The great Greek outdoors
How many National Parks are in Greece?
What is a national park?
A national park is a large natural area that is protected by national governments because of its wildlife, natural environment, native plants, and ecosystem.
In almost every country around the world, there are National Parks where visitors may enjoy informative and experiential activities.
In the National Parks worldwide are taking place important scientific researches and various actions for environmental conservation purposes.
Greece`s National Parks
Here is an updated list with the 24 National Parks of Greece, spread across the country.
Enjoy reading!
1. The National Marine Park of Alonissos
The largest European marine park in Europe!
The first marine park established in Greece is the National Marine Park of Alonissos in the Northern Sporades and is the largest European marine park, occupying an area of about 2,260 square meters!
The National Marine Park of Alonissos includes in total 29 islands;
Seven inhabited islands and 22 uninhabited islets.
The inhabited islands are Alonissos, Peristera, Kyra Panagia, Psathoura, Piperi, Skantzoura, and Gioura.
The rich wildlife of the islands provides the proper environment for the reproduction of the monk seal (monachus-monachus), where the largest existing population is living.
Dolphins, sea turtles, whales, 80 species of birds, over 300 species of fish, are living in the National Marine Park of Alonissos, and a remarkable number of plants shape this area dating back to the prehistoric era.
The National Marine Park of Alonissos is a member of the Network of Marine Protected Areas in the Mediterranean, MedPAN.
An ideal destination for swim lovers, snorkelers, scuba divers, and sailors.
More information you can read here.
2. The National Marine Park of Zakynthos (N.M.P.Z.)
The largest reproductive populations of the Caretta caretta turtle in the Mediterranean!
The National Marine Park of Zakynthos aims to protect animal and plants species, like the Loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta and the monk seal Monachus monachus, the rich migrant avifauna, the endemic flora, a huge number of migratory birds, reptiles and amphibians, and mammals such as wild rabbits and dolphins of the species Tursiops Truncatus.
The "rainforests" of the Mediterranean
In the National Marine Park of Zakynthos ecosystems of the Posidonia seagrass, known as the “rainforests” of the Mediterranean grow, allowing the high productivity for a large number of invertebrate species and fish.
You can explore the coastal protected area by foot through the walking routes, or discover the underwater routes by snorkeling.
More information you can find here.
3. The Schinias National Park, in Marathon
An ancient ecosystem in Attica!
The Schinias National Park is located just 40 kilometers east of Athens and is the biggest wetland of the Attika Peninsula!
The Schinias National Park is an important coastal ecosystem of 13.84 km2 and a wonderful spot near Athens for swimming, water sports, hiking, and birdwatching.
Schinias wetland is known since ancient times and in 2003 the Schinias National Park was designed.
In this Natura 2.000 bird species are building nests, one of Greece’s largest pine forests is spread along the seashore, and the sea zone and its warm bathing waters attract locals and tourists to enjoy the beauty of swimming.
There is a hiking circular trail (5.7 km) through the Schinias pine forest that leads to the Observatory in 2 hours.
More information you may read here.
4. The Messolonghi - Aetoliko Lagoon National Park
Lagoon of Messolonghi - Aetoliko: The largest lagoon of Greece!
Where the Gulf of Patras meets the Ionian Sea and Evinos meets Acheloos river, the Messolonghi – Aetoliko Lagoon National Park is hosting a large number of birds, fish, reptiles, mammals, and amphibian species.
The lagoon of Messolonghi – Aetoliko is one of the richest wetlands in Europe, where more than 280 bird species are finding shelter, 28 species of reptiles, 15 mammals species, and 32 out of the 38 European species of birds of prey, also known as raptors, are to be found in this area.
Diverse fishes species exist in the Messolonghi – Aetoliko Lagoon National Park, such as the Aristotle’s Catfish (Silurus Aristotelis), the Tseroukla (Scardinius acarnanicus), and the Drosinis (Leuciscus svallize).
The most characteristic fish species of the lagoon are the Goby (Gobius gobius) and the European Seabass (Dicentrarhus labrax).
