What to see in Greece: 10 most underrated destinations in Greece

Greece is known as the cradle of civilisation and democracy. It is a chosen travel destination, with many popular places such as Santorini and Athens. While these holiday spots are full of incredible things to see and do, other parts of the country are also worth exploring. The underrated destinations in Greece can be cheaper and more authentic, so it is a good idea to step a little off the beaten path. From the small seaside town of Methoni to the traditional island of Patmos, these incredible destinations in Greece are absolutely not to be missed.

10Kavala

Kavala In the north, in the region known as Macedonia, you will find the port city of Kavala. This is an important port, thanks to its position on the sea, which also makes it accessible by ferry from several nearby Aegean islands. Kavala is home to a Byzantine fortress, most of it dating back to the 15th century. The Kavala Fortress and Castle offer spectacular views, and concerts and other cultural events are also held there throughout the year. Charming Ottoman buildings are scattered through Kavala's pastel-coloured old town, while the lively harbour front offers numerous restaurants.

9Naxos

Naxos is one of the islands of the Cyclades group. Although it is the largest, it is often overshadowed by Santorini and Mykonos. Naxos, however, has a great deal to offer visitors. Most of the island is agricultural, but there are also towns and historic attractions to explore, not to mention the magnificent beaches. Visit the walled town called Castro or admire the 6th-century BC marble gate called Portara. Agios Prokopios beach is breathtaking and offers a place to swim and relax in a stunning setting.

8Patmos

Patmos is a small island in the Aegean Sea, and is known as one of the most religious islands in Greece. St John is said to have had his revelation while living on Patmos, and thus wrote of the apocalypse. Today, many of the island's landmarks have some connection with religious history or legend. The most popular attraction on Patmos is the Monastery of St John the Theologian, which was built in the 11th century. You can also visit the Cave of the Apocalypse, which is built right into the mountainside between the two main towns of Skala and Chora. Skála is also the town where you will find accommodation and tavernas with fresh fish among the buildings used by the Italians during the Italian rule of the Dodecanese islands.

7Methoni

On the southern tip of the Peloponnese, you will come across the village of Methoni. This small town was one of the seven cities offered to Achilles by Agamemnon. For those who wish to venture off the beaten path, there is a great deal to do, see and explore. Be sure to start with the ruins of the fortress and castle, called Kastro, which shows a splendid example of 15th-century Venetian architecture. A few steps from the castle is a beautiful beach for swimming, and there are many tavernas nearby where you can fill up on delicious dishes at the end of the day.

6Chios

Chios Chios is one of the North Aegean islands, and lies just four miles off the coast of Turkey. Famous for its olives, figs and wine, the island is also an important destination for food lovers. Nea Moni of Chios, an 11th-century monastery, is an unmissable attraction. The interior is beautifully decorated and its mosaics are considered the finest examples of Macedonian Renaissance art. Chios is also a popular place for day trips to Turkey, which can easily be arranged through the local ferry service. Head to the town of Mesta to buy souvenirs and dine in fantastic restaurants.

5Pelion Peninsula

The Pelion Peninsula in central Greece stretches between the Aegean Sea and the Pagasetic Gulf and is a place of incredible beauty that is often overlooked by travellers. The gulf itself boasts warm water perfect for swimming, while a ski resort on Mount Pelion offers endless winter adventures. You can hike along the mountain trails in the morning and sip a cocktail on the beach at sunset while you are on the Pelion Peninsula. While there are resorts on the water, there are also small mountain villages such as Makrinitsa and Portaria, where you feel as if you are stepping back in time and seeing an authentic version of Greece. They are among the more traditional villages of Pelion, with grey stone roofs, elegant houses and paved paths.

4Symi

Symi Symi is a small island that is part of the Dodecanese group in the Aegean Sea. In past centuries, Symi was the heart of the sponge trade, and you will still see many sea sponges for sale in the local souvenir shops. Today, however, Symi is a wonderful travel destination for those who want history and modern amenities. Be sure to check out the harbour, which is still largely the heart of the island. You can also drive or take a taxi to Panormitis, a monastery located in the south of Symi. One of the most popular pastimes on Symi is coastal walking, and there are kilometres of easy-to-navigate trails across the island.

3Kastoria

One of the most underrated destinations in Greece is the town of Kastoria. It is located on a promontory stretching over the beautiful Lake Orestiada and is surrounded by beautiful limestone mountains. There is also outstanding cuisine, an incredible nightlife and numerous historic Byzantine churches. Despite all this, it is rarely visited by international travellers. Head to Kastoria and go underground to the extraordinary Dragon Cave, or discover the town's history and culture in the Byzantine Museum of Kastoria. Don't leave before dining at an outdoor bar overlooking the lake and sipping tsipouro, a local version of ouzo.

2Folegandros

Folegandros, also known as Pholegandros, is one of the small islands in the Cyclades chain. The island's landscape is varied and includes high cliffs and a large cave. The island's capital is built on the edge of a cliff 200 metres (650 feet) high. The main reason to visit Folegandros is to enjoy some of the best beaches in Greece, many of which will be secluded or at least not very crowded. You can hike to Katergo Beach and you will be stunned by the crystal-clear waters of Galifos beach. Angali beach is the most famous on the island and can be crowded during the summer months. The tavernas are a few steps from Angali beach, which means you can enjoy seafood and local wine with a view over the water.

1Kefalonia

#1 of the most underrated destinations in Greece The Greek Ionian islands are among the best loved and number more than 6,000 islands. Kefalonia belongs to this group, but is not as well known as other Ionian islands such as Corfu. Kefalonia is just as beautiful and boasts a breathtaking setting, but is much less developed and less crowded. In Kefalonia, you can go to the fantastic Drogarati caves, or you can join a boat trip and admire the island's four peninsulas from the water. The famous Myrtos beach, on the island's west coast, has repeatedly been voted one of the best beaches in the world. Sami Beach is also popular and it is easy to see why. A beach of white pebbles, brilliant blue water and green mountains framing the view make it a truly spectacular place.