The 28 Very Best Views in Greece to Add to Your Itinerary
Greece has some of the most breathtaking views in the world. Whether you’re overlooking the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea, standing atop ancient ruins, or exploring charming villages, Greece never fails to amaze you with its stunning landscapes. Here are some of the best views in Greece, from the Cyclades to the Dodecanese and beyond. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a nature lover, or simply looking for a hidden gem to add to your itinerary, these stunning viewpoints promise unforgettable experiences.
The Best Views in the Ionian Islands
The Ionian Islands are where pine forests meet bright turquoise bays, and pastel villages spill toward the sea. From the mellow charm of Corfu to the dramatic cliffs of Kefalonia, the views here are some of the most peaceful in the country. Here’s everything you need to know!
1. The View of Assos, Kefalonia from the Castle
Assos, on the west coast of Kefalonia in Western Greece, is the most picturesque town in Kefalonia. Known for its stunning turquoise waters, charming harbour, and the historic Venetian castle, a view of Assos from the hilltop is spectacular.
Hiking up to the ancient castle will give you a gorgeous panorama of the area. A glimpse of the shimmering emerald green and turquoise blue harbour dotted with white sailboats and a striking old town is phenomenal.
In the village, stone houses with terracotta roofs, nestled in the hills beside the harbour, are covered with flower trellises.
The 4-mile round-trip hike through the pines starts at a parking lot on the town outskirts.
It is one of the most incredible outdoor adventures in Kefalonia. It’s easy to photograph Assos town and harbour as you round each switchback on your way up the mountain.
Recommended by Karen, Outdoor Adventure Sampler
2. Agios Spiridon Beach, Corfu
The best view in Corfu, Greece, is from Agios Spiridon Beach, one of the gems of the Ionian Islands. As you wander around the beach, you can get an idea of what I mean. The view of the blue, crystal-clear water and the surrounding lush greenery cliffs creates a picture that will stick in your head for decades.
The ambience is great. It is one of the most beautiful and quiet beaches on the northeastern coast of Corfu. It is fully equipped with sundecks and umbrellas, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the view. It is completely safe and clean.
In fact, it has been rewarded several times with a blue flag for its cleanliness and safety, so you know that you are in the right place. With beaches like this, it’s easy to see why Corfu is considered one of the best Greek islands for families.
I had an RC Drone with a 4k camera, where I was able to capture some amazing pictures. I was able to capture some stunning pictures of the surrounding cliffs. To get a better view, you need to get in the water by boat or use a drone. I highly recommend a drone because it can capture sharp and vivid images.
You can also rent a boat and take some pictures with a camera. For a better idea, you can visit our blog to learn about tips and hacks on how to select the best camera.
3. Melissani Cave: A Great Day Trip in Kefalonia
Melissani looks different from the photos you’ve probably seen. Most people expect this big glowing chamber, but the approach is a bit plain. Visiting this place is definitely one of the top things to do in Kefalonia.
You walk down a simple ramp, and then suddenly you’re standing above an underground lake that doesn’t feel real at first. The water is so clear that the boat looks like it’s floating on nothing.
Proper timing matters when heading to the underground lake. When the sun is high, the light drops straight through the hole in the roof and hits the water, brightening the whole cave.
The boatmen don’t make a fuss about it. They just steer slowly, pointing out the darker sections in the back where the walls close in, and you can hear the echo of your own voice.
The cave is cool even in the middle of summer, and the air feels heavier than outside. You can see tree roots hanging down through cracks in the rock and small fish swimming near the surface, barely moving.
4. Navagio Shipwreck Beach Viewing Platform, Zakynthos
If you’re heading to the west coast of Zakynthos, this spot is impossible to miss. You don’t actually go down to the beach itself from the platform, but the view from above is the main reason people come here.
The cove is small, almost hidden between cliffs, and the shipwreck sitting in the sand makes the whole scene feel unusual at first glance.
The climb up to the platform is short but steep. You’ll pass a few kiosks and a line of other visitors, but it’s nothing like the crowds on Santorini Island or even Mykonos. From the edge, you can see the water shift from turquoise to deep blue depending on how the sunlight hits it.
If you’re planning a visit, check out our guide on where to stay in Zakynthos.