Visit the lagoon of Messolonghi – Aetoliko and grab the chance to spot the otter, the wild boar, the roe deer, freshwater turtles, 11 species of lizards, and the Greek Stream Frog.
More information you can read here.
5. The Northern Pindos National Park
The largest terrestrial National Park in Greece!
The Northern Pindos National Park is the largest terrestrial National Park in Greece.
The Northern Pindos National Park located in northwestern Greece is one of the most important protected in Greece and worldwide.
The mountain range of Pindos, three mountain lakes, valleys, forests, rivers, and a variety of wildlife and flora are living, growing, and reproducing within the park’s bounderies.
The National Forests of Pindos (Valia Kalda) and Vikos-Aoos are part of the Nothern Pindos National Park, which is the largest terrestrial National Park in Greece with an area of 2.000 km2!
The unique environmental and ecological values of this area have been recognized on an international level, as eleven areas of the National Park are part of the European Network of Protected areas NATURA 2000.
The high peaks of Smolikas, the second-highest mountain in Greece (2.637m), of Tymfi (2.497m), and Vasilitsa (2.249m), form an incredible scenery that you must visit!
More information you may read here.
6. The Lake Volvi and Koronia National Park
A National Park, two lakes, and a lakeside forest!
The Lake Volvi and Koronia National Park is located 39 kilometers from Thessaloniki in Central Macedonia, Northern Greece.
This 1.1 miles protected area hosts a great wealth of rare species, such as predators, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians as well as protected species of plants.
The Lake Volvi and Koronia National Park is an important area for birds, as the valuable ecosystem offers them shelter.
The lakeside forest of Apollonia hosts rare predators, gray herons, and white storks, which you can admire while forest bathing in this fairytale-ish scenery.
Are you into birdwatching?
More information about the bird spoecies spotted in the Lake Volvi and Koronia National Park you can read here.
7. The Vikos-Aoos UNESCO Global Geopark
A geopark that formed 20 million years ago!
The Vikos-Aoos UNESCO Global Geopark is located in the region of Epirus, in northwestern Greece.
It occupies the northwestern part of the Pindus Mountain Range and is characterized by rocky slopes and a breathtaking landscape.
The Geopark includes Aoos, Voidomatis, and Sarantaporos rivers, the 2nd highest mountain in Greece, Mt. Tymfi (2,497 m asl), Mt. Smolikas (2,637 m asl), and the two spectacular gorges of Vikos and Aoos.
The Vikos – Aoos UNESCO Global Geopark is made of deep-sea sedimentary rocks that, 20 million years ago, were folded and faulted by the powerful compressive movements that prevailed in the Greek area.
Oak, beech, bosnian pine forests, aquatic, and alpine meadows ecosystems are spread over Vikos-Aoos Geopark, along with wild fauna species.
1.700 plant species, 250 species of vertebrates, and almost all the large mammal species such as the bear (Ursus arctos), the wolf (Canis lupus), the wildcat (Felis sylvestris) of the Greek mainland occur here.
8. The Dadia-Lefkimi-Soufli Forest National Park
Where the only breeding population of Black Vultures in the Balkans live & reproduce!
The Dadia-Lefkimi-Soufli Forest National Park is one of the most important protected areas on a national, and international level.
The pine and oak forests create the ideal surroundings for the only breeding population of Black Vultures in the Balkans to find shelter in this area.
The Dadia-Lefkimi-Soufli Forest National Park hosts the Griffon Vulture and the Egyptian Vulture, which are the three out of the four Vulture species of Europe.
The orange, the yellow, the blue, and the red-so-called trails will introduce you to the Dadia-Lefkimi-Soufli Forest National Park, all beginning from the Park`s Information Centre and vary in difficulty, duration, and places of interest.
9. The Kerkini Lake National Park
Where flamingos & pelicans happily co-exist
Kerkini Lake National Park is situated in Central Macedonia, in Nothern Greece, and about 100 km from the co-capital of Greece, Thessaloniki.
Lake Kerkini and the man-made wetland shape the outstanding landscape of the Kerkini Lake National Park where a great number of flamingos & pelicans are living in the lake`s calm waters.
