Whether it is the ancient history of the place, the rich cultural heritage, and the charm of the island streets, Greece offers you everything in one package. The mosaic of out-of-world Greece attractions will leave you wanting more. Before you leave the country post-vacation, you will start making plans for the next trip to Greece.  

Though there are umpteenth destinations to be explored in Greece, a ready reckoner always helps. Mentioned below is a comprehensive list of the best things to do in Greece and unique places to visit in Greece.

Climb the Mount Olympus 

Anyone who has read Greek mythology or literature will surely know about Mount Olympus. Along with being the tallest mountain of Greece, it is also the abode of 12 Olympian Gods including Zeus and Hades. It is believed that this is the place where Zeus sat on his throne.  At Dion in the foothills of the mountain, a large sanctuary is built for worshipping Zeus.  The mountain is extremely rocky and has various trekking trails, ranging from 22 to 100 kilometers. If you have a penchant for rock climbing, then do explore the Xerolaki Ridge under expert guidance. There are small waterfalls on the way too. Litochoro Beach is the destination from where this trekking commences and ends.  

Address: Olympus, 40200, Greece | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/aL8emz5Uwh3nNurZA  

Acropolis  

You can identify Acropolis easily as it dominates the Athens skyline with pride. While touring Greece, you just cannot miss this ancient destination in any way. At this site, you can see the famous statue of Athena, who is considered the goddess of Athens. The whole complex is made from glittering marble and presents a spectacular site to visitors. Regarded as the jewel of Athenian civilization, Acropolis has a magnificent architectural design – check the Propylaia, the Beule Gate, the Erechteion, or the Parthenon. The magnificence is sure to leave you spellbound. The Doric columns, the pathways, and the temples should be explored minutely to get to the real beauty of the place.  

By Carole Raddato, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link

Address: Athens 10558, Greece | Timing: Sunday to Monday: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/acropolis-bnb?share | Phone Number: +302103214172 

Watch the Beautiful Sunset in Santorini 

Santorini is one of the most famous wedding and honeymoon destinations in the world. Santorini is set in the Cycladic Island, which is crescent-shaped and offers spectacular views of the rocky caldera and the Aegean Sea. There are two beautiful towns on the top of the island from where extremely picturesque views can be enjoyed. Special mention needs to be made of the sunset across the bay. Choose a proper location and you can experience the most stunning sunset ever in Santorini with your partner. An experience, you are sure to treasure for a lifetime. Santorini itself looks like a place from the picture-postcard – it is that pretty! 

Google Map Location:  https://goo.gl/maps/Q5oGdU32N8ouTmzY9  

Athens 

The capital city, Athens is one of the most popular Greece tourist spots. Exploring the city will take some time as there are innumerable attractions that the place offers to almost all kinds of travelers and tourists. Counted among the oldest and ancient cities of the world, Athens is loved by Greek mythology enthusiasts and history lovers alike. You can visit the various museums, gardens, stadiums, and squares in the city to know about the place well. There are dedicated places for shopping in Athens too, where you can pick up knick-knacks, gifts, and souvenirs for your loved ones. To explore the place to a good extent, you have to spend minimum two-three days.  

By Tilemahos Efthimiadis, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link

Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/uquhEFf6bCX8FoKm9 

Samaria Gorge 

When you are looking for some adventure things to do in Greece, make sure that you visit Samaria Gorge. Located on Crete Island, this gorge will be simply loved by anyone who loves nature. The gorge runs for a span of 16 kilometers even though some parts are just four meters wide. You can hike or trek Samaria Gorge as suitable trails are made. Many people are seen to walk the entire gorge and the time taken for that is almost seven to eight hours.  Samaria Gorge is considered to be Europe’s second-largest canyon rich in Cretan vegetation. The best time to visit is October when the entire landscape is covered with vibrant wildflowers.  

By Jimzoun, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/cDeJUfGoExAbfCsF7  

Delphi

Among the most frequented Greece tourist spots, Delphi tops the list. In ancient Greece, this place was regarded as the center of the world and hence it is regarded as one of the most pivotal places to explore in Greece. It is from this location that the Oracle of Delphi (also called Pythia) was given, and Apollo’s directives got transmitted from gods to humans. Greek history has been shaped by Pythia’s prophecies for more than six centuries.