The Best Views in Greece: The Cyclades Islands
The Cyclades are famous for being one of Greece’s most beautiful island groups. Many famous pictures of Greece are taken in the Cyclades, from the windmills of Mykonos to the blue-domed churches of Santorini and the winding Cycladic streets.
5. The Windmills of Oia Santorini from the Castle Ruins
One of Greece’s most beautiful views is over the Santorini windmills from the ruins of the old Venetian castle in Oia. This view is extremely popular at sunset due to the beautiful contrast of the white houses and windmills with the fantastic orange of the sky, reflecting in the water below.
To capture this image, you have to get here early, as it is an extremely crowded place. In summer, people come two to three hours before sunset to get a good spot.
Getting to the castle is easy, as there is only one main road in Oia. Follow it, and you will reach it in about 15 minutes from the car park.
Seeing the sunset here is one of the must things you must add to your 3 days in Santorini itinerary.
Recommended by Joanna, The World in My Pocket
6. The View of Santorini from the Highest Point of Mount Profit Ilias
The view over the entire island of Santorini from Mount Profitis Ilias is surely one of the best views in all of Greece. Especially at sunset, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind experience to see Santorini in a completely new way.
Mount Profitis Ilias is the highest point on the island, but you can easily get there. Head to the village of Pyrgos and follow the road until you hit the peak. You can go there by car or by ATV; Sadly, there is no public transport going there.
We totally found this spot by accident, just driving around and trying to find a nice spot to enjoy the sunset without all the masses of people in Santorini. It can be a bit windy up there, so make sure to bring a cover-up if you are planning to stay longer.
Ideally, you’ll want to face toward the ocean and the caldera for your pictures. This is also the direction in which the sun will set, so you’ll get some amazing shots.
As mentioned before, this is one of the only spots on the island where you can see the sunset without being bothered by masses of tourists. This is one of the places that really makes Santorini worth visiting for me.
Recommended by Sabrina, Shades of Summr
7. The View of Ios Chora
The island of Ios, known for its Greek nightlife and beaches, also has one of the most picturesque views from its main town, Chora, in the Cyclades.
Perched on a hillside, Chora is a maze of narrow, winding streets, whitewashed houses, and blue-domed churches, all leading up to a panorama of the Aegean Sea and Sikinos island on the horizon.
The best way to experience the view of Ios Chora is to wander through its streets, gradually making your way uphill.
You’ll walk past charming squares, traditional tavernas, and boutique shops as you find your way through the town.
One of the best spots to capture the view is from the Church of Panagia Gremiotissa, located at Chora’s highest point.
For a memorable experience, find a spot at one of the rooftop bars or terraces that dot the town.
We stayed near Ios Port and explored the island by bus. Read about the best places to stay in Ios for families here.
8. The View of Koufinisi from the Port
Arriving at the port of Koufonisia offers a fantastic first impression of this quiet Greek island. We first saw Koufinisia when travelling by ferry from Naxos to Amorgos. We returned to stay in Koufinisi the following year.
The port area itself is charming, with traditional fishing boats bobbing in the water and quaint houses and narrow, winding streets as a backdrop.
From the port, you can see the inviting sandy beaches and the rocky outcrops that make Koufonisia a paradise.
9. Arriving in Naxos By Boat
Arriving in Naxos by boat is an unforgettable experience, offering one of the best views in Greece. You’ll be greeted by the sight of the picturesque port town, with its whitewashed buildings.
Portara, the ancient marble gateway to the Temple of Apollo, stands proudly on a small islet to the left (just out of view). As you get closer, Venetian castle (Kastro) comes into view, perched on a hill overlooking the town.
Naxos is my favourite island in Greece; this view always makes my day. From here, you can also spot some of the islands near Mykonos, which makes the views even more spectacular.
Read about our favourite beach Agios Prokopios here.
10. Little Venice, Mykonos
Are you looking for one of the best views in Greece? Head to Little Venice in Mykonos! This location is a must on any visit to Mykonos, and it’s no surprise why. It’s one of the most picturesque places in Greece!
Little Venice is located within Mykonos Town, one of the most visited destinations on the island. As its name suggests, it resembles the popular Italian city of Venice. This is due to its history of merchants and sailors who brought Venetian influence during sea trade.
Today, Little Venice is adorned with colourful wooden balconies against whitewashed houses. This, built along the Aegean Sea, creates a remarkable view. It’s also an epicentre for cafes, restaurants, and famous nightlife bars.
