Greece is one of the best gay travel destinations, from Athens’ vibrant scene to Mykonos’ wild parties. This guide covers where to stay, the best gay tours, and everything you need to plan your trip.
Ah, Greece! The land of gods, legends, and more abs than a Pride float in Mykonos. Men so beautiful that even Seby was momentarily speechless, and trust me, that’s saying something…
The first time we landed in Athens, we barely left the airport before Seby whispered, “Greek gods are real.” By the time we reached the hotel, he’d already spotted three of them, and I was busy planning which beach we’d “accidentally” stumble upon where clothes were optional. Priorities, right?
We’ve done Greece in every way possible: culture, beaches, parties, and, of course, food. Oh, the food! If I could marry a plate of moussaka, I would. Seby, on the other hand, was too busy inhaling gyros like they were oxygen and flirting with the guy serving them (classic).
Athens welcomed us with its gritty charm and surprise rooftop cocktails, while Mykonos was… well, let’s just say the mornings were for beach recovery and the nights were for dancing like no one was watching…
But Greece isn’t just our summer fling. It’s a full-blown love affair. It has it all: sunsets so dreamy they look Photoshopped, ruins that made Seby ask, “Are we supposed to touch this?” and island vibes that made us never want to leave.
Trust us, you’ll leave with a tan, a food baby, and a million memories you probably shouldn’t share with your grandma…
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Is Greece safe for gay travelers?
Greece has made significant strides in LGBTQ+ rights. On February 16, 2024, it became the first majority-Orthodox Christian nation to legalize same-sex marriage, granting same-sex couples full marriage and adoption rights.
Anti-discrimination laws protecting sexual orientation and gender identity have been in place since 2005, and conversion therapy was officially banned in 2022. Civil unions for same-sex couples have been recognized since 2015, laying the groundwork for the full marriage equality Greece now celebrates. This progressive shift in LGBTQ rights in Greece highlights the country’s evolving commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion.
From our personal adventures, Greece has been a delightful mix of ancient wonders and modern acceptance. In Athens, we strolled hand-in-hand through the historic Plaka district, only to be upstaged by a local granny who winked and whispered, “Cute couple!”
Mykonos, with its vibrant gay scene, felt like a non-stop pride parade. However, in more traditional rural areas, we did notice a few raised eyebrows when Seby insisted on calling me “my love” in a taverna. Our tip? Enjoy the freedom, but be mindful of local customs, especially outside the main cities and tourist hotspots.
Best gay tours in Greece
If there’s one thing we love more than Greek food (and trust us, that’s saying something), it’s exploring Greece with a fabulous gay group by our side. And what better way to do that than on an epic LGBTQ+ tour?
Whether you’re cruising the Aegean with cocktails in hand, baring it all on a nude sailing trip (Seby’s idea, obviously), or diving into ancient history with fellow culture buffs, these tours are the ultimate way to experience Greece with our kind of people.
1. Out Adventures Aegean Gay Cruise: every June/July
We're beyond excited to embark on the Out Adventures Aegean Gay Cruise this summer! Picture this: sailing through the cerulean waters of the Aegean Sea, stopping at iconic islands like Mykonos and Santorini, all while being surrounded by fabulous fellow travelers.
With curated excursions, gourmet meals, and nightly entertainment, this cruise promises a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Plus, there's nothing like bonding over a sunset cocktail on deck, sharing stories, and making memories that will last a lifetime.
The 2025 sail has almost sold out, but OA are taking bookings for 2026. Use code NomadicOA to claim a $150 discount!
2. Gay Sail Nude Trip: every Aug/Sept
For those who prefer their sailing adventures with a bit more… freedom, the Gay Sail Nude Trip offers an uninhibited journey through Greece's stunning Saronic Gulf.
Departing from Athens, this 8-day cruise invites you to embrace the naturist lifestyle as you explore secluded bays, historic sites, and charming islands like Hydra and Poros. Imagine sunbathing on deck without a care in the world, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and enjoying delicious meals prepared by the onboard chef. It's the ultimate way to connect with nature and fellow travelers in a relaxed, clothing-optional setting.