Royal, as well as general people, came to the place to seek answers to their questions. Many people now come here to pay their homage to Apollo, who is considered the Greek God of Light, healing, and prophecy.  Delphi has been accredited as UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once you reach the place on Mount Parnassus, you will be stunned by the natural beauty with views of the sea and the valley. Explore the Temple of Apollo along with the stadium and the theater where the Pythic Games were hosted. You can also visit the Delphi Museum if you want to know more about the place.  

By tamara semina, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address:  Delphi, 33054, Greece | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/9hVRzMiA55xNtauDA  

Epidaurus

In your must-visit destination list in Greece, Epidaurus must feature in the top 5 spots. The place is one of the two main archaeological sites of the Argolid and Peloponnese region. Currently, Epidaurus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The main attraction of the place is the Epidaurus Theater, which is a ceremonial space dedicated to Asclepius, the God of Medicine.

This ancient theater was constructed in the 4^th century BC and had the capacity of accommodating almost 14,000 people. Even today, you will find that theater is used for antique Greek play representations. Seating is in the stone tiers for watching a theater show. Don’t forget to explore Epidaurus Theatre with its ‘Tholos’ – a circular building, a small archeological museum, and a stadium.  

By Olecorre, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/KFUhi9nCbUnyr5pMA  

Acropolis Museum 

Acropolis Museum is one of the most famous museums in Athens that you cannot afford to miss. A modern attraction, this place was opened to the public in 2009. Steel and cutting-edge glass have been used in the making of the building. Various kinds of artworks and artifacts belonging to Greece are kept in the museum. Among the signature pieces of the museum are the Parthenon marbles and Moschophoros. This is a man’s statue who is carrying a calf on his shoulders. If you feel tired and want to relax, visit the café in the museum and go to the terrace for sure. The scene across the Acropolis is truly breathtaking.   

By Tilemahos Efthimiadis, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link

Address: Dionysiou Areopagitou 15, Athina, 11742, Greece | Timing: Tuesday to Thursday & Saturday, Sunday: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm; Monday: 08:00 am to 04:00 pm, Friday: 08:00 am to 10:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/acropolismuseumGR?share | Phone Number: +302109000900 

Melissani Cave

Located in close proximity to Karavomilo is Melissani Cave. This cave has a unique beauty and is frequented by innumerable travelers from all over the world. Spanning over four kilometers, this cave was formed by the erosion of soft rocks by water over centuries. Inside the cave, you can see the famous Melissani Lake. How this underground water body was formed is still a mystery. Long ago, this cave was dedicated to Nymph Melissani and hence its name. There is a tunnel through which you can go inside the cave and then into the lake. Enjoy boating on the turquoise waters of the lake. A magnificent view which you will never forget! 

By Matt Sims, CC BY 2.0, Link

Address: Melissani Cave, 28080, Greece | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/RuEcdCaU1HLYHeav5

Monasteries of Meteora 

Accredited as UNESCO World Heritage Site, Meteora is famous for its monasteries. You will be amazed to find that each of these monasteries is located on top of very tall rock formations. Monks in the monasteries belong to the Eastern Orthodox system and they sought shelter in Meteora after the Turkish army invasion. You can explore six monasteries in Meteora via stairs carved out of rocks. There is a road that connects the monasteries. On reaching the top, you can enjoy the spectacular view of the landscape. The monolithic pillars and the ancient boulders on which the monasteries rest are magnificent. The place is no doubt beautiful but has a haunting effect too.  

By justphotos, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: Kalabaka 42200, Greece | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Kd7qaqdirtYEQKQN9 

Peloponnese  

Located west of Athens, the Greek capital, the Peloponnese peninsula is an area that abounds in innumerable archeological vestiges and historical sites. The landscape of the place is such that many civilizations have grown and settled there over the centuries. There are many small regions in the Peloponnese peninsula, which are major places of attraction. Some of the most famous destinations in the area include the likes of Nafplio, Mani peninsula, Corinth Canal, Vouraikos Canyon, Epidaurus, Nemea Wine Road, Mystras, Mycenae, etc. All these destinations are individually very popular and attract large numbers of local and international tourists.  

Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/byc6xYYPyDLrYwcK9  

Hephaestus Temple 

The Hephaestus temple is located in the Thissio neighborhood of Athens. There are different temples in Greece, which are dedicated to different gods and goddesses. This temple is dedicated to Hephaestus, the God of Fire, and Athena, the goddess of ancient crafts and pottery. The temple is very old dating back to 450 BC. Sitting on top of Agoreao Koronos Hill, the Hephaestus temple is really beautiful. The architect who worked on the Pantheon designed this temple. The Parian and Pentelic marble decorations and the pretty columns make the temple look grand and magnificent. Various kinds of sculptures and friezes can be seen on the temple walls. This is a historically important place in Greece.  

