Many people opt to propose on holiday, to make it an even more memorable occasion and trip than it otherwise might have been. You can choose a sight and backdrop that will look as stunning as your other half, with guaranteed sunshine in many areas of Greece and beautifully-lit night time spots amongst the ruins, beaches or in fantastic eateries, to really up the romance factor.
Greece has such a variety of hidden gems, whether you are on the mainland or one of the islands – or even doing some island hopping and visiting several. You are bound to find somewhere that suits your proposal requirements. But, if you are looking for some ideas and inspiration, you have come to the right place. Sit back, relax and feel the sand between your toes as you read on.
Mainland Greece
Athens is the obvious choice for any special occasion in mainland Greece. The capital has so much to offer, ranging from secluded romantic pavilions in the National Garden to the ruins of the famous Acropolis, although this can get very hot and busy. As an alternative, the temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounio is a less well-known ancient site, but no less impressive, with its Doric columns and historical significance. In some circles, it is said that Poseidon was made from the aquamarine stone, so if your chosen engagement ring is made from this semi-precious gem too, it would be the perfect spot to propose with it.
Santorini
If you were to Google ‘Greece proposal ideas’ almost all of the first two pages of results suggest Santorini as THE place to go down on one knee. The stark white buildings and blue domed roofs are iconic and provide a gorgeous backdrop which would look great in any photos you might manage to capture of the moment.
There are even proposal companies who can organise in Santorini to help create the perfect ambience, providing flowers, candles, hidden photographers and much more, to ensure it goes off without a hitch and that you are left with lasting memories.
Cyprus
The goddess of love, Aphrodite, is said to have been born in Cyprus, so where better than to declare your undying and eternal love than the island itself? We offer fantastic wedding packages in Cyprus, so you could return with all your loved ones to celebrate your union too.
Cyprus offers the best of everything, with beautiful beaches and coastlines – Aphrodite was allegedly the foam in the sea here – to historical sites and charming harbours bobbing with boats of all shapes and sizes. We can even arrange a romantic cruise for two packages on one of the yachts, sailing from its capital Paphos, ideal for a waterborne proposal.
Zakynthos/Zante
For a proposal with a difference, Zakynthos (also known as Zante) is the place to be, with its mountain ranges and blue caves offering up truly romantic experiences in the heart of the Ionian sea.
The sea turtles on Marathonissi Island in the south are worth looking out for, although they can be difficult to spot, so it really would be the cherry on top of a special occasion if you were lucky enough to see one. Swim, snorkel or partake in a spot of scuba diving, and propose under the sea itself in a magical wonderland of crystal clear waters.
Corfu
Many of the hotels we book with offer romantic dinners on the beach, with the all-inclusive Aeolos Beach Resort providing a private dining experience overlooking the enchanting water of the Ionian. The 7-course menu at a candlelit table on the sandy beach is enough to put anyone in the mood for romance, ensuring a more than memorable culinary experience.
Rhodes
Rhodes is known for its inordinate number of hours of sunshine, being one of the sunniest places in the world, with around 300 sunny days a year and up to 13 hours of sunshine a day in the summer.
If you want a daytime proposal and a great holiday, the cobbled streets of Lindos on the eastern coast of the island provide routes to golden beaches and an Acropolis monument at the top of a mountain, giving you the best of both worlds. A romantic stroll, hand-in-hand, between the two is the perfect build-up to a sweet low-key proposal in a gorgeous setting.
Kefalonia
The setting for the book (and film starring Nicolas Cage and Penelope Cruz) Captain Corelli’s Mandolin by Louis de Bernieres, Kefalonia is almost like stepping back in time as its unspoilt beauty is set off by Venetian castles, sandy beaches and exotic flora and fauna.
One of the greenest of all the Greek islands, Kefalonia is perfect for getting back to nature and proposing at one of the many vineyards across the island.
Final Thoughts
However you propose, it has to be right for you as a couple. The beauty of Greece is that you can find almost any setting you want – history, food and drink, mountains, or beaches with sparkling waters to complement a sparkling engagement ring. They can’t fail to say yes!