Ancient Greece developed many of the Western world's cultural
building blocks, as the Olympic Games, democracy, mathematics and
philosophy all began there. Today the country is known as a great
holiday destination rather than a centre of culture and learning,
and attracts visitors by the thousands. Most of them come for the
simple pleasures of its delicious food, wine, beautiful beaches,
sunshine and quaint villages, with beach lovers in particular
relishing the seemingly endless lacework of coastline and small
islands stocked with ancient sites and scenic surprises.
Greece exudes traditional charm, especially on its ever-popular
islands, which cling to their traditional ways despite the influx
of tourists. Black-clad women still deliver vegetables to island
tavernas on panniered donkeys, while bronzed, weather-beaten
fishermen sit in the sun, drink thick coffee and play dominoes or
backgammon. The tourist infrastructure has intruded in many
respects, but the timeless aspect of whitewashed buildings
clustered on hillsides has been retained. The myriad islands in the
Aegean Sea are easily accessible from Piraeus, Athens' historic
harbour, and many of the larger ones have airports with connections
to Athens or major European cities.
On the mainland, the capital Athens is sprawling, polluted and
overcrowded, but nevertheless enthralls visitors. It's dominated by
its major landmark, the Parthenon, though the remains of other
Classical Greek wonders are found mainly on the Peloponnese
Peninsula. Thessaloniki lies in the north and is modern and vibrant
with a Byzantine flavour.
Visitors are sure to love this ancient and sun-filled
country.
Key Facts
Language:
Greek is the national language, but English is widely
spoken.
Passport/Visa:
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the
following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark,
Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy,
Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and
Switzerland. All of these countries issue a standard Schengen visa
that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to
travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned
countries.
Non-EEA travellers to Greece must hold visible means of
financial support to cover their stay in the country. It is also
recommended that non-EEA members hold return or onward tickets, and
the necessary travel documentation for their next destination.
Passengers not holding onward tickets may be asked for proof of
sufficient funds for their return or onward journey. It is highly
recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months'
validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their
travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different
rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Currency:
The official currency is the euro (EUR), which is divided into
100 cents. All major credit cards are accepted and ATMs are
widespread.
Electricity:
Electrical current is 230 volts and 50Hz. A variety of
plugs are in use, including the European-style two-pin and the
round three-pin.
Travel to Greece
Overview
Greece is easily one of the world's best destinations. From
historic sightseeing to glorious beaches, travellers truly are in
for a treat. Most visitors begin their trip in Athens, where
Classical Greece colours the modern capital through famous
structures such as the Parthenon and the Acropolis. There are also
many wonderful museums; Syntagma Square is the city's social,
political and commercial hub.
From Athens, many venture out to the islands. Mountainous Crete
is the most popular and features sparkling beaches, spectacular
green outcroppings, ancient Minoan sites, and the famous Samaria
Gorge Trail. Other popular island destinations include Corfu, for
its mythic significance, Santorini, for its volcanic history and
vibrant nightlife, and Rhodes, which is a World Heritage Site.
History buffs should head to the Peloponnese Peninsula for the
region's ancient ruins and battlefields.
Climate in Greece
Greece's Mediterranean climate gives it long, hot, dry summers
and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures are tempered by breezes
called 'Meltemia', and the Etesian wind which blows north across
the Aegean Sea. Rainfall is generally low in most of the country
and heaviest in the mountainous regions, where snow is likely and
temperatures can get severe. Mercury on the mainland regularly hits
the high spots.
Summer (between June and August) is Greece's peak holiday season
and draws millions of beach lovers to its gorgeous coastline.
Autumn is pleasant for travellers who prefer smaller crowds and
milder conditions, while winter (December to February) sees the
coldest, most variable weather and is the least popular time to
visit. Travellers looking to explore Greece's cultural and
historical attractions should not be put off by the winter
months.
Health Notes when travelling to Greece
There are no specific health risks but everyone 12 years of age
and older should get fully vaccinated for COVID-19 before visiting
Greece. Most health problems come from too much sun and too much
food or alcohol, though there's also the risk of encountering sea
urchins, jellyfish and mosquitoes. Medical facilities in major
cities are excellent but some of the smaller islands are a long way
from a decent hospital. Larger towns and resorts have
English-speaking private doctors and the highly professional local
pharmacies can usually deal with any minor complaint. Travellers
should take along any necessary prescription medication. Food and
water are safe, but those visiting for short periods should
consider sticking to bottled water. After Brexit, the Global Health
Insurance Card (GHIC) replaced the European Health Insurance Card
(EHIC) for UK citizens. The GHIC allows UK citizens access to state
healthcare during visits to the EU. The GHIC is not valid in
Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, nor is it an
alternative to travel insurance.
Safety Notes when travelling to Greece
Though Greece is a safe destination, peak tourist season usually
sees a spike in petty theft cases, especially in crowded areas.
Visitors should conceal valuables or store them in hotel safes and
watch out for pickpockets. Violent crime is rare but there have
been incidents on some islands; visitors travelling alone should
not accept lifts from strangers.
Customs in Greece
Though more traditional than the British in some ways, most
Greeks are friendly and welcoming enough to seem intrusive to
reserved British tourists. Greeks are also the heaviest smokers in
Europe and will often ignore the smoking ban in public places.
Swimwear is expected on the beach but tourists should dress
properly in bars and restaurants.
Duty Free in Greece
Travellers visiting from inside the EU can bring in 800
cigarettes, or 200 cigars, or 400 cigarillos, or 1kg of tobacco, 10
litres of spirits with an alcohol volume over 22 percent, 20 litres
of spirits with an alcohol volume under 22 percent, 90 litres of
wine and 110 litres of beer.
Visitors arriving from outside the EU and are over the age of 17
will not pay duty for 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 100
cigarillos, or 250g of tobacco, 1 litres of spirits with an alcohol
volume over 22 percent, 2 litres of spirits with an alcohol volume
under 22 percent, 4 litres of wine and 16 litres of beer.
Doing Business in Greece
Greeks prefer to dress formally in dark-coloured suits for men
and stylish outfits for women. Punctuality is important to them
though meetings may not start immediately. Visitors should offer a
firm handshake and maintain eye contact when greeting Greek men and
women for the first time, and print business cards in both Greek
and English. There is no ritual surrounding the exchange of
business cards.
As Greeks like getting to know their colleagues before
conducting any serious business, it's unlikely a deal will take
shape at the first meeting. The local culture follows a
hierarchical structure and visitors should show respect in the same
way. Gift giving is common in social settings but not necessarily
in business.
Communication in Greece
The international access code for Greece is +30 and the outgoing
code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for
the United Kingdom). Free WiFi is available at cafes, hotels,
restaurants and similar establishments throughout Greece;
purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option to
paying high international roaming costs.
Tipping in Greece
A service charge is automatically added to most restaurant bills
and an additional tip is not expected, though it's always welcome.
Rounding up the bill is sufficient for drinks at cafes; taxis,
porters and cloakroom attendants will expect a tip.
Passport/Visa Note
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the
following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark,
Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy,
Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and
Switzerland. All of these countries issue a standard Schengen visa
that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to
travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned
countries.
Non-EEA travellers to Greece must hold visible means of
financial support to cover their stay in the country. It is also
recommended that non-EEA members hold return or onward tickets, and
the necessary travel documentation for their next destination.
Passengers not holding onward tickets may be asked for proof of
sufficient funds for their return or onward journey. It is highly
recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months'
validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their
travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different
rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid three months
beyond the period of intended stay. No visa is required for a
touristic stay of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at
least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Greece. No
visa is required for a touristic stay of up to 90 days within a 180
day period.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British passports endorsed 'British Citizen', 'British Subject'
(containing a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode
issued by the United Kingdom), and 'British Overseas Territories
Citizen' issued by Gibraltar, only need to be valid for period of
intended stay in Greece. All other endorsements require at least
three months validity beyond the period of intended stay in
Greece.
A visa is not required for passports endorsed 'British Citizen',
'British Subject' (containing a Certificate of Entitlement to the
Right of Abode issued by the United Kingdom), and 'British Overseas
Territories Citizen' issued by Gibraltar. No visa is required for
stays of up to 90 days in a 180 day period for holders of passports
with any other endorsement.
Holders of identity cards issued by Gibraltar authorities, and
endorsed 'Validated for EU travel purposes under the authority of
the United Kingdom', do not require a visa to visit Greece.
Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at
least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Greece. No
visa is required for a touristic stay of up to 90 days within a 180
day period.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid on arrival in
Greece. No visa is required.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at
least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Greece. No
visa is required for a touristic stay of up to 90 days within a 180
day period.
Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at
least three months beyond the period of intended stay, and a valid
Schengen visa, to enter Greece.
Tourist Offices
Greek National Tourism Organisation, Athens: +30 21 870
7000.
Greece Embassies
In the United States:
Greek Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 939
1300.
In Canada:
Greek Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 238 6271.
In the United Kingdom:
Greek Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7313 5600.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
Hepatitis A outbreaks occur throughout the world and sometimes in countries with a low risk for hepatitis A (including the US). You can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Greece, so talk to your doctor to see if the hepatitis A vaccine is right for you.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
Hepatitis A outbreaks occur throughout the world and sometimes in countries with a low risk for hepatitis A (including the US). You can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Greece, so talk to your doctor to see if the hepatitis A vaccine is right for you.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Greece, so your behaviors are important.
Eat and drink safely
Food and water standards in Greece are similar to those in the United States. Most travelers do not need to take special food or water precautions beyond what they normally do at home.
Although Greece is an industrialized country, bug bites here can still spread diseases. Just as you would in the United States, try to avoid bug bites while spending time outside or in wooded areas.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear if spending a lot of time outside. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
If your travel plans in Greece include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip:
Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity in the heat of the day.
If you are outside for many hours in the heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if you are driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance for things your regular insurance will not cover.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medicines you take.
Bring copies of your prescriptions for medicine and for eye glasses and contact lenses.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Greece’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Make sure there are seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Greece, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Greece for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
Be aware of current health issues in Greece. Learn how to protect yourself.
Watch Level 1, Practice Usual Precautions
NewMeasles in GreeceDecember 20, 2017Health officials in Greece have reported an outbreak of measles. CDC recommends that travelers to Greece protect themselves by making sure they are vaccinated against measles with the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine.
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The official currency is the euro (EUR), which is divided into
100 cents. All major credit cards are accepted and ATMs are
widespread.
Exchange rate for 1 EUR - Euro
0.00BMD Bermudan Dollar
1.00USD U.S. Dollar
0.87GBP U.K. Pound Sterling
143.38JPY Japanese Yen
1.32CAD Canadian Dollar
0.96CHF Swiss Franc
1.49AUD Australian Dollar
36.65UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia
475.34KZT Kazakhstani Tenge
1,507.02LBP Lebanese Pound
4.93LYD Libyan Dinar
6.88BOB Bolivian Boliviano
126.98NPR Nepalese Rupee
0.38OMR Omani Rial
3.67QAR Qatari Rial
1.41SGD Singapore Dollar
10.70SEK Swedish Krona
6.78TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar
0.00VEF Venezuelan Bolivar
52.90DOP Dominican Peso
7.53HRK Croatian Kuna
20.03MXN Mexican Peso
655.66XOF West African CFA Franc
3.52PGK Papua New Guinean kina
1.00BSD Bahamian Dollar
2.24FJD Fiji Dollar
24.62HNL Honduran Lempira
140.42DZD Algerian Dinar
2,096.32MMK Myanma Kyat
13.00BWP Botswana Pula
3.87PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol
921.20CLP Chilean Peso
404.44AMD Armenia Dram
24.53CZK Czech Koruna
19.31MDL Moldova Lei
138.73ISK Icelandic Krona
10,921.62UZS Uzbekistan Sum
3.44ILS Israeli New Sheqel
0.71JOD Jordanian Dinar
0.31KWD Kuwaiti Dinar
40.69UYU Uruguayan Peso
45.09MUR Mauritian Rupee
35.87NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba
10.13NOK Norwegian Krone
4.73PLN Polish Zloty
3.75SAR Saudi Riyal
363.92LKR Sri Lanka Rupee
36.71THB Thai Baht
3.67AED U.A.E Dirham
5.21BRL Brazilian Real
4.93RON Romanian New Leu
7.84HKD Hong Kong Dollar
656.83XAF Central African CFA Franc
23,518.80VND Vietnamese Dong
142.79ARS Argentine Peso
2.71XCD East Caribbean Dollar
7.78GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal
10.62MAD Moroccan Dirham
0.38BHD Bahrain Dinar
1.00PAB Panamanian Balboa
1.69AZN Azerbaijan Manat
4,413.27COP Colombian Peso
80.74KGS Kyrgyzstan Som
407.16HUF Hungarian Forint
10.23TJS Tajikistan Ruble
14,847.81IDR Indonesian Rupiah
19.40EGP Egyptian Pound
1,396.62KRW South Korean Won
6,965.59PYG Paraguayan Guaraní
4.52MYR Malaysian Ringgit
632.07CRC Costa Rican Colón
1.67NZD New Zealand Dollar
223.34PKR Pakistani Rupee
60.17RUB Russian Rouble
17.52ZAR South African Rand
3.21TND Tunisian Dinar
2.02BBD Barbadian Dollar
1.96BGN Bulgarian Lev
18.25TRY Turkish Lira
57.24PHP Philippine Peso
31.13TWD New Taiwan Dollar
427.92NGN Nigerian Naira
119.27XPF CFP Franc
10.03GHS Ghanaian Cedi
152.15JMD Jamaican Dollar
1.79ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder
1.40BND Brunei Dollar
117.26RSD Serbian Dinar
6.98CNY Chinese Yuan
7.44DKK Danish Krone
3.50TMT New Turkmenistan Manat
79.71INR Indian Rupee
Exchange Rate for U.S. Dollar to Euro
1 USD = 1.00 EUR
Exchange Rate for Canadian Dollar to Euro
1 CAD = 0.76 EUR
Exchange Rate for U.K. Pound Sterling to Euro
1 GBP = 1.15 EUR
Exchange Rate for Australian Dollar to Euro
1 AUD = 0.67 EUR
Exchange Rate for New Zealand Dollar to Euro
1 NZD = 0.60 EUR
Exchange Rate for South African Rand to Euro
1 ZAR = 0.06 EUR
Athens International Airport (ATH) Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International
Airport http://www.aia.gr
Location: Athens The airport is situated 20 miles (33km) southeast of
Athens city centre.