By I, Sailko, CC BY 2.5, Link

Address: Athens 10555, Greece | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Y7ZtvaPwvw14iYgJ9 

Visit Knossos: Oldest City in Europe 

The oldest city of Europe – Knossos is a paradise for people who love archaeological and historical sites. It was approximately 5,000 years back that this southeastern Mediterranean region was dominated by the Minoan Civilization. Needless to say, the innumerable ancient historical treasures can be explored here. First excavations started in Knossos in 1878 and an idea was obtained of the lifestyle in the ancient kingdoms which prevailed there. However, later tsunami and volcanic eruptions destroyed the place completely. From the ruins of the palace of King Minos, it was understood how technologically advanced those people were in that age.  

By Jebulon, CC0, Link

Address: Heraklion, Crete, Greece | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/nnWzCUVAT8kFPejD7  

Enjoy the Nightlife at Thessaloniki  

Thessaloniki is the second-largest city in Greece. Most people consider this place as a gateway stop at the monasteries of Mount Athos and Halkidiki. However, there is much more to Thessaloniki. It is a city with vibrant nightlife and multicultural history. It is also a place of cinema as the city hosts The International Film Festival and Documentary Film Festival every November and March respectively. Various kinds of parties keep taking place in the city. You can visit the Archeological Museum in the place or enjoy an eastern-spiced meal in the Old Town. Food is an important part of the cultural ethos of any place and a visit to Thessaloniki is incomplete without tasting its famous Soutzoukakia, meatballs in tomato sauce.  

By I, Ωριγένης, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

 Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/QzFqYfgbmnQHoHXJ7 

Folegandros 

Folegandros, Greece is the place for low-key elegance. This is an extremely pretty town in the country and is an exemplary Cycladic Island. The place is small and extremely rocky with almost 20 kilometers of beautiful scenic pathways. These paths are seen to wind through the city of Chora before it advances to Xristos, Stavros, Agkali, and Fira. Once you land here, you will find the entire look and feel of the island quite similar to Santorini. However, the place is still untouched by hordes of tourists. Take a stroll on the slate-paved streets and soak into the view beyond the blue church domes and white cubic houses.  

By Pel thal, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Google Map Location:  https://goo.gl/maps/H59wTi2bzXRpCbuRA  

Chora 

Greece offers something for all kinds of travelers. People who want to explore a bit traditional part of the country will find Chora to be their ideal destination. Chora is a typical Cycladic village in the country. The small white churches, the beautiful houses with balconies and colorful doors and windows, bunches of bougainvillea hanging from the balconies – all present a picture-perfect sight. The main street in Chora is called Matogianni or Matoyanni. This road has many restaurants, bars, boutiques, and upscale stores and shops along the way that you can indulge in. Make some time to just stroll in the lanes and bylanes of the place to soak into the wondrous sights and sounds of the place. 

By Zde, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: Chora, Ios, 84001 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/DbPUUg8HQE6Pau376  

Mycenae

Have you read Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey? If yes, you have read about Mycenae in that. The place is currently UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the biggest Greece attractions, Mycenae is considered the home of Agamemnon, who was the legendary Trojan War hero. Homer wrote that Mycenae was built by Perseus, son of Zeus and Danae.

The place belonged to the Royal House of Atreus. The exact history remains unknown, but facts state that the place was established in the 6^th century BC. When you go to Mycenae, don’t forget to see the Lion Gate and the cemetery of the royals along with the Great Court and Agamemnon Palace. In the smaller houses, you will find ancient artifacts like Warrior Vase. On visiting the Mycenae Archeological Museum, you will be able to know more about this period in Greek history.  

By Andy Hay, CC BY 2.0, Link

Address: Mykines, 21200, Greece | Timing: Sunday to Monday: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/NDcJxtpkHEz4aquy9 | Phone Number: +302751076585 

Monemvasia 

If you want to go back to the ancient medieval ages, visit Monemvasia in Peloponnese. This is a fortified city with an unusual position. The city is established on a huge rock and a small road connects the city to the mainland. The rock-island fortress has a single entrance and once you enter the place, you will be taken into a new world altogether. The place is very cozy and comfortable but the old ruins, narrow alleyways, innumerable shops, restored buildings, etc. make the place highly dramatic. From the central square, a good view of the sea and the beaches are obtained. From the top of the fortress, you will have a splendid view of the city, the sea, and the cliffs. You must also visit the Kastania cave.  