This idyllic scenery expands on a surface of thousands of hectares, surrounded by mountainous areas of Belles mountain range and Mount. Krousia.
Are you ready to enjoy lake hikes in Kerkini Lake National Park? Find more information here.
10. Evros Delta National Park
The wetland at the northernmost edge of Greece!
The Evros Delta National Park is a protected area in Thrace, at the northernmost regional unit of Greece.
The Evros Delta is an important wetland with rich wildlife and a shelter for a great variety of bird and animal species.
The Evros Delta National Park is the ultimate destination for bird watching, as there are 316 bird species recorded in this area, including migratory birds.
The white pelican, the glossy ibis, the spoonbill, the Dalmatian pelican, the little gull, the black tern, and the slender-billed curlew, which is one of the rarest bird species on earth, are living in Evros Delta National Park.
Are you ready to explore it?
More information about the The Evros Delta National Park you may read here.
11. The Amvrakikos Wetlands National Park
The Amvrakikos Gulf & 450 species of the Hellenic avifauna!
The Amvrakikos Wetlands National Park is one of the biggest wetlands in Greece and is located at the Amvrakikos gulf, in northwestern Greece.
The Amvrakikos Gulf is protected by the Ramsar Convention.
The Amvrakikos Wetlands National Park area of coastal wetlands & forested hills, shelters 290 different species of birds, dolphins & turtles, and 450 species of the Hellenic avifauna.
The Amvrakikos Gulf Information Center is located in the village of Strongyli and the Tsopeli & the Tsoukalio lagoon are in close distance.
More information about the Amvrakikos Wetlands National Park you can find here.
12. The National Park of East Macedonia-Thrace
A small ark in animal diversity
The National Park of East Macedonia-Thrace is a wetland complex in north-eastern Greece.
It extends to about 930,000 acres and includes the areas of the Nestos Delta and lakes Vistonida and Ismarida.
The biological, aesthetic, scientific, and geomorphological value of the Park is of high value and its landscape is formed with marshes, riverside forests, and sand dunes.
In this spectacular ecosystem are co-existing more than 6,000 flamingos, Dalmatian pelicans, wolves, jackals, foxes, brown bears, weasels, wildcats, wild boars, and about 1,400 different species of plants!
Volunteer activities, public presentations, and other environmental awareness events are taking place all year round in the National Park of Eastern Macedonia-Thrace.
Interested in participating? Check for more information here!
13. The National Park of Tzoumerka
Arachthos Gorge & Acheloos Valley
The National Park of Tzoumerka, Arachthos Gorge & Acheloos Valley aims to preserve and protect the natural and cultural heritage and the wildlife of an open land area of 820 km2, in western Greece.
A great variety of rare plants and animal species found in the National Park of Tzoumerka includes Mount Lakmos and the Athamanika Mountains (or Tzoumerka), with the highest peak Kakarditsa (2,429m).
The National Park of Tzoumerka, Arachthos Gorge & Acheloos Valley stretches across Ioannina, Arta, and Trikala Prefectures, where the central part of the Pindos mountain range is.
The National Park includes the Arachthos River gorge and the springs of the Acheloos River (Aspropotamos) where protected species of mammals such as the otter, the brown bear, the wild goat are finding shelter.
About 145 bird species, rare butterfly species, hundreds of invertebrates, fish, amphibians, and reptiles have been recorded within the borders of the National Park of Tzoumerka, Arachthos Gorge & Acheloos Valley.
Sounds amazing, isn`t it?
Learn more here!
14. The Strofylia-Kotychi National Park
The biggest pine forest in Greece!
The Strofylia-Kotychi National Park is a 22 km protected area in Western Greece between the Gulf of Patras and Kyllini, including the Strofilia Forest and the lagoon of Kotychi.
The Strofilia forest is the biggest pine forest in Greece!
Its rich flora and fauna ecosystem shapes a rare biotope and the ultimate location for connecting with nature and forest bathing.
The Strofylia-Kotychi National Park and its marine ecosystems, host 261 bird species.
The Kotychi lagoon and the Kalogria beach offer amazing sea views, aquatic experiences, and restful moments under the shade of oak trees, surrounded by wildflowers.