Claim a 5% discount by quoting NOMADICGS5 when booking.
2. HE Travel Gay Greece Cultural Tour: every Sept/Oct
If you're a history buff like us, the HE Travel Gay Greece Cultural Tour is a dream come true. This 11-day journey delves deep into Greece's rich heritage, visiting landmarks such as the Parthenon in Athens, the ancient city of Mycenae, and the birthplace of the Olympic Games in Olympia.
Guided by knowledgeable experts, you'll gain insights into the art, philosophy, and traditions that have shaped Western civilization. And, of course, there's plenty of time to savor Greek cuisine, wander through picturesque villages, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow LGBTQ+ travelers.
Claim a 5% discount by quoting NOMADICHe5 when booking.
Where to stay in Greece?
When it comes to Greek getaways, most travelers follow a tried-and-true route: start in Athens for some ancient history and cheeky rooftop cocktails, then hop over to the islands – Mykonos for the parties, Santorini for the romance, and maybe a few others in between.
Some venture further, heading to the island of Crete for its rugged beauty (and even more delicious food), or up north to Thessaloniki, Greece’s cool, underrated second city with a surprisingly lively gay scene.
As to which hotels to book, Greece doesn’t technically have any official gay hotels, aside from Alexander Apartments in Athens. But let’s be real: in Mykonos, every hotel is basically a gay hotel, especially in the summer months!
Our tip is to look out for hotels that have the Booking.Com #TravelProud label. A few stand out examples include the Hilton Garden Inn, the Pinnacle Athens, the NYX Esperia Palace Hotel and the Coco-Mat Hotel Athens.
If you prefer something a little more personal (or want to casually “accidentally” book a stay with a hot local host), check out Misterbnb for a more tailored LGBTQ-friendly experience.
STAY WITH A GAY LOCAL
Misterb&b is the Airbnb equivalent for the LGBTQ community. Unlike on Airbnb, you know your host is gay, voiding any nasty surprises when you check-in. It is also a great way to meet gay locals and discover the underground gay scene. Click below to get 10 € (or $10) off our first booking.
Top experiences in Greece for gay travelers
If Greece were a cocktail, it’d be a spicy mix of ancient history, jaw-dropping landscapes, and just the right amount of hedonism…shaken, not stirred.
Whether you’re here to party till dawn in Mykonos, channel your inner philosopher at the Acropolis (or at least pretend to while taking selfies), or sail off into the sunset with a boat full of gays, Greece has something for every fabulous traveler. Here are the top experiences that had us gagging.
Exploring Ancient Athens: serving ruins and realness
If there’s one thing Athens knows how to do, it’s making us feel young. Nothing humbles you faster than standing next to the Acropolis, which has been serving looks since 400 BC, while we struggle to serve a look for Instagram. From the towering Temple of Zeus (built for the ultimate daddy of all daddies) to the ancient Agora where philosophers once debated, Athens is history overload – in the best way possible.
Just be warned: those marble steps are slippery, so wear sensible shoes unless you want to recreate your own Greek tragedy. Plan your trip using our detailed Athens gay travel guide.
The Pinnacle Athens – Bougie views for bougie gays
If you’re going to stay in Athens, you might as well stay somewhere that makes you feel like a Greek goddess. The Pinnacle Athens is sleek, stylish, and has rooftop views that will make you gasp. Bonus points for being close to all the major sights and having staff who won’t judge you for coming back at 4 AM.
Santorini: stunning, overpriced, and full of tourists
Santorini is THAT queen – breathtaking, dramatic, and fully aware of it. The whitewashed buildings, blue domes, and volcanic beaches are straight out of a postcard…but so are the prices! Expect peak tourist chaos in July and August, where finding a quiet spot is harder than finding a straight man in Mykonos.
That said, watching the sunset in Oia is pure magic. Yes, everyone claps when the sun sets. No, we don’t know why. But after a few glasses of local wine, you’ll be clapping too. Want to up the romance? We recommend jumping on board a luxury catamaran sunset ride for the ultimate opulence.
