If you’re reading this article, it certainly means that you’re a Xmas fan and, most likely, Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” is playing as you read.
With what many consider the most beautiful time of the year having arrived, most people have already made their Christmas plans for small or larger getaways. However, there is also the category of those who are undecided or those who plan their Christmas trip at the last minute. If you belong to one of these two categories, then this article is for you! We’ve done our research and gathered 5+1 festive destinations in Greece where you can experience the magic of Christmas with your loved ones. Grab a cup of hot chocolate, Glühwein, or whatever else sets the festive mood, take some paper (and a map) and a pen, and let’s get started.
Arachova
With the impressive landscapes of Mount Parnassus and the stone houses as a backdrop, Arachova is the perfect option for a close getaway from Athens – it’s only a 2-hour drive. Enjoy your coffee or drink at the central square and taste traditional or “twisted” Greek cuisine at one of the many restaurants and tavernas in the area. If the weather is favorable, a visit to the Parnassus Ski Center should be on your list. There, you can either ski or enjoy a warm drink at the wooden chalet with a unique view of the blue sky and the white snow. In any case, even the journey to the Ski Center will reward you with endless expanses of fir trees and mountain slopes that create the ultimate Christmas movie scene. As for where to stay, leave that to us: whether you choose Arachova or the broader Parnassus area, one of our accommodations will be waiting to be part of your getaway.
Kalavryta
Nestled at the foot of Mount Aroania, at an altitude of about 735 meters, Kalavryta is a historical site that everyone should visit – especially in winter, and even more so during Christmas. A visit to the Kalavryta Holocaust Museum and Memorial is essential. Even though the theme is “heavy,” the emotion it leaves behind is well worth it. Don’t miss out on enjoying some home-cooked meals in the central square, and make sure to add a ride on the famous cog railway to your itinerary. Starting from the incredibly Instagrammable central train station in Kalavryta, you’ll follow a route filled with greenery, streams, and rivers that will take you to the beach of Diakofto, with intermediate stops at equally beautiful villages like Zachlorou, where, if you have time, it’s worth stopping for a coffee under the plane trees. In any case, Bill and John accommodations in Kalavryta are ready to welcome you for your most special Christmas holidays.
Mani
The all-time classic and always-reliable (literally) choice is Mani. In a landscape dominated by stone and the sea breeze, in Mani, you’ll definitely find the perfect place to relax, enjoy the festive atmosphere with your loved ones, and experience the most delicious journey through Greek flavors at one of the region’s undeniably excellent tavernas. Use your accommodation in Mani as a base to explore the surrounding areas: Limeni, which remains enchanting all year round, Gerolimenas, which stands by the sea with its imposing mansions, and Areopoli, where you can witness Greek history come to life before your eyes. Pro tip: choose to drive along the seaside road towards Limeni and make stops for walks along the small coves along the route – the serenity and the blue of the sea will be something you’ll talk about for a long time.
Tyros
It could be considered an outsider’s choice, but it’s far from that. Between Astros and Leonidio, Tyros emerges, a small town on the slopes of Mount Parnon. If you choose to stay in Tyros for your Christmas getaway, you must visit Upper Tyros as well – the Christmas spirit will easily catch on, and the lush mountain landscape you’ll be facing will definitely help. The local dialect, Tsakonika, will surely impress you, as will the hospitality of the locals. Starting from here, don’t miss the chance to discover the beauty of all of Laconia, as nearby you’ll find small hidden gem villages like Leonidio and, a bit further, Kyparissi. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, the hike that starts from the Monastery of Karya is perfect for you. It takes about an hour and a half and is difficult, but the view from the top will reward you for sure.
Xylokastro
Can a seaside destination also be an ideal choice for Christmas holidays? The answer is yes. Regardless of where you choose to stay in Xylokastro, make sure to attend some of the Christmas events – the municipality has announced a rich festive program. There are also many sights in the villages and areas around Xylokastro that will certainly serve as the backdrop for many photos with your loved ones. Among them is the Kalithea Bridge, where looking at it will make you feel like the protagonist in a period drama, the Villa of Angelos Sikelianos, a living monument to 20th-century modern Greek culture, and the Ancient Roman Baths in Derveni, on a road lined with stone houses, reminiscent of Roman times.
BONUS: Rethymno
There is a category of visitors who choose the sea every season of the year and for any occasion. For those who belong to this group, Rethymno is high on the list of Christmas destinations. With a vibrancy that never fades, accommodations in Rethymno await those who want to experience Crete at its best, even during Christmas. With a series of Christmas events throughout the month, both young and old get into the Christmas spirit and share the festive mood. On your to-do list should definitely be a walk through Rethymno’s Old Town – its picturesque alleys will transport you centuries back, as well as visiting Lake Kournas and, of course, the archaeological site of Phaistos. As for Cretan cuisine, words aren’t needed – the result is guaranteed, no matter where you choose to enjoy your Christmas meal.
Pack your bags, save this article, and welcome the New Year with joy, smiles, and unique experiences!
