Top 7 Most Beautiful Unspoiled Villages in Greece

Greece is regarded by many as the cradle of Western civilization.

Here you will find more archaeological museums than anywhere in the world. And it is the birthplace of what we now know as the Olympic Games. 

This Mediterranean nation at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa is now a modern civilization. But its ancient past still calls to us from its cobbled streets and old stone buildings. 

If you want to visit this beautiful group of islands and see it as it looked all those ages ago, see our list of the 7 most beautiful unspoiled villages in Greece, below.  

Nymfaio, Florina

This popular winter destination for the locals is relatively unknown to foreign tourists.  

Surrounded by one of the best wine regions in northern Greece, it’s also a favorite spot for wine tasting in the summertime.

When visiting Nymfaio, be sure to include the Arcturos Environmental Center in your itinerary. This animal rehabilitation home cares for injured wolves and is also a safe haven for mistreated circus bears that are unable to survive in the wild. 

UNESCO named Nymfaio one of the ten most picturesque villages of Europe, and we are sure you will agree.

Vatheia, Laconia

Due to the rural exodus over the past few decades, Vatheia is almost entirely uninhabited. 

Situated on the southernmost tip of the Mani Peninsula, the abandoned village of Vatheia with its distinctive towers will take you on a journey back into the mists of time. 

Clusters of abandoned houses, towers, and chapels known as the Perichora (“environs’) decorate the hills and mountain slopes of this unspoiled village. 

Walk along its stone-paved alleys and discover the ruins of a bygone era.

Hora, Folegandros Island

Hora is perched on the edge of a cliff at 656ft above sea level. This picturesque ancient settlement on the east of the island offers you thrilling panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. 

Above the village of Hora, a white path crisscrosses the mountain en route to the Church of the Panagia, one of the island’s most-loved landmarks. 

This triple-domed testament to Aegean ecclesiastical architecture houses a portable icon of the Virgin Mary. This statuette is carried in a procession on religious feast days to all the houses of the village.

Step back into the middle ages in Hora’s oldest part, the walled medieval Kastro, which is exceptionally well preserved. A hike up to the Kastro (castle) offers many lovely sights along the way and awesome views from the parapet at Mounta Square. 

Chóra, Folégandros Island

One of the best ways to explore the beauty and wonder of the Mediterranean is to charter a yacht in Greece. And this is the perfect place to do it.

Folegandros island manages to keep its unspoiled charm although it is just a ferry ride away from Athens and Santorini. 

This island offers beautiful beaches, crystal waters, and some incredible scuba diving opportunities. But although you may want to visit Folégandros for its stunning beaches down below, the views from the top of the cliff are absolutely breathtaking. 

Fiskardo, Kefalonia

This charming harbor village is on the Northern tip of Kefalonia, the largest of the seven Ionian islands. 

Fiskardo’s promenade is dotted with tavernas, cafes, and restaurants where your tastebuds will delight in freshly caught seafood.

And if you feel like a little stroll after your meal, the Venetian lighthouse of Fiskardo would be the ideal spot to take an amazing selfie for your Instagram account. 

A short walk from the port, you’ll have amazing views of the bay from this historic site.

Pelion

In Greek mythology, Mount Pelion took its name from King Peleus, the father of Achilles. It is considered one of the most beautiful regions of Greece. 

The majestic mountain is covered with lush forests of beech, maple, oak, and chestnut trees. Its copious springs, gorges, and streams nurture countless fruit orchards and olive groves. 

If you love walking through nature, the numerous hiking trails and stone paths along this verdant landscape will delight any nature lover.

And as if that’s not enough to make you want to visit this awe-inspiring Greek gem… Enough snow falls on the higher elevations to host skiing facilities from Christmas to Easter 

Molyvos, Lesvos Island 

Known as Mithimna in ancient times, Molyvos, as it is called today, has retained its traditional charm and in 1965 it was declared a protected village. 

The castle of Molyvos, the second-largest ancient fortification on Lesvos, is one of the best-preserved castles in the Mediterranean. 

Erected during the Byzantine period, and situated atop a rocky hill, it looks down on the houses made of wood and stone. And this ancient fortress still serves its people, as a lot of cultural events are held here during the summertime.