The Athens Epidaurus Festival presents an extraordinary evening of classical music under the stars at one of the world’s most breathtaking venues — the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. On July 15, the celebrated Mahler Chamber Orchestra, known for its dynamic, conductor-free performances, takes the stage with internationally acclaimed pianist Yuja Wang, who also leads the ensemble as musical director for the evening.

Together, they’ll perform a powerful program featuring beloved works by Beethoven, Chopin, Stravinsky, and Tchaikovsky, blending romantic lyricism with avant-garde intensity. Wang, praised for her technical brilliance, charisma, and emotional range, is considered one of the most exciting classical artists of our time. Her presence, combined with the Mahler Chamber Orchestra’s exceptional musicality, promises a performance of rare artistic synergy.

This special night is part of the Classical Music Cycle of the festival and is a highlight of the summer season — perfect for music lovers, culture seekers, and anyone looking to experience the magic of live music in an unforgettable ancient setting.

When most people think of summer in Greece, the images are predictable: sunbathing on white-sand beaches, sipping ouzo at seaside tavernas, watching the sun melt into the sea. And while those are undeniably part of the magic, there’s another Greece waiting to be discovered.

 

This is a Greece of hidden waterfalls, sea caves, open-air cinemas, and ancient paths under starry skies. Ready to go off-script?

 

Here are 10 unique summer experiences in Greece that will transform your idea of what summer can be.

Milos is volcanic, wild, and full of hidden coves and surreal sea caves, and the best way to explore them? By kayak. Paddle through tunnels of white rock, swim in translucent water, and land on beaches that are inaccessible by road.

🛶 Best Spot: The caves around Kleftiko and Sykia on the southern coast.

2. Chase Waterfalls in Northern Evia or Pelion

 
@analytis.mp3

Greece is more than islands; it’s full of lush gorges and waterfalls. Cool off in natural rock pools shaded by plane trees, just a few hours from Athens.

Try: The waterfalls of Drymonas in Evia or Tsagarada’s Fakistra Waterfall in Pelion. Ideal for a day trip with a picnic.

3. Watch a Film Under the Stars at a Greek Open-Air Cinema


@yuksel_pecenek

It’s not just a movie; it’s a ritual. With a breeze in your hair, jasmine scent in the air, and a cold drink in hand, Greece’s θερινά σινεμά (summer cinemas) are pure nostalgia.

Where to go: Cine Thisio in Athens, with the Acropolis glowing behind the screen, or Cine Kalisperitis in Kimolos.

4. Learn Pottery in Sifnos, the Island of Clay


@mrchrissharples

Sifnos is a hub of ceramic art. Sign up for a pottery workshop with a local artist, and get your hands into the same clay that’s been shaped for centuries.

🏺 Best studios: Atsonios or Peristeriona in Kamares.

5. Spend the Night in a Treehouse in Evritania


@dimvsd

Karpenisi in summer, transforms into a green paradise, filled with rivers, forests, and cool mountain air. One of the most magical ways to experience it? Sleeping in a treehouse nestled among fir trees.

Surrounded by nature, you can swing in a hammock, wake up to birdsong, and fall asleep under the stars. It’s the kind of stay that makes you feel like a kid again, whether you're with family, your partner, or on a solo recharge.

6. Spend the Night in a Monastery on a Remote Island


@jcamatsos

If you're craving silence, introspection, or just a break from modern chaos, spend a night (or two) in a working Greek monastery. Many are open to respectful visitors in the summer months, offering basic lodging, shared meals, and early-morning liturgies.

It’s not about religion but about stillness, starlit courtyards, stone cells cooled by mountain air, and waking to the sound of chanting echoing through the hills.

 

Greece’s islands are famed for their postcard-perfect villages, those dreamy whitewashed settlements draped in bougainvillea, built amphitheatrically on cliffs or tucked into olive-covered hills. While Santorini and Mykonos often steal the spotlight, the true heart of the Aegean and Ionian seas lies in the less-hyped island villages that are just as breathtaking, more serene, and wonderfully authentic.

Here are some of the most beautiful Greek island vilages that we can’t stop dreaming about, and maybe, neither will you.

