. Besides everything, there is a beautiful medieval castle.

Opposite Crete there is the island of Chrissi. Its beaches offer beautiful views of the Cretan coast.

Rhodes


There are very few sandy beaches here - Tsambika, Faliraki, Pefkos, Tholos. But a very interesting excursion life.

Corfu


Sandy beaches are found mainly in the north and west of the island in the areas of Agios Georgios, Agios Stefanos, Paleokastritsa, Glyfada, Pelekas, Agios Gordios, Issos.

Mykonos

Almost every major bay on the Mykonos coast boasts excellent sand cover. Daytime life here takes place on the beach, but nightlife takes place in numerous bars, restaurants and discos.

Kos


There are almost ideal white sand beaches on the coasts of Tigaki, Marmari, Mastichari, Kardamena.

Thassos


Snow-white pebbles turning into coarse sand line the bottom of the bays of this island. The unique combination with coniferous vegetation and mountain landscapes attracts vacationers here. A wonderful photo session is guaranteed for you. But this is one of the northernmost islands of the Aegean Sea, so the climate here is quite cool.

Unfortunately, it is impossible to list all the islands and sandy beaches of Greece. Each of them is unique. Come and see for yourself!

Have a nice holiday!

When going on vacation to the sea, choose not a hotel, but a beach. And only then housing near it. It is the seashore that will make your vacation unforgettable or ruin it.

Greece has the best beaches in Europe, almost four hundred of them have been awarded the Blue Flag - an award awarded for cleanliness and preservation of natural balance.

Writing about everyone, even the most beautiful and popular ones, is an impossible task. Let's talk about those that will definitely turn any vacation into a fairy tale.

Beaches of the Greek Islands

The best of the best - this can be said about the beaches of the numerous islands of Hellas.

Small, surrounded by greenery, sheltered on their coasts by long sandbanks and modest picturesque bays, the Greek islands are considered a paradise for lovers of a leisurely holiday.

Beautiful sandy beaches mainland Greece, but truly unique beaches, combining the amazing brightness of nature and the sea, are, of course, found on numerous Greek islands.

Crete

Balos Beach, Crete

Balos beach. Perhaps this is the least crowded beach in tourist Crete.

It is located northwest of (15 km).
It can only be reached by ship, which goes to the beach from the port of Kissamos, or by car along a country road through the village of Kaliviani.

There are no taverns or bars near Balos, and there are practically no sun loungers on the beach.

But the spectacle that opens up to stubborn travelers justifies the long journey: the beach is located in the bay of the same name, in which all three seas washing the island meet.

This makes the landscape here almost alien, the sand is snow-white, and the blue of the sea shimmers in three different shades.

A motor ship from Kissamos to Balos Bay will take you for 26 euros (children under 12 years old - 13 euros), but you can see all this beauty more fully if you travel by car.

The car is left in a free parking lot, which is located a 15-minute walk at a leisurely pace from the bay.

Elafonisi Beach. The famous beach with pink sand, brought here by the current from the Sahara.
There is clean, cool water, a gentle entrance to the sea and shallow depth - in general, an ideal place for relaxing with children.

True, there is almost no greenery on Elafonisi, so the only way to hide from the sun is under an umbrella.

The beach is located far from the noisy centers of Crete, but the holiday cannot be called secluded - rather, just comfortable and calm.

Elafonisi Beach, Crete

You can get here by car: along the National Road you need to move towards Kissamos, turn off it following the sign - and after a short time you will be there.

Holidays on Elafonisi are expensive: taking an umbrella and a sunbed for one person will cost 3 euros, toilets are also paid - 50 cents.

It will not be superfluous to know that it is forbidden to pitch tents and light fires on the beach, since it is a protected place with rare species plants.

Santorini

Kamari Beach

This island is the epitome of the picturesqueness of Greece, which also applies to its beaches: they amaze guests with white, black and even red sand.

Kamari– a beach with black volcanic sand and very developed infrastructure, 10 km from the capital of the island. By the way, from it, like from other towns of Santorini, regular buses run to Kamari.

Here vacationers have access to all types water sports, including windsurfing. Parents can leave their children in a special children's area, where there are not only attractions (3 euros), but also attentive animators who will entertain and supervise.

A set of two sun loungers and an umbrella costs 6 euros per day. Kamari is the cleanest beach in Santorini, despite the fact that there are always a lot of people there, and along the beach there are dozens of bars, taverns and shops.

