Visitors to Greece shouldn’t miss Athens, but the country’s mainland has more to offer beyond its capital city. As a travel advisor who’s been planning trips to Greece for over two decades, I’ve watched travelers shift from ticking off landmarks to seeking richer, more textured experiences. For those ready to go deeper, the Peloponnese and Northern Greece are two dynamic mainland destinations that offer luxury, history, and authenticity—without the crowds.
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Northern Greece
Where to Stay
Set up shop in Thessaloniki, the north’s cultural capital. Stay at the Electra Palace Hotel, a landmark property on the iconic Aristotelous Square with views of the Thermaic Gulf. It’s an ideal base for exploring the city’s neoclassical charm, lively markets, Byzantine churches, and waterfront promenade.
What to Do
Start your morning in Thessaloniki with a bougatsa, a traditional custard-filled pastry. Then walk through the centuries of history layered into every street around town and savor the unique cuisine, which blends Greek, Balkan, and Ottoman influences. Outside the city, explore the Macedonian wine country and hike Mount Olympus. The Royal Tombs of Aigai, just an hour’s drive from Thessaloniki, are among the most significant archaeological discoveries in Greece. This UNESCO World Heritage site includes the tomb of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great, and a museum experience built into the ancient burial mounds themselves.
Costa Navarino
The Peloponnese
Where to Stay
Costa Navarino, tucked along the Ionian coast, is one of Greece’s most sophisticated resort areas. Four luxury properties—The Westin, W, The Romanos, and Mandarin Oriental—provide choices for everyone, from families to honeymooners. Whether you’re drawn to wellness, golf, or gastronomy, this is both a destination in and of itself and a perfect jumping-off point for exploring the broader Peloponnesian region.
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What to Do
Venture inland to Arcadia, where mountain villages like Dimitsana and Stemnitsa offer timeless visions of stone houses, forested trails, and small tavernas serving recipes passed down through generations. Then visit Olympia, the original site of the Olympic Games. The atmospheric ruins and on-site museum provide powerful context to the modern ceremony. Stroll the scenic port in Pylos, tour the castle of Niokastro, or visit the Gialova Lagoon—home to migratory birds and serene views. Whether you’re exploring local farms or indulging in a spa afternoon, the Peloponnese is perfect for an immersive, quietly luxurious experience.
Christos Stergiou is a member of Travel + Leisure’s A-List and specializes in trips to Greece and the Eastern Mediterranean. You can create a tailor-made itinerary with Stergiou at [email protected].