Esperas – Adults-only, sunsets and silence
Perched dramatically on the cliffs of Oia, Esperas delivers insane caldera views, a dreamy pool, and a much-needed escape from the tourist madness. Bonus? It’s adults only, so the only screaming you’ll hear is from (ahem!) influencers trying to get the perfect sunset shot. And probably us when we see the wine list…
Mykonos: sunscreen, speedos, and sins
If Santorini is the elegant, refined sister, Mykonos is the wild cousin who shows up late, drinks all the prosecco, and somehow still looks flawless at sunrise. The beaches here aren’t just beautiful, they’re THE place to see and be seen.
Super Paradise and Elia Beaches are where we head, with DJs, tanned bodies, and enough speedos to stock an entire swimwear store. By night, things heat up even more, with drag shows, dance floors, and questionable decisions you’ll blame on the ouzo. We rate Elia Beach as one of the best gay beaches in the world as well as one of the best gay nude beaches we’ve ever been to.
Mykonos is ridiculously expensive, but let’s be honest, you’re not here to save money. Don’t worry – our gay Mykonos travel guide has your back
Cavo Tagoo – where luxury and selfies collide
Cavo Tagoo isn’t just a hotel, it’s an experience. This place is all about sleek white interiors, infinity pools, and a crowd that looks like they just stepped off a yacht (because they probably did). It’s bougie, it’s fabulous, and it’s where you stay when you want to sip cocktails with a view.
The Peloponnese: castles, coastlines, and a whole lot of charm
The Peloponnese is like Greece’s best-kept secret: dramatic coastlines, ancient ruins, and way fewer tourists elbowing you for the perfect photo. Nafplion is hands down one of the prettiest towns we’ve been to, with pastel-colored mansions, winding streets, and a seaside promenade perfect for sunset strolls (or pretending you’re in a romantic Greek drama).
From here, you can explore Corinth, the land of ancient myths, and Monemvasia, a ridiculously romantic medieval fortress town where we basically spent the entire time swooning over the views…and each other. It’s the kind of place that makes you believe in fairy tales, or at the very least, in the power of a really good sunset. The only downside, it’s complicated to reach the Peloponnese by public transport, but on a full-day trip from Athens it’s feasible, unless you stay over and base yourself here longer.
Likinia Hotel – medieval chic with a view
If you’ve ever wanted to live inside a storybook, Likinia Hotel is your moment. Nestled in the heart of Monemvasia’s castle town, it’s got all the stone walls, wooden beams, and atmospheric charm you could dream of. Plus, actual sea views that might make you reconsider your return flight. Romance level? Off the charts!
Crete: our Greek island obsession
We’ve been to a lot of Greek islands, but Crete? She’s the full package: stunning beaches, mountains, ancient ruins, and enough delicious food to make stretchy pants a necessity.
Chania is one of the cutest port towns we’ve ever wandered through, with Venetian vibes and a waterfront perfect for lazy afternoon drinks. But the real showstoppers? Elafonissi and Balos beaches – so gorgeous they look straight-up filtered in real life. If you’re feeling adventurous (or just need to work off all the feta), Samaria Gorge is an epic trek through rugged scenery that had us questioning our life choices…but was totally worth it! We urge you to hit up our bumper gay Crete travel guide to help flesh our your holiday.
NEMA Design Hotel & Spa – beachfront bliss for grown-ups
NEMA Design Hotel & Spa is adults-only (because we like our vacations peaceful and our cocktails strong), perfectly positioned by the beach, and effortlessly chic. Think minimalist luxury, soft lighting, and a vibe that says, ‘I deserve this!’. Whether you’re floating in the pool or lounging with a glass of wine, this is Crete done right.
Thessaloniki & Mount Olympus: history, culture, and a mythic day trip
Thessaloniki feels like Athens’ cooler, more relaxed sibling, the one who doesn’t try too hard but still turns heads. It’s packed with history, from the iconic White Tower on the seafront to ancient Roman gems like the Triumphal Arch of Galerius and the 4th-century Rotunda. Plus, its UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches add a touch of drama (as if Greece needed more).
