Top 5 winter destinations in Greece

Greece is linked to summer holidays, sandy beaches, turquoise waters  and beautiful islands. What is not widely known is that Greece has some amazing places to visit during the winter as well. Imagine picturesque villages on the mountains, hiking paths in forests, beautiful lakes , vibrant cities, uncrowded archaeological sites and even snow.

Here are 5 places to visit Greece during winter

Pelion Villages

The mountainous area of Pelion is located in the East Thessaly region in central Greece. What makes this area unique is that is surrounded by the sea and the mountain top villages enjoy magnificent views either of the Aegean Sea or the Pagasitic Gulf. The area is full of picturesque villages with unique architecture, hiking trails in the forest, tasty local cuisine and a ski centre. The area of Pelion is the perfect destination for the nature lovers. For more inspiration, you can check my posts:

Pelion Greece: Villages of Tsagarada, Mouresi, Kissos

Pelion villages Portaria and Makrinitsa

Kalavryta

The town of Kalavryta is situated in the mountainous area of North Peloponnese in Greece. It is a popular destination among the Greeks due to its close proximity to Athens. The area around Kalavryta is a place of unique natural beauty. There are many things one can do in Kalavryta like ride the rack railway called Odontotos, hike the Voureikos gorge, visit the ski resort or visit one of the many famous orthodox churches nearby. For more information on what to do in Kalavryta, you can read my post: Things to do in Kalavrita, Greece.

Arachova

Arochova is a mountain village at the foot of Mountain Parnassus in Central Greece. The village of Arachova is a cosmopolitan destination with great food, fantastic hotels and bustling nightlife. There are many natural trails at the area and one of Greece’s most popular ski resorts. Nearby, you will find the archaeological site of Delphi part of the UNESCO heritage centres.  You can read my post: A day trip from Athens- Delphi Tales from Greece.

Karpenisi

Karpenisi is located in the mountains of Central Greece. The town of Karpenisi and the nearby villages with the traditional architecture are nestled in an area of unique natural beauty. The area is perfect for sports enthusiasts as one can hike the numerous trails, do mountain biking, rafting at Trikeliotis river, horseback riding and ski. There are also some culinary treasures in the area as one can taste trout from the river, local sausages and cheeses among others.

Ioannina town and Zagorohoria villages

The beautiful town of Ioannina is located in Epirus region in Nothern Greece. It is a town of a multicultural background drenched in history. Ioannina has been influenced over the years by the Christians, the Ottomans and the Jews. Within the castle’s walls, you will find the old part of the city filled with historical monuments, but what dominates the city of Ioannina is Lake Pamvotis with its small island in the middle. For more information about Ioannina you can read my post: Top things to do in Ioannina, Greece.

At the  mountains surrounding the town of Ioannina you will find a complex of 46 stone built villages called Zagorohoria. These picturesque villages are built amphitheatrically on the top of the mountain and are surrounded by lush forest and arched stone bridges. The region offers a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, rafting and horseback riding.

These are just a few places one can visit in Greece during winter. Other options include the Prespes Lakes, the lake town of Kastoria, Metsovo, the town of Thessaloniki and Xanthi.  Not convinced yet? Why don’t you check my post: 5 reasons to visit Greece in Winter.

Antelope Travel offers fantastic winter vacation packages and can also plan a custom made tour of your choice.

Have you been to Greece during winter? Where did you go?