By Alexander Manusevich, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/LySHgZCTi5Z9oSAJA  

Visit the Beautiful Beaches of Tinos 

The calm and beautiful beaches of Tinos will mesmerize you. Most of them are located to the south of the island, where the weather is good and ample amenities and facilities are readily available. There are beaches on the north side too, but they are secluded. Big waves and high winds can be felt strongly on the northern side. These sands have gained popularity with wave surfers. Some of the most famous beaches located to the south of the island include Agios Markos Kionia Beach, Agios Sostis Beach, Agios Ioannis Porto Beach, Panormos Beach, Agios Romanos Beach, etc. The majority of these areas are family-friendly with resorts or hotels nearby.  

By Stepanps, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Google Map Location: https://www.google.com/maps/search/beaches+of+tinos+greece/@37.5944627,25.0007422,11z/data=!3m1!4b1?hl=en  

Rhodes 

On visiting Rhodes, there are two things which you must explore. First is the small and lovely Lindos village and second is the old town of Rhodes. The wooden valleys and the long sandy beaches make Rhodes an ideal vacation destination. When you visit the old medieval town, you will see many nameless streets which are maze-like. The cobbled streets, the traffic-free paths, and the restored buildings impact a unique charm to the place. Fortified walls and a moat protect the place. Some special attractions of the place include the Knights of St. John Hospital, Street of Knights, and Palace of the Grandmaster. You can indulge in souvenir shopping and fine dining in the place. You can also explore the Rhodes Jewish Museum, which is attached to Old Town’s ancient synagogue.  

By Ввласенко, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Sr6fUDF9EgAAjGrh7  

Mystras 

When it comes to Greece attractions, you simply cannot miss Mystras. Located on the slopes of Taygetus Mountain, Mystras is one of the most frequented archeological sites in Peloponnese. There was a time when Mystras was the capital of the Byzantine Empire. It was marked as a prominent cultural city too. The history of the area is dramatic and today the place is practically in ruins. Restoration work is being done at this UNESCO World Heritage Site to bring back its ancient beauty. Along with admiring the Kastro (castle) and fortress, you can check out the various monasteries and churches which make the ambiance of the place nice.  

By Ronny Siegel, CC BY 3.0, Link

Address: Mystras 23100 Greece | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/QjP7J3NHVuf9xJuT7 

Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil 

Are you experiencing an overdose of visiting museums, temples, and ruins during your Greece trip? If yes, visiting this Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil will freshen you up for sure. This museum is located in Patras in Othonos Amalias. On visiting the museum, you will come to know about the origin of olive oil and how this oil became one with the life of Greek people. There are various galleries in the museum, where you can understand how olive oil was used in perfume and for fuel. Also, there are many old oil presses, which still run-on olive oil in Greece.  

By Dr Peter Tzeferis, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: Othonos Amalias 129, Sparti, 23100, Greece | Timing: Wednesday to Monday: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/wpr5uik65DnW8DYUA | Phone Number: +30 2731089315 

Halkidiki 

Halkidiki is a popular region in Greece, well-known for its jutting peninsulas. Along with Mediterranean forests, the place has extensive sandy beaches too. If you are looking for the most developed peninsula, it is Kassandra. It is the westernmost peninsula and has innumerable modern resorts, restaurants, hotels, and nightclubs. There are private marinas, casinos, spas, golf and tennis courts, luxury shops, etc. at the place. The two other peninsulas are Mount Athos Peninsula, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Sithonia Peninsula. Archeological sites in the place also need prominence. Some of the notable sites include Olynthus, Stageira, the birthplace of Aristotle, etc.

By Sprint28, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/v7VtLw2KtH6pNSNk7  

Corfu 

Corfu is a place to relax, rejuvenate and enjoy the best things of life. The beauty and splendor of Corfu were first explored by Ulysses and then the pattern continued in the form of Byzantines, Venetians, and even the British. The mild and fantastic climate, the lush green vegetation on the slopes, and the protected coves – everything made Corfu a coveted destination for travelers and tourists.

Millions of tourists come to this Greek city annually to explore the attractions that the place offers. Don’t forget to visit the Achilleion Summer Palace, the Old Town and the islet of Pontikonisi. The beaches of Corfu are just paradise. Enjoy swimming and diving at Canal d’Amour Beach. Don’t miss the aqua green underwater caves or the lunar rock formations.  