Start from the Windmills of Mykonos for the best view and photos of Little Venice. As you go down the nearby steps, you can gain a closer view of different angles. For the best photos, visit during the stunning sunset!
Recommended by Tamara, My Flated Odyssey
11. The Winding Cycladic Streets of Parikia, Paros
Parikia, the charming capital of Paros, offers some of the most picturesque views in the Cyclades.
The town is a maze of winding, narrow streets, typical of Cycladic architecture, lined with whitewashed buildings and pink bougainvillaea.
You’ll find hidden cafes, boutique shops, and plenty of locals along the way.
As you explore the Old Town, you will encounter many photo opportunities. At various points, you can exit the Old Town and get stunning views of the beach and Parikia Port.
12. Looking Out to Sea from Platis Gialos Beach, Sifnos
Sifnos is one of my favourite islands in the Cyclades, and we always stay on Platis Gialos Beach. This long, sandy beach is located in a large sheltered bay on the southern coast of the island, making it one of the best beaches in Greece for families.
The view from Platis Gialos is particularly captivating as you look out to sea. The horizon stretches endlessly, and on clear days, you can see the distant outlines of nearby islands.
13. Piso Livadi Village in Paros in the Morning
Piso Livadi, a charming coastal village on the eastern side of Paros, offers a stunning view in the morning light.
Piso Livadi is peaceful in the early hours.
Whether you’re sipping a coffee at a seaside café or simply enjoying the view, Piso Livadi in the morning is a perfect start to any day on the island.
I caught the early bus from Parikia to Piso Livadi and enjoyed a coffee before heading to Antiparos. On the way, we travelled through the mountains, and the bus was full of schoolchildren. We saw lots of picturesque villages too!
14. The Crystal Clear Colour of the Sea in Mykonos (Elia Beach)
Elia Beach, located on the southern coast of Mykonos, is famous for its crystal-clear waters. It is one of the longest on the island and is surrounded by beautiful hills.
The clarity of the water here is remarkable. It allows you to see the sandy seabed below. The only problem was the lack of shade and the cost of sunbeds!
15. The Mykonos Pelican
One of the ‘best views in Mykonos’ is the Mykonos Pelican. Why? Because some people never come across the famous pelican as they are exploring Mykonos Town.
The pelican became a symbol of Mykonos back in the 1950s when a fisherman found an injured pelican and nursed it back to health. The bird, which he named Petros, decided to stay on the island instead of returning to the wild.
Although the original Petros passed away many years ago, his legacy lives on through his successors. Today, several pelicans continue the tradition on the island. They are often seen around the waterfront, near the old port, or walking through the streets of the Old Town.
16. The View of Fira Clifftops at Sunset, Santorini Island
Fira changes a bit in the late afternoon. It’s where you’ll find the most famous Santorini sunsets, but the shift starts long before the sun drops.
The cruise-ship crowds thin out, the shops stop blasting music, and you can actually hear your own footsteps on the cobblestones. If you walk along the clifftop path behind the main square, you’ll notice the buildings start to glow a soft peach colour.
Most people bunch up near the bars facing the caldera, but you don’t need a seat to get a good view. There are small gaps between the rooftop terraces where you can lean on the wall and watch the sun drop behind Thirassia.
16. Panoramic View from Kastro, Serifos
Kastro sits at the very top of Serifos, and the climb up feels a bit heavier than you expect, especially if you’ve been wandering the village all day. Serifos is an under the radar island, so the path isn’t polished or crowded.
Once you reach the little square near the old church, the view starts to open up, which could catch you off guard. It spreads out slowly, with hills rolling into each other, white houses tucked into corners you didn’t notice from below.
If you look down toward the coastline, you can trace some of the scenic trails people talk about, the ones that weave between chapels and old stone walls.
The wind is usually stronger at the top, so you might need to lean a little when you walk around the edge of the ruins.
17. The Church of Panagia Tourliani, Milos (View Over Plaka)
In Plaka, the main reason people wander up the hill isn’t just the village itself, but to catch a glimpse of the Church of Panagia Tourliani. It’s a beautiful church, small but striking, with a tall bell tower that stands out against the low whitewashed houses around it.
Once you get closer, the details on the façade and the tiled roof are surprisingly intricate for their size. From the steps in front of the church, the view over Plaka spreads out gently.
