Greece vs. Italy – Which is Better to Travel To?

Italy and Greece are two of Europe’s most captivating destinations, each offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Having spent a cumulative two months traveling through Italy and three weeks exploring Greece, I’ve had the pleasure of delving deep into what makes each country unique.

Here’s a detailed comparison based on my personal adventures, highlighting the best things to do, luxury hotels, safety, and tips for solo travelers and couples alike if you’re trying to choose between Italy and Greece:

Greece vs. Italy First Impressions

Italy: Timeless Elegance

I’ve been to Italy six times, and there are few places in the world that are as friendly, or that love food quite as much as the Italians do. The sense of taking time to enjoy the finer things of life is infectious.

Italy has a timeless elegance from the bustling streets of Rome to the rustic beauty of the Dolomites and the rolling hills of Tuscany – every corner of Italy feels like a scene from a classic movie.

The country’s rich cultural heritage and passion for art, food, and fashion are evident everywhere, and there’s so much diversity in terms of coastal areas, historic cities, and the incredible Alpine region.

READ: 18 things I wish I knew before visiting Italy

Greece: Ancient and Serene

Greece, on the other hand, is a country I’ve visited twice and is also a friendly place that loves a good meal. It welcomed me with its serene beauty and ancient wonders. The sight of white-washed buildings against the backdrop of the azure Aegean Sea was mesmerizing.

If you’re looking for a straight beach holiday, it’s hard to beat Greece.

Things to Do

Italy: A Cultural Feast

Italy is a treasure trove of cultural and historical landmarks. Here are some of my favorite places:

1. Praiano: You’ve probably heard of Amalfi and Sorrento, but tucked between the two is a quieter stretch of beach and town and it’s still one of my favorite Italian memories. Walk the Path of the Gods for sure!
2. Bologna: This is a foodie’s paradise. I love Bologna so much I went back on my way to the Dolomites, and the food is always on point. The surrounding area of Modena, Vignola, and Parma have some of the best local food from small family producers.
3. Dolomites: Driving through the Dolomites scenic countryside, with its rolling hills and mountain peaks, was like stepping into a painting. I’ve been three times and adore the lakes and hikes.
4. Florence: I know Florence gets a bad rap for being so busy all the time, and trust me it’s been that way since I started going in 2007, but it’s still one of my favorites for all of the art history. You don’t have to wander too far away from the main drag to get away from the throngs of people, too.

Here’s a list of some of the best unique things in Italy, and guides to Venice and Milan.

Greece: Ancient Wonders and Island Bliss

Greece offers a mix of ancient history and stunning natural beauty, and it’s hard to beat its beaches and islands.

1. Santorini: The island’s iconic sunsets and blue-domed churches were a highlight of my trip, offering picture-perfect moments at every turn. A close second for my favorite island is Crete with Elafonisi Beach.
2. Meteora: This area is so unlike the rest of Greece with its dramatic mountains adorned with monasteries. It’s honestly a must-do!
3. Delphi: Visiting the ancient sanctuary of Delphi, once considered the center of the world by the Greeks, was a fascinating journey into the past.
4. Lefkada: This is one of the larger islands with baby blue water and some of the best food I had in Greece. It was just a little crazy to drive around!
5. Sailing: One of my favorite things was renting a boat and a skipper and sailing with friends for a week. When split between 8 of us, it wasn’t too expensive! Check out some Greece sailing options here, how to rent a boat in Greece here, and some of my favorite things to do in Greece here.

Keep in mind, Europe in the summer can be really busy, and Greece and Italy are no exception. Italy has a strong year round tourism, though, while many Greek islands sort of turn off after September.

Where to Stay

Part of how much I love a place always has to do with where I lay my head. Here are some of the loveliest places to stay:

Italy: Opulence and Comfort

1. Belmond Hotel Caruso, Amalfi Coast: Perched on a cliff overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, this hotel offers stunning views, elegant rooms, and exceptional service.
2. Hotel Lungarno, Florence: Located along the banks of the Arno River, this hotel offers stunning views of the Ponte Vecchio. The interior is stylish and elegant, with a collection of art that adds to the sophisticated ambiance.
3. Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como: This historic hotel offers luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views of Lake Como. It features a beautiful spa, several swimming pools, and exquisite dining options.
4. Hotel Splendido, Portofino: Perched on a hillside overlooking Portofino harbor, this hotel offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean. The property combines historical charm with modern amenities and exceptional service.
5. Hotel Danieli, Venice: Located near St. Mark’s Square, this legendary hotel offers opulent rooms and suites decorated with antique furnishings. The rooftop terrace provides stunning views of the Venetian Lagoon.

