You may didn’t figure out how to elope in Greece, but settling for a honeymoon in the country instead, is actually not settling at all! There is no better way to celebrate your love than by starting to plan your honeymoon trip to Greece. Greece is an exotic combination of warm weather, impressive coastlines, and a wealth of culture. Those qualities put our country among the top destinations for couples on their honeymoon. Especially after enduring a year like 2020, you need to treat yourself to your dream vacations.
For that reason, here, you’ll find essential information about your 2023 Greece Honeymoon. We promise a magical experience that will rekindle the spark between you and your other half.
Reasons why to choose Greece
One could spend hours counting the reasons why Greece is the ultimate honeymoon destination and the best ways to plan your trip for two to Greece. To help you pull the trigger and book your dream vacations, here is a list of the most important ones.
It has the best beaches in the whole world
It is no secret that Greece boasts some of the most magical beaches globally. The sunny weather the country is famous for across the globe offers itself for long days on the beach. So you can enjoy endless hours of sunbathing and dive into refreshing, crystal clear waters every day of your honeymoon.
Whether you visit Shipwreck beach in Zante, Falasarna in Crete, or Myrto beach in Kefalonia, you will fall in love. The same goes for literally any other beach in Greece, even in the Athenian suburbs.
You can marvel at its luscious nature
Where else can one combine the sea with the mountain than in sunny Greece? Greece’s lusciousness and diverse nature are a haven for nature-lovers across the world. In the country, you can find places overwhelmingly dominated by greenery. Other places may be less green but boast stunning beaches. Some destinations even combine the two. It is all a matter of preference.
Thankfully, you can plan your trip to Greece as honeymooners to satisfy the taste of even the most demanding of visitors, as it offers whatever one can think of. From wild forests to fields full of bushes and herbs and long beaches. Diversity is beautiful everywhere.
You’ll never get bored with all that cultural stimuli
If sunbathing all day long is not necessarily exactly what you’re after, look no further. The rich culture of Greece will provide you with cultural stimuli that won’t allow even a moment of boredom.
Your days will be full of things to do and see no matter where you choose to go in Greece. From fascinating museums to art galleries, theatrical performances, live music gigs, and everything in between, you’ll be on your toes throughout your trip.
Read more: Do’s and Don’ts for your Greece trip as a young couple.
You can explore its fascinating history
With a past that counts thousands of years, Greece is a dream come true for anyone even remotely interested in history.
If you plan your Greece honeymoon correctly, you will have the opportunity to visit some of the most exciting museums in the world.
Additionally, you’ll be able to take tours around thousand-year-old archaeological sites that will reveal the excellence of the ancient civilizations. Such examples are Acropolis Hill, the archaeological site of Delphi, and the Knossos Palace.
Apart from those, however, there are dozens of less famous sites but just as breathtaking. So, depending on where you choose to visit, there will be a historic treasure waiting for you.
You can admire the impressive architecture
What do the center of Athens and the Greek islands have in common? Impeccable, one-of-a-kind architecture. The Greek neighborhoods are indeed a sight for sore eyes. But, especially in the well-known island complex of Cyclades, the trademark whitewashed mansions, and cobbled alleys will steal your heart.
Not only will the beautiful architecture soothe your eyes and soul. It will also serve as the perfect background for your pictures as honeymooners. You’ll cherish them for years to come. The Cyclades are always a full-proof option when push comes to shove, namely when planning your honeymoon trip to Greece.
The warm hospitality
One of the most significant factors to Greece being the best honeymoon destination is its locals. Since antiquity, the Greeks have been famous for their courteous and hospitable way with their visitors. This still stands true.
The Greeks will take it upon themselves to make you fall in love with their country as much as they have. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for help or advice regarding absolutely anything you might need. The locals will be more than happy to help. Chances are, you’ll walk away with a new friend.
One thing is for sure: if things don’t go as you thought when deciding how to plan your Greece honeymoon, it will only be because they’ll go even better. So get ready to enjoy your couple’s vacation in Greece to the fullest!
Where should you go for a Greece honeymoon
Choosing among Greece’s beauties when planning your honeymoon trip to Greece is not as easy as it sounds. However, rest safe in the knowledge that no matter which region of Greece you choose to visit, you’ll be taken aback by its beauty.
