When I think of summer vacations in Europe, two places come to mind: Greece and Italy. Italy and Greece are two of the most incredible destinations in the Mediterranean offering visitors a summer escape by the coast. This post will guide you as you determine Greece vs. Italy and allow you to see a clear winner for your tastes.
Italy and Greece both have many similar draws: gorgeous coastlines, incredible cuisine, immense history, and world class accommodations. So, how could you possibly choose where to spend your hard earned vacation or once in a lifetime honeymoon? Well, they have many differences too from their cuisine to transportations to geography.
I’m walking you through a complete guide to answer the question, should I go to Italy or Greece first? While these places have much in common, there are several key differences that can help you decide what would offer you the best trip.
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Important considerations to determine Greece vs Italy
First, there are some major factors to consider before making a decision to visit Greece or Italy. You will want to think about what this trip means to you and what your budget will be. Next, determine the time of year you can travel and if you are hoping to visit a coastal area, mountain lake, big city, or countryside location.
Budget and Type of Trip
First, let’s discuss budget and what this trip is for you. How big is your budget? Is it a first of many future trips to Europe, once in a lifetime honeymoon, babymoon, or annual family vacation? Is this the only time you’ll ever go to Europe? Either way, you have a lot to think about.
In the Greek Isles, there are plenty of accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to nice guest houses. There are also plenty of islands to pick from that can meet your budget needs. For example, we stayed in a luxury property that we adored (with plunge pool overlooking the Aegean) and was about $500/ night. In the Amalfi Coast, that same hotel would have easily been $3000/night.
In Italy, it really depends which part of the country you are visiting. I’m guessing you might be interested in the Amalfi Coast in comparison to Greece for a summer vacation. If so, it’s quite expensive as it is one of the top travel destinations in the world. You can find a rental home which is more affordable, but still quite pricey for the quality you get. In my experience, it was quite a splurge from food, transportation, and accommodation.
The verdict: Greece is better on your budget. This doesn’t mean it’s cheap, but there are more options to have a really nice trip without spending a fortune. I’m not saying you can’t do Italy on a budget, but rather in comparison to Greece, I think your dollar (or Euro) will go further.
Time of Year and Location
When do you plan to visit? Summer is peak season for both Italy and Greece which means the price and crowds increase. In Greece, you can visit the Greek Isles from about April-October and still enjoy warm weather. In Italy’s coastline (like Amalfi, Capri, Sicily) or lakes region (Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, etc), the season for warm weather is a bit shorter. We know climate can vary from one year to the next, but usually April and October are much cooler in Italy than Greece which is further south.
If going in winter, Italy has lots of good options still like skiing in the Dolomites!
The Verdict: this is location dependent. Greece is more of a summer destination while Italy can be better enjoyed year round in different regions.
Greece Features and Overview
Wondering what Greece is like? When traveling to Greece, there are several things you’ll want to plan to see and do. The Greek Isles are probably what you have in mind and for good reason. Your gateway to the islands will be through the capital city of Athens filled with rich history and iconic sites like the Acropolis. Here is a little of what you can expect throughout Greece:
- Greek islands
- Beach hopping
- Dreamy Sunsets
- Cliff jumping
- Fresh seafood
- Ancient Greece / Acropolis
- White washed cliff side
- Northern Greece mountain range with hiking and waterfalls
- Beachside hotels
- Exciting nightlife
- Pottery classes
- Historic sites
- Wine tasting
- Sandy beaches
Personally, I have found that Greece is a very relaxing destination. Sure, Santorini and Mykonos are quite touristy, but there are hundreds of islands so it’s easy to find something a little more relaxed and authentic in Greece.
Italy Features and Overview
And on the other hand, you have Italy. There are many incredible places to see throughout this boot shaped country. From the grandeur of Lake Como, to the rolling hills of Tuscany, to the charm of Venice, to the eternal city of Rome, down to southern Italy’s renowned Amalfi Coast; Italy clearly has it all. If you’re comparing to Greece, we’re probably considering a coastal vacay in Italy to Cinque Terre, Sardinia, or the Amalfi Coast. Here’s what you can expect in Italy:
- Dramatic cliff side coastline
- Endless pizza and pasta
- Michelin starred restaurants
- Historic sites like the Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Pompeii.
- Beach clubs
- Sailing the Amalfi Coast
- Hikes (path of the gods in Amalfi)
- Pasta making classes
- Wine tastings in Tuscany
- Boat rides on Lake Como
- Stunning architecture
- Ultra Luxury Accommodations
- Quaint towns and big cities
- Gondola rides in Venice
- Shopping in Milan
- History in Florence
Italy vs Greece: Comparing Key Similarities and Differences
Let’s do a lightning round style comparing the similarities and difference between Italy and Greece! I will share my thoughts on a winner for each category, but ultimately the choice is yours. Your preference may differ, but hopefully this helps you decide between the two.