Time: GMT +2
Contacts:
Tel: +30 21 353 0000.
Transfer between terminals:
The two terminals are connected by a walkway.
Getting to the city:
Metro Line 3 connects the airport with central Athens and four
public bus routes link the facility to destinations in the greater
area of Athens and Piraeus. Travellers can find transport day and
night. Athens International is also connected to Athens Central
Railway Station (Larissis Station) by the Suburban Rail line.
Car rental:
Avis, Hertz, Budget, Enterprise and Sixt are all represented at
the airport.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis can be found at the designated taxi-waiting area at Exit 3
of the main Arrivals level. The trip to the centre of Athens takes
half an hour to an hour depending on traffic and is substantially
more expensive at night.
Facilities:
The airport has banks and ATMs, currency exchange services, a
tax refund desk, travel agencies, conference facilities, a business
centre, a tourist information desk, numerous shops and restaurants,
and a food court.
Parking:
Short and long-term parking is available in the airport.
Short-term parking is on the arrivals level and costs €4.50 for the
first hour (up to 20 minutes are free), while long-term parking is
found across the access road in P3. Long-term parking costs €13 for
the first day and €50 for a week. Long-term parking is connected to
the terminal by a free shuttle.
Lefkada Airport (PVK) Aktion National Airport http://www.pvk-airport.gr/en
Location: Lefkada The airport is situated 12 miles (20km) north of Lefkada
Town, on the Greek mainland.
Time: GMT +2
Getting to the city:
There is a daily bus service from the airport to
Lefkada, Preveza and Vonitsa. The journey time to Lefkada is around
30 minutes and tickets can be purchased from the driver.
Car rental:
KapaRent, Drive, Greenmotion and Hertz are all
represented at the airport.
Airport Taxis:
A taxi from the airport to Lefkada Town will cost
around €40 and take 25 to 30 minutes. There may be an extra charge
for travellers who have lots of luggage.
Facilities:
Travellers will find a couple of shops, including
duty free, a cafe, and ATMs in the terminal. The airport can get
quite congested in the summer, but there are a few tavernas (Greek
restaurants) to be found near the terminal building for those
needing a break.
Parking:
There is a limited amount of parking available at the
airport.
Zakynthos Airport (ZTH) Zakynthos International Airport Dionysios
Solomos http://www.zth-airport.gr/en
Location: Zakynthos The airport is located three miles (5km) south of
Zakynthos.
Time: GMT +2
Contacts:
+30 26950 29500
Getting to the city:
Buses travel from the airport to downtown Zakynthos with some
frequency. Many hotels and resorts offer shuttle services or
private pick-ups.
Car rental:
Hertz and Avis have car hire facilities at Zakynthos
Airport.
Airport Taxis:
There is a taxi rank outside the passenger terminal.
Facilities:
Airport facilities include duty-free shopping, currency
exchange, ATMs, and a bar and cafe.
Parking:
There is parking available a short distance from the
terminal.
Santorini Airport (JTR) Santorini (Thira) International Airport http://www.santoriniairport.com/
Location: Santorini 1.6 miles (2.6km) southeast of Fira/Thira Town, near
Monolithos
Time: GMT +2
Contacts:
+30 22860 28400
Getting to the city:
A bus service provides access to many local destinations in
Santorini, and several shuttle transfer companies run from the
airport.
Car rental:
Herz, Avis, Payless, Thrifty and Budget have car hire offices at
Santorini Airport.
Airport Taxis:
There are taxis available from the airport.
Facilities:
The terminal contains duty-free shopping, ATMs, travel agencies
and information services.
Parking:
Samos Airport (SMI) Samos Aristarchos International Airport http://www.smi-airport.gr/en
Location: Samos The airport is two miles (3km) west of
Pythagorio.
Time: GMT +2
Contacts:
+30 22730 87800
Getting to the city:
There is a public bus stop in front of the terminal building.
Tickets can be purchased from the bus driver.
Car rental:
Car hire companies at Samos Airport include Hertz, Thrifty,
Budget, and Avis.
Airport Taxis:
A taxi service runs all day, all week from the airport, and is
available outside the terminal building. The fare to Samos is
approximately €25.
Facilities:
The terminal contains two restaurants, duty-free shopping,
baby-changing facilities, a Greek tourism office, and tourist
information services.
Parking:
There are parking facilities adjacent to the terminal.
Kefalonia Airport (EFL) Kefalonia International Airport Anna
Pollatou http://www.kefaloniaairport.info
Location: Cephalonia The airport is located 5 miles (about 8km) south of
Argostoli.
Time: Local time is GMT +2
Contacts:
Tel: +30 267 102 9900
Getting to the city:
Car rental:
Cars can be rented from Hertz or Europcar.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis are available outside the arrivals area.
Facilities:
Facilities include ATMs, bureaux de change, and snack shops.
Parking:
Short and long-term parking is available.
Preveza Airport (PVK) Aktion National Airport https://www.pvk-airport.gr/en
Location: Cephalonia The airport is located 4 miles (about 7km) south of the
town of Preveza.
Time: Local time is GMT +2
Contacts:
Tel: +30 26820 26113
Getting to the city:
Bus services connect Preveza Aiport to the towns of Preveza,
Lefkas and Vonitsa.
Car rental:
Hertz, Thrifty, Avis and Budget are among the car rental
companies at Preveza Airport.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis are available outside the arrivals area.
Facilities:
Facilities include ATMs, a cafe, and a duty-free shop.
Parking:
Short and long-term parking is available.
Chania Airport (CHQ) Chania International Airport Ioannis
Daskalogiannis http://www.chania-airport.com/contact.html
Location: Crete Souda Bay, 8.7 miles (14km) east of Chania
Time: GMT +2
Contacts:
+30 28210 83800
Getting to the city:
There is regular bus service to Chania from the airport. Travel
time is approximately 30 minutes.
Car rental:
Hertz, Thrifty, Avis and Budget operate car hire facilities at
Chania Airport.
Airport Taxis:
There is a taxi rank located outside the terminal building.
Facilities:
The terminal contains a bar, duty-free shopping, bank, currency
exchange, VIP lounge, lost and found, first-aid station, and
information centre.
Parking:
There is both short and long-term parking at the airport.
Thessaloniki International Airport (SKG) Thessaloniki Macedonia International Airport http://www.skg-airport.gr/en/
Location: Thessaloniki The airport is located about 10 miles (about 17km) south
of the city centre.
Time: Local time is GMT +2
Contacts:
Tel: +30 2310 985000
Getting to the city:
Bus 78 goes from Thessaloniki Airport to the city every hour and
the journey takes about 45 minutes.
Car rental:
Car rental companies include Sixt, Avis and Hertz.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis are available from the airport to downtown
Thessaloniki.
Facilities:
Facilities include ATMs, a bureau de change, restaurants and
cafes, internet access, a nursery and play area, and duty-free
shopping.
Parking:
Parking is available.
Kavala Airport (KVA) Kavala International Airport Alexander the
Great http://www.kva-airport.gr/en
Location: Thassos 18.6 miles (30km) east of Kavala
Time: GMT +2
Getting to the city:
There are buses from the airport to downtown Kavala.
Car rental:
Europcar, Avis, and Hertz operate car hire facilities at Kavala
Airport.
Airport Taxis:
A taxi rank is located in front of the terminal.
Facilities:
The terminal contains restaurants, duty-free shopping, travel
agents and first-aid facilities.
Parking:
There is short and long-term parking opposite the terminal
building.
Skiathos Airport (JSI) Skiathos Island National Airport http://www.jsi-airport.gr/en
Location: Skiathos The airport is located 2 miles (about 3km) west of
Xanemos.
Time: Local time is GMT +2
Getting to the city:
Car rental:
Car rental companies include Avis, Hertz and Thrifty.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis are available outside the arrivals area.
Facilities:
Facilities include ATMs, bureaux de change, and snack shops.
Parking:
Short and long-term parking is available.
Corfu Airport (CFU) Corfu International Airport Ioannis
Kapodistrias http://www.cfu-airport.gr/en
Location: Corfu The airport sits on the east of the island, two miles
(three km) south of Corfu Town
Time: GMT +2
Getting to the city:
A transit bus service (Bus line no.15) runs between the airport
and the city centre of Corfu. Travellers can go to all destinations
from the bus stop at San Rocco Square and tickets can be purchased
from the bus driver.
Car rental:
Hertz, Avis and Sixt are among the car rental companies present
at the airport.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis are available outside the Corfu Airport Terminal
building.
Facilities:
The terminal has duty-free shopping, currency exchange, a
first-aid station, and ATMs.
Parking:
Corfu International Airport has parking.
Rhodes Diagoras International Airport (RHO) Rhodes Diagoras International Airport http://www.rho-airport.gr/en
Location: Rhodes The airport is located just nine miles (14km) from Rodos
on the island of Rhodes in Greece.
Time: GMT +2
Getting to the city:
Buses run between the Airport and the city of Rhodes. The bus
stop is located between the new and the old terminal and tickets
can be purchased from the bus driver.
Car rental:
Avis, Sixt and Hertz all provide rental cars at Rhodes Diagoras
International Airport.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis can be caught from outside the terminal. They are
generally metered but, if no meter is available, passengers should
agree on a price before leaving the airport. The trip into Rhodes
Town takes about 25 minutes.
Facilities:
ATMs, a bank, currency exchange facilities, left luggage
lockers, duty-free shops, souvenir stores, restaurants, snack
kiosks and medical facilities are all available, and the airport is
accessible to disabled persons.
Parking:
Short and long-term parking is available at Rhodes Diagoras
Airport and is located directly opposite the terminal.
Heraklion Airport (HER) Heraklion International Airport http://www.heraklionairport.net
Location: Crete The airport is located 1.7 miles (2.8km) east of
Heraklion on Crete.
Time: GMT +2
Getting to the city:
Car rental:
Airport Taxis:
Facilities:
Parking:
Heraklion International Airport has parking.
Kos Island Airport (KGS) Kos Island International Airport http://www.kgs-airport.gr/en/
Location: Kos Kos Island International Airport is located roughly 16
miles (26km) southwest of Kos Town.
Time:
Getting to the city:
Car rental:
Hertz, Avis, Thrifty and Sixt are available for use.
Airport Taxis:
Facilities:
Parking:
There is limited short-term and long-term parking at the
airport.
Mykonos Airport (JMK) Mykonos International Airport http://www.jmk-airport.gr/en/
Location: Mykonos The airport is located 2.5 miles (4km) from
Mykonos.
Time: GMT +2
Getting to the city:
Car rental:
Avis and Hertz are available.
Airport Taxis:
Facilities:
Parking:
Short and long-term parking is available in the parking lot in
front of the terminal.
Nissaki Corfu
Nissaki, Corfu Photo credit: anybookers
Nissaki is a small village on the northeast coast of Corfu. The
quiet resort is situated among the pretty coves beneath Mount
Pantokrator and is ideal for family holidays or couples seeking an
escape. Swimming and snorkelling are popular activities in
Nissaki's clear water.
Nightlife in Nissaki
There are a few tavernas within the village. Visitors who want a
livelier evening can head to the larger resorts of Ipsos or
Kassiopi, which are a few miles away.