Chora – Amorgos


@annakarin6.0

Mystical and minimal, Chora of Amorgos is a Cycladic masterpiece. Tucked inland and surrounded by windmills and rugged peaks, it feels like a walk back in time. Quiet streets, hidden tavernas, and a strong local character give it depth and allure.

Why it stands out: It's untouched, has zero glitz, and is full of hidden Byzantine chapels, stone archways, and incredible authenticity.

Olympos – Karpathos


@diokaminaris

This village on the island of Karpathos is unlike anywhere else in Greece. Perched high on the mountains, Olympos feels like an open-air folklore museum, where women still wear traditional dress and the dialect is ancient.

This is where time stands still, and every stone street seems carved from history and myth. Remote, wild, and soul-stirring.

Chora - Astypalaia

This butterfly-shaped island belongs to the Dodecanese, but its Chora is pure Cycladic fairytale: white houses cascading below a Venetian castle, blue domes popping out above rooftops, and windmills watching over the main square.

Top vibe: Romantic, peaceful, and unbelievably photogenic. The view of the Kastro (castle) at night is hauntingly beautiful.

Ano Syros – Syros


@i.tsimi

While Ermoupoli is the grand neoclassical capital of the Cyclades, Ano Syros is its medieval crown. Winding uphill streets lead you past Catholic monasteries, domed churches, and arched doorways.

Bonus points: It's the birthplace of Markos Vamvakaris, father of rebetiko music, and the view over Ermoupoli’s harbor is dreamy.

Chora - Serifos 


@elena_dim_

Built amphitheatrically up a rocky hill, Chora of Serifos offers dramatic views and classic island architecture. It’s quiet, rugged, and ideal for slow travelers. Once you hike up through its wind-swept alleys, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most panoramic sunset views in the Aegean.

Vibe: A little wild, a little romantic, and totally unforgettable.

Apeiranthos – Naxos

@kidsareatrip

While Naxos’ main Chora is also stunning, Apeiranthos is a marble village that feels like a Cycladic secret. Tower houses, Venetian architecture, and artisan shops nestled in stone-paved alleys offer a refreshing alternative to the classic white-and-blue palette.

Pro tip: Stay for lunch in one of the traditional kafeneia, it’s like eating inside a time capsule.

Chora – Kythira


@Teog79

Technically closer to the Peloponnese than the Aegean, Kythira’s Chora blends Ionian elegance with Cycladic charm. Topped by a Venetian castle, it overlooks the sea and the island’s wild cliffs, dotted with Byzantine chapels and hidden coves.

Best for: Romantics, road-trippers, and fans of moody beauty.

November 2-8 - Embrace Tranquility and Adventure in Crete! Step into a retreat that beautifully balances inner peace with the thrill of discovery. Set in the picturesque village of Prines, just above Rethymno, this experience invites you to reconnect — with yourself, with nature, and with the soul of Crete.

 

Crete, Greece’s largest and most varied island, offers a landscape of contrasts: majestic mountains, secret gorges, sun-drenched beaches, and ancient paths whispering stories of gods and legends. Whether you're hiking wild trails, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or wandering through timeless villages, every moment is a celebration of life and beauty.

 

This is more than a retreat — it's an invitation to explore, recharge, and awaken your senses. From invigorating yoga sessions to immersive cultural adventures, Crete offers a journey for both body and soul.

 

 

Nestled on the island’s northern coast, Rethymno blends old-world charm with natural elegance. Meander through its historic alleyways, indulge in the rich flavors of Cretan cuisine, and unwind by golden beaches surrounded by olive groves and rolling hills. It's the perfect base for a journey into authenticity and wonder.

October 12-18 - Discover Northern Greece’s Hidden Gems with Nefeli Nine and Nomads Path

Embark on a journey through some of the most breathtaking and lesser-known landscapes of Northern Greece — a land where ancient history, vibrant culture, and awe-inspiring mountain scenery meet.

Designed for lovers of hiking and the great outdoors, this unique experience takes you deep into the heart of Vikos Aoos National Park. From seasoned hikers to curious nature enthusiasts, the trails here offer an unforgettable immersion into Greece’s wild beauty and rich heritage.