The narrow streets twist down toward the edge of the island, and the Aegean peeks through gaps between the houses. It’s quiet here compared to the main square, and the breeze off the water makes it a great place to linger a bit.
18. Kolona Beach: One of the Best Beaches in Kythnos
Kolona Beach is one of the reasons people visit Kythnos. It’s a narrow strip of sand connecting two parts of the island, with turquoise water on both sides, and it feels surprisingly open even when a few others are around.
When I first got there, I absolutely loved how easy it was to find a quiet spot, even though it’s technically one of the most popular beaches on the island. The sand is soft, the water is clear, and you can walk along the thin stretch to see both sides at once.
There’s not much in the way of shops or bars, which keeps the place feeling simple and calm. People visit mostly for the view and the water itself.
19. View of Perissa Beach from Ancient Thera
Perissa Beach looks completely different from up on the slopes of Ancient Thera. Its black sand stretches along the coast, the water shifts from deep blue to turquoise, and the scattered umbrellas and sunbathers below look tiny from above.
The walk up to the ruins is manageable, and the effort is worth it for the incredible views. From here, you get a perspective you can’t get at the beach itself.
It’s also quieter here than on the beach. The light changes subtly as the day moves on, and suddenly you notice how the shadows fall across the ruins, and the water sparkles differently, depending on where the sun hits.
Best Views in the Dodecanese Islands
The Dodecanese Islands are famous for their stunning beaches, historical monuments and Greek charm. From the ancient harbour of Rhodes to the beauty of Anthony Quinn Bay, these islands offer some of Greece’s most captivating views.
20. Mandraki Harbor, Rhodes
At Mandraki Harbour in Rhodes, myth, history and modern life meet in one place. The entrance to the port is marked by two iconic columns with statues of deer at the top. They stand where the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is believed to have stood. At the very tip of the harbour stands the medieval fort of St. Nicholas.
The port of Mandraki is located in the northeastern part of Rhodes Island, in Rhodes Town. Since Rhodes is one of the Greek islands with an airport, you can easily fly into Rhodes International Airport Diagoras.
The best time to photograph Mandraki Harbour is early in the morning or just before sunset, when the light is soft and glows over the water. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the whole scene and a polarising filter to reduce glare from the water’s surface. Try to include boats and fishermen to add depth and tell a story.
Recommended by Maria, MapAndCamera
21. Anthony Quinn Bay, Rhodes from the Profitis Ilias Church
It’s easy to see why Hollywood star Anthony Quinn fell in love with the bay, which he later bought from the government and became known by his name. Anthony Quinn Bay, with its pebble beach, is the most beautiful in Rhodes and one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. The bay is a perfect addition to your Rhodes itinerary.
Although few people know this, the bay can be seen from the panoramic point near Profitis Ilias Chapel, on the hill that overlooks it.
From up there, you will have a full view of the bay, as well as Ladiko Beach, a secluded bay that is accessible only by boat. What makes this viewpoint even more special is the fact that it’s a 360° view. On your left, you will see the Faliraki area and the Kallithea Springs in the distance.
There are several panoramic points on the hill from where you can take memorable photos, but the best is past Profitis Ilias Church and the bunker built during World War II. There you will find a small platform, and enjoy the amazing view of the three bays!
Recommended by Anita Sericano, Anita Beyond the Sea
22. The Medieval Walls View, Lindos, Rhodes
Lindos is one of those places that makes you understand why Rhodes has become a favourite island for many visitors in Greece, especially history lovers.
Climbing up toward the medieval walls takes a little effort, but the view from the top is worth it. From here, the white houses of the village spill down the hill, the beach curves below, and the Aegean stretches toward the horizon, where you can make out some of the other islands in the distance.
It’s a great moment when you reach the walls and pause to take it all in. You can watch boats drifting near the shore, the sunlight bouncing off the sand, and the tiny streets winding through the village below.
23. The Monastery of Saint John, Patmos
The Monastery of Saint John is perched high on a hill overlooking Patmos, and from this vantage point, it’s easy to see why the island is considered one of the most beautiful places in the Aegean.
Explore the monastery’s courtyard to get a sense of its history. The stone walls and towers have been here since the 11th century, and the views from the highest point are incredibly breathtaking.