Red Beach, Santorini

Red Beach- a remote place surrounded by red-brick rocks and sand of the same shade.

Getting to the beach is not very convenient: from the village of Akrotiri by car or bus, and then on foot for 10-15 minutes, or from the same village by boat.

Red Beach is small in size, but the scenery and cleanliness of the sea make these inconveniences unimportant.

There is a rental of sun loungers (6 euros), and several cafes are carved right into the rock. Prices in cafes on the beaches of Santorini are a little high, but you can find set lunches of salad, meat dish and drink for 8 euros.

Rhodes

Green, hospitable Rhodes boasts one of the most popular sandy beaches in the country, as well as small picturesque corners for lovers of silence.

Faliraki. A long strip of sand (4 km) is located next to the most “party” city of the island, so there is nowhere for an apple to fall here during the season: music thunders in bars day and night, taverns invite visitors, people occupy themselves on and under water different types sports

Greek coffee in beach bars can be ordered for 3 euros, beer - 5 euros for 0.5 liters, cocktails - from 6 euros. Bottle of water – 1.5 euros.

Despite the fact that the entrance to the sea here is gentle and comfortable, and the water is clean and there are rarely waves, families with children are not advised to relax on Faliraki; it is rather the territory of active youth, and besides, part of the beach is given over to nudists.
By the way, their part of the beach is no different from the usual one: the same changing cabins, toilets, rental of sun loungers and umbrellas (on average 3 euros per person).

You can get to this part of the beach through a small pass if you go straight from the center of the village of Faliraki.

Anthony Quinn Beach. Very small, in a secluded bay, it has long gained worldwide fame.

Firstly, part of this land was given to the American actor Anthony Quinn for his love of Rhodes.

Secondly, the beach named after him is incredibly picturesque, with golden sand, a lot of greenery and fenced off from the wind by rocks.

Despite the modest size of the coast, there is all the infrastructure here; for 7-8 euros you can rent sun loungers and an umbrella.

You can have a snack in a tavern just above the beach, where there is grilled fish (25 euros per piece), pita gyros - 3 euros, baked eggplant or grilled peppers – 6 euros, 5 euros – a cup of cappuccino.

This is an excellent place for scuba diving enthusiasts (50 euros for one dive with the necessary equipment).

You can’t get to the bay on foot - you have to either follow the sea or drive from Faliraki towards Ladiko and turn left in time following the signs.

Zakynthos

Navagio Bay. The bay is located in the northwestern part of Zakynthos. Its beach is considered the best on the island. Small and beautiful, from time to time it is included in the top ten beautiful places on the planet.

Navagio Bay, Zakynthos

You can only get here by water. The most convenient way to do this is by boat from the port of Volimes; such a trip costs 15 euros per person. And from the port of Agios Nikolaos to the bay it takes 1 hour by ferry, 8 euros for adults and 4 euros for children under 12 years old.

Surrounded on all sides by cliffs, with a shipwreck of smugglers that was once wrecked, and with a sea of ​​incredible azure hue, Navagio Beach is undoubtedly the main pride of the island.

It is impossible to stay here all day: the beach is absolutely wild, the sun only illuminates it until lunchtime, and in general it is rather an excursion attraction. However, visiting Zakynthos and not swimming in Navagio Bay is a crime. The cost of an excursion to the bay is 10 euros.

Kos

Paradise Beach, Kos

Paradise. Located in the southwest of the island, the beach fully confirms its “paradise” name: convenient entrance to the clearest sea, warm white sand, small waves.

You can still watch here unique phenomenon, as volcanic gas comes to the surface from the bottom of the sea, so bubbles rise from the sand at the very edge of the water - a kind of natural jacuzzi.

The beach offers sun loungers for rent (3 euros). There are showers with fresh water.

There is a beach bar, soft drinks are brought directly to the sun loungers (frappes - 4 euros, beer - from 4 euros), and lovers of water activities can go banana boating (15 euros) and water skiing (20 euros - 10 minutes).
There is also a complex of water slides and attractions right by the shore (from 3 euros).

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Paradise offers almost all water activities, there are taverns and bars nearby, so you definitely won’t get bored here.

The cheapest way to get there is by rented car, since taxis are expensive here (from the city of Kardamena - 12 euros one way), and excursions that take you specifically to Paradise Beach cost 35 euros per person.

From the island's capital, Kos, you can get to the beach by one of the buses that run in all directions from morning to evening (tickets cost from 1.30 to 3 euros).

