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-Dec 30, 2022
The Insider’s Guide to a First—And Dreamy—Visit to Greece
Greece is a place made of pure magic. Surrounded by the Mediterranean, the Aegean and the Ionian seas, the country blossoms with forested mountains, stunning coastline and enchanting history.
The country is an ode to beauty—from mesmerizing ancient ruins and natural wonders to world class dining and hospitality. That being said, this poetic place brims with wine, art and artisanal shopping as well. The streets are painted in the colors of the sea itself, think pale white stone and blue as far as the eye can see. From stunning beaches to summer-filled nights out on the town, Greece is a bounty waiting to be uncovered.
Thinking of taking a trip to Greece? The truth is that Greece is a true gem and its islands are their own sparkling facets with their own magnificent stories to tell. If it’s your first time, check out Brooklyn Magazine’s must-see places and spaces to explore. Starting with Athens and followed by some glorious island hopping, stellar experiences await.
A Bustling, Ancient City and Two Mystical Islands
Instead of hopping from one island to the next, and then another and another for just a day or a handful of hours, keep it simple. Begin the journey in Athens, the nexus of history, mythology, and pure wonder. As your time in the expansive city winds down, add two islands—Santorini and Paros—to your itinerary. It’s recommended to take your time and soak up each and every moment under the sun and stars.
Athens
The spirit of Greece begins in Athens. With magnificent arts and anarchist districts, the city blends the glory of the ancients (no trip is complete without viewing sacred temples) with modern sensibility. Book your stay at Mona Athens, a concept-led boutique hotel that’s a 20-minute stroll away from the Acropolis. The 20 open plan rooms are luxurious and palatial, and not to mention, utterly relaxing. Located in Psirri, Mona is the sister hotel of the popular Shila Athens and it’s equally loaded with the serene and the scintillating. The laid-back hotel is the perfect spot for exploring the city (plus their delicious breakfast spread helps you fuel up for the day), as you weave through the city’s immense offerings. Let your days be filled with explorations at Ergon, Agora, and various temple sites (don’t sleep on the Temple of Hephaestus or the Parthenon) and Gyro Place (for lunch, and it’s just steps from Mona). Head to the beach and the restaurant Krabo, or enjoy a meal in Exarchia at Warehouse for the wine and modern Greek bites.
Santorini
Experience a glorious sunset like never before in Santorini. Hop on a flight (it’s less than an hour) to the island from Athens and unlock a whole new reality. The winding streets of Oia are a haven for TikTokers and Instagrammers alike (yes, the uninterrupted sunset views are that good), but fear not. There’s lots to sink your teeth into with stunning cliffs, black and red beaches, plus endless azure waters.
To start, stay at Andronis Boutique Hotel that will bookend your stay with passion and more importantly, good rest. Savor the beauty of the sun and sea while dining at 1807 (book a sunset dinner stat), Red Bicycle, Armeni, explore Red Beach and Black Beach, eat a sweet treat from Grigoris Bakery, hike down to Amoundi Bay and follow the rocky path to a picturesque swimming hole. Interested in shopping? Oia is the spot with the minimalist jewelry and art at Mnemossyne Gallery, Nisi and Ksira Concept Store (via Nik. Nomikou) for clothes and Greek sandals.
Paros
Say hello to stunning sunsets, delicious dining and fun nightlife in Paros. The island is ripe with charming villages like the mountain-tucked Lefkes with darling shops, sidewalk cafes and gorgeous studios, most notably being ceramic artist Todd Marshard.
Call Anna Studios your home away from home, which is located in the magical bay town of Naoussa that’s central to adventure, nightlife and stunning landscapes. Naoussa is also a short drive from Parikia for added explorations.
Beach days are large and lush here, so you’ll want to enjoy every drop by the shore at Monastiri (hike in Paros Park, too), Santa Maria and Lageri Beach. Take a self-guided tour at the Church of 100 Doors, eat at Kafeneion – i Palia Agora (seriously, it’s a *must*), Taverna Glafkos, Matzourana, and grab gelato at GELATERIA S.CREAM.