Greece: Elegant Escapes

1. Canaves Oia Suites, Santorini: Offering breathtaking views of the caldera, this hotel combines luxury with the island’s traditional architecture.
2. Katikies Hotel, Santorini: This stunning boutique hotel in Oia features whitewashed architecture and breathtaking views of the caldera. The luxurious suites, infinity pools, and exceptional service make for an unforgettable stay.
3. Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Crete: Located on the coast of Elounda, this resort offers luxurious bungalows and suites with private pools. The spa and multiple dining options provide a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence.
4. Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection, Santorini: This boutique hotel in Imerovigli offers stunning sunset views and luxurious accommodations. The infinity pool and personalized service make it a top choice for a serene escape.
5. The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, Costa Navarino: Situated in the Peloponnese region, this resort offers elegant rooms and suites with sea views. The property includes a golf course, spa, and a variety of dining options, making it a comprehensive luxury experience.

Any and all of these would make fabulous honeymoon stays.

Safety of Italy vs. Greece

Italy: Safe but Stay Aware

Italy felt generally safe, but like any popular tourist destination, it has its share of petty crime, particularly in crowded areas and public transport. In cities like Rome and Naples, it’s important to stay vigilant against pickpockets. As a solo female traveler, I found it essential to stay aware of my surroundings, especially at night.

Stick to licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps, especially late at night, and consider using a purse that has locking zippers like a PacSafe.

Greece: Generally Safe and Welcoming

Greece also felt very safe, with a welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals. The islands, in particular, had a laid-back vibe, making it easy to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Athens, being a larger city, required a bit more caution, especially in less touristy areas at night.

Culinary Adventures

Italy: A Gourmet Paradise

Italy is renowned for its culinary delights, so if you go there and have bad meals, you’re doing something wrong! Generally I stay away from the main tourist areas. Even one or two streets away can have great food. These are some lovely dishes to try:

1. Pizza Margherita: You can’t visit Italy and skip pizza! Originating from Naples, this classic pizza features a simple yet delicious combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, salt, and olive oil. The pizza is baked in a wood-fired oven, giving it a unique and authentic flavor.
2. Risotto alla Milanese: This creamy rice dish from Milan is made with Arborio rice, saffron, onions, white wine, butter, and Parmesan cheese. The saffron gives the risotto its distinctive yellow color and rich, aromatic flavor.
3. Tiramisu: A beloved Italian dessert, tiramisu is made from layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, eggs, sugar, and cocoa powder. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a delightful end to any meal.

Greece: Fresh and Flavorful

Greek cuisine is all about fresh ingredients and bold flavors. While it might seem impossible to compete with “Eat”aly, don’t sleep on Greek cuisine! At the right restaurant it can be equally amazing. Be sure to try:

1. Moussaka: This iconic Greek dish is a layered casserole made with eggplant, ground lamb or beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and béchamel sauce. The layers are baked until golden and bubbly, creating a rich and comforting dish.
2. Saganaki: This is a fried block of feta cheese, AKA heaven. Usually served with lemon, we got this as a group every night during our sailing trip. We couldn’t stop!
3. Baklava: A classic Greek dessert, baklava is made from layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup. The combination of crispy layers and sweet, nutty filling makes it an irresistible treat.

Cultural Differences

There’s a saying, “una faccia, una razza” meaning “one face, one race” used in Greece and Italy when describing each other. The cultures have similarities when it comes to family, community, love of food, and love of their cultures, and both are welcoming.

Italy: Passionate and Expressive

Italians are known for their passion and expressiveness. The culture is deeply rooted in family, food, and art. Learning a few basic Italian phrases goes a long way, as Italians appreciate the effort, and they appreciate even more when you enjoy their food.

I’ve been invited for impromptu meals by locals in Vietnam, South Africa, and China, but the longest were two five hour meals (different hosts) in Italy. For one, I couldn’t communicate at all, but the hosts still invited me to come back and stay. Don’t expect a lot of English to be spoken, but so much can be communicated by context and gestures that I never struggle abroad with communication.

Greece: Warm and Hospitable

Greeks are famously warm and hospitable, often going out of their way to make visitors feel welcome. The culture is steeped in history and mythology, with a strong emphasis on family and community. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, making it easy to communicate and navigate.

Greece vs. Italy – My Pick

Both Italy and Greece are incredible destinations with their own unique charms and challenges, but there’s a reason why I can’t stay away from Italy.

The mountains, charming towns, wonderful food, amazing people, and the variance of all that you can do there have me hooked. There’s the romantic charm of Tuscany, the iconic Amalfi coast, and I am going back to the Dolomites for a fourth time this coming fall. Especially the parts I haven’t seen yet – Lake Como, Sardinia, and Sicily all have me intrigued.

That’s not to say that Greece is a bad choice. It’s an excellent choice if you’re short on time and want to island hop and enjoy a sunny holiday. You’ll honestly have a wonderful time. But if you want to have a lot of variety from mountains to quaint towns and stunning coastline, Italy is my pick!