Shopping in Nissaki
Nissaki has a couple of gift shops and supermarkets. Visitors
will find a wider choice of shopping at the nearby resorts of
Kassiopi or Ipsos, which are only a short bus trip away.
Things to do in Nissaki
Water skiing, wakeboarding and parasailing are among the various
watersports on offer, and the snorkelling is glorious by anyone's
standards. Visitors can hire boats if they want to explore the many
bays between Nissaki and Kassiopi in their own time. They can also
enjoy marvellous walks in the hills above Nissaki, taking in
deserted villages and views that extend right across to
Albania.
Things to be aware of in Nissaki
Travellers who want a livelier nightlife may prefer one of the
larger resorts in Corfu.
Dining in Nissaki
There are a handful of great family-run restaurants that serve
tasty local dishes. Visitors can expect good service and a warm
welcome.
Nafplion Peloponnese Peninsula
Nafplion Photo credit: Pug Girl
Nafplion's streets pass by bright flowers and look up at wooden
balconies, and its lively cafes invite travellers to take a break
from wandering. The romantic seaport town's relaxed atmosphere,
fascinating mosques and gorgeous churches more the make up for its
lack of classical ruins.
Nightlife in Nafplion
Nafplion's vibrant nightlife has a fairly broad scene, meaning
visitors can choose between partying and relaxing over sundowners
or romantic meals. Some of the town's best establishments lie in
the harbour area or perch dramatically on the cliffs.
Shopping in Nafplion
The old part of town has some delightful shops, where items
range from touristic kitsch to elevated art. Visitors will enjoy
searching the area for souvenirs. Nafplion also has several decent
malls and grocery stores for self-caterers, and markets that offer
local crafts and produce.
Things to do in Nafplion
Nafplion is a comfortable base from which to explore the
Peloponnese's remarkable archaeological sites, which include
Sparta's ruins and the ancient Greek theatre of Epidaurus. Athens
is less than two hours' drive away. Beyond that, visitors can enjoy
art galleries and interesting museums dedicated to archaeology,
folklore, Komboloi (worry beads), and even Ouzo. They can also hike
up to the Venetian Fortress of Palamidi and enjoy the view, or
relax at beaches, waterfront tavernas and open-air cinemas.
Things to be aware of in Nafplion
Although it has been described as a prettier, cleaner and
quainter version of Athens, things can get fairly chaotic in
Nafplion during the summer months, particularly as it's a very
popular weekend excursion for the Athenians themselves.
Dining in Nafplion
Visitors will find traditional Greek dishes at establishments
along the bustling harbour or in the grand Venetian-style square
called Plateia Syntagmatos. Other dining options include fast food
and a variety of international cuisines.
Heraklion Crete
Heraklion Photo credit: bongo vongo
Heraklion is Crete's main city and usually the starting point
for holidays on the island. Built on a fairly steep hillside, its
history of Venetian occupation is clear in its architecture,
especially the Venetian fortress that dominates the harbour and
accents the city's bustling mix of shops, hotels, traffic, and
fast-food outlets.
The main square, Plateia Venizelou, is a pedestrian mall
sporting cafes and restaurants, and some fascinating shops in the
surrounding streets. History buffs should visit the archaeological
museum, which contains the world's most comprehensive collection of
Minoan artefacts, dating back to around 1600 BC. Heraklion is also
close to the major archaeological site associated with the Minoans
at Knossos.
Nightlife in Heraklion
People-watching from a sidewalk cafe is a favourite evening
pastime among locals in Heraklion. The city also has many clubs and
bars.
Shopping in Heraklion
Heraklion is Crete's commercial centre and has a great many
shops with top designer labels and original jewellery for
reasonable prices. Antiques, leather goods, folk art, olive oil and
a variety of interesting cheeses are on offer as well. Some shops
may have reduced operating hours during the winter off-season.
Things to do in Heraklion
Heraklion has many historic and archaeological attractions,
including its world-famous museum and the nearby Knossos, which was
the heart of the ancient Minoan civilisation. Sporty visitors will
find a number of beaches and opportunities to enjoy rock climbing
and horse riding, while the CretAquarium Thalassocosmos is worth a
stop for the entire family.
Things to be aware of in Heraklion
Heraklion is a busy, overcrowded city that can be claustrophobic
and noisy. Hotel standards do not always live up to expectations
and visitors are often harassed by touts outside the restaurants
and cafes, particularly in Fountain Square.
Dining in Heraklion
Crete offers traditional Greek food in its cafes, local tavernas
and elegant restaurants. The island is also home to many ouzeri
bars that specialise in the aniseed-flavoured liqueur called ouzo.
Many of the destinations fast-food outlets and restaurants serve
international favourites such as pasta, pizza, Indian and Mexican
food.
Paros Mykonos
Paros Photo credit: Allan Henderson
Paros is one of the larger islands in the Cyclades and its main
drawcards are good sandy beaches, traditional fishing villages and
a vibrant nightlife. Its main port, Parikia, is home to a ruined
Venetian castle and an impressive Byzantine church that have
dazzled travellers for many generations. Windsurfing, kite surfing
and scuba diving are its most popular watersports. Holidaymakers
will also find a lively jazz scene, clubs around the town's
waterfront and superb beaches at Naoussa on the north coast, while
Lefkes in the centre of the island has a number of tavernas along
its pretty winding streets.
Paros' many ferry connections are perfect for exploring famous
islands and attractions nearby, such as Antiparos, which has an
interesting chapel cavern and more lovely beaches.
Nightlife in Paros
Though Paros is too relaxed for its nightlife to compare to
destinations such as Mykonos, its summer season is fairly
action-packed. Bars, clubs and traditional Greek music and dancing
are on offer, and Naoussa village and Santa Maria Beach are
particularly popular for their party scenes.
Shopping in Paros
Paros was famous during the Classical Age for the white marble
quarried within its borders. Today, souvenir hunters may find some
beautiful marble work on the island, as well as shells, leather
work, embroidery and wooden sculptures. Parikia is the best place
for shopping on the island and has the usual tourist shops and
grocery stores, and lovely art in the town's galleries.
Things to do in Paros
Paros' winding cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings give
visitors a taste of the old world, and the island is famous for its
beaches, which range from quiet, remote spots to crowded party
hubs. Ocean conditions are generally good for windsurfing.
Things to be aware of in Paros
Paros can get very crowded and may not suit those seeking peace
and relaxation.
Dining in Paros
While Paros has a good variety of places to eat out, the best
establishments are traditional and seafood is often the best
choice. Visitors can easily find a place to smash plates with
locals if the mood takes them.
Lindos Rhodes
Lindos Photo credit: tracy the astonishing
Lindos is a holiday resort centred on a small, medieval village
of cobbled streets and white-stuccoed houses. Once the island's
capital, it has lots of character and a pleasant combination of
ancient and modern attractions. A series of steps lead up to the
Acropolis, where visitors will find historic gems such as the Doric
Stoa, propylaean ruins, the sanctuary of Athena and the Byzantine
church of St John. Lindos also boasts some of the few sand beaches
on the island, and a number of bars, clubs and restaurants.
Nightlife in Lindos
Lindos has many bars though the party scene is toned down.
Visitors who prefer peaceful, music-filled nights will enjoy
themselves.
Shopping in Lindos
Lindos is a labyrinth of winding, picturesque streets, where
visitors can get happily lost for hours browsing quaint little
shops. The area is great for souvenir shopping and some simple
resort stores cater to tourists.
Things to do in Lindos
The area's beaches are lovely and lots of watersports are
available for energetic travellers. Culture lovers will find plenty
of historical and archaeological attractions, including the
fascinating Acropolis and the ruins of an ancient theatre on the
slope below. Wonderful day-trips are on offer too.
Things to be aware of in Lindos
Younger travellers who are set on partying may be disappointed
by the fairly sedate nightlife. The area can get very crowded in
summer, like all popular Greek resorts.
Dining in Lindos
Lovely rooftop bars and restaurants characterise the town's
dining scene, and sunset meals are a must. Restaurants cater to a
number of tastes and budgets.
Kardamena Kos
Kardamena Photo credit: Anna & Michal
Kardamena is one of the most popular resorts in Greece. Situated
mid-way along the south coast of Kos Island, the former fishing
village is now a commercialised town with scores of English-style
pubs, restaurants and tightly packed apartment blocks. Visitors can
organise a wide variety of watersports from the long sandy beach,
and Kardamena resort is a good base for those who want to explore
the island's fascinating interior.
Nightlife in Kardamena
Kardamena's fairly intense nightlife has dozens of bars and
clubs that cater to a variety of musical tastes. Though not quite
Ibiza, the scene is fun, vibrant and dominated by tourists.
Shopping in Kardamena
Kardamena is packed with shops that offer everything from
designer clothes to tacky holiday souvenirs. Most are located
around the main square. Travellers who choose to stay in
self-catering apartments can shop for well-known brands at good
supermarkets or venture to some interesting local markets,
including one across the water in Bodrum, Turkey.
Things to do in Kardamena
Kardamena's main beach is ideal for lazy days in the sun.
Watersports such as jet skiing, snorkelling and scuba diving are on
offer and nearby Helona Beach has Blue Flag status. Fascinating
historical sites are scattered around the island - especially in
the capital, Kos Town - and visitors can arrange boat tours to the
Rhodes and the spectacular volcanic island of Nisyros.
Things to be aware of in Kardamena
All bars along the main strip of Kardamena's seafront have loads
of touts working for them. Their efforts to turn tourists into
patrons can become annoying after a few nights. Drinks can be
expensive by Greek standards.
Dining in Kardamena
Kardamena's restaurants range from Indian and traditional Greek,
to fast-food establishments offering full English breakfasts. Many
of the best Greek restaurants are clustered on the seafront.
Agios Nikolaos Crete
Agios Nikolaos Photo credit: ArtemiyPavlov
Shaking off its reputation for package-tour karaoke evenings and
touristy clubs, this resort is rapidly transforming into a charming
getaway for couples and families. These days, Agios Nikolaos (or
Ayios Nikolaos) is a cosmopolitan destination with top-class
harbour-side cafe-bars and restaurants.
Ideal for couples of all ages, Agios Nikolaos is an excellent
base from which to explore the eastern part of Crete. The town
itself doesn't boast any major historical or archaeological sites,
but it does have one major curiosity: the harbour area's deep pool.
Called Lake Voulismeni, it has many tales and legends attached to
it, and was once believed to be bottomless. The lake is very
beautiful and attracts visitors from all over the world, with its
dramatic red cliffs.
Agios Nikolaos also has a fine Archaeological Museum, worth
visiting for its growing collection of Minoan artefacts. The museum
houses finds from the cemetery of Aghia Photia, dating back to 2300
BC. Besides the Minoan finds, the museum exhibits the skull of a
young Roman athlete wearing a gold olive-leaf wreath, dated to the
1st century AD. Many visitors travel to the fortified islet of
Spinalonga. The ruins once held Europe's last leper colony.
Nightlife in Agios Nikolaos
Agios Nikolaos used to be famous for its bar culture, when
thousands of holidaymakers would flock over every year for a good
party. Today, it still maintains a few 'touristy' bars serving up
the traditional mix of 80s disco music, and a couple of
British-style pubs and sports bars. The more modern and relaxed
cafe-bars on the south side of the harbour tend to attract more
customers, and are popular with locals as well as tourists, which
makes them feel more authentic.
Shopping in Agios Nikolaos
Good clothing and shoe shops, as well as high-quality jewellery
stores are available in Agios Nikolaos. The street market is a good
place to find clothes, plus traditional foodstuffs, local thyme,
honey, herbs, fruit and vegetables. The resort is fashion-forward
in many ways, with visitors and locals often dressing up in
designer labels for a night out.
Things to do in Agios Nikolaos
The area around the Agios Nikolaos resort is ideal for hiking,
and the coastline lends itself to all kinds of watersports. Just
about every kind of holidaymaker will find something to their
liking.
Along with the sandy and pleasant Almyros Beach, visitors can
enjoy a number of pebble beaches, which may be better on windy
days. The resort's various hotels have swimming pools, tennis,
basketball, and volleyball courts. The town council organises a
programme of cultural events every summer season, some of which are
staged in the small theatre on the lake.
Things to be aware of in Agios Nikolaos
Restaurants and tavernas down by the harbour tend to be pricey
and party animals may be disappointed with the limited nightlife
options in Agios Nikolaos.
Dining in Agios Nikolaos
The Agios Nikolaos lake area is full of tourist-orientated
tavernas that charge more for the location than the quality of the
food. Aggressive waiters try to pull tourists into the restaurants,
and a firm 'no' is sometimes required. That said, some of these
'advertisers' can be charming. The most fashionable places to dine
out are along the harbour.