Tigaki Beach, Kos

Tigaki. Ten kilometers of soft sand, a warm and shallow sea, and the absence of waves - all this makes the longest beach on the island of Kos an ideal place for families with children.

The entire coast is surrounded by greenery, the infrastructure is well developed: tourists have endless cafes, taverns, bars, beach and souvenir shops.

Of course, umbrellas and sun loungers, as everywhere else, are paid, or you will need to order soft drinks at the beach cafe: beer - 3.5 euros, cocktails - from 5 euros. Buying a bottle of water at a beach cafe costs 1-1.5 euros.

The beach is located at the resort of the same name in the north of the island. Vacationers in Tigaki can get here on foot, and from the town of Kos (11 km from the resort) you can get to the beach by regular bus in 25-30 minutes, the ticket price is 2 euros.

Kefalonia

The island in the Ionian Sea is famous for its beaches, some of which have been featured in Hollywood films.

Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia

Myrtos Beach. Myrtos is located 30 km from Argostoli, the capital of Kefalonia. Narrow, with snow-white sand mixed with small pebbles, and with stunning views. It is regularly included in the top ten best vacation spots according to various guidebooks. Greece has recognized Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia as the most beautiful beach in the country.

Naturally, such a “titled” place is popular among tourists and is equipped with everything necessary: ​​from sun loungers (4 euros) to a team of rescuers.

True, you can only get to it by rented car (20 minutes from the city of Asossa through the village of Divarat). The area is a protected area, public transport does not operate here. From the village of Divarata, there is a winding three-kilometer dirt road that will take you straight to the beach.

It is not recommended to vacation on Myrtos with small children: in calm waters Sometimes dangerous currents arise, and on the outskirts of the beach you can meet nudists sunbathing.

Emblisi Beach, Kefalonia

Emblisi. A small beach near the village of Fiskadro is surrounded by chalk cliffs on the sea side and centuries-old pine trees on the shore.

The sandy coast turns into a large white pebbles, which is perfectly visible at the bottom even at great depths.

Despite its stunning beauty, Emblisi is rarely crowded with people. The place is quiet and peaceful, safe for children and attractive for scuba diving enthusiasts.

From Fiskardo it can be reached on foot or in a few minutes by car. A pair of sunbeds at Emblisi costs about 8 euros, but in high season there may not be any free ones.

Lefkada

Another beautiful island in the Ionian Sea, whose coast attracts connoisseurs beach holiday from all over Europe.

Porto Katsiki, Lefkada

Porto Katsiki. This beach, located 35 km southwest of Lefkada town, is washed by amazing bright blue water. It contrasts with a huge white cliff hanging over the shore and emerald grass on the rocks.

In fact, for the whimsical nature of its natural architecture and riot of colors, the beach regularly receives awards and titles as the most beautiful beach in Europe.

Porto Katsiki is very small; one might say that it is a strip of sand and pebbles, reclaimed from the sea and rocks, which only adds to the romanticism of these picturesque places.

Getting to the beach is not easy: you can take a ferry from the cities of Vasiliki or Nydri (ticket from 5 euros), or you can come by car if you follow the road along west coast Lefkada to the village of Athani and then follow the signs. Experienced tourists advise visiting Porto Katsiki either early in the morning or late in the evening to watch the stunning sunset.

There are parking lots and eateries where you can try local cuisine (lunch for one with a bottle of wine will cost at least 25 euros).
Several massage rooms (20-25 euros for 30 minutes).

But there is no place to stay overnight, and camping is also not allowed.

It will cost 3 euros to park your car in front of the entrance.

Egremni. Also quite narrow (about 50 m), but long (2.5 km) beach.

It is one of the most visited in Greece, despite the fact that it is quite remote from all the towns of the island of Lefkada.

Egremni Beach, Lefkada

You can get to it along the road that runs along the west coast of the island to the more famous Porto Katsiki beach.

After passing the village of Atani, you will see the road to Egremni.

Picturesque rocks, snow-white sand mixed with small pebbles, as well as clear azure water are what attract tourists here. And even the 325-step staircase to the beach from the parking lot doesn’t scare them, because with every step a panorama opens up that you won’t see anywhere else.

There is a bar on the beach, the opportunity to pitch a tent, and rental of sun loungers (4 euros each).

Corfu

Sidari, Corfu

Sidari. This beautiful place is located 36 km from the capital of Corfu. Several sandy headlands divide the long coastal strip, forming small quaint coves.

