By S GOWTHAMI 
Greece when we think of place, images of white-washed buildings in Santorini, the ancient ruins of Athens, and the turquoise waters of Mykonos often come to mind. However, Greece is a country brimming with hidden gems, untouched villages, and secret beaches that offer breathtaking beauty, authentic culture, and photo-perfect moments away from the crowds.
In this article, we will uncover some of the lesser-known corners of Greece that are bound to captivate your senses and spice up your Instagram feed. Plus, we’ll give you practical details like the country’s currency, language, and how to get there.
A Snapshot of Greece
Before diving into the hidden treasures, let’s take a quick look at Greece itself.
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Official Language: Greek
Population: Approximately 10.2 million
Area: Around 131,957 square kilometers (50,949 square miles)
Flag: The Greek flag consists of nine horizontal stripes of blue and white with a blue canton bearing a white cross, symbolizing the Greek Orthodox faith.
Greece is not just a destination; it’s a journey through time, flavors, and unmatched natural beauty.
Hidden Corners You Need to Discover
Kastoria – The Lake Town of Northern Greece
Kastoria, located in the region of Western Macedonia, is a charming town nestled on the shores of Lake Orestiada. Known for its Byzantine churches, fur industry, and romantic lakeside views, Kastoria is often overlooked by tourists.
Stroll along the old neighborhoods, visit the Byzantine Museum, or take a boat tour on the serene lake. Winter or summer, Kastoria is a photographer’s dream with reflections of the town shimmering on the water.
Meteora – The Floating Monasteries
Though more popular now, Meteora still feels like a hidden gem. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to monasteries that appear to float atop towering rock formations. The landscape is surreal, and the views are out of this world.
Pro tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset to capture magical photos when the rocks and monasteries glow under the golden light.
Symi – The Neoclassical Beauty of the Dodecanese
While Rhodes is famous worldwide, its tiny neighbor Symi remains under the radar. Symi’s harbor is lined with pastel-colored neoclassical houses, giving it a postcard-perfect appearance.
Climb the steps to the upper town for panoramic views or swim in the crystal-clear waters of secluded beaches like Nanou and Agios Georgios Dysalonas.
Zagori Villages – The Stone Villages of Epirus
Located in northwestern Greece, Zagori is a collection of 46 traditional stone villages spread across the Pindus mountains. The area is famous for its arched stone bridges, deep gorges like Vikos Gorge, and lush forests.
The villages like Papigo, Monodendri, and Kipi offer tranquility, unique architecture, and outdoor adventures like hiking, rafting, and canyoning.
Koufonisia – The Secret Paradise of the Small Cyclades
Forget Santorini and Mykonos. Koufonisia, part of the Small Cyclades, is a paradise of turquoise waters, golden beaches, and simple island life. The beaches here are so stunning that your photos will look like they’ve been heavily filtered—but they’re all-natural.
With few cars, the best way to explore is by walking or biking. Pori Beach, with its soft sands and dramatic caves, is a must-visit.
How to Get There: Flights and Travel Tips
Greece is well-connected with major international airports in Athens, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion (Crete). For these hidden corners, the best route often involves domestic flights or ferry rides:
Kastoria: Fly to Thessaloniki and drive (approx. 2.5 hours).
Meteora: Fly to Athens or Thessaloniki, then take a train or bus to Kalambaka.
Symi: Fly to Rhodes, then take a ferry (about 1 hour).
Zagori Villages: Fly to Ioannina, then drive to the villages.
Koufonisia: Fly to Naxos or Athens, then ferry to Koufonisia.
Pro tip: To save time, book flights to regional airports in advance, especially during summer when demand surges.
Greece is a land of endless wonders, and its hidden corners are a testament to its diverse beauty. From mystical monasteries to stone villages, tranquil lakes to secret beaches, there’s so much more to this country than meets the eye.
So, why stick to the mainstream when you can explore the hidden side of Greece that will not only blow your mind but also make your Instagram followers green with envy?
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