Malia Crete
Malia Photo credit: phileole
Malia offers fun, sunny days and steamy nights of partying.
Situated on the north coast of Crete, its shops, cafes, hotels,
kiosks and tavernas stay busy during peak season, and bright lights
and pumping music are a nightly presence in its cosmopolitan clubs
and pubs. Other attractions include a few glorious miles of sandy
beach, Krasi village's wooded slopes and rushing streams, and the
2000 BC ruins of Malia Palace.
Nightlife in Malia
Malia's nightlife has a reputation for being one of the
Mediterranean's hottest for young clubbers, and is on a par with
Ibiza and Mallorca. The main strip along the beach is thick with
touts luring visitors into their establishments, promising free
admission and a variety of drinks offers.
Shopping in Malia
This is resort shopping at its finest. Visitors can purchase
flip-flops, sunscreen, jewellery and leather goods, as well as
ceramics, embroidery and other handcrafts. The local wines and
cheeses are very good.
Things to do in Malia
Holidaymakers can enjoy watersports such as banana-boat and
jet-ski rides, water-skiing, parasailing, and gentle pedalo
outings, especially on the busy Dolphin and Agapi beaches. Many
beaches are popular among casual football and volleyball players,
and have daytime bars that play music on the sand. Travellers who
explore a little further can go on forest hikes and visit
archaeological sites.
Things to be aware of in Malia
Although Malia has a long, wide stretch of beach, it becomes
heavily crowded during the peak holiday season. The resort's
popularity among young party goers means it isn't the best option
for a family holiday.
Dining in Malia
Visitors can enjoy anything from traditional Greek food to a
quick pasta or take-out burger.
Kefalos Kos
Kefalos Photo credit: Kevin Gibbons
Kefalos is a purpose-built holiday resort with a laid-back
atmosphere. Situated in the southwest of Kos, it's surrounded by
spectacular scenery and visitors can expect a charming and
authentic experience, as the village has retained many traditional
ways. The resort has plenty of good restaurants and a couple of
small nightclubs, but is mainly geared towards tourists looking for
a relaxing beach holiday.
Nightlife in Kefalos
Though its nightlife isn't as well-known as some other Greek
resorts, Kefalos is by no means boring. A number of low-key bars
offer cocktails and live music.
Shopping in Kefalos
The usual souvenir shops and grocery stores dot Kefalos.
Seasoned shoppers usually find themselves heading to Kardamena or
Kos Town, where there are more shops, markets and boutiques to
choose from. Visitors can buy anything from homemade jams and honey
to expensive, hand-crafted jewellery.
Things to do in Kefalos
The beach in Kefalos is a mix of sand and shingle, and is ideal
for lazy holidays in the sun. The area's clear, warm sea makes it
well suited for watersports, which visitors can arrange on
location. Some of Kos' best beaches are nearby, including Paradise
Beach. Visitors will also find fascinating historical sites
scattered around the island, particularly in the capital of Kos
Town. Boat tours head to the spectacular volcanic island of
Nisyros, and to Rhodes.
Things to be aware of in Kefalos
The shingle beach in Kefalos can be very hard on feet. Visitors
should wear good sandals.
Dining in Kefalos
Kefalos boasts some of Kos' best restaurants. Travellers will
find familiar international staples and exciting local options.
Kos Town Kos
Kos Harbour Photo credit: Kees Wielemaker
Kos has been home to Persians, Romans, Venetians, Ottomans and
the Knights of St John. Today, it's a fascinating town and popular
holiday destination, with a busy nightlife of bars, restaurants and
local tavernas. Sadly, the main beach is a fairly narrow, shingle
affair packed with beach chairs and umbrellas, though better
beaches are just a short bus journey away. Kos Town is perfectly
situated for taking boat trips to Turkey and nearby islands.
Nightlife in Kos Town
There are bars, pubs and tavernas scattered all over Kos Town,
but the aptly named 'bar street' is the place to go at night. The
party lasts until dawn in the warmer months and offers an eclectic
mix of music, from local bouzouki orchestras to thumping electronic
beats.
Shopping in Kos Town
Kos Town is the major shopping destination on the island.
Visitors will find a number of souvenir shops, as well as markets
selling spices, olive oil, and seashells. Popular souvenirs include
jewellery and leather goods.
Things to do in Kos Town
Kos Town's main beach is narrow and pebbled but nearby Tigaki
has pure white sand. Lambi, Psalidi, and Agios Fokas are also
popular and offer a range of watersports, such as water skiing,
parasailing, and banana rides. History lovers will enjoy the town's
attractions, which include the Hippocrates Tree, Knight's Castle,
and the Archaeological Museum. Nearby villages boast interesting
old ruins.
Things to be aware of in Kos Town
The nearest sand beaches are several miles from town, and the
nightlife can be overwhelming for tourists looking for a quieter
holiday.
Dining in Kos Town
Kos has many restaurants clustered along the waterfront and
around the main square, ranging from traditional Greek to Italian
and Chinese.
Kavos Corfu
Kavos Photo credit: Alex Alishevskikh
A sprawling town on the southern tip of Corfu, Kavos is the most
action-packed of the island's holiday resorts and is very popular
with fun-loving British under the age of 25. The long, narrow beach
is far from the best in Corfu but offers lovely views over to the
Greek mainland, lots of watersports and is fine for sleeping off
the night before. Those looking for a quieter holiday (but still
within reach of the nightlife in Kavos) can stay in the
neighbouring resort of Aghios Petros, one mile (2km) to the
north.
Nightlife in Kavos
Kavos is one of the top party destinations in Greece and is
crammed full of bars and clubs with music, dancing and karaoke. All
sorts of day and night-time entertainment is available, from booze
cruises to foam parties, themed club nights, and resident DJs. Most
of the activity is centred on the main strip, where bars lure in
early drinkers with happy-hour deals.
Shopping in Kavos
Shopping in Kavos is mostly limited to souvenirs. Visitors who
want more to choose from can catch regular buses to Corfu Town,
which has excellent gold, lace, leather, silver and ceramic items.
Self-caterers will find essentials at mini-markets.
Things to do in Kavos
The warm and shallow sea around Kavos is ideal for swimming and
watersports such as waterskiing, donut rides and parasailing.
Popular excursions include a visit to the nearby aqua park and boat
trips around the scenic coast. Culture lovers can venture to the
island's historic capital, Corfu Town, which is packed with
interesting archaeological sites. Corfu's unspoilt interior is
uncrowded during all seasons and is the perfect place to find some
tranquillity.
Things to be aware of in Kavos
The nightlife in Kavos is famously vibrant and the resort is
probably not ideal for families or those seeking a relaxing
holiday. Pushy touts come from far afield to steer travellers to
clubs and can be a source of free drinks if handled well. Visitors
should watch out for pick pockets.
Dining in Kavos
Most tourists choose to eat in their apartments, but those who
are looking for a night out will find a wide choice on the menu,
from local delicacies to seafood, curries and traditional English
pub grub.
Rethymnon Crete
Rethymnon Photo credit: Romtomtom
Travellers will appreciate the flower-bedecked balconies in
Rethymnon's old town, and the Turkish and Venetian influences in
its architecture. Tourist development hasn't compromised the
authentic mood on the destination's streets or in its tavernas and
souvenir shops. One of Crete's longest sandy beaches lies to the
east and excursions are easily made to Hania, Heraklion or the
Monastery of Arkadhi.
Nightlife in Rethymnon
Rethymnon's nightlife ranges from noisy pubs and bars to more
relaxed establishments, where holidaymakers can listen to the sea
while sipping on their favourite drinks.
Shopping in Rethymnon
Rethymnon's many gift shops have a beautiful selection of
baskets, woodcarvings, pottery and woven goods. Cretan embroidery
at Haroula Spridaki and various items carved from olive wood at the
aptly named Olive Wood Corner make especially good souvenirs.
Palaiopoleiou has genuine antiques and old textiles, while
shoppers interested in modern ceramics and Greek pottery should try
Omodamos. Many general stores and mini supermarkets are around to
service self-caterers.
Things to do in Rethymnon
Daily boat excursions take holidaymakers to beautiful beaches
and, usually, lunch at a local taverna. Hiking, horseback riding
and visiting sights such as the mosque of Sultan Ibrahim Han and
the Venetian fortress are other popular activities in
Rethymnon.
Things to be aware of in Rethymnon
Rethymnon doesn't have the ruins and archaeological sites many
holidaymakers expect in such an old city.
Dining in Rethymnon
Rethymnon's inner harbour sports an array of restaurants and
fish tavernas; pricing varies. Visitors will find some
old-fashioned cafes around Rimondi Fountain.
Hania Crete
Hania Photo credit: Gorka Palazio
Beyond being the largest city in western Crete, Hania (Chania)
is also one of the most attractive. Its small harbour and labyrinth
of Turkish and Venetian buildings never fail to charm visitors.
Colourful markets and exquisite cuisine add more dimensions to a
fantastic Greek holiday destination. Shops, cafes and tavernas line
narrow, winding lanes, which lead to delicate stonework, white
Orthodox churches and other photographic opportunities. Parts of
the old city walls and buildings have also been excavated. Visitors
can enjoy them during walks around town. Hania's port area is the
oldest and most interesting locale. Holidaymakers will find its
many bars and restaurants busy at night, while its few museums are
certainly worth visiting for history buffs. Hikers must venture
through the famous Samaria Gorge.
Nightlife in Hania
Hania has a number of clubs, with some quietly gay-friendly
options.
Shopping in Hania
Holidaymakers should visit Hania's Municipal Market for good
dining and souvenirs, and the famous Leather Street (Stivanadika)
for leather items. Shoppers will also find many craft and jewellery
establishments around the city.
Things to do in Hania
Hania has many good museums, especially the Maritime Museum. The
city's gorgeous sand and pebble beaches offer sun, surf and
relaxation, and day trips to Crete's myriad attractions are an
option. Visitors will enjoy exploring the quaint narrow
streets.
Things to be aware of in Hania
The pavements in Hania are very narrow, so strolling along the
streets can be a bit hazardous.
Dining in Hania
Visitors will find many cafes, tavernas and restaurants around
the harbour. The city also has a number of traditional
establishments in the market area.
Rhodes Town Rhodes
Rhodes Photo credit: xlibber
Rhodes Town has treasures from Ancient Greece and Byzantine
occupation, such as its Venetian-styled Byzantine mosque, the
Mosque of Suleiman, and its Turkish baths. The new town's bars,
nightclubs and tavernas are popular with visitors, as is the long
stretch of beach.
Nightlife in Rhodes Town
This is one of the most popular islands in Greece and its rich
nightlife features bars, dance clubs and bouzouki clubs,
particularly in Rhodes New Town. Faliraki resort also has a famous
party scene and is very close to Rhodes Town. Its atmospheric Old
Town has many great restaurants and venues offering traditional
entertainment.
Shopping in Rhodes Town
Rhodes Old Town offers some exciting shopping, with the area's
charming old streets complementing the traditional wares on offer
in shops and stalls. Traditional jewellery and pottery, antique
goods and modern souvenirs are popular purchases, as are foodstuffs
such as good Greek wine and traditional Greek olive oil. Rhodes New
Town has plenty of high-end and designer shops.
Things to do in Rhodes Town
There are many historical attractions, such as the intriguing
Street of the Knights, which follows the course of an even older
track that led from the Acropolis to the harbour. The legendary
Colossus is said to have stood there. Today, the area features
buildings that were constructed for the Order of St John's knights
in the 16th century, each one serving as a different national
group's inn. The town's Byzantine remains are also fascinating,
while surfing, scuba diving and visits to the destination's lovely
beaches are other popular activities.
Things to be aware of in Rhodes Town
Rhodes Town gets crowded during summer. It's also infamously
labyrinthine, so navigation can be a little confusing.
Dining in Rhodes Town
Visitors will find everything from the quaintest traditional
eateries to Starbucks, and can indulge in fine dining or keep
things budget-friendly.
Faliraki Rhodes
Faliraki Photo credit: Francesco Sgroi
Situated on the east coast of Rhodes, Faliraki is popular among
party-people and sun worshippers. Deckchairs, umbrellas and sunbeds
dominate its sandy shoreline, as holidaymakers look out over clear
waters and a variety of skiers. The resort also has a vibrant
nightlife and restaurant scene. Day trips from the resort venture
to small bays, some of which are nudist, and several natural,
undeveloped beaches.
Nightlife in Faliraki
Bar Street and Club Street in Faliraki live up to their names
and reputations as a paradise for young clubbers and pubbers. The
areas have many dance floors and watering holes, with renowned
international DJs often gracing party goers with a set. For many
guests at Faliraki resort, the vibrant nightlife is a significant
drawcard.