Connecting two of them is a small stretch of sea, called the Canal of Love, young couples must swim across together so as not to be separated for the rest of their lives.

While relaxing on Sidari Beach, everyone who knows how to float on the water tries to swim along the Love Canal, paying tribute to a long-established tradition.
In general, the beach is considered a vacation spot for young people; in coastal cafes and bars, loud music plays around the clock.

Particularly popular among locals are the restaurants surrounding the beach where you can taste fresh fish and seafood, where grilled red mullet or sea bream will cost 9 euros. Seafood mix – 20 euros.

You can get here from the capital by the Green Bus or by taxi (from 20 euros one way).

Agios Gordios, Corfu

Agios Gordios. The small resort town of Agios Gordios, 15 km west of Corfu, has a popular beach of the same name.

Most often, families with small children relax in this place; here nature has created all the conditions for them: shallow water with the purest water, fine white sand, green trees that provide shade in the heat.

For parents - rental of sun loungers and umbrellas (7 euros for two), as well as many cafes and taverns in close proximity to the beach.
There are showers and toilets on site (0.5 euros). There is a minimum of water activities on the beach, which only adds to its tranquility. There are often waves here, and if a red flag is posted, swimming far is prohibited.

The best beaches in mainland Greece

Tourists who choose a holiday on the Greek mainland most often do so in order to have time to see as much as possible between lying on the beaches. historical monuments, which are here at almost every step.

But it is wrong to think that on " mainland» there are no decent beaches. They are.

And very beautiful, maximally adapted for any type of recreation.

Athens

Lagonissi, Athens

The capital has the largest concentration of antiquities not only in Greece, but perhaps in the world. But this does not mean that in Athens you cannot relax on the seashore after excursions.

Lagonissi. The Lagonissi Peninsula is located 40 km from Athens, a 20-minute drive from the airport, where a taxi will take you there for 60–70 euros.

Opened in 2002, the beach instantly became popular due to its clear water and beautiful scenery.

Asteria Beach, Athens

Lagonissi has excellent diving opportunities (100 euros for a couple of dives during the day).

The sandy coast is also very clean; tourists are offered rental of sun loungers and umbrellas (about 10 euros per set), which already have a menu of local taverns attached. The order will be delivered directly to the place of rest.

There are two wooden piers built on Lagonissi, on one of which a swimming pool is built directly into the sea.

However, the title of the best beach in the capital affects the prices: both the beach and parking near it are paid, not to mention the inflated prices in taverns.

Lagonissi beach is located 40 km from the Greek capital, you can get to it by a regular bus that runs every hour (3.20 euros) or by yourself in a rented car along the Athens-Sounio highway (50 euros per day plus 1.8–2 euros petrol).

Asteria. An elite beach in the Glyfada area, where entry costs 5 euros on weekdays and 10 euros on weekends (50% for children).

Besides clear water and fine sand, Asteria is famous for its huge water park that is set right in the sea, making it a favorite children's beach in Athens.

There are bars and restaurants right on the shore.

From the center of the capital, Glyfada can be reached by tram, A2 bus and E2 express train.

Tourists are advised to get to Asteria and other beaches in the area by public transport, because parking a personal car may cause problems - there are a lot of cars, and parking is expensive (up to 3 euros per hour).

In addition to these beaches, there are several more near Athens - from fashionable to ordinary city ones.

Halkidiki

Chalkidiki Peninsula

There is an opinion that Halkidiki is best resort Greece. The peninsula has the shape of a trident, each of the “teeth” has its own name - Kassandra, Sithonia, Athos - and its own unique beauty.

Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece, is located almost at the entrance to the peninsula, which also leaves its mark on the nearest resorts.

The resort of Halkidiki has more than five dozen breathtakingly beautiful beaches, turning one into another. Let's talk about just a few of them.

Kassandra Peninsula

Sled. Seven kilometers of perfect sand, a clear, well-warmed sea, varied greenery and a magnificent view of the legendary Mount Olympus visible in the distance - that’s what Sani Beach is.
This place is a private resort and is considered one of the most comfortable in Greece, with the most expensive hotels on the peninsula, as well as a very developed infrastructure.
On the beach there are paid sun loungers and umbrellas (3 euros per piece), there are changing cabins, a toilet and a shower.