Mykonos and Santorini
Starting from the most apparent contestants, you simply cannot overlook Greece’s two most popular islands, Mykonos and Santorini. Both islands have rightfully gained worldwide recognition.
Mykonos
Mykonos combines the impeccable Cycladic aesthetic with a vibrant nightlife that fuses old and modern in a winning combination. This fusion doesn’t leave couples unmoved, as it allows them an experience that can change from tranquil to extravagant in a heartbeat.
Have a drink at the seaside bars in picturesque Little Venice and snap photos in front of the trademark windmills. Your honeymoon album will be as great as your experience on the island.
Santorini
On the other hand, Santorini is famous for being a honeymoon haven for couples worldwide. Its unique geology sets it apart from the rest of the Greek islands, while it is one of the top locations to watch the sunset in Greece!
The volcanic landscape creates the most romantic atmosphere you’ve ever encountered. Additionally, its rich wine production and luxurious way of life make it a sought-after destination for everyone looking for an unforgettable time.
Apart from the striking Mykonos and the legendary Santorini, there are extraordinary destinations for those who would like to enrich their honeymoon with an alternative twist.
Perfect for that are the islands of Milos and Koufonisia. Milos is offbeat, calm, and utterly stunning while still belonging to the Cyclades complex.
On the other hand, If you want to achieve the ultimate state of zen, Koufonisia is the one for you. Forget all about the cosmopolitan ways of the Cyclades.
Here, you should be ready to immerse yourself in a world of quiet, serenity, and beach-filled days. Your nighttime entertainment options might be fewer than in most islands, but this only adds to the island’s sophisticated allure.
Paros
Another Cycladic island that offers itself for a dreamlike honeymoon is Paros. The local-favorite island is welcoming and full of things to do and see.
Moreover, it boasts both intense nightlife and picturesque villages that offer seclusion. In those, you can enjoy the authentic Greek island lifestyle and get insight into the island’s culture from the locals.
Crete
For those honeymooners who are history buffs, you can plan your honeymoon trip to Greece on Crete’s biggest and most historic island. This gorgeous island stuns its visitors with its rich cuisine, natural landscape, and impressive diversity.
The beaches of Crete are a sight to behold no matter which part of it you choose to visit. A tour around the imposing Knossos Palace, a candlelight dinner in one of the family-run seaside taverns, and a dive into Falassarna beach will make your honeymoon impossible to top.
Corfu
Another historic island worth your time is Corfu. Corfu is the capital of the Ionian Islands. The island is located in the Ionian Sea and borders by the sea with Italy and Albania.
Corfu is one of the cosmopolitan and beautiful islands of Greece. It is also one of the most important tourist destinations in the Mediterranean.
Sidari with the famous Canal D’Amour, Paleokastritsa, Prasoudi, Glyfada, Dasia, Kassiopi, Benitses, and Lefkimmi, are among the famous and popular beaches in Corfu.
On the south side of the island, Kavos is a tourist resort where thousands of young tourists gather every year.
Corfu is famous for its many attractions, including Achillion, the summer residence of Empress Sissy of Austria. Other attractions include Mon Repo, the summer palaces of the former kings of the country, Paleokastritsa with its excellent morphology and topography, the Cannon, and the Pontikonisi.
Of course, the biggest attraction is Corfu’s city, which is one of the most beautiful cities in Greece, with strong Venetian and Frankish elements.
Naxos
The island of Naxos is also an ideal honeymoon destination many couples opt for. It is famous for its laid-back character and local products, such as cheese and olive oil. Naxos doesn’t lack any of the winning qualities of the rest of the islands despite its more understated character.
On the contrary, its friendly, relaxing vibe adds to its allure. Naxos’ Chora is the first thing you’ll see when reaching the island. The ancient gate of Portara at the edge of the port, the coastal promenade, and the medieval settlement of the castle that crowns the hill steal the show.
At the west coastline, you’ll come across the most touristic part of the island. There, you’ll find the beach resorts of Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna and the favorite beach of surfers, Plaka.
The exploration of the island’s hinterland includes stops at the well-preserved tower monastery of Bazaios in the plain of Agiasos. Also worth visiting is the old commercial capital of Halki and the traditional village of Apeiranthos.