Shopping in Faliraki
Visitors can find everything a holidaymaker needs in Faliraki,
from local crafts to toothpaste, and shops stay open till very late
during warmer seasons. Serious shoppers can head to Rhodes Old Town
and haggle for bargains in the narrow, cobbled streets. Good buys
include leather bags and sandals, rugs, gold and silver jewellery,
and ceramics.
Things to do in Faliraki
Active holidaymakers can choose from a variety of fun pursuits,
including banana-boat rides and bungee-jumping. The area's clear
waters are perfect for scuba diving and snorkelling. Faliraki also
has one of Europe's biggest and best water parks, offering slides,
lazy river rides, rafting, a wave pool, an aqua-gym and numerous
other thrills and spills. Rhodes Town is a must-see, with its
medieval core. Lindos Town also has some fascinating archaeological
sites, such as its hill-top acropolis. All in all, Rhodes is quite
rightly one of Greece's most popular holiday destinations.
Things to be aware of in Faliraki
Faliraki has received some bad publicity in recent years because
of the rowdy, drunken behaviour of some young holidaymakers.
Travellers who want a peaceful beach retreat should consider other
resorts.
Dining in Faliraki
Faliraki has a huge variety of restaurants, from traditional
Greek tavernas to Chinese. Prices range from cheap to reasonable;
fast-food bars abound, staying open until the wee hours.
Ixia Rhodes
Ixia Photo credit: Paul Stephenson
Ixia's constant summer breezes temper its heat and provide
excellent conditions for windsurfing. Its shingle beach follows the
curve of the main road and is known to receive rough waves, meaning
bathers should take care if they venture into the sea. Most hotels
have pools and deckchairs for guests who'd rather avoid the waves.
Rhodes Town's clubs and pubs are only a few minutes away by
taxi.
Nightlife in Ixia
Rhodes Town and Faliraki have vibrant club scenes and are close
to Ixia.
Shopping in Ixia
Visitors will find groceries and souvenirs in Ixia. Those who
travel the short distance to markets in Rhodes or range further to
traditional villages will find a more authentically Greek shopping
experience.
Things to do in Ixia
The hill of Filerimos is the most impressive archaeological site
near Ixia, where visitors can explore the remains of the Temple of
Zeus and Athena Poliada, Byzantine fortifications, a 14th-century
church and several shrines. Ixia's adjacent beaches are attractive
but not ideal for swimming, though windsurfers and other
watersports enthusiasts will welcome the conditions.
Things to be aware of in Ixia
Ixia is dominated by foreign visitors and is tailored to their
needs. Its 'touristy' character has advantages but some travellers
may feel the area lacks authentic Greek spirit and has been
over-commercialised.
Dining in Ixia
Ixia has loads of bars, cafes and restaurants, with menus
ranging from traditional Greek meals, to pizza or Chinese food.
Laganas Zakynthos
Laganas Photo credit: zolakoma
Laganas is the hottest spot on Zakynthos (Zante), where
sun-lovers can enjoy golden sand and warm waters along one of the
Mediterranean's longest beaches. It's the most busy and developed
area of Zakynthos, and is the party capital of the island. Laganas
is the most popular beach, with loads of restaurants, bars and
activities available. Nearby Kalamaki Beach is family-friendly,
with warm, shallow waters and pedalo and surf boards available for
hire. Turtles do lay eggs on this beach so areas are sectioned off.
A trip to Dafni Beach is worth it for the amazing views alone;
there's a welcoming taverna for those who make the dramatic drive
down to the beach.
Nightlife in Laganas
Laganas is packed with party people on summer nights. Reputable
DJs are frequent visitors and play through to the small hours and
beyond. Dance clubs, pubs, cocktail bars and karaoke bars are all
part of the experience.
Shopping in Laganas
Visitors will find everything from grocery stores to hundreds of
souvenir shops. Good buys include jewellery, leather goods,
designer clothing and local crafts. The fresh bread and sweet
pastries from local bakeries are particularly good.
Things to do in Laganas
Though Laganas is mainly about fun, sun and partying, it has
some very worthwhile scenic and cultural excursions, including boat
cruises to turtle-viewing sites, the absolutely stunning Shipwreck
Beach (Navagio) and Zakynthos' extraordinary sea caves. Zakynthos
town is home to fascinating museums, historic sites, churches and
shopping opportunities, while nearby Agios Niklaos Beach offers
watersports.
Things to be aware of in Laganas
Laganas is one of the biggest and busiest resorts in Greece and
is complete change of pace from the quiet, traditional Greek island
experience. The beach is always jam-packed in the height of the
season and the resort is continually full of noise and commotion.
Many visitors have complained about over-insistent touts outside
clubs and restaurants, and some have reportedly been misled on the
quality of their accommodation. The resort doesn't offer
watersports because of the nesting loggerhead turtles on the
beach.
Dining in Laganas
Laganas is awash with a huge range of restaurants, including
snack bars and fast food outlets. Cuisine ranges from Greek dishes
at local tavernas, to curry and pizza.
Molyvos Lesvos
Molyvos Photo credit: Jean-Francois Renaud
Molyvos is Lesvos Island's most popular and picturesque holiday
resort, where a pretty harbour and red-roofed houses offer
holidaymakers a serene and laid-back atmosphere. The town's
archaeological museum shows a history that pre-dates the Classical
Age. Visitors typically enjoy snorkelling and sunbathing or
strolling along the market's quaint, cobbled streets. Many end the
day with sundowners and a delicious Greek dinner on the
waterfront.
Nightlife in Molyvos
Though Molyvos isn't top-of-mind among party goers, it does have
some clubs and lively bars. The open-air cinema is worth attending
and performances at the Castle are always a must.
Shopping in Molyvos
Holidaymakers usually enjoy Molyvos' market. Set along
cobble-stoned alleys, it's a good place to buy local crafts and
produce.
Things to do in Molyvos
Molyvos' pebble-covered beach is Blue Flag certified and worth
visiting, though Petra Beach is just a short distance away for
travellers who prefer sand. The island's activities include donkey
trekking, visits to Eftalou's natural thermal baths and boat trips
to the Turkish mainland. The town also has a lot of traditional
architecture.
Things to be aware of in Molyvos
Some holidaymakers have been disappointed to find pebbles
instead of sand on Molyvos' beach. Also, summer weekends can see a
lot of motorbike traffic, which can be unpleasantly noisy.
Dining in Molyvos
Molyvos has many traditional tavernas around the harbour and
market areas. As it's a fishing village, seafood is naturally the
pride of most local menus.
Sidari Corfu
Sidari Photo credit: C messier
Located on the north coast of Corfu, Sidari is known for its
long, sandy beaches, lively tavernas, bars and nightlife. Many
holidaymakers stop at the village's small, romantic beach cove
called Canal D'Amour, where locals say bathers will find love.
Nightlife in Sidari
Sidari has a range of bars and nightclubs. Visitors can expect
lots of action, particularly during the peak tourist season.
Shopping in Sidari
Visitors will find plenty of shopping along the main strip,
where there are many souvenir shops selling quality merchandise.
The island is noted for its gold and silver jewellery, leather
goods, painted ceramics and olive-wood items.
Things to do in Sidari
Holidaymakers will find most watersports in Sidari. Boats are
available for hire and visitors can arrange trips to nearby islands
such as Paxos and Erikoussa, and a coach trip to Albania. Buses
depart regularly for Corfu Town and Aqualand Water Park.
Things to be aware of in Sidari
Sidari's main strip can become quite noisy due to bars and clubs
closing late. The area's lack of cultural and historical
attractions puts many travellers off.
Dining in Sidari
Sidari has many restaurants offering anything from authentic
Greek fare to Western staples. Many of the most popular restaurants
are on the beachfront.
Overview of the Attractions in Greece
Greece is easily one of the world's best destinations. From
historic sightseeing to glorious beaches, travellers truly are in
for a treat. Most visitors begin their trip in Athens, where
Classical Greece colours the modern capital through famous
structures such as the Parthenon and the Acropolis. There are also
many wonderful museums; Syntagma Square is the city's social,
political and commercial hub.
From Athens, many venture out to the islands. Mountainous Crete
is the most popular and features sparkling beaches, spectacular
green outcroppings, ancient Minoan sites, and the famous Samaria
Gorge Trail. Other popular island destinations include Corfu, for
its mythic significance, Santorini, for its volcanic history and
vibrant nightlife, and Rhodes, which is a World Heritage Site.
History buffs should head to the Peloponnese Peninsula for the
region's ancient ruins and battlefields.
Kos Archaeological Museum Kos
Displaying mainly Hellenistic and Roman treasures found in and
around Kos Town and dating from as far back as the 3rd century BC,
the Archaeological Museum allows visitors a glimpse into the former
glory enjoyed by this quaint port town. The museum is in
Eleutherias Square and is housed in a two-storey neoclassical
building which is itself a monument, dating back to 1935 and the
Italian occupation. The museum's collection includes artefacts and
archaeological findings from Kos and surrounds and even Rhodes and
there are pieces on display from sites such as ancient Asklepeion,
the Altar of Dionysus, the Odeon and the Roman Residence. From
original mosaics of Hippocrates, who taught here, to statues of
Asklepieion, Artemis and Hygeia found north of Decumanus Maximus, a
trip to the Archaeological Museum provides a good foundation of
knowledge for visitors who plan to explore the surrounding sites.
Many remarkable and valuable sculptures, mosaics and coins, among
other things, are on display and the museum is well arranged and
labelled.
In Athens, first-time visitors generally flock to the Acropolis.
Perched on a steep, flat-topped rock above the sprawling city, the
citadel is a striking image of the ancient world; a timeless
collection of magnificent temples, most of which honour Athena, the
goddess of wisdom. The Athenian statesman, Pericles, erected most
of the present-day ruins after Persians destroyed the original
buildings. Visitors enter through the Propylaea: the monumental
entranceway. The tiny, restored temple of Athena Nike is to the
entrance's right. The Parthenon may be the Acropolis' biggest
drawcard. Built of Pentelic marble quarried from the distant
mountains, it's the greatest surviving monument of Doric
architecture, and the backdrop to a magnificent view of Athens. The
Erechtheion temple sits alongside the Parthenon. According to
mythology, it is the site where Poseidon and Athena contested the
right to be Athens' deity. Athena won after gifting Athens the
olive tree. The Acropolis' museum is located by the citadel's
southern slope. It displays some of the carvings and friezes
recovered from the temples.
Website: whc.unesco.org/en/list/404
Ancient Agora Athens
The remains of the Agora lie clustered below the Acropolis. As
Ancient Athens' commercial and civic centre, it's where the great
philosophers Socrates and Plato once walked and talked. In fact,
the disgraced Socrates committed suicide in the Agora's southwest
corner. Today, the area is littered with ancient ruins, including
the Dionysos Theatre, where Classical Athens' great tragedians put
on their work. Visitors can also see the restored Stoa of Attalos,
which served as a law court, municipal office and shopping arcade
in 200 BC. The museum on the building's ground floor contains
artefacts covering 5,000 years of Athenian history.
This is the largest and most popular of Athens' many museums,
and is usually very crowded. Its vast collection includes treasures
unearthed from Mycenae by Heinrich Schliemann; a staggering array
of sculpture including the earliest known Greek figurines dating
from around 2000 BC; frescoes from the volcanic island of
Santorini; and so much more that it is recommended visitors make
several visits to absorb it all. One of the most popular displays
is the Mycenae gold, collected from ancient tombs, including
Agamemnon's death mask. The museum is world-class and well-arranged
and it hosts regular temporary exhibitions and educational
programmes (lectures and workshops) for those interested. There is
a gift shop and cafe for visitors to relax in if they get tired,
which is often necessary as the museum can occupy one for hours and
there is not much seating in the exhibition rooms. Photography is
allowed in the museum and the glass display cases have been
designed to make photography possible. There is a disabled entrance
around the side of the building. By all accounts this is one of the
most captivating and impressive museums in the world and it is a
must on any visit to Athens.
Website: http://www.namuseum.gr
Piraeus Athens
The port of Piraeus is the chief port in Greece, the largest
passenger port in Europe, and the third largest in the world,
servicing about 20 million passengers annually. Although not really
attractive to tourists, the confusing, bustling port of Athens is
the departure point for hundreds of island ferries and cruise
ships, so most tourists will pass through it while visiting Greece.
Piraeus has been Athens' port since ancient times and was for many
years the chief harbour of Ancient Greece. Piraeus was a city, not
merely a port, and was once separated from the mainland, occupying
its own rocky island. Today it is part of Athens and the port
actually consists of three harbours, with most of the tourist boats
using the Zea Limani section. There are several good fish
restaurants in the harbour precincts, and a sprawling street
market. Visitors with time on their hands while waiting for ferries
can also explore the Maritime Museum at Akti Themistokleous,
alongside the pier used by the island hydrofoils, which features
models of ancient and modern ships. There are also archaeological
sites at the port, including the remains of some of the ancient
fortifications of the harbours.
