10 Places Like Greece: Best Alternative Destinations

by | Jun 2, 2023 | Africa, Destinations, Egypt, Europe, Greece, Italy, Mexico, Morocco, Portugal, South America, Spain, Thailand, Travel Bucket Lists, Turkey, worldwide

Greece has long been a favorite destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. However, if you are looking for alternative destinations that offer similar charm and allure, there are numerous places around the world that can provide a similar experience. In this blog, we will delve into ten breathtaking places like Greece that serve as enticing alternatives.

What places are similar to Greece?

  1. Croatia
  2. Turkey
  3. Spain
  4. Morocco
  5. Portugal
  6. Thailand
  7. Mexico
  8. Egypt
  9. Italy
  10. Argentina

Croatia

croatia places like greece
Copyright: Mj

Nestled along the Adriatic Sea, Croatia presents an enchanting alternative to Greece. With its idyllic coastal towns and charming islands, it offers a Mediterranean experience akin to Greece. Dubrovnik, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” boasts ancient city walls, narrow cobbled streets, and picturesque terracotta rooftops. Explore the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park, with its cascading waterfalls and vibrant turquoise lakes reminiscent of Greece’s natural wonders.

Croatia’s historic sites, like the Diocletian’s Palace in Split, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provide a glimpse into its rich heritage. For a truly Greek-like experience, head to the stunning island of Hvar, known for its crystal-clear waters, lavender fields, and vibrant nightlife. With those attractions, no wonder Croatia is dubbed to be one of the best choices for places like Greece.

Turkey

turkey places like greece
Copyright: Engin Yapici

With its vibrant mix of cultures and breathtaking landscapes, Turkey offers numerous captivating places like Greece. Istanbul, the country’s cultural and historical hub, showcases an intriguing blend of European and Asian influences. Explore iconic sites such as the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, which rival Greece’s architectural marvels.

The coastal town of Bodrum, often called the “Saint-Tropez of Turkey,” boasts pristine beaches, ancient ruins like the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Moreover, it has turquoise waters and charming island scenery that are reminiscent to Greece. These destinations offer a blend of rich history, mouth-watering cuisine, and captivating landscapes that will leave you spellbound.

Spain

spain places like greece
Copyright: Susan Flynn

Spain offers a warm Mediterranean climate, vibrant culture, and stunning coastal towns. Moreover, the Southern European country has a lot of captivating places like Greece. Barcelona, known for its unique architecture and vibrant street life, offers a bustling city experience akin to Athens. You can also explore the iconic Park Güell, designed by Antoni Gaudí, and marvel at the intricate details of Sagrada Família.

In addition to that, The Balearic Islands, including Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza, provide an island experience reminiscent of the Greek isles, with their azure waters, pristine beaches, and charming villages. Visit the historic city of Seville, where the Alcázar of Seville and the stunning Plaza de España transport you to another era. Spain’s rich history, vibrant festivals, and mouth-watering cuisine make it a remarkable alternative to Greece.

Morocco

morocco places like greece
Copyright: Heidi Kaden

If you go to Morocco, the North African country will give you its vibrant markets, magnificent palaces, and stunning landscapes. No wonder it gives you the same sense of being in places like Greece. Marrakech, known for its bustling souks and vibrant Medina, presents a captivating blend of history and culture. Explore the magnificent Bahia Palace and the iconic Jardin Majorelle, filled with exotic plants and vibrant blue buildings.

During your vacation in Morocco, you must visit Chefchaouen, the “Blue City,” reminiscent of Greek island life. It has whitewashed buildings adorned with blue accents. Moreover, to experience Morocco’s coastal charm, head to Essaouira, a picturesque port city with beautiful beaches, fortified walls, and rich history. The vibrant colors, bustling markets, and architectural wonders of Morocco offer unparalleled places like Greece.

Portugal

portugal places like greece
Copyright: Nick Karvounis

Portugal has stunning coastlines, historic cities, and a rich cultural heritage. It provides you with many enticing places like Greece. The country’s capital, Lisbon, boasts colorful neighborhoods, charming tram rides, and captivating viewpoints reminiscent of Athens. During your stay in Portugal, you must discover the historic district of Belém, with its iconic Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

In addition to that, do not forget to explore the picturesque town of Sintra, with its fairytale-like castles and lush gardens reminiscent of Greece’s enchanting landscapes. Moreover, the Algarve region, with its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming fishing villages, offers coastal places like Greece offers. Therefore, Portugal’s warm hospitality, delectable cuisine, and architectural wonders make it an excellent alternative for those seeking a Greek-like getaway.