Finally, the Sanctuary of Dimitra, the famous marble kouros in Flerio, and the fishing village of Apollonas cannot be overlooked.
Rhodes
The island of Rhodes should also be taken into consideration when choosing your honeymoon destination. The Old Town of Rhodes, Mandraki, the Acropolis of Lindos, the ancient Kamiros and the ancient Ialyssos, the Valley with the Butterflies, Filerimos.
A vast history and countless sights. In the Dodecanese, you will meet an island with nature so luscious and romantic it will leave you breathless. Long sandy beaches, emerald waters, castles, ancient states, delicious eateries, luxury hotels, and traditional villages dominate the scenery.
Rhodes’ old town is the best-preserved medieval settlement in the world. It has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Towns.
Protected within its imposing wall – a boundary between the past and the present – the Old Town of Rhodes is the island’s trademark.
It is also one of the many reasons to choose this island for your honeymoon, as its romantic ambiance is unmistakable. Ancient statues, fountains, the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Master, mosques and Turkish baths, and the Clock Tower with the incredible view are the legacy left by past civilizations.
Nafplio
If you want to consider a destination other than the couple-favorite Greek islands, Nafplio is one of your best bets. It might not be an island. It is, however, considered the most romantic city in Greece.
Admire the city from above by climbing the 999 steps that lead to the imposing Palamidi that overlooks the sea. From Akronafplia, the view of the city is equally impressive.
Moreover, if you follow the pedestrian street of Arvanitia that surrounds the rock of Akronafplia, you will take an idyllic walk with the sea under your feet.
The core of the old town stretches behind the shores of Bouboulina and Miaouli. There, you will find several cafe bars and taverns with a beautiful view of Bourtzi. Bourtzi is the small island opposite Akronafplia with the Venetian fortress of the same name.
The main pedestrian street of Vassileos Konstantinou is a reference point in the old town. It crosses almost the whole city of Nafplio and ends at the cobbled Syntagma Square. You will come across the Archaeological Museum, the first parliament of the modern Greek state, and the Old Mosque.
Athens
At this point, we must underline that we highly suggest you spend at least a couple of days in Athens. The Greek capital doesn’t only boast a superb urban ambiance. It also boasts several hidden treasures, from its stunning beaches to its charming neighborhoods, which are worth your time.
The heritage of the classical era is still evident in the city. It is represented by ancient monuments and works of art, most famously the Parthenon. The ancient temple is considered an emblematic monument of ancient Western civilization. Roman and Byzantine monuments are still preserved in the city, along with a small number of Ottoman monuments.
In Athens, there are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Acropolis and the medieval Monastery of Daphni. Sights of the modern era include the Greek Parliament and the Athenian Trilogy. This is a set of three buildings: the National Library, the University, and the Academy of Athens.
Whether you choose Athens as a stop for your honeymoon due to its rich heritage or beauty, your time in the Greek capital will be rewarding.
Read on: The best places to visit in Greece for your honeymoon
Vacations for two in Greece: When should you visit?
Greece is a thing of beauty year-round and among the most popular and romantic destinations for vacations for couples.
Depending on the time of year you choose to visit the country, specific regions are ideal for honeymooners.
Winter
If you choose to experience your honeymoon in winter, you have to steer clear of the Greek islands and opt for the mainland.
There are incredible destinations in the Greek countryside that will amaze you with their rich landscape and local culture. Some of those are the cities of Meteora, Delphi, and Arachova, to name a few.
All of them are picturesque, with an abundance of things to see and do. Additionally, they have either cultural or historical sights that will enrich your honeymoon and add a unique quality to them.
Spring
Of course, no one can deny that the country is at its best during spring and summer. Therefore, if you want to avoid the massive tourist crowds, springtime is ideal. However, you must keep in mind that if you choose to visit one of the Greek islands during that time, it might be a bit cold. That being said, springtime is pretty much great no matter where you go.
From the Cycladic islands to secluded villages of the mainland, you will have the opportunity to enjoy Greek nature in full force. Some of the most favorite destinations in Greece during spring include Monemvasia, Pelion, Ioannina, and the Saronic islands.