Which is Best for History Lovers: Italy or Greece?
One of my favorite college courses was Western Civilizations. I was always so fascinated by Ancient Rome. The aqueducts, the Colosseum, the Trevi fountain and the incredible Roman Forum are simply amazing to see in person. Plus, you also have Vatican City. The ancient Romans were so advanced and these iconic structures remain intact to see. I have to say Italy is best for history buffs. Athens was wonderful and I loved the Acropolis and various temples and museums. It’s absolutely a place you must go for the history.
The Verdict: When comparing Greece and Italy, I have to say that Italy wins for history. I consulted my husband (he began his college career majoring in history) and he also voted for Italy in this category.
Best Shopping: Italy or Greece?
Ever heard of a little thing called Milan Fashion Week? Italy is known for its sophisticated style and high end shopping especially in cities like Milan or Rome. Throughout the country you’ll find Italian made products of the highest quality. You can have sandals made just for you, shop for beautiful art, and take home some designer clothing at better prices.
In Greece, you’ll find one of the largest pedestrian streets in Europe called Ermou Street. It’s a great place to shop from international retailers. You’ll also find local makers throughout Greece, like one of my beloved favorites – Sifnos Stoneware making unique pottery (plates, bowls, vases, etc.). I actually bought all of our kitchen plates and bowls from them when I visited!
The Verdict: If you are planning to shop, Italy is the hands down winner for best shopping compared to Greece. The variety of retailers and quality of craftsmanship make it a haven for those that love to shop!
Best Beaches: Greece or Italy?
The beaches in Greece are endless! They are known to have more sandy beaches which is best for families compared to the rocky coastline of Italy. In addition, there are some super unique beaches like Sarakiniko in Milos which looks like the moon and Tsigrado that can only be accessed by a ladder!
I didn’t realize until I went to Italy that the beaches in Amalfi would be rocky. Italy has plenty of beach clubs that are built into the cliffs which is really cool, but that’s not exactly a beach.
The verdict: Greece 100 percent has better beaches than Italy. If you are taking young kids or prefer a sandy spot, you might enjoy Greece more.
Best Resorts and Hotels: Italy or Greece?
Italy is known for its world class accommodations. On the Amalfi Coast, you’ll find amazing 5 star luxury hotels like Borgo Santandrea, Hotel Santa Caterina and Belmond Ravello. In Lake Como, you have Passalacqua which was voted the best hotel in the world by Condé Nast readers. Plus the swanky Il Sereno and Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como. In Tuscany you’ve got breathtaking villas set against the rolling hills and vineyards – Borgo Santo Pietro, Castello di Casole A Belmond Hotel, and Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco.
Greece has gorgeous resorts too especially on the mainland like Amanzoe, One&Only Aesthesis, and Four Season Astir Place on the Athenian Riviera. However, they aren’t in the islands. The Greek isles also have some hotels with breathtaking views like Grace Hotel Santorini, Verina Astra Sifnos and Cavo Tagoo in Mykonos.
The Verdict: I think Italy wins for their true luxury hotels and villas with unmatched service. You really can’t go wrong in either country. Although, you’ll pay more for it in Italy.
Best Nightlife: Italy or Greece?
Greece is a great place to enjoy the nightlife if you are looking for a party. Mykonos is known as the party island where you can enjoy a beachside day party that turns into a late night club scene. It can be pretty wild. My best friends went to Mykonos for the honeymoon and had an absolute blast with so many crazy stories to tell! You’ll also find some good nightlife in Athens too where you’ll likely have to spend a night before or after hitting the islands.
The Verdict: If you are looking for a vibrant nightlife for this vacation, head to Greece and specifically Mykonos to dance the night away.
Who has better food? Greece or Italy?
A tough one! Who wins for the best food? I’m a huge foodie and a big part of travel for me is seeking out amazing places to eat! However, This really comes down to personal preference. But let’s talk about what you can expect in each.
Greece is of course known for its cuisine and the famous Mediterranean diet. Many people think Greece is all feta and gyros, but you would be sadly mistaken. Think fresh fish and line dried octopus, locally grown produce, crisp Greek salads, and actual Greek yogurt (it’s not what they sell in stores). Two of my favorite restaurants in the world are in Sifnos, Greece – Omega-3 and Mailolica.
In Italy, you’ve got homemade pastas, the best pizzas in the world, GELATO, and on the coast, plenty of fresh seafood dishes like fish, shrimp, and clams. Italy has TONS of Michelin starred restaurants, but also amazing family cafes like our favorite Da Ciccio’s in Amalfi.
