From Macedonia and Epirus to the Peloponnese, we handpick 7 gorgeous destinations for an ultra-romantic escape. A castle, a traditional village, or perhaps a city by an idyllic lake? The choice is yours.
Atmospheric towns beside lakes, impressive castle towns still inhabited today and traditional settlements that blend perfectly with the natural landscape. From Macedonia and Epirus to the Peloponnese, there are many places in Greece that offer the ideal setting for romantic escapes in winter. Mountain, sea, city or village? Whatever your preference, we have some ideasto inspire you to plana getaway just for two.
Ioannina
Lake Pamvotida and the castle town make the city of Ioannina feel plucked from another era, offering the perfect backdrop for romance. The gentle melancholy of rain and the winter weather suit Ioannina to a tee. At this time of year, the capital of Epirus becomes even more charming and enigmatic.Here you will find yourself before Pamvotida, the lake of legends and traditions. This lake has a special magic and you will sense it as you stroll, on foot or by bicycle, along the peaceful lakeside promenade lined with towering trees. When fog falls, the scenery turns dreamlike. Wander the historic center and the imposing Castle and then hop on the little boat to visit the islet in the lake. Add in the many options for food, entertainment and excursions and you have the ideal destination for a winter romantic escape.
Kastoria
One of the most beautiful cities of Northern Greece, theKastoriahas been mirrored for centuries in the still waters of Lake Orestiada, which draws visitors like a magnet. The first thing you will want to do in Kastoria is to see its lake up close and enjoy the scenery. The small circuit of the lake is about 8 km long and is ideal on foot or by bicycle (there is also the longer one, which continues toward the villages around the lake). As you walk, you will gaze at pelicans and ducks, as well as the impressive sight of fishermen who row their «boats» standing up. Next come strolls through the picturesque neighborhoods of Doltso and Apozari, with the listed mansions of affluent Kastorians that will transport you to the past.
Pelion
Winter in Pelion is a delightful experience. Squares with enormous centuries-old plane trees, stone-paved alleys, smoking chimneys and misty forests create a dreamlike atmosphere. No matter how many times we go, we always return to Pelion’s villages for escapes that combine abundant tradition, unique routes through nature and generous local flavors. With more than 30 villages, the mountain of the Centaurs feels inexhaustible. Portaria, Makrinitsa, Vizitsa, Milies and Tsagarada are among the best-known and most traditional Pelion villages. Those seeking adventure in the snow will find it at the Agriolefkes Ski Center, where the descent unfolds in a beautiful natural landscape with views of the Aegean.
Nymfaio
Just a short time from the town of Florina, there is a small mountain village, built at 1,350 meters on the slopes of Mount Vitsi, that looks as if it were taken from a painting. Nymfaio has, not by chance, been ranked among the 10 most beautiful villages in Europe. The entrance with the arched wooden little bridge, the cobbled paths, the well-crafted stone houses and the towering beech trees that surround the village create a scene that captivates the visitor at first glance. In winter, with the white veil of snow covering everything, the landscape looks truly dreamlike.
Nafplio
Nafplio can’t be missing from such a theme. Its romantic old town - one of the loveliest in Greece - leaves no one unmoved. Neoclassical mansions, Venetian architecture, cobbled lanes and flower-decked balconies compose a scene that enchants with its beauty and history. Nafplio’s landmark, Bourtzi, the small islet-fortress at the entrance to the bay. To admire the city from above, you will need to climb the 999 steps (in reality they are a little fewer) up to Palamidi, which rises atop a huge gray rock. The most romantic will be thrilled by the walk along the Acronafplia path overlooking the waters of the Argolic Gulf.
Monemvasia
If, on the other hand, you imagine your romantic holidays in a castle straight out of a fairy tale, then Monemvasia deserves to be on your list. At the southern tip of the eastern coast of the Peloponnese, the medieval castle town with its 40 Byzantine churches and labyrinthine cobbled lanes enchants visitors at first sight. Even from afar, it is impossible not to feel awe at the sight of the enormous rock. Passing through the main gate begins your stroll through an immaculately preserved medieval settlement with cobbled lanes, old mansions and Byzantine churches that coexist harmoniously with traditional guesthouses and shops. In the Upper Town, at the edge of a cliff, 300 meters above the Myrtoan Sea, stands the Church of Agia Sofia, built in the 12th century. From here the view of Monemvasia and the sea that spreads at its «feet» is spellbinding.
Galaxidi
The stately and romantic Galaxidi is an ideal choice for getaways in every season, as it blends the sea with the mountains in perfect harmony. At a distance of three hours from Athens, after a wonderful drive among the mountain ranges of Fokida, the famed seafaring town transports you to another atmosphere and fills you with images of old Greece. The settlement, designated traditional since 1978, with its stone alleys, elegant neoclassical buildings and captains’ houses that testify to the area’s glorious maritime past, is beautiful. Take a stroll toward Hirolakas, the second harbor, where the mansions dip into the water; sit on the benches and enjoy the view of the sea.The view from Pera Panta, the pine forest opposite, is the best postcard you will take with you.