Summer
If you want to experience authentic Greek island life, summer is your best option. Summer is the absolute best time to visit all Greek islands, no matter which complex they belong to. From the popular honeymoon destinations of Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, and Naxos to the more offbeat destinations of Koufonisia, Milos, and Folegandros, summer is foolproof.
Autumn
Last but not least, autumn, much like spring, is a safe option for any destination you have in mind due to its mild weather. From Athens to the Greek countryside and even the most popular of Greek islands, during spring, your honeymoon is guaranteed to be a dreamlike experience.
If you take the high road like most people and visit Greece in the summer, you must take into account a few things. If you want to avoid the massive tourist crowds, you either have to choose more alternative destinations or choose a time outside the high-season months.
Our recommendation is to visit Greece either during late spring or during autumn. Namely, from May to the beginning of June and from late August to early October.
You can also read our detailed article about the best time to visit Greece on a honeymoon.
What to avoid during your honeymoon in Greece
There are a few things Greece’s visitors should know to avoid to keep themselves away from unpleasant situations. Here are some of the most important ones.
Avoid planning activities at midday during summer
It is no secret that summers during the peak season in Greece are scorching. The temperature can rise to 40 Celsius at the peak of the summer months. Therefore, planning your activities during midday or any time that the sun shines brighter than comfort allows is not the wisest.
As a result, wandering around the beauties of Greece is better enjoyed either very early in the morning or after twilight. Unlike most other countries, the best of what Greece has to offer happens after the sun sets. Keep this in mind and act accordingly.
Don’t go shopping during peak hours and on Sundays
A little shopping therapy makes for a great time, even for honeymooners! That being said, when visiting Greece, you should pick the time for shopping carefully.
Especially during the high-season months, if you want to avoid the tourist crowds, you should choose to plan your shopping spree on weekdays. You deserve to be a little materialistic during your honeymoon, don’t feel guilty!
Avoid only carrying plastic money and keep some cash in you
Cash in Greece is very much appreciated. But, of course, you have the option of paying with a credit card, especially if you visit big cities and large tourist areas.
However, when you plan your honeymoon trip to Greece, you include traveling around the little villages of Greece in your itinerary. Therefore, there is a very high possibility that you won’t be able to rely solely on your credit card.
Don’t take photos of military facilities
In Greece, photography in military facilities is strictly restricted. Therefore, if you find yourself in an area that belongs to the Greek military, keep your eyes peeled for signs to avoid any trouble with authorities.
Additionally, as in most museums worldwide, flash photography is not advised inside Greece’s museums. This is because the flash may affect the thousand-year-old exhibits, and hence, you should avoid it at all costs to show respect to the host country’s history.
Don’t turn down alcohol and treats
The Greeks are famous worldwide for their hospitable manners, a characteristic that has run in their blood since antiquity. It is an absolute certainty that when you visit Greece, you will find yourself in a situation where a local will treat you to a shot or a local delicacy. Turning down their offer is considered offensive. Therefore, try not to say ‘no’ when possible.
You’ll probably leave the table drunk and with a stomach that is about to bust. However, that is the way to a Greek’s heart, so it is worth the effort. After all, it is guaranteed that whatever you try will be mouthwatering, so it is a win-win situation.
Avoid drinking tap water unless you’re sure of its safety
Tap water is not always safe for drinking. Unless you are in a big city, you should ask before drinking water from the tap to avoid an upset stomach. Also, you should know that most Greek islands don’t have drinkable tap water. So, when traveling, carry bottled water with you just to be on the safe side.
Be careful when driving in Greece
The Greeks have a very particular way of doing things, and the same goes with driving. For that reason, you should be extra careful if you decide to rent a vehicle and drive around the country. Greek drivers are infamously petulant and not always the best at following the law.
Study the map ahead of your visit, keep a slow speed, and find your way around by asking for directions. Road safety is vital and should be treated as such.
What foods to try during your Greece honeymoon
Greek cuisine is famous around the world for its taste, variety, but also its nutritional value. Mediterranean cuisine is considered the healthiest cuisine globally due to the products and techniques it uses.