Are you ready to explore The Strofylia-Kotychi National Park?
Check for more information here!
15. The Axios-Loudias-Aliakmonas Delta National Park
Where the largest populations of the Mediterranean tortoise in all of Europe to live in
The Axios-Loudias-Aliakmonas Delta National Park is located in Central Macedonia and is a valuable and productive ecosystem.
The Axios-Loudias-Aliakmonas Delta National Park includes the Lagoon of Kalochori, the Gallikos and Loudias river, the delta of the Axios river, the delta of the Aliakmon river, the wetland of Nea Agathoupoli, and the Alyki Kitrous wetlands.
The Loudias river flows through the regional units of Pella and Thessaloniki draining into the Thermaic Gulf through the Axios Delta National Park.
This protected area is an ideal biotope for wild animals, about 300 bird species, and the largest populations of Mediterranean tortoise in all of Europe to live in!
Ready to explore the Axios-Loudias-Aliakmonas Delta National Park?
Check for more information here!
16. The Prespa National Park
Where the Prespes lakes meet!
The Prespa National Park is located on the northwestern edge of Greece.
The Prespa National Park is an ecosystem of global importance, as a large number of rare animal & plant species appear only in Prespa and nowhere else in the world!
A great example is the largest colony of Dalmatian pelicans in the world, numbering more than 1200 pairs, that are hosted in the Prespa National Park!
The Mediterranean and continental climate are harmoniously combined in this protected area and since 5 million years ago provides the ideal ecosystem to the Prespes lakes, and the surrounding flora and fauna.
Alpine meadows, beech, oak, and lakeside forests, junipers, rich flora, and threatened fauna species surround the Prespes lakes, the small, Mikri Prespa, and the big, Megali Prespa.
17. The Rodopi Mountain Range National Park (RMNP)
The largest forest ecosystems in Greece!
The Rodopi Mountain Range National Park is located in the northeastern part of Greece.
Its natural boundary is the Mount. Falakro and the riverbank of river Nestos.
The Rodopi Mountain Range National Park stretches in an area of more than 170,000 km2, including the largest forest ecosystems in Greece!
Nestos River flows through the National Park, leads to Nestos gorge, and, further south, to its large delta.
No doubt why this protected area is one of the most important in Europe, as 60% of the European mountain species can be found in the Rodopi Mountain Range National Park area!
A botanical paradise of flora species variety with remote forests and diverse biotopes (Alpine and subalpine), the Rodopi Mountain Range National Park hosts 1,200 species and subspecies of plants, and important wildlife species such as boars, bears, wolves, foxes, and deer.
More information about the Rodopi Mountain Range National Park you may find here!
18. The Helmos-Vouraikos UNESCO Global Geopark
An underground lake & a variety of geological phenomena!
The National Park of Helmos-Vouraikos is located in North Peloponnesos and aims to protect, conserve, and manage the natural heritage and resources in terrestrial and aquatic parts in areas of palaeontological, lithological, or hydrological interest within its boundaries.
The Helmos-Vouraikos UNESCO Global Geopark includes the gorge of Vouraikos, the Cave of Lakes, the springs of Aroanios river, the Tsivlos and Doxa lakes.
The impressive Cave of the Lakes is an underground lake with an explored length of 1,980 meters 500 meters accessible to visitors.
A variety of geological phenomena from tectonic, geomorphological, and karst phenomena form 40 different geotopes and 7 geological routes where the visitor can walk through and discover the unique geology and the rich biodiversity of The National Park of Helmos-Vouraikos.
19. The Oiti National Park
The Oiti National Park guards the mountain ecosystems, flora, and fauna of the National park and its wider area of Mt.Oiti.
The Oiti National Park amazing landscape with fir forests, abundant waters, subalpine vegetation, and its highest peak Pyrgos (2.152 m)
is the paradise for all nature lovers.
Hiking is highly suggested and a visit to Livadates the mountain lake is recommended.
Climbing lovers be informed that there are various mountaineering tracks all over the park, numerous caves such as Anemotrypa Cave, the alpine plateau of Livadies, and a mountain lodge at Trapeza.