From the terraces, the town of Patmos stretches out below, and on a clear day, you can make out the faint outlines of other islands in the distance.
The monastery itself still functions, and you’ll see monks moving through the courtyards and chapels.
The Best Views in Mainland Greece
Mainland Greece offers some of the country’s most stunning and diverse landscapes. From ancient ruins of cities to beautiful beaches and lush Greek mountains, the views are breathtaking and varied.
24. The View of Athens from the Acropolis
The view of Athens from the Acropolis is one of Greece’s most breathtaking sights. Standing at the top of the Acropolis hill, you are rewarded with one of the best views in Greece – a panoramic view of the cityscape of Athens.
The view includes sites such as the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the ancient Agora, and the Lycabettus Hill.
The distant mountains form a natural frame for the city, while the Saronic Gulf glistens in the distance.
25. The Acropolis of Athens
The Acropolis of Athens, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the most famous landmark in Greece, offers one of the most striking views in the country.
Located in the Greek capital, the Acropolis itself is home to some of the most significant archaeological sites of classical Greece, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike.
26. Meteora Monasteries from the Viewing Platforms
If you’re visiting Meteora in Central Greece, the first thing that hits you is how massive the rock pillars are. From the viewing platforms, you can see the huge monasteries sitting on cliffs as if they grew out of the stone itself. The scale is easier to appreciate from above than from the valley below.
The platforms are mostly easy to reach by car or on short walks, and you’ll often find small groups stopping to take photos. You can watch the light shift across the cliffs as the day goes on, and the monasteries’ orange roofs contrast sharply with the grey stone.
As you walk between a few of the platforms, you start to notice the smaller details: the paths winding up the dramatic gorges, patches of trees clinging to cracks in the rocks, and the occasional goat making its way along a ledge.
Visiting Meteora is less about rushing from one monastery to the next and more about pausing to take it all in from these vantage points, where history, architecture, and geography truly resonate.
27. The View of Delphi from the Ancient Sanctuary of Apollo
Delphi sits high on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, and the moment you step among the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo, the view spreads out beneath you. You’ll see the valley open up with olive groves and small villages, and the mountains rising on the other side.
Delphi is in Central Greece, so it’s a bit off the usual tourist routes. That means the scenic trails around the ruins are quiet, and you can wander without bumping into too many people. From the temple terraces, the valley stretches far enough that the towns below look tiny.
Walk along the stone paths between the columns, and you catch glimpses of the surrounding mountains, with the light changing as the day moves on.
28. Voidokilia Beach from the Old Navarino Castle, Peloponnese
Climbing up to the Old Navarino Castle gives you a completely different perspective of Voidokilia Beach. From above, the beach’s iconic semicircular shape becomes obvious, with golden sand curving around the clear blue water.
The castle is mostly ruins, but the crumbling walls make a perfect vantage point for taking in the whole scene. From here, the view stretches across the bay, and you can spot the surrounding hills and the distant coastlines of the Peloponnese.
The climb is gentle enough for most people, and reaching the top gives you a sense of scale that’s hard to appreciate from the sand.
Views in Greece FAQs
Some of the most scenic viewpoints are in Santorini, like Oia and Fira, Meteora in Central Greece, and the cliffs of Lindos in Rhodes. Many smaller islands also have quiet spots with great views. Hiking up old castles or monasteries often gives the best views.
Santorini is the top spot for sunsets, especially in Oia and Fira. Rhodes and Milos also have great places to watch the sun go down. Even smaller islands like Ios and Paros have the most beautiful sunsets.
The most popular sunset viewing spots in Santorini are in Oia. You can also get great views from Fira and the clifftop paths behind the main square. Some quiet spots on the island give a less crowded perspective.
Kolona Beach in Kythnos and Perissa Beach in Santorini are easy to spot from above. Porto Katsiki in Lefkada and Navagio Beach in Zakynthos are also top picks. Climbing nearby hills or ruins often gives the best panoramic view of each beach.
Yes, the Ionian Islands are very green and scenic. Kefalonia, Zakynthos, and Lefkada all have cliffs, beaches, and viewpoints worth seeing. They feel quieter and less crowded than the Cyclades.
Yes, Vikos Gorge in Epirus and the gorges around Meteora are amazing. They give a dramatic contrast to the villages and monasteries on the cliffs. Hiking or viewing from above is the best way to appreciate them.