Plaka Athens
Plaka is the old historical neighbourhood of Athens, clustered
around the northern and eastern slopes of the Acropolis, and
incorporating labyrinthine streets and neoclassical architecture.
Modern Plaka has been built on top of the residential areas of the
ancient town of Athens and it is known as the 'Neighbourhood of the
Gods' because of its proximity to the Acropolis and its many
archaeological sites. The old town is a very popular gathering
place for travellers and tourists, particularly in the warm Athens
evenings. Strolling the narrow streets of the Plaka flanked by
ancient monuments, Byzantine churches and mosques, stately
mansions, and inviting tavernas with vine-covered courtyards, makes
a pleasant diversion. The Ancient Agora is a central feature of
this area and the modern Plaka was built around it. Archaeological
excavations have been taking place here continuously for decades
and new ruins and artefacts are still being found. No cars are
allowed in Plaka, which is completely pedestrianised. There is some
great shopping to be done in the area but, on busy days, travellers
should beware of pick-pockets who target market places and
tourists. A visit to Athens is not complete without a long supper
beneath the stars in Plaka.
Kolonaki/Lykavittos Hill Athens
Lykavittos Hill juts a steep 984 feet (300m) right up from the
centre of the city of Athens, and is a great vantage point from
which to take in the scope of the city and its beautiful views. In
fact, this is the best spot from which to view the city, in every
direction, and a dreamy place to explore and take photographs. It
is said that wolves once inhabited the hill, in explanation of how
it got its name, because 'lykos' means wolf in Greek. Another
popular myth explains that the hill was formed when Athena, the
patron of Athens, dropped a rock she was planning to use for the
Acropolis. The St. George Chapel and Lykavittos Theatre perch atop
the hill, which can be reached by car, cable car or a healthy hike.
There is a restaurant and cafe on the summit to refresh exhausted
hikers or provide a romantic location for a dinner. The cable car
departs every 30 minutes, from the corners of Aristippou and
Ploutarchou Streets in Kolonaki. Those who plan to walk up, which
is a really wonderful way to experience the hill, should begin
their hike on Ploutarchou Street. After walking about half way up
the hill hikers will come upon some steps that take them the rest
of the way to the top.
Syntagma Square, or Constitution Square in English, is named for
the Constitution that King Otto was forced to grant to the people
of Greece after a popular military uprising in September 1843. The
square forms the heart of modern Athens and is home to the
Parliament Building, built in 1840 as a royal palace. Tourists
flock to photograph the unusually clad guards at the palace; the
skirted and pom-pommed guard is changed ceremonially, every hour,
in front of the memorial to the Unknown Soldier. There are two
green areas planted with lots of trees in the north and south of
the square which provide some welcome coolness on hot days. The
National Gardens are around the Parliament Building and they are a
delight in the heat. The square is a central point of access to all
the major attractions of Athens, particularly 'museum mile' along
Vassilissis Sophias Avenue, which runs from Syntagma Square. Here
most of Athens' museums are clustered, including the Benaki Museum,
Museum of Cycladic Art and the Byzantine Museum. Syntagma Square is
also a transport hub with a metro station.
Cape Sounion Athens
Locals and visitors love Cape Sounion. Around 43 miles (69km)
east of Athens, the popular seaside resort is famous in Greek
Mythology. Its best-known feature is the 5th-century BC Temple of
Poseidon. Perched on the cliffs above the town, it's said to be
where King Aegeus waited for his son, Theseus, who'd left to slay
the Minotaur of Crete. The story goes that Theseus hoisted the
wrong colour sail on his return, convincing his father he'd died
fighting the Minotaur. In his grief, the king threw himself from
the cliffs and gave the Aegean Sea its name. Visitors can enjoy
some beautiful views from the temple; the cape's coastline is worth
exploring and its restaurants are good.
This great Byzantine architectural masterpiece dates from the
11th century AD and has been called the most perfect monument of
that century. The monastery was built on the site of an ancient
Temple of Apollo and one surviving column can be seen near the
entrance. It is situated about five and a half miles (9km) west of
Athens on the road to Corinth. The church and monastery have
suffered the ravages of invaders and earthquakes through the
centuries. During the Crusades Cistercian monks turned Daphni into
a Catholic monastery, but today it has been reclaimed by the Greek
Orthodox Church and its beautiful mosaic work depicting Biblical
scenes has been restored. In between the monastery has had an
eventful history; during the War of Independence it was officially
deconsecrated and used as a barracks and even as a lunatic asylum.
The monastery was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990.
Tragically, the monastery was heavily damaged by the 1999 Athens
earthquake and is still not completely open to visitors as
restoration work continues with no set date of completion. However,
travellers can still visit the monastery and see the mosaics
through all the scaffolding.
About 26 miles (42km) northeast of Athens, between the villages
of Nea Makri and Marathona, is the site of the great battle between
the small force of Athenians and the mighty Persian army in 490 BC.
On the plain of Marathon today the burial mound of the 192
Athenians who fell in the fight can be seen, along with a small
museum displaying archaeological relics from the battlefield. The
battle is famed not only for the Athenian victory against huge
odds, but also for the fleetness of the Athenian runner,
Pheidippides, who was dispatched to Athens with news of the victory
and fell dead from exhaustion after delivering the message to the
city; thus the name 'Marathon' was given to long-distance running
races. The marathon race in the 2004 Olympics started here, and
followed the same route as that run by Pheidippedes in the legend,
ending at the Panathinaikon Stadium in Athens, which was built for
the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Marathon remains one of the
most famous battlefields in the world and a visit to the site is a
must for anybody with an interest in military history.
Delphi Athens
Situated on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, Delphi was home to
Classical Greece's most important oracle. The country's ancient
people visited the site to worship the god Apollo. Pilgrims came
from all over the Classical Greek world to seek Apollo's advice via
his oracle. The area also hosted the Pythian Games. Held every four
years, they attracted famous athletes from all over Ancient Greece.
They were one of the four Panhellenic games, which are considered
precursors of the modern Olympics. Today, travellers hike up the
Sacred Way much as ancient pilgrims did, and marvel at the site's
fantastic ruins. They include the marble Sanctuary of Apollo, the
Castalian Spring and the Sanctuary of Athena. Many visit the site's
excellent museum. Scenically, Delphi is spectacular and presents
enviable photographic opportunities. It's ideal to stay overnight,
as the site is extensive.
The Saronic group of islands are all within an hour or two of
Piraeus by boat, making them ideal destinations for day trips from
the city for those who want to experience a taste of Greek island
life. Alternatively, visitors can use the islands as tranquil bases
on which to stay while commuting to Athens to see the sights.
Aegina is the closest island, sporting a sandy beach called Agia
Marina, and a quaint fishing village called Perdika. Hydra has no
sandy beaches, but the town is picturesque and offers good seafood
restaurants. Poros can be reached from Piraeus in little more than
an hour and sports beautiful forests that descend to the beach. It
offers watersports opportunities and a lively café scene, as well
as being a ferry hub offering connections to all the popular Aegean
islands. Spetsi has an attractive old harbour and one of the oldest
wooden boat-building yards in Greece. It is also renowned for its
beaches and pine forests. Piraeus port may be a little confusing or
overwhelming at first but it is also exciting and the boat trips to
the islands are usually wonderful experiences in themselves.
Among shady pine, olive and oak trees, in a valley between Mount
Kronos and the Alfios River on the Peloponnese Peninsula, lies one
of the most famous historical and archaeological sites in Greece.
Olympia includes the remains of two ancient temples and the stadium
where the first Olympic Games took place in 776 BC. Since the
modern Olympics were inaugurated in 1896 torchbearers have set out
from Olympia to carry the Olympic flame in relays across the world
to wherever the games are held every four years. The site also
boasts one of the finest archaeological museums in Greece. The
ruins themselves are fascinating, being the remnants of an ancient
Olympic village including a gymnasium, baths, the Prytaneion (where
winners were honoured) and a Doric Temple dedicated to Hera. In the
nearby modern village of Olympia there is another museum that is
often sadly overlooked: the Museum of the Olympic Games contains
some interesting memorabilia from games past and gives those
interested in the event a fantastic overview of its history and
significance.
Ancient Corinth Peloponnese Peninsula
Ancient Corinth is rests around the base of Acrocorinth.
Originally a Greek acropolis, this lofty fortress hill has been a
Roman citadel, a Byzantine castle and more over the course of its
history. Most of the city's surviving buildings are Roman, though.
Caesar built them after his armies sacked much of the original
settlement. Since then, recurring earthquakes have toppled large
parts of ancient Corinth, but enough of it remains to fire up the
imagination. The 6th-century BC Temple of Apollo is particularly
beautiful. It sits on a hill overlooking the marketplace's remains.
Visitors will find an archaeological museum in the site's southwest
corner, and it contains some worthwhile collections of mosaic
floors, pottery and works of art.
Website: http://www.ancientcorinth.net
Mycenae Peloponnese Peninsula
This ancient site, 31 miles (50km) south of Corinth, bears the
remains of the ancient palace and citadel of Mycenae, a place of
archaeological controversy but fascinating for the lay visitor.
Homer's fabulous story has it that the kingdom of Mycenae was
dripping in gold and revelling in riches before King Agamemnon
decided to lead an assault on Troy, back in about 1,250 BC. The
king started a war that lasted a decade, battling to win the
impossibly beautiful Helen of Troy back from Prince Paris. German
archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann discovered Mycenae, which he
believed gave credence to Homer's tale, in 1874 after he had
excavated the remains of Troy itself. There is no doubt that
Mycenae was a city of power and prosperity and the ruins, from the
Lion Gate (oldest example of monumental sculpture in Europe) to the
palace complex, houses and beehive tomb of Agamemnon, are well
worth exploring. Most of the more exceptional finds from the site
are on exhibit in the National Archaeological Museum in Athens.
These include frescoes, gold jewellery, and the gold mask said to
have belonged to Agamemnon, among other priceless pieces.
Epidaurus Peloponnese Peninsula
A definite must on a tour of the Peloponnese is the famed
ancient theatre of Epidaurus, built in the 3rd century BC and so
well preserved that with little or no restoration it is still in
use today for regular summer dramatic performances, which are lent
a mystical aura by the beautiful and ancient setting. The theatre
has perfect acoustics, allowing even a whisper on stage to be heard
in the back row of the limestone amphitheatre, which can seat
14,000. North of the theatre are the ruins of the healing Sanctuary
of Asklepios, which has a museum explaining how the original temple
complex would have looked and functioned. This was once the most
famous healing centre of the Greek and Roman world, and some argue
that it is the birthplace of modern medicine. It is very
interesting to learn about the evolution of medical treatment in
this place and to explore the ruins and remains of the sanctuary,
which once spawned 200 dependent spas throughout the Mediterranean.
Where the ancient town of Epidaurus once stood there is now the
modern day village of Palia Epidaurus. This is a popular seaside
resort with scenic beaches, a small harbour and several
tavernas.
Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum Thessaloniki
The Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum is regarded as one of the
finest museums in Europe; it is near the famous White Tower and
opposite the city's international fairgrounds. The museum houses a
huge collection including the incredible treasures from the tomb of
Alexander the Great's father, Phillip of Macedon, which was
discovered at Vergina in 1977. Another treasured artefact is the
3rd century BC Derveni papyrus, the only intact ancient papyrus
found in Greece, which was discovered in the tombs of Derveni.
Other rooms in the museum contain exhibits depicting the history of
the city from prehistoric days through to the Roman period,
including spectacular mosaics and some exquisite, delicate
Hellenistic glass. The museum will occupy visitors for a few hours
if they are interested in history and archaeology and it is a
well-organised and impressively laid out collection. Thessaloniki
has a captivating history and it rewards investigation.
Website: http://www.amth.gr
Roman Forum Thessaloniki
Close to one of the city's main bus terminals in Dikasterion
Square lies the archaeological site of the ancient Greek agora or
marketplace, which was later expanded to become a Roman Forum on
two levels. The Roman Forum was constructed in the late 2nd century
AD and it constituted the administrative centre of the town till
about the 5th century. The forum was the heart of the ancient city,
and was discovered by workmen in the 1960s. The best-preserved
component of the forum is the large theatre, which is still used
for occasional summer concerts. On the southwest corner of the
square is the magnificent church of Panagia Chalkeon. The
Archaeological Museum built beneath the ruins houses some of the
artefacts discovered in excavations on the site and a visit to the
museum gives great context for exploring the site. It is small but
captivating. Entry to the ruins is free but there are no written
explanations, making the museum a necessary stop. The site is
closed on Mondays. The area around the excavations is full of
artists, shops and taverns and there are some wonderful little
places to buy traditional wares and souvenirs.