By Marc Ryckaert, CC BY 3.0, Link

Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/AQyPmLyKb7GT9wdq6 

With this detailed and comprehensive list of things to do in Greece, you can make a travel plan to this amazing country right away. Believe it or not, most of the travelers and tourists who have visited Greece plan to re-visit the country and they cannot but get more of it. Plan a fantastic trip with your friends or host your wedding and honeymoon in Greece. You will make memories and gather experiences for a lifetime with this trip for sure! 

One of the most fascinating things about the Greek language is its ancient roots. The Greeks have spoken a unique language for over 3,000 years! As we all know, alphabets were used in Ancient Greece, and they were also taken as part of the cultural heritage by many countries that the Greeks colonized. Fortunately, being influenced by other languages does not change one’s roots; it only makes them stronger. 

The dialect of Greece is a very poetic one. It has got a soothing sound that leads to easy learning and can be effortlessly memorized. Unlike other languages, Greek makes the use of visual images in the meaning of its words. So apart from their actual meanings, certain characteristics like colors, sounds, and reasons make them unique.

Charmolipi/Joy and Sorrow 

Meaning: Etymologically, the Greek expression Charmolipi refers to the word “joy and sorrow”.  

Use: It is more practical to say that Chrematoli can be written as an expansion of Chara (joy), Molos (sorrow). Charmolipi is untranslatable and yet wonderful and filled with meaning. Made up of two Greek terms — one for joy and one for sorrow — charmolipi encapsulates in itself the entirety of what life means. After all, isn’t it a striking medley of joy and sorrow? 

Elpida/Hope 

Meaning: This beautiful word has an equally wonderful meaning. Elpida, originating from the word ‘Elpis’, means hope.  

Use: In Greek mythology, Elpis was considered to be the spirit and embodiment of hope and was often represented by a young woman carrying a cornucopia. 

Ygeia/Health 

Meaning: Ygeia or ee-yee-ya means health in ancient Greek.  

Use: This world finds its origin in the name of the goddess Hygeia, the Greek goddess of good health. Did you know that the word hygiene is also derived from it! Ygeia is also a part of the Greek greeting Yia Sou that is a wish for good health – isn’t it the sweetest thing ever? 

By Dornicke., CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Philoxenia/Hospitality 

Meaning: Synonymous to the English term hospitality, Philoxenia’s literal translation means ‘friends with a stranger’.  

Use: In Greece, it runs much deeper than that. It translates into a culture of courtesy and generosity to strangers and guests. This word finds its origin in the name of the Greek god Zeus Xenious – who was also considered to be the guardian of travelers. 

Kalon/Beautiful 

Meaning: Kalon in Greek means beautiful.  

Use: However, it refers to the beauty that is not just skin deep. It is used to describe someone who is not only wonderful on the outside, but also holds noble intentions and an honorable character. The word for beautiful in Greek is itself wonderful, isn’t it? 

Meraki/Soul 

Meaning: Meraki means soul.  

Use: It is a passion, an absolute devotion. When you do something with Meraki, you are putting your soul into it. Surprisingly, this widely used modern Greek term finds its origin in the Turkish term Merak that literally translates to ‘labor of love’. 

Yia Sou/Hello 

Meaning: Yia is short for iyia ‘iji:a’ which means health. 

Use: Yia Sou, pronounced as ‘ja: su’, is one of the most widely used informal Greek greetings and quite possibly the most popular ancient Greek phrase across the world. Effectively, every time you wish someone Yia Sou, you wish them good health! To greet elders or strangers, you can use Yia Sas ‘ja: sas’ instead. 

By Surajyuvraj, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Eudaimonia/Happiness 

Meaning: Also spelled as eudaemonia, this term denotes a content state of being happy, healthy, and prosperous.  

Use: Simply put, it means the state in which a human truly flourishes. We have Aristotle to thank for this term – a single term that so effortlessly explains something so vast and deeply meaningful. 

By Camdiluv , CC BY-SA 2.0, Link

Paracosm/Imaginary world 

Meaning: Paracosm comes from two ancient Greek words – para, meaning beside, and kosmos, meaning universe.  

Use: Together, these two expressions form paracosm, which means a detailed imaginary world, especially the ones that are woven by children. It is so fascinating that Greek has a separate word for this wonderful thing that kids do! 