The vibe here is effortlessly cool, with a thriving food scene, trendy cafes, and a surprisingly fun LGBTQ+ scene. And if you’re feeling adventurous, Mount Olympus is just a day trip away, ‘cause who wouldn’t want to hike the legendary home of Zeus?
The Excelsior – chic, central, and perfectly plush
The Excelsior is stylish, sophisticated, and right in the heart of Thessaloniki, perfect for exploring the city by day and stumbling back after too much ouzo at night. Expect elegant rooms, impeccable service, and a breakfast that’ll make you question every hotel buffet you’ve had before.
Meteora: monasteries, marvels, and a whole lot of stairs
If Greece’s islands are all about indulgence, Meteora is here to humble you, with history, spirituality, and a leg day you didn’t sign up for. Perched dramatically atop towering rock formations, these centuries-old monasteries look like something straight out of a fantasy movie. The views? Unreal. The climb? Let’s just say monks must have had incredible cardio.
The nearest town, Kalambaka, is the perfect base: charming, peaceful, and filled with cozy tavernas serving up homemade Greek comfort food, because you will have earned it after all those stairs. Otherwise, we recommend visiting on a full-day bus trip from Thessaloniki.
Tsikeli Boutique Hotel – serenity with a side of style
Tsikeli Boutique Hotel is the kind of place that makes you exhale. It’s adults-only, effortlessly stylish, and perfectly located for those misty morning monastery views. After a day of exploring, unwind in the lush garden, sip a glass of wine, and feel smug that you picked the perfect spot to recharge.
Mount Athos: no women, no WiFi, no worldly distractions
Mount Athos is one of the most surreal places I’ve ever visited. A completely untouched, monk-run peninsula where time has basically stopped, it’s as fascinating as it is bizarre. Only men can enter (even the animals have to be male – yes, really!), and you need special permission from the Orthodox Church to visit. Otherwise, we recommend going on a tour in and around Ouranoupolis, the gateway city to Mount Athos, which everyone can visit.
For believers, it’s deeply sacred. For everyone else, it’s like stepping into another world, no tourism, no modernity, just endless monasteries perched dramatically along the cliffs. It’s raw, rugged, and jaw-droppingly beautiful, but let’s just say it’s not the place to go if you’re looking for bottomless brunch!
Akrathos Beach Hotel – the closest you’ll get without a blessing
If you don’t have the Orthodox Church on speed dial, Ouranoupolis is as close as you can get to Mount Athos. Akrathos Beach Hotel is the perfect base: seaside and stylish. It’s comfortable, convenient, and comes with stunning sea views. No vow of chastity required!
Best foods and drinks to try in Greece
If there’s one thing Greece does better than jaw-dropping sunsets and shirtless men on the beach, it’s food. Every meal here is a full-blown event: long, indulgent, and always involving more olive oil than seems humanly necessary.
We’ve eaten our way through Greece and let’s just say our waistlines will never be the same…
- Souvlaki + gyros: the kings of Greek street food. Juicy grilled meat, wrapped in fluffy pita, drowning in tzatziki. Simple, perfect, and dangerously addictive.
- Moussaka: Greece’s answer to lasagne, but with layers of eggplant, spiced meat, and a creamy béchamel topping that deserves its own fan club.
- Bougatsa: flaky pastry stuffed with sweet custard, dusted with cinnamon and sugar. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or when you ‘accidentally’ order two…
- Keftethes (meatballs): crispy, herby, and often served with tzatziki. You’ll tell yourself you’ll have just one. You’ll fail. Or try it for yourself using my own recipe for Greek keftethes.
- Pastitsio: like moussaka’s pasta-loving cousin – baked layers of tubular pasta, rich meat sauce, and a thick béchamel top. This is my pastitsio recipe I make for Seby as our comfort food back home.
- Greek fava dip: a creamy, rich yellow split pea dip, proving that hummus isn’t the only legume-based spread worth obsessing over.