The city of Thessaloniki's most famous landmark, the White
Tower, was originally built as part of the city walls to fortify
the coast during Ottoman rule. It now stands, no longer quite white
but still very imposing, on the seaside promenade south of the
Archaeological Museum, having been restored and offering panoramic
views of the city and harbour from its rooftop cafe. Although now a
proud landmark of the city, and the chosen symbol of its residents,
the tower has a bloody history. It was used by the Ottomans as a
prison, infamous for its brutality, and was the site for public
executions; on the way up the winding staircase to the cafe
visitors can peep into the dim rooms that were once used as cells.
As a result of this notoriety as a brutal place it was known as the
'Tower of Blood' or the 'Red Tower' to local Greeks up until the
end of the 19th century. When Thessaloniki was reclaimed by the
Greeks the tower was whitewashed as a gesture of symbolic cleansing
and it has since been re-imagined in the collective imagination as
a positive symbol of freedom and pride. The tower contains a museum
housing some Byzantine art and historical artefacts from
Thessaloniki's history between 300 and 1,500 AD.
Most of Thessaloniki's beautiful churches are situated along the
quaint, narrow-cobbled streets of the Upper City area. They date
from various eras, including Byzantine. In particular, visitors
should look out for the domed Church of Saint George. Its history
goes back to the 4th century, when it was Roman Emperor Galerius'
mausoleum. Agia Sofia is Thessaloniki's largest and most famous
Byzantine church. The Agii Apostoli and the beautifully frescoed
Agios Nikolaos Orfanos are also must-sees. Thessaloniki's churches
are open to visitors, but often close during the afternoon. For
this reason, visitors should try to tour them in the morning.
Sightseers should also follow local custom when entering, meaning
they should dress appropriately and act respectfully in these
sacred places, and ask permission before taking photographs. Some
churches will not admit sightseers during services but tourists are
always welcome to attend.
Only men are welcome to make a pilgrimage to Mount Athos, the
secretive 'Shangri-La' on a rugged promontory about 80 miles
(129km) southeast of Thessaloniki. Here it is possible to step back
in time and mingle with hundreds of monks, from more than 20
monasteries, in one of the most scenic spots in Europe. This
unique, mountainous enclave on the coast is sprinkled with huge
monasteries, most resembling castles, containing wonderful
frescoes, mosaics and libraries. There are also smaller monasteries
known as kelions attached to small churches, as well as caves on
the mountain slopes where monks retreat as hermits. There are
forests and pristine seashore, and beautiful gardens cared for by
the monks. It is a truly astounding area to explore and there is
nowhere quite like it in the world; unsurprisingly, it is a UNESCO
World Heritage Site. Mount Athos is a self-governing area within
Greece, and to visit, it is necessary to obtain a permit from the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Athens, or from the Ministry of
Northern Greece in Thessaloniki. Women will unfortunately be unable
to obtain such a permit, and the amount of visitors allowed daily
is limited.
Vergina Thessaloniki
Vergina, known in ancient times as Aigai, is the most important
of a cluster of three archaeological sites in the area connected
with Philip, father of Alexander the Great. Vergina is where Philip
built a massive palace and a theatre, and where he was assassinated
in 336 BC. The palace has been excavated, as has the theatre, and
the site also features hundreds of burial mounds, some dating from
the Iron Age, across the plain. The tomb of Philip was found here
undisturbed in 1977, full of treasures that are now on display in
Thessaloniki's Archaeological Museum. The vast palace is full of
amazing mosaics and paintings and is really exciting to explore, as
are the tombs, which are surrounded by a museum and can be seen in
all their ancient splendour. The site of ancient Aigai has been
declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a privilege to explore
for those with an interest in ancient history and archaeology.
Nearby is Pella, the remains of the former capital of Macedonia
from the 5th century, where Alexander the Great was born; and Dion,
an important religious sanctuary once frequented by Philip and
Alexander.
Towering above ancient Dion, about 48 miles (77km) south of
Thessaloniki, is Greece's highest mountain, Mount Olympus, home to
some of the famed Gods of Greek mythology. Olympus was the
residence of the divine family, the twelve most important ruling
gods and goddesses of ancient Greece, who therefore were called the
Olympians. Olympus was not heaven but a dwelling place of the gods.
The mountain is rich in tree and plant life, supporting more than
1,700 species, some very rare, and it is part of a National Park
and a World's Biosphere Reserve. The main village in the area is
Litohoro, which is connected to Athens and Thessaloniki by bus and
train, and has been nicknamed the 'City of Gods' due to its
location beneath the mountain. It is possible to climb the highest
peak in about two days, and almost the whole hike is non-technical
and can be done without experience or special equipment, along
numerous mountain trails. However, the final ascent to the summit
of Mytikas, the highest of Mount Olympus's 52 peaks, is a class 3
rock scramble and requires some skill and experience. About 10,000
people climb the mountain every year but most only reach the Skolio
summit. Hikers generally set out from Litochoro.
Corfu Archaeological Museum Corfu
Corfu Town has its own Archaeological Museum. Though small and
ordinary-looking from the outside, it's definitely worth a visit
for anyone interested in archaeology or the area's ancient history.
Built between 1962 and 1965, the museum was initially meant to
house important artefacts from Corfu's sixth century BC Temple of
Artemis. Indeed, its greatest treasure is the temple's Gorgon
pediment, which is Greece's oldest surviving stone pediment. To
many, it is a fine example of archaic sculpture. Visitors will find
some other interesting sculptures too, such as the Lion of
Menecrates. A famous Corinthian sculptor carved it in the late 7th
century BC. The 500 BC pediment of Dionysus is another fascinating
artefact. The museum's collection also features some interesting
coins, vases and armour.
Museum of Asian Art Corfu
Although it may seem strange to visit a museum dedicated to
Eastern art and antiquity while on holiday in Greece, this museum
is very interesting and the only one of its kind in the country.
Gregorios Manos, the founder of the museum, was a Greek ambassador
to Austria who was passionate about the East and purchased at art
auctions about 9,500 authentic Chinese, Korean and Japanese
artefacts, which formed the basis of the museum collection when it
was opened in 1928. The permanent collection includes arms and
armour, bronze, ceramics, paintings, sculptures and textiles from
China, Japan, Korea, India and a few other Asian countries. The
three-storey building housing this collection of art is a beautiful
neoclassical structure built by the British in 1820 when the Ionian
Islands were ruled by Britain. The building itself justifies
visiting the museum for those with an interest in architecture. The
museum is a peaceful oasis that immerses the visitor in another
world and culture. It is situated at the north end of the Esplanade
in Corfu Town.
Website: http://www.matk.gr
Achilleion Corfu
Empress Elizabeth of Austria built the Achilleion in 1890.
Standing just south of Corfu, the palace was intended as a memorial
to her son, Rudolf, following his death by apparent suicide one
year earlier. Neoclassical in style, the palace takes the mythical
figure, Achilles, as its central theme, and features numerous
statues and motifs associated with him. The gardens are also set
with a number of statues commissioned by the Empress, including
German sculptor, Herter's, 'Dying Achilles'. After Elisabeth's
assassination, the German Kaiser Wilhelm II purchased the
Achilleion property and used it as a summer home. During his time,
the palace hosted many notable guests and became a hub of European
diplomacy. The Kaiser added some artwork of his own. The palace
transitioned to a new purpose when it served as a military hospital
during World War One, and as a military headquarters in World War
Two. Later, a brief spell under private ownership saw it house a
casino in the upper storey. It has since been reclaimed as a
museum, and as a venue for state events. The Achilleion houses many
valuable artworks and is well worth a visit. Its sprawling gardens
are also a joy to explore.
Website: http://www.achillion-corfu.gr/?lang=en
The Palace of Knossos Crete
The Minoan palace at Knossos, covering an area of 215,278 square
feet (20,000 sq metres), is one of the world's greatest sightseeing
experiences and a must for visitors in the area. It consists of
four wings, arranged around a rectangular, central court. The
palace originally had many storeys, was built of ashlar blocks, and
had walls decorated with splendid frescoes. British archaeologist,
Arthur Evans, who excavated most of the labyrinthine Knossos site,
has painstakingly restored some sections of the palace. The remains
now visible are actually not those of the original palace, which
was built around 2,000 BC and destroyed by an earthquake about
1,700 BC. A subsequent, more complex, palace was then constructed
and it is these ruins that can still be seen and parts of which
have been restored. The palace was first unearthed in 1878 by a
Cretan merchant and antiquarian, but was not systematically
excavated until 1900. The Knossos site is about three miles (5km)
south of Heraklion.
A visit to the Minoan palace at Knossos should be complemented
with a visit to the wonderful Archaeological Museum in Heraklion.
This is one of the largest and most renowned museums in Greece, and
even in Europe, and the Minoan collection is the best of its kind
in the world. The museum features artefacts spanning 5,500 years of
Cretan history and prehistory from the Neolithic (5000 BC) to the
Late Roman Period (late 4th century AD). Thousands of artefacts
depicting the intriguing Minoan culture are on display, from
magnificent bull-headed drinking vessels to the mysterious Phaistos
disk inscribed with undeciphered symbols. The exhibition takes up
20 rooms and is arranged chronologically. There is a museum shop
where visitors can buy copies, books, postcards and the like, and a
museum cafe for refreshments.
This museum deals with Crete's more modern history and
highlights the islanders' long battle for independence from early
Christian times to the present day. The museum is housed in a
two-storey neoclassical building constructed in 1903 on the site of
an earlier mansion. The Historical Museum has impressive
collections of ceramics, sculptures, coins, jewellery, Byzantine
art, Ottoman artefacts, and ethnographic displays, and the history
of Crete is thoroughly and well laid out. The medieval and
Renaissance collection contains the only painting on Crete by the
island's famous painter El Greco, The Landscape of God-trodden
Mount Sinai, which is one of the museum's treasures. Another
world-renowned Cretan, Nikos Kazantzakis, author of Zorba the
Greek, is also remembered in the museum, which houses a recreation
of his study. There are frequent temporary exhibitions to be
enjoyed, and there is a library containing some interesting
documents and rare editions.
Website: http://www.historical-museum.gr
Monastery of Arkadhi Crete
Situated about 14 miles (23km) south of Rethymnon, the Monastery
of Arkadhi is something of a national Cretan shrine. During the
1866 rebellion against the Turks the monastery became a refuge for
Cretan insurgents and their families (it was the Cretan Christians
who revolted against Turkish rule in the rebellion). They were
surrounded by the Turks and after two days of fighting, ignited the
gunpowder storeroom, which killed hundreds of both Turks and
Cretans. The tragedy brought international recognition to the cause
for Cretan independence and those who died in the blast have become
celebrated martyr figures. An ossuary displays the skulls of many
of the victims and it is possible to see the roofless room where
the explosion took place, as well as the surviving 16th-century
church that is one of the loveliest Venetian buildings on the
island. There is also a small museum that details the history of
the monastery and the battle for independence. It is a very
interesting, and rather sad, place to explore and gives visitors
some valuable insight into Cretan nationalism and history.
Gortyna Crete
Gortyna is both a municipality in Greece and an archaeological
site on Crete that was once the Roman capital of the island. The
two are unrelated. The remains of the ancient city of Gortyna, to
the south of Heraklion, tell a later tale than that of the other
archaeological sites in Crete, despite the fact that there is
evidence of human settlement in the area dating back to the
Neolithic era. The greatest treasure of the site is the Gortyn Law
Code, recorded on important inscribed stones that date back to the
5th century BC. These remarkable stones are a complete code of law
based on Minoan tradition. The Code stones are still preserved and
exhibited in the north round wall of the Roman Odeon at the Gortyna
site (although of course the theatre was built much later, in the
1st century). Other highlights at Gortyna include the Church of St
Titus, where Christianity was first introduced to the island, and
the Temple of Apollo Pythios, which dates from 700 BC. The city was
thriving before Roman invasion but its early alliance with the
Romans meant that it was not invaded and became even more powerful
in the region. The site is often called Gortyn, rather than
Gortyna.
Phaistos Crete
South of Heraklion lies Crete's second most important Minoan
archaeological site, the Palace complex of Phaistos, considered by
many to be a finer example of Minoan architecture than Knossos. The
west propylon, the monumental entranceway to the palace, is
particularly impressive, and the ceremonial staircase and great
court are breathtaking. Like Knossos the site has actually been
built on twice, with the original palace, built about 2000 BC,
having been destroyed by fire and replaced with a new palace around
300 years later. A number of valuable artefacts have been found on
the site including the Phaistos disc, which was discovered in 1908
in the basements of the northern complex of the palace. This
artefact is a clay disk, dated to between 1950 BC and 1400 BC and
impressed with a unique and sophisticated hieroglyphic script. A
number of tombs were also found, a short distance from the ruins of
the palace complex, and these are thought to belong to the one-time
rulers of Phaistos. The city of Phaistos is associated with the
mythical king of Crete, Rhadamanthys, and the city is mentioned in
many old texts including Homer, who detailed the city's involvement
in the siege of Troy. For anybody with an interest in archaeology,
Phaistos is a must.