For climbers: You can access the Oiti National Park through Loutra Ipatis in Ypati or Kastania and Lihno by road.
Are you ready to explore the Oiti National Park?
Check more information here!
20. The Mountain Olympus National Park
The home of the Greek Gods!
Mount Olympus, also known as the ”home of the Greek Gods” and the highest mountain of Greece, is worldwide known for its historical and archaeological value.
The Mount Olympus National Park, with nearly a million acres, includes a rare ecosystem with its wilderness counting thousands of years in human history.
With over 70 miles of wild coastline, old-growth temperate rain forests, glacier-capped mountains, 52 different peaks across Mount Olympus with Mytikas being the highest peak (9,570 feet), and deep gorges, the Mount Olympus National Park shape a spectacular scenery definitely worth visiting!
Wolves, jackals, foxes, wild cats, chamois, wild goats, and the roe deer, are living within the boundaries of the Mount Olympus National Park.
Especially for Birdwatchers: The peregrine falcon, sparrow hawk, golden eagle, short-toed snake eagle, lanner falcon, and the booted eagle find shelter in the Mount Olympus National Park.
Are you ready for birdwatching in Greece?
Check more information about the Mount Olympus National Park here!
21. The Mount Parnitha National Park
A protected area just 25km north of Athens!
The Mount Parnitha National Park is a protected area just 25km north of Athens, at Parnitha mountain range that are the highest mountains of the Attica region.
Mount Parnitha National Park includes caves, lakes, and thick forests, that host around 1,000 plant species, 40 mammal species, over 130 bird species, and around 30 reptile species and amphibians.
Are you interested in hiking?
There are various hiking, biking, and running trails in Mount Parnitha National Park. Check here for the best routes!
Check more information about the Mount Parnitha National Park here!
22. The Parnassos National Park
Valleys, slopes, canyons, and trekking trails!
The Parnassos National Park, founded in 1938, is part of the NATURA 2000 network and is located in south-central Greece, close to Delphi and Arachova.
The Parnassos National Park covers an area of 36 million square meters, rich in valleys, slopes, canyons, and trekking trails of different hiking levels.
Its unique ecosystem includes Mount Parnassus mountain range and hosts rare species of forest vegetation and fauna from wild lizards, foxes, and badgers to partridges, woodpeckers, and blackbirds, living among wild plums and black pines.
Through the Parnassos National Park are crossing hiking trails which you may check here!
Check more about the Parnassos National Park here!
23. The Samaria National Park
Where the White Mountains meets meets the Samaria Gorge, the longest gorge in Europe!
The Samaria National Park in central Crete and its natural boundaries
of the Lefka Ori (White Mountains), the largest and westernmost mountain range of Crete meets the longest gorge in Europe, the Samaria Gorge.
The Samaria Gorge stretches across a distance of 16 km and is nestled between the Lefka Ori and Mount Volakias.
The Samaria National Park is a paradise for biodiversity.
It hosts dozens of endemic species and subspecies, such as the Cretan Agrimi Goat (Capra aegagrus cretica), the Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), the Cretan wildcat (Felis silvestris cretensis), and the Mediterranean Monk Seal (Monachus monachus) is found in the sea caves on the south coast of the National Park.
The Samaria National Park is one of the best places to hike in the world. Are you ready to explore it?
Check more information about the Samaria National Park here!
24. The Sounio National park
The smallest national park in Greece!
The Sounio National park is located 50 km southeast of Athens and is the smallest national park in Greece (5.250 acres).
The Cape of Sounio known for its ancient Temple of Poseidon attracts all-year-round locals and tourists who visit the metallurgical museum of the Sounio National park and enjoy the surrounding pristine nature.
Hundreds of plant species are growing in this protected area where a great number of migratory birds are have been recorded.
If you are interested in exploring the area on foot, there is an easy-to-follow walking trail starting from the Sounion National Park, which goes through the gulch of Chaos, the tunnels of the iron mines of the 20th century, and the washing plants of the ancient mines of Lavrion.
Check it out here!
English 
Greek