Greece was always one of those places on my bucket list, but when The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants pt. 2 movie came out 7 years ago (it's really been that long?!), it solidified it even more.

I was so lucky to travel there with a few girlfriends back in May and I'm already ready to go back. If you're planning a trip there soon or sometime in the future, here are my top musts & highlights (check out more visuals in my photog tab):

1. Acropolis (Athens)

Live out your history books in real life with even better visuals and sweeping views of the city. Bonus: imagine what it may have felt like living like a Greek way back when.

2. ATV (aka 4 wheelers) + beach hop (Mykonos)

Skip the taxi and ride around on your own schedule (plus score on wind in your hair & breathtaking views). With so many beaches to choose from, we opted for Platis Gialos, Paradise, and Ornos - they did not disappoint. Make sure you make it into town a few times too and check out the colorful doors, cute shops (found the shopping here better than Santorini), and endless outdoor dining options.

3. Nightlife (Mykonos)

It's Mykonos, need I say more? If you want to get a good dance in plus sip some deelish beverages (fresh fruit cocktails? yes, please!), Scarpa & Semeli did us good.

4. Watch the sunset at Fira & Oia (Santorini)

Greece, especially Oia, is known for its sunsets. I loved the view from both Fira and Oia, whether it was at a crowded hot spot, a rooftop restaurant, or a random street peeking out to the Aegean.

5. Go to a cave spa, preferably with a view (Santorini)

A spa, built into a cliff, looking like a postcard. Done.

6. Atlantis Books (Santorini)

Calling all bookworms, this place feels like a cozy cup of literary goodness. Plus those who work here are incredibly inspiring - talk about passion.

7. Caldera cruise (Santorini)

What better way to really soak in Santorini than admiring it from the water? There are also a number of beaches that you can only (easily) see/go to via boat, so this is your best bet to hit all the main spots and have an amazing time. We took a day cruise with Caldera Yachting sailing along spots like Red Beach, White Beach, and the Hot Springs. It was an intimate cruise inclusive of food, beverage, and a hospitable crew - it truly became a highlight of the trip.

8. Eat outdoors as much as possible

All you need is some wine and grub for a chance to refuel and rest your feet (most places have wifi too to plan your next steps)! A few faves:

Tepina (in Athens walking back down from the Acropolis), spots in Little Venice perfect for midday water and windmill musings or evening sunsets, Zafora (for lovely views in Fira) and endless options in Oia.

And in case you missed it, check out video highlights from our trip! Greece is such a beautiful country, and I have so much love for the people there.

Thank you Greece for your stunning country and hospitality.

The digs:

Stay

Grand Polis Hotel, Athens - nice amenities, rooftop restaurant with a view of the Acropolis, walking friendly for city explorations

Hotel Lady Anna, Mykonos - beachfront (Platis Gialos) with outdoor patio options straight to the pool, only a short ATV ride from town

Mystery hotel, Santorini - as our hotel got switched on us last minute, I don't quite remember the name of the budget friendly abode we stayed at, but the hospitality at all the hotels we encountered was phenomenal.

Transport

Athens >> Mykonos via Seajet speed ferry (definitely recommend the speed upgrade) + ATVs + (affordable) taxis >> Santorini via Seajet speed ferry (would likely opt for a quick plane ride next time) + bus (affordable, typically crowded with multiple stops) + car (convenient & easy to get around)

Photos

Canon SL1 & GoPro Hero 4

Meet Greece.