The Verdict: food is very much a personal decision so I can’t say what’s better for you. Personally, I’m a big foodie and loved the food in Greece more especially the islands for their fresh seafood. Sifnos is known as the foodie island and it was all so fresh and creative! It was also a bit lighter compared to all the carbs in Italy. But you truly won’t find a better pasta or pizza than in Italia! I did ask my husband (he’s the real foodie in this relationship) what he would pick and he said: “If I could only have one for the rest of my life, I would probably pick Greece because I would live longer. Everything was so fresh in the Greek Islands.”
Which is best for families: Greece or Italy?
Is Greece or Italy better for families? I’m of the opinion that you can take your kids and babies anywhere. This question really depends on what you want to do and how old the children will be.
Italy is a very family friendly culture in general. The Italians love kids and babies. It was evident when I traveled pregnant and random strangers took interest in my unborn child. They even gave me priority in lines and airport security. I was most impressed when they would immediately offer to cook anything that might be raw on a menu!
The Greek Islands are wonderful for anyone, but it makes a great spot with younger kids who might be playing on the sandy beaches often and allows them to splash in shallow waters. Italy would be fantastic if your kids are a bit older and can walk around Rome to see the sites and better maneuver a rocky beach. Or if your kids are grown, they would probably love a family trip to Lake Como, Tuscany, and Florence. And maybe even Milan and Venice!
Both countries are easy to get around with ferries in Greece and the train system throughout Italy.
The Verdict: Greece for young kids and Italy for older children! I’m taking my baby on her first Euro trip to the Greek Isles, personally. We considered Lake Como, but since she will be 11 months old, I think she will be able to enjoy Greece more.
Best transportation and getting around?
Italy has a great train system throughout the country making it easy to explore the country as a tourist. There are several international airports as well including Rome, Milan and Naples. If you are going to the Amalfi Coast or even Lake Como, there’s a bit of a drive from the closest major airport. You’ll either need to train or hire a driver. Once you get to the final destination, it can still be tough to move around as the drivers in Italy are crazy like they say! I personally would not THINK about driving (and parking) on the Amalfi Coast. The roads are small and winding and large tour buses navigate them! You would likely need to hire a taxi to explore all of the towns and it’s more spread out than you realize. Driving in the vintage cars down the coast is not as glamorous as it looks in photos.
Greece has one main airport in Athens which is really all you need to reach the Cyclades. From Athens, you can either take a ferry or fly to certain islands like Santorini or Milos. The high speed ferries are definitely the way to go allowing you to be on island time in 2 hours. Once you reach the islands, transportation is pretty simple. You can rent a car or ATV to hop around the island fairly easy. They also have taxi drivers if you prefer not to drive.
The Verdict: Once you reach your destination via ferry or flight, Greece is easier to get around and explore at your own pace. While Italy has a more sophisticated public transport system, you still need a driver to get around the Amalfi Coast or the Lakes unless you are up for driving with the Italians!
Which has less tourists?
Italy and Greece are both major tourist destinations in Europe especially during the summer. In Greece, it is easier to escape the crowds. There are hundreds of Greek Islands so if you are looking for something off the beaten path, skip Santorini and head to lesser known islands like Folegandros, Rhodes, Sifnos, or Antiparos.
Italy is just so popular that it is always crowded throughout the year. Places like Venice and Rome never slow down as people come from all over the world to visit these cities. If you are looking for less popular spots try the Aeolian Islands in the South or Lake Garda and Lake Maggiore in the North.
The Verdict: Both countries are popular tourist destinations, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find authentic experiences. I would pick Greece if looking for a less touristy and less crowded option. You can’t go to Italy and skip some of the iconic spots like Rome, so you’ll have to deal with the crowds. In Greece, you can slip into Athens quickly to see the Acropolis then head to a smaller island to relax.
Can you do both Greece and Italy?
Have I convinced you that you need to visit both places? Trying to visit both Greece and Italy in one trip depends on how long you have. I typically would not recommend that you try to do both countries unless you have at least two full weeks. There is simply so much to see and do. There are a lot of logistics involved to reach the Greek isles (flights, ferries, a stopover in Athens, etc) and you don’t want to spend too much time relocating. And the same goes for Italy as you will likely want to do Rome and the coast or Tuscany and Lake Como which are all very spread out around the country. Picking one place for a 7-10 day trip will really allow you to relax, experience the destination, and immerse yourself in the culture of that particular country.
Greece and Italy Itineraries
Here are my detailed itineraries for Greece and Italy. These are directly from my personal trips that I’ve planned and paid for myself. Use these to inspire your next trip to the Mediterranean!
Italy and Greece Map
Lastly, use this map to see how close Italy and Greece are and which regions to visit.
What questions do you have about Italy or Greece? I’d love to help share what I experienced to help you plan! Comment below, DM me on IG, or use the contact form to reach my inbox.
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