Local products
The essential ingredients of Greek cuisine are olive oil, bread, cereals, dairy, vegetables, legumes, honey, and fish. It also includes meats such as goat, lamb, and pork. In Greek food, you will taste many spices and herbs, but they are used in moderation not to cover the taste of vegetables or meat.
The most common ones are oregano, mint, garlic, dill, parsley, bay leaf, basil, thyme, cinnamon, clove, saffron, rosemary, and nutmeg. You will also find a variety of wines due to the extensive cultivation of grapes in Greece and its long-standing wine production.
Local dishes
Taste the trademark dishes of Greek cuisine and find excellence in simplicity. From the unique ‘ambelofasoula‘ bean salad drizzled with a concoction of garlic, lemon, and virgin olive oil to ‘briam‘ vegetable stew, chicken with okra, to fresh green beans with tomato sauce, you will be blown away.
It is also worth tasting the slightly more complex dishes that are a testimony of the vast experience of the Greek cooks. Such are the dishes of ‘papoutsakia,’ aubergines stuffed with minced meat, cheese, and cream, and the world-famous ‘moussaka.’
Of course, apart from the homemade dishes, it is necessary to taste the local fast food. There is no better option than a ‘souvlaki’ wrap when it comes to Greek fast food.
Order one with the meat of your choice, and you won’t be able to forget its taste for the rest of your lives. To order souvlaki like a pro or local, keep the following in mind.
The common misconception around the famous Greek delicacy is the distinction between souvlaki and gyro. While, as mentioned before, souvlaki refers to pieces of pork or chicken on a skewer, gyros refers to the same kinds of meat, this time cooked on a vertical rotisserie.
How much time to spend on your Greece honeymoon
Without wanting to sound like a cliche, the more days you have, the merrier when it comes to holidays. But, of course, that stands true for your Greek honeymoon as well.
Despite everything, you may not be able to spend the days you’d like in Greece. For that reason, we have put together carefully designed itineraries that will make sure you enjoy your honeymoon in our country regardless of how long it will be.
If your time is restricted, you can opt for a minimoon that will take you around the country’s highlights easily and quickly. On the other hand, if you have many days to spend, we highly suggest you don’t stick to a single destination but combine a couple of islands with the Greek capital to get the best of both worlds.
You can find our suggested itineraries here.
How to choose accommodation and where to stay in Greece
As a tourist-favorite country, Greece is not short of choices regarding accommodation. No matter which region of the country you choose to visit, you will find everything you are looking for, for your luxurious honeymoon.
To help you plan your honeymoon trip to Greece and ensure a smooth say that ticks all the criteria of your dream honeymoon, we have accumulated our favorite hotels from all of our favorite Greek destinations. So you can browse the hotel choices you have and pick the one that suits you best. In our opinion, your best bet would be to choose among the best adult-only resorts in Greece.
Romantic tours and activities to enjoy with your partner as honeymooners
A good destination for honeymooners doesn’t only offer stunning landscapes. It also provides you with various fun activities you can share with your partner. This way, you will mark the beginning of your lives as a married couple in the best way imaginable.
Greece is known for its ancient culture, beautiful beaches, unique nightlife, and exciting activities. It is the ideal destination for couples who want to experience a one-of-a-kind honeymoon and leave all stress behind.
Do you want to have fun in clubs and bars until the early morning hours? To taste the delicious local food, even late at night? Maybe, explore the gorgeous coastlines and the bottom of the ocean? How about learning how to dance some of the most famous traditional dances like a local?
Do you want to learn to cook like a Greek? Or spend your time admiring some of the most famous monuments in the world? No matter how you want to add the flair of adventure to your Greece honeymoon, you will discover special activities around Greece that will help you do so.
The country has a vast range of activities, attracting millions of tourists and locals every year. Your choices are truly limitless in this fantastic mix of cultures, natural beauty, and wild nightlife. All you need to do is have guidance for planning your romantic trip to Greece in the most efficient way possible.
Conclusion
Treating yourself to a 2021 honeymoon trip will be one of the best life decisions. You and your partner are worth spending your precious time in a destination that will leave nothing but good memories in its wake. Celebrate being alive and well by living in it up in the country that never sleeps. Now is the perfect time to check out our Greece honeymoon packages and plan your honeymoon trip to Greece!