Here you can have a snack with a fresh bun (2 euros) and coffee (3 euros), as well as have a more substantial lunch in a coastal tavern (on average 40 euros for two).
Sani has professional children's animation and increased attention from rescuers to little guests. In addition to tourists staying in the Sani hotel complex, those who came with a tent can relax on the coast - entry to the beach is free for everyone. From Thessaloniki airport to the resort of Sani – just over 70 km.

Kallithea. The name of the beach is translated from Greek as “beautiful view,” and that says it all: snow-white sand, clear water, the entrance to the sea is convenient, and the sea itself is calm.

The beach is located next to the lively town of Kallithea at the foot of a green hill, which makes the air even fresher and there are more opportunities for evening entertainment.

Kallithea beach offers many tourists aquatic species sports, the cost of a set of two sun loungers and an umbrella is 6 euros.

Kallithea is a popular resort on the Chalkidiki peninsula, located 90 km from Thessaloniki, you can get there either by regular bus (4 euros per ticket) or by taxi (from 120 euros).

Sithonia Peninsula

The second “prong” of Halkidiki is considered an ideal place for a quiet family holiday: its beaches are mostly small and cozy, and there are not as many clubs and bars as in the towns of Kassandra.

Nikiti- an ideal public beach in the capital of the same name, Sithonia (100 km from Thessaloniki), it is easily accessible on foot, there is a wide variety of entertainment for adults and children, many taverns and restaurants nearby.

At the same time, there is fine warm sand, the sea is calm and very clean, the entrance to it is gentle and convenient. The beach is recommended for families with children.

Sunbeds for tourists are free if they order drinks from nearby beach bars or restaurants (water - from 1 euro, coffee - 2 euros, cocktails - from 3 euros, fresh juices - 5 euros).

Cavourotrypes (or Portocali)– the beach consists of several rocky bays scattered along one coast, between which there are islands of white fine sand. It is on these “pieces” of the beach that lovers of secluded recreation sunbathe.

On the main, largest beach of Kavourotripes there is a bar of the same name and sun loungers, the rest of the beaches are not equipped with anything, many of them are chosen by those who like to relax in tents.

Some parts of Cavourotrypes are generally adapted only for swimming - there is no place to sunbathe.

Kavourotripes is remote from civilization (23 km from the town of Vourvourou and 150 km from Thessaloniki), but families with children still often relax in its bays, since the water here is perfectly clean and warms up perfectly in the shallows. There are toilets and a fast food stand on the beach.

The best way to get there is from the village of Sarti: by car (you need to follow the coast to the north and turn onto the country road near the tree on which the sign for Portokali hangs, about 200 meters from the turn), or by bus. The bus from Thessaloniki to Sarti runs 5 times a day, the ticket costs 20 euros.

The Athos peninsula is the most beautiful of the three “fingers” of Halkidiki, in addition, there is a huge number of monasteries. But in this regard, a family holiday on the peninsula is possible only up to the border of Sithonia with Athos - until the beginning of the territory of the Monastic Republic. Women are prohibited from entering at all, and men cannot visit Mount Athos without special permission.

A quick overview of the best beaches in Greece cannot be complete without saying a few words about beaches for children and young people. After all, what is good for a young couple is a ruined vacation for the same couple with a child.

Convenient for families with children

Egremni Beach, Levkas

It's safe to say that the majority Greek beaches any child will receive it with a bang.

However, let us once again list those where the sand is especially fine and soft, the entrance to the sea is most convenient and pleasant, and the water warms up better and does not contain dangerous currents.

  • Elafonisi, Fr. Crete;
  • St. Georgios beach, o. Naxos;
  • Agios Gordios, Fr. Corfu;
  • Kamari, o. Santorini;
  • Asteria, Athens;
  • Valtos, Parga, northwestern coast of Greece.

Beaches for young people

Kavourotripes, Chalkidiki

For tourists without children, and with the desire to have a fun and active holiday, several Greek beaches are ideal, some of them, in terms of entertainment, are compared with Ibiza itself.

  • Faliraki, o. Rhodes;
  • Super Paradise Beach, o. Mykonos;
  • Sidari, o. Corfu;
  • Adelianos Kambos, Fr. Crete.

Watch some of the beaches described in the review on video:

Greece, like no other European country, can offer a whole range of beaches to suit every taste. All that remains is to choose.

If upon arrival it turns out that the choice was made incorrectly, then another undoubted advantage of Greece will come to the rescue: its miniature size. Until another beautiful beach It's always a stone's throw here.