![PANORMOS IN RETHYMNO, GREECE - AUGUST 8: (EDITORS NOTE: Image is a digital [High Dynamic Range, HDR] composite.) General view of the Kamara beach on August 8, 2020 in Panormos in Rethymno, Greece. (Photo by Laszlo Szirtesi/Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/b601937fa04d8306e15412ac1bb5a6d3595eb57f7a4b4450b32842dd15f9e1a2.jpg "PANORMOS IN RETHYMNO, GREECE - AUGUST 8: (EDITORS NOTE: Image is a digital [High Dynamic Range, HDR] composite.) General view of the Kamara beach on August 8, 2020 in Panormos in Rethymno, Greece. (Photo by Laszlo Szirtesi/Getty Images)")
Greece has played a key role in the history of the world going back thousands of years. For much of that time, Athens was at the center of it all, including arts, culture and so much more. But Athens isn’t the only city in the country.
Throughout Greece, visitors will find incredible communities with something unique to offer anyone who stops by. Any trip to Greece has to include Athens but should also be a lot more broad than spending time in one place.
Larissa, Greece
Deep in the Thessaly region of Greece and a short distance inland from the Agean Sea is the city of Larissa. Like most cities in this country, it’s roots trace back into antiquity and beyond. Some stories have even suggested that the legendary warrior Achilles died here.
There are a variety of museums and historical site to check out. Specifically, the monument to Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, is unique and exceptional. But Alcazar Park on the Pineios River is an outstanding place to spend some time.
Thessaloniki, Greece
Located in the northern regions of Greece, Thessaloniki rests on the Thermaic Gulf of the Aegean Sea. To this day, visitors will spot signs of all the cultures that have influenced the growth of the region, including its Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman eras.
Modern Thessaloniki has no shortage of things to do. It’s a bustling port city as well as the second largest city in the country. There are several historic buildings, magnificent museums and outstanding restaurants to experience.
Heraklion, Greece
If you’re looking to get away from the Greece mainland and spend some in the island of Crete, you would do well to set up shop in Heraklion. It’s the biggest city on the island, and is also an incredibly beautiful place.
Like most Grecian cities, Heraklion is overflowing with historic landmarks, archaeological sites and museums. And all of them should be on your list. But you also have to check out the local wineries, then take some time to relax on an incredible beach like Amoudara.
Patras, Greece
At the foot of Mount Panachaikon and on the Gulf of Patras rests the Greek city of Patras. It is the third largest urban center in the country, and a marvelous place to spend time. A big reason is the spectacular Mediterranean climate
If you’re looking for one of the most picturesque shopping districts you’ve ever seen in your life, stop by Agiou Nikolaou. The Spinney of Patras is an incredible place to get a great view of the entire city. And, as always, there’s a ton of history all over town.
Volos, Greece
Before you leave Thessaly, make sure you spend some time in Volos. It is another incredible port city, this time on the Pagasetic Gulf and it’s only a couple of hours away from Larissa. The drive itself is actually quite pretty.
At this point in the list, you probably don’t need to be told about all the museums and historical sites around the city, but they’re there. The Pelion Railway is a marvelous way to see the region, and Anavros Park is a key spot to enjoy the seaside aspects of the community.