Agapi/Love 

Meaning: Agapi or a-ga-pee is one of the many beautiful Greek words for love.  

Use: What sets agapi apart is that it is the purest form of love – a love that parents and their children share, a love that brings two partners together, a love that binds humans to their gods. 

By Usbkabel, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Yia Mas/Cheers 

Meaning: Yia Mas is the ancient Greek equivalent of ‘cheers’, a standard toast made by the Greeks before drinking from a glass of alcohol.  

Use: Similar to Yia Sou, Yia Mas ‘ja: mas’ also is a wish for great health. However, it is about one’s own health this time. If you are a party person, you’d thoroughly enjoy Athen’s nightlife and go bar hopping – and probably hear and say Yia Mas multiple times over! 

Nostalgia/Affection for Past 

Meaning: A combination of nostos, meaning homecoming, and algos, meaning a dull ache, a longing. 

Use: Together, they make nostalgia, which means a deep longing or a wistful affection for the times bygone – especially about something that had in the past but do not own anymore. 

Petrichor/Earthy Smell 

Meaning: The smell of the earth as the first drop of rains touches it.  

Use: Close your eyes and imagine it has just started to rain. As the first drops of rain touch the dry ground, an earthy smell overcomes your senses – sounds familiar? This wonderful earthy aroma is called petrichor and it is made up of the Greek word for stone, petra, and the blood of mythological Greek gods, īchōr. 

Philokalist/Lover of Beauty 

Meaning: Philokalist is a Greek term that is used to describe a person who manages to see beauty in everything.  

Use: A philokalist is essentially a lover of beauty, someone who appreciates the beauty of small things – something that makes life worthwhile. 

Efharisto/Thank You 

Meaning: Efharisto is the Greek word for ‘thank you’.  

Use: If you are traveling to Greece, and you had to learn just one word, let it be this. This will open up new conversations with the locals and let them know that you are enjoying all the philoxenia that the Greeks are showering you with! 

Agathokakological/ Good and Evil 

Meaning: This quirky-sounding Greek word comes from agathos, meaning good, and kakos, meaning bad.  

Use: Well, you guessed it right! Agathokakological is used to denote something or someone made up of both good and evil. Somewhat like human nature, which is made up of both good and evil. 

Ataraxia/Calmness 

Meaning: The literary translation of ataraxia is a state of serene calmness. But the literal translation of the Greek word ataraxia is impassiveness. 

Use: It is used to express an ultimate state of freedom, where the mind is free from the shackles of emotional disturbances like stress and anxiety – oh, the dream! 

Parakalo/You’re Welcome 

Meaning: The reply to efharisto, parakalo is the modern Greek equivalent of ‘you’re welcome’.  

Use: But that is not all! The Greeks love to attach several meanings to a single term. So parakalo, along with the meaning welcome, also means please. Between efharisto and parakalo, you can now say thank you, welcome, and please – the holy trinity of a polite tourist! 

Empyrean/Heaven 

Meaning: Empyrean finds its origin in the modern Greek word empyros, which means in or on fire.  

Use: In ancient Greek cosmologies, the highest place in heaven was called Empyrean – and it was occupied by fire. Therefore, quite simply, Empyrean means heaven! The term itself invokes a cosmic feeling, doesn’t it? 

Kairos/Right Moment 

Meaning: The fleeting right moment – at the right time and at the right place, which creates the perfect atmosphere for everything to effortlessly fall into place, is Kairos.  

Use: While the English term serendipity is a lucky development, Kairos is taking advantage of serendipity. Isn’t it mesmerizing how everything is connected! 

By dronepicr, CC BY 2.0, Link

The Greek language, also called Hellenic, is an independent branch of the Indo-European family of languages and traces its origin to the southern part of the Balkan region. Spanning more than 3,000 years, its history of being documented is the longest among any other Indo-European languages. The alphabet was first standardized in the 8th century BC and reached its most complete form in the 5th century BC. 

It is a rich language with words acquired from other languages and from coinages. Every word has a story to tell, and often, the etymology of most words will surprise you. It may even be that you never knew the meaning of certain common words such as démos (δήμος) or trópos (τρόπος). 

One of the coolest things about learning Greek is stumbling upon awesome words and meanings you have never encountered before or even heard of. Yup, there are a lot of classical and philosophical words that people simply do not know of because it is not the easiest to learn — even for great minds like Plato and Aristotle.