Thailand

thailand
Copyright: Evan Krause

Far in Southeast Asia, Thailand presents a twist and an exotic alternative to Greece. With its tropical beaches, ornate temples, and vibrant street life, you will find this place similar to Greece. Bangkok, the bustling capital, offers a blend of ancient traditions and modern cityscape, much like Athens. So, this is one of the perfect places to visit if you are looking for a Greek-like experience.

Furthermore, during your stay in Thailand, you should explore the majestic Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Wat Phra Kaew, which rival Greece’s architectural marvels. Also, the island of Phuket, with its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife, provides a lot of fun places like Greece. So, you can also discover the ancient city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its magnificent temples and historic ruins. 

Mexico

mexico
Copyright: Victoria Bragg

Mexico is a country that provides you with its ancient ruins, colorful colonial towns, and pristine beaches. The city of Mexico, with its historic center and iconic landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace, showcases a rich cultural heritage, which is interesting to discover. Moreover, you can also explore the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan, with its impressive pyramids and intricate murals.

In addition to that, the coastal town of Tulum will entice you with its stunning Mayan ruins perched on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea. It also provides a mesmerizing experience. For a beach getaway reminiscent of the Greek islands, head to Cancun or Playa del Carmen. It is popular for its turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. Additionally, Mexico’s vibrant festivals, mouth-watering cuisine, and warm hospitality make it one of the best places like Greece.

Egypt

egypt places like greece
Copyright: AXP Photography

With its iconic ancient sites, Nile River cruises, and vibrant markets, Egypt presents a compelling alternative to Greece. Moreover, Cairo, the capital, offers a treasure trove of historical wonders, including the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum. You can also visit Luxor. It is often referred to as the “world’s greatest open-air museum,” showcasing captivating temples like Karnak and Luxor Temple.

For a Nile River cruise reminiscent of the Greek island-hopping experience, explore the temples of Kom Ombo, Edfu, and the Valley of the Kings. Additionally, Egypt is rich in history, unique cultural experiences, and awe-inspiring landscapes to discover and explore. So, if you want to find some places like Greece but with some twists of experience, Egypt should be on your bucket list.

Italy

italy places like greece
Copyright: Anders Jildén

Italy gives you its ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and stunning coastline to adore and enjoy. Moreover, Rome, the Eternal City, boasts iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City. Then, you should also explore the picturesque Amalfi Coast, with its cliffside villages, azure waters, and vibrant bougainvillea, reminiscent of Greece’s coastal charm.

Furthermore, The ancient city of Pompeii, frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, offers a unique archaeological experience similar to Greece’s historic sites. Then, do not forget to visit the enchanting island of Sicily, with its Greek temples in Agrigento and the charming town of Taormina, offering a taste of Greek and Italian culture. Moreover, Italy’s art, cuisine, and captivating landscapes make it an enticing alternative for those seeking places like Greece.

Argentina

argentina
Copyright: Fermin Rodriguez Penelas

Argentina offers its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage to resemble Greece. Buenos Aires, the cosmopolitan capital, blends European charm with Latin American flair, which is worth visiting. Moreover, you should also Explore the historic neighborhood of San Telmo, visit the iconic Teatro Colón, and experience the vibrant tango culture that permeates the city.

Furthermore, for a taste of Greece’s coastal allure in Argentina, head to Mar del Plata. It is a popular seaside resort town with beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious seafood. In addition to that, do not miss out on discovering the breathtaking beauty of Patagonia, with its glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and pristine lakes. Also, the colorful landscapes of the Quebrada de Humahuaca in the north and the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls in the northeast offer further exploration opportunities in this remarkable South American destination.


While Greece has always been a popular destination, there are numerous many places like Greece around the world that are worth visiting. So, whether you seek ancient ruins, picturesque islands, or vibrant city life, these ten destinations offer captivating experiences that rival those found in Greece. JoinMyTrip offers you the best solo traveling experience that you will never forget. Led by our fun TripLeaders, you will get the best time of your life.  So, if you are looking to explore beyond Greece’s borders, you should book your next trip to those destinations with JoinMyTrip today! 

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