Walk along timeworn stone paths, cross the iconic bridges of Zagorochoria, ascend the storied Vradeto Steps, venture into the dramatic depths of Vikos Gorge — the world’s deepest canyon — and hike to the mythical Dragon Lake, nestled high in the Pindus mountains.

This is your chance to explore the untouched side of Greece — far from the crowds — through verdant valleys, historic trails, and awe-inspiring natural wonders.

October 5-11 - The Nefeli Nine week-long wellbeing program is thoughtfully crafted to deliver visible, lasting results — ones you can feel and sustain long after your retreat ends.

Forget crash diets, relentless crunches, or uninspiring workouts. This retreat is about balance — a holistic approach to wellness that blends movement, meaningful travel, discovery, and nourishing food.

You’ll explore some of Greece’s most breathtaking trails, suitable for all fitness levels and ages. You’ll savor abundant, organic meals inspired by slow living and the longevity principles of the Blue Zones. And each day, you’ll enjoy two beautifully tailored yoga sessions — designed specifically for you, your body, and your energy.

Uncover the hidden treasures of Pelion—secluded coastlines, charming villages, forested mountains, and secret beaches where the sea feels like a dream. Disconnect completely and soak in the serenity of this enchanting destination.

 

Your home for the retreat is a beautiful villa tucked into the green slopes of the mountain, embraced by nature. Wake up to sweeping views, savor wholesome, locally sourced meals prepared fresh each day, and recharge your mind and body in a setting alive with vibrant plant and animal life.

 

Steeped in myth, Mount Pelion takes its name from King Peleus, father of Achilles. It was said to be the land of the Centaurs—legendary creatures that were half-human, half-horse—and the beloved summer retreat of the Olympian gods themselves.

We share practices that inspire, support, and transform—always at your own pace, in your own way. Everything unfolds in a safe, warm, and nurturing environment designed for exploration and inner growth.

 

Our space is intimate and cozy. A rocking chair. A swing. Laughter. Silence. A place where you can simply come as you are—and just be.

 

At the heart of Somadhi is a growing community of curious souls—people who are open to self-discovery, who seek connection, playfulness, and authenticity. Here, we laugh, reflect, and evolve—together.

September 13-20 - Join Meditation is my Medication for 8 magical days of deep nourishment, inner balance, and total relaxation in the tranquil beauty of Kissamos, Crete.

This immersive retreat is an invitation to reset your mind and body through the healing powers of daily yoga, meditation, and conscious living. You’ll enjoy gentle, grounding yoga practices each morning and evening, breathwork, mindful walking, and moments of self-reflection to foster clarity and calm. Each day is nourished with wholesome, plant-based meals prepared from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

Let the serenity of Crete’s natural surroundings - from olive groves to turquoise beaches - hold you, while meaningful connections unfold in a safe, intimate group setting. Accommodation is nestled in nature, offering simple yet cozy shared or private rooms designed to support rest and restoration.

This retreat is ideal for anyone seeking to pause, breathe, and realign with themselves - whether you're a beginner or an experienced yoga or meditation practitioner. It’s for those craving calm, clarity, and mindful restoration, and for lovers of nature, simplicity, and soulful connection.

October 14-18 - Sink into the gentle rhythm of the Aegean on this 5‑day immersive retreat in Hydra, where the pace of life slows and the soul can breathe.

 

Inspired by the graceful qualities of water - resilient, expansive, and fluid - this experience is designed to help you soften, reconnect, and rediscover your natural flow amidst the island’s serene, car-free charm.

 

Each day unfolds with a balanced program of Vinyasa Flow and Yin Yoga, reflecting the water element’s depth and adaptability, while breathwork and meditation practices support emotional clarity and inner calm.

 

A unique aspect of this retreat is the integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, featuring auricular acupuncture and personalized acupuncture sessions with Theresa, offering gentle and grounding support for your nervous system.

 

You’ll stay at the peaceful Mandraki Beach Resort, where simplicity meets comfort just steps from the sea—an ideal setting for restoration and reconnection.