What I Miss Most: A Greek Girl’s Must-Do List for the Dreamiest Summer Ever
As a Greek girl studying abroad, I'm constantly romanticizing my summers back home — because they are that magical. I always try to explain it to my friends in New York, but it's hard to describe how vibrant and memorable Greek summers are. Whenever someone tells me they're planning a trip to Greece, I always say: go beyond the touristy spots. If you want an authentic experience, you must see it as a local.
Greece has something for everyone — wild party scenes, quiet, relaxing beaches, fantastic food, kind people, and views that take your breath away. It just depends on what you're in the mood for. But if there's one thing you have to do in the summer...It's to visit the islands—as many as possible. Trust me — island hopping is the heart of the Greek summer experience.
I'm from Athens and feel so lucky to have grown up there. It's an incredible city, and one of the best things about it is how close it is to the islands — just two hours away from most of them. So, my plans were set every summer: hit the islands with friends, eat fantastic food, swim in crystal-clear water, and enjoy life.
So, let's start with our first stop: Mykonos. We all know it's the party island. It feels like a dream, from beautiful beaches and fantastic food to dancing all night and watching the sunrise with your friends. What more could a teenager ask for? It's the perfect mix of excitement, freedom, and unforgettable moments. You don't need more than 4–5 days there, though — trust me, after that much partying, your body (and wallet) will thank you for a break! That's when it's time to head somewhere more calm to recharge.
Let’s see the best beach/ beach clubs and lunch places to go:
● Nammos for party beach and good food
● Principote
● Spilia
● Branco mykonos
● Ornos beach
● SantAnna
● Alemagou
● Scorpios
● Kalo Livadi
● Buddha bar beach
● Kuzina
Restaurants:
● Interni
● Sea Satin
● Papaioanou
● Buddha Bar
● Zuma
● Nusret
● Beef bar
● Coya
● Negrita bar
● Souvlaki story (after the clubs)
Clubs/ Bars:
● Astra
● Void
● Moni
● Bomboniere
● Guzel
● Semeli bar
● Skandinavian bar
● Toyroom
● Thalami
Next up is Milos — one of the most relaxing and beautiful islands you can visit. It’s the perfect break after Mykonos. If you still want to go out, you definitely can, but the real magic of Milos is in its nature. What is the best way to experience it? Rent a boat and explore.
You have to visit Sarakiniko — it’s like something out of a dream, with its white moon-like rocks and crystal-clear water. It’s one of those places you’ll never
forget. Milos is about calm, stunning beaches, chill vibes, and making the most of every quiet moment.
Another place you absolutely can’t miss in Milos is Kleftiko Beach. The water there is unreal — bright turquoise and crystal clear. It’s one of the most beautiful spots on the island.
A typical day in Milos is simple but perfect. You wake up, grab breakfast at your hotel or Airbnb, and head out to pick up your boat from Odyssey A Cruises. You can choose the tour you want, and they’ll take you all around the island, stopping at hidden beaches and amazing spots like Kleftiko. You’ll eat delicious food at traditional tavernas, swim, relax, and enjoy the sun with your friends. After the boat trip, you return to your place, rest, and get ready for dinner. There are lots of great restaurants, depending on what kind of food you’re in the mood for. Then you end the night by walking around the cute town and maybe grabbing a drink. That’s what a perfect day in Milos looks like.
I could talk about the other 5,998 islands, but each has its beauty that’s hard to put into words. Greece has something special. The kind of summer that stays with you forever. So, if you’ve ever wondered what a real Greek summer looks like…now you know. When you finally make the trip, remember to skip the tourist traps, follow the local spots, and enjoy every moment. I promise it’ll be one of the best summers of your life.