- Retsina wine: white wine with a strong pine flavor that’s divisive. I love it. But Seby thinks it tastes like drinking a Christmas tree…
- Ouzo: the national drink of bad decisions. A strong, anise-flavored liquor that somehow tastes better when you’re already tipsy.
- Galaktoboureko: syrupy, custard-filled pastry with layers of crispy phyllo. Basically, baklava’s softer, creamier cousin…and yes, you need it!
- Dolmathakia (stuffed vine leaves): little parcels of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat, wrapped in vine leaves. Small but mighty in flavor. Check out my mum’s recipe for traditional Greek dolmathakia.
Practical safety tips and advice for gay travelers to Greece
Planning your Greek getaway? Fabulous choice! To ensure your trip is as smooth as that Santorini wine, here are some practical tips from our adventures:
Public Displays of Affection
In bustling hubs like Athens and Mykonos, you'll find a welcoming vibe, where holding hands or sharing a quick kiss won't raise eyebrows. However, Greece is a tapestry of traditions, and in more rural or conservative areas, it's wise to be discreet. As one friendly hotel owner in a quaint Cretan village advised us: “It's better for your safety if you keep that for the privacy of your hotel room”!
How to Get to Greece
Most international travelers will touch down in Athens, Greece's main entry point. Direct flights from major global cities make arriving here a breeze. For island hoppers, many islands like Crete and Mykonos boast their own airports, offering direct flights, especially during peak seasons.
Getting Around Greece
Athens boasts an extensive Metro system that's both efficient and user-friendly. Thessaloniki rolled out its brand-new Metro in November 2024. The overland trains in Greece cover much of the mainland, connecting major cities and towns. When island-bound, ferries from Piraeus (Athens' main port) or Patras in the Peloponnese are your go-to. Taxis are plentiful, but a word to the wise: always insist on the meter or be prepared to haggle, as some drivers have a penchant for “tourist rates”! Uber operates in Greece, primarily in Athens.
No More Taxi Stress
Taxis can be unpredictable: overcharging, refusing meters, or just plain disappearing. That’s why we always use Welcome Pickups for reliable, pre-booked rides with friendly drivers. No haggling, no surprises—just a smooth, stress-free start to your trip, wherever you’re headed.
Visa Requirements
Greece is part of the Schengen Agreement, allowing visa-free entry for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period for citizens of many countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and EU nations. Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date. Always check the latest visa requirements before your trip, as regulations can change.
Best Time to Visit
Greece basks in sunshine most of the year, but timing can enhance your experience. Late spring (May) and early fall (September to October) offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and vibrant local life. These shoulder seasons are ideal for both beach lounging and cultural explorations.
Money Matters
The currency here is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in urban areas. However, in smaller villages or when indulging in street food, it's handy to carry some cash. ATMs are readily available but be mindful of potential fees.
Language
Greek is the official language, but English is commonly spoken, especially in tourist areas. The locals are warm and hospitable; a friendly “Yassas” (hello) or “Efharisto” (thank you) can go a long way in enhancing your interactions.
Travel Insurance
Before embarking on your Greek odyssey, consider securing comprehensive travel insurance that covers health, belongings, and any unexpected changes to your itinerary. It's always better to be safe than sorry.
Travel, Twerk, and Chill!
Don’t be that queen who skips travel insurance. ‘Cause nothing ruins a trip faster than tears, tantrums, and tragic bills…
Stay covered, stay fabulous, and keep your vacation free, fun, and frivolous!
Read more travel adventures like this in our book!
We've published our very own gay travel book called, ‘Out in the World'. It has all our practical safety tips, first-hand advice, and travel stories from some of our favorite destinations.
We hope it inspires you to have a fun and safe trip!
Click on the book to order:
For more inspiration:
- Check out our guide to the best gay beaches in Europe
- As well as the best gay nude cruises for letting it all hang out
- And if you're traveling solo, these are the best gay cruises for singles
- For more beach and city fun, here's our gay guide to Barcelona
- As well as a complete guide to Barcelona's best gay beaches!