The Samaria Gorge National Park, in the White Mountains of
western Crete, is said to be one of the most splendid scenic parks
in Europe and the hike through the gorge is breathtaking. It is an
arduous trip but well worth it to see one of the great natural
wonders of Europe and most people will be able to handle the walk
although they may find it strenuous. From the top of the gorge it
is a 10 mile (16km) hike through the dramatic geological formations
and wildflower-strewn cliff sides of the National Park. There are
lots of awe-inspiring views and natural features along the way and
it is a dream for photographers. Once inside the gorge hikers tend
to follow the water, which helps keep one cool but hikers must note
that they will be in direct sun at least part of the time so it is
important to come prepared with hats, sunscreen and water. Hikers
are always delighted to see that there are restaurants and bars at
the end of the walk to provide well-earned refreshment. From the
village of Agia Roumeli at the end of the gorge hikers board boats
to sail to Khora Sfakion or Paleohora where there are buses back to
Haniá, Rethymnon or Heraklion. Nature-lovers will find the gorge
one of the absolute highlights of a visit to Crete.
Acropolis of Rhodes Rhodes
The ancient Acropolis of Rhodes sits high on a hill overlooking
the city's west. In the past, it featured sanctuaries, large
temples and public buildings, all set on stepped terraces
interspersed with gardens. Today's remains date back to the 2nd
century BC, though excavations continue at the site. The Stadium,
however, has been fully excavated and restored, as has the Temple
of Athena Polias on the site's northern edge. Visitors can also see
the Nymphaia, a marble Odeon, the Temple of Pythian Apollo and the
remains of the Gymnasium. In their day, these sites were used for
recreation, worship, lectures and musical events. This hugely
atmospheric site is worth visiting; views from the top are
tremendous.
From Rhodes it is a short ferry crossing to the hospitable
island of Karpathos where the clock has stood still in the
delightful village of Olymbos in the south. Here the locals go
about their business much as they did in Homer's time, wearing
their traditional costumes and preserving their language and
culture, partly with the aim of attracting tourists but also
because they are proud of their heritage and want to preserve local
customs. They are particularly proud of their unique houses, built
of carved stone and decorated inside with gorgeous embroidery and
other colourful folk art decor. The island has great beaches and
unspoilt villages and is a pleasure to explore, with a picturesque
bay and a monastery at Kyra Panagia, the Diafani village on a
promontory to the north, and forested mountains. Karpathos is also
renowned for its feast days and weddings. Visitors who happen to
catch one in progress will usually receive a warm invitation to
join the festivities. Just four nautical miles from Karpathos is
the smaller island of Kassos, linked by ferry, which has a tiny
community of fishermen still living the way they have for
centuries.
Patmos Kos
This island, sometimes called the 'Jerusalem of the Aegean', is
an official pilgrimage site for members of the Catholic religion,
because it is home to the sacred cavern where the exiled St John
the Evangelist was inspired to write the Biblical Book of
Revelations. Cruise ships and ferries keep the small port very
active, disgorging visitors who wish to visit the holy cave and
witness the cracks in the wall, said to have appeared when St John
heard the voice of the Lord. The small Monastery of the Apocalypse
is very close to the cave and both are worth exploring. The small
and lovely Chapel of St Anne encloses the cave and was built in the
11th century. Crowning the island is the immense Monastery of St
John, with its buttressed walls and, inside, frescoes, icons,
tapestries and pendants made of precious stones. The monastery was
completed in the 11th century and it is a richly decorated fortress
with spectacular views. The historical centre of Patmos, including
the monastery and the sacred cave, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visitors can walk up to the monastery from Skala along the
Byzantine path.
Benaki Museum Athens
The Benaki is one of Greece's most famous museums, where
visitors can explore Greek culture through artefacts dating from
antiquity to present times. Paleolithic and Neolithic relics, items
from the late Roman Empire, and pieces left after centuries of
Frankish and Ottoman occupation are all on display. Greece's
struggle for independence in 1821, and the formation of the modern
Greek state feature in the more recent content. Visitors should
look out for the Museum of Islamic art, temporary exhibitions, as
well as restoration and conservation workshops. The museum's
library holds a very valuable and extensive collection on topics
relating to its exhibitions. Visitors can't borrow books, though
the library is open to the public for onsite use.
Website: http://www.benaki.gr
Attica Zoological Gardens Athens
Attica Zoo is unique in Greece. Featuring exotic animals such as
lynxes, Angolan lions, and Persian leopards, plus more than 30 bird
species, it's a must for animal lovers of all ages. Striving to
combine education with entertainment, the zoo takes visitors on a
journey through a number of themed sections, showcasing more than 2
000 animals from 350 species. Visitors can explore a reptile house,
a children's farm, a monkey jungle and other walk-through
enclosures.
Website: http://www.atticapark.com
National Gardens Athens
Picnicking with the children at the National Gardens on a
Saturday has become a common pastime for local Athenian families
and is a great way to spend a sunny summer's day when the days are
long. The gardens used to be called the Royal Gardens because they
were the gardens of the king and the locals are very proud of this
lovely green space in a city that doesn't actually have many parks.
The gardens have a collection of plants and trees from all over the
world and plenty of water features that add coolness in the heat.
The Gardens feature a small zoo, duck ponds, resident cats, a
Botanical Museum, a playground and lots of wide-open space for
children to play in. For children who love books, the gardens are
also home to a Children's Library. There are many beautiful areas
to relax in the shade and get some respite from the busy city of
Athens, and the gardens are also wonderful for walking or running.
Locals enjoy playing games together at makeshift tables and often
they don't mind if tourists want to join them. The gardens are
located just behind the Greek parliament building, next to Syntagma
Square, and are easy to locate.
Allou! Fun Park has rides to suit every age group and thrill
threshold. Visitors will soon realise why it's the city's most
popular theme park. Access is technically free, meaning anyone can
enter and soak up the festive atmosphere. Otherwise, all rides and
activities accept a variety of payment options. Visitors planning
to spend a few hours enjoying themselves should purchase an Allou!
Day Pass, which allows limitless access to almost all of the rides
and games on offer.
Website: http://www.allou.gr/en/
Hellenic Children's Museum Athens
The Hellenic Children's Museum is a non-profit educational and
cultural organisation that was established in Athens in 1987 and
aims to encourage children to explore, learn, discover and question
all around them. The museum is located in two houses that have been
specifically designed for use by children, and kids will be excited
to find a museum dedicated to their amusement rather than the more
traditional ones they get dragged to. The space is full of games
and interactive exhibits and a variety of activities are organised
for visitors. An activity might be something like learning how
chocolate is made, helping to make it, and then getting to eat it!
The Hellenic Children's Museum is both educational and extremely
entertaining and it is frequented by locals as much as by tourists.
The staff are very friendly and capable and know just how to
entertain their little visitors. The museum is best for children
under 10.
Website: http://www.hcm.gr
Aqualand Water Park Corfu
Aqualand Water Park is the perfect place to cool off while
holidaying on Corfu. With its wide variety of slides, rides and
pools, it's understandably one of the island's most popular
attractions for kids and adults alike. Children aged four to eight
can enjoy water games, slides, jumping castles, playgrounds and
more in a fun-filled kid's area. Thrill seekers will find steep,
scary slides. Visitors looking to relax should head for Jacuzzis,
gentle pools, the Lazy River and sun loungers. Parking, sunbeds,
umbrellas, as well as access to shower facilities and changing
areas are all free. Dining options include a bar, a restaurant and
various fast-food kiosks. Visitors should pack plenty of sunscreen
as the park is very much exposed to the glorious Greek sun.
Website: http://www.aqualand-corfu.com
Aegean Maritime Museum Mykonos
The Aegean Maritime Museum is a non-profit institution. Located
on the island of Mykonos, it collects, studies and promotes Greek
maritime history and tradition. Visitors can enjoy wonderful models
of pre-Minoan ships, a superb collection of old maps and documents,
navigational instruments, as well as rare coins and engravings. The
museum is also proud of its three 'living' historical exhibits,
namely the 'Armenistis' lighthouse, the Perama-type sailing boat
'Evangelistria', and the cable-laying steamship, 'Thalis o
Milissios'. Along with these treasures, visitors can stroll through
a picturesque garden courtyard and admire anchors, the top of the
old Mykonos lighthouse, and replicas of drowned sailors'
gravestones. The museum gives fascinating insight into the island's
history, and is a good stop for the entire family.
The island of Delos is a must for history buffs and lovers of
Greek mythology. In fact, the UNESCO World Heritage site one of
Greece's most important mythological, historical and archaeological
locations. People have lived on Delos since the 3rd millennium BC,
with the island serving as a sacred site for multiple religions,
cults and sects over the centuries. It has also played a role in
numerous historical events and been the subject of myths and
prophecies. Archaeological excavations on Delos are extensive and
ongoing, uncovering many valuable buildings and artefacts. Some of
these are on display in the Archaeological Museum of Delos.
Visitors should look out for the circular Sacred Lake, the Minoan
Fountain, the Terrace of the Lions, and several impressive ancient
buildings and temples.
Mykonos Windmills Mykonos
The white windmills are iconic on Mykonos island and are visible
from every part of Hora village. Those interested in the mechanics
of windmills (once such common and important technology and now
seldom seen) will be captivated by them and children also tend to
be enthralled. There is a reason for everybody to take a stroll to
the famous windmills though, and that is the spectacular views from
the hill. The hill is best visited in the late afternoon, towards
sunset, and overlooks the whole town of Hora and the harbour too.
There are 16 windmills left on Mykonos and seven of these stand on
the hill at Hora (also often called Chora). Some of them were built
by the Venetians in the 16th century, but construction continued
into the 20th century, so they are not all that old, or have been
renovated since then. They were once an important means of survival
and income for the inhabitants of the town, and were used primarily
to mill wheat. They are white-walled, thatched-roofed windmills and
are rather mesmerising, although they are now out of use. It is a
great spot for photographs and picnics and one of the mills has
been turned into a small museum. There is no need for directions as
the windmills are probably the first thing visitors will see when
they enter the village or the port.
Lido Waterpark Crete
A must for all families on vacation in Kos, especially with
young children, Lido Waterpark provides wonderful games,
activities, sun, fun and more. It is one of the largest waterparks
in Greece and features numerous slides (including Kamikaze, Multi
lane and Black Hole), pools (including a wave pool), jacuzzis,
hydromassage facilities, tubing courses and even a fish spa where
the little critters will massage and clean your feet. For those who
prefer land activities there is sunbathing, beach volleyball and
even trampolines for amusement. There's a special area for young
kids too little to enjoy the slides, where there is a kind of
waterworld playground and shallow pools. There is also a bar and
multiple restaurants for food, drinks and snacks and even a
mini-market for shopping. The park is clean and safe, with the
water recycled and renewed on a daily basis and a team of qualified
lifeguards permanently on duty. Visitors should remember to pack
sunscreen, as the summer heat and all the water can mean serious
sun exposure.
Website: http://www.lidowaterpark.com
Knights Castle Kos
The Castle of the Knights of the Order of Saint John is situated
at the entrance of Kos harbour and is an amazing place to visit.
The sprawling ruins, some of which are extremely well-preserved,
are located on what used to be an island and the bridge that once
joined it to the mainland is still usable. Parts of the castle date
back to the late 14th century but, as it took over a hundred years
to build, there is evidence of more than one architectural style at
the site. The castle has two defensive precincts: the interior has
four circular corner towers and the larger exterior precinct has
massive bastions in its four corners, battlements and gun ports.
The two precincts are separated by a moat and joined by a
drawbridge. There is a Hellenistic frieze over the main gate. A
museum on the site, which is housed in a reconstructed building
that was once the knights' warehouse, holds alters, sculptures and
inscriptions from the site. The elevated sections of the castle
afford visitors astounding views over the ocean. It is best to wear
sensible walking shoes when visiting, as exploring the castle
thoroughly means traversing some steep steps and uneven ground.
Aquaworld Aquarium features a wonderful array marine creatures,
plus reptiles such as loggerhead turtles, Balkan green lizards,
skinks, geckos and snakes. All in all, it's guaranteed to keep the
little ones captivated. Aquaworld is, in fact, a rescue centre that
has taken in or rehabilitated most of its population. The
institution encourages hands-on interaction with many of its
animals and offers fantastic photo opportunities. Although it
specialises in local fauna, Aquaworld does collect reptiles and
marine life from further afield as well.
Website: http://www.aquaworld-crete.com
Limnoupolis Waterpark Crete
A fantastic place to take the kids during the heat of summer
while on holiday in Crete, the Limnoupolis Waterpark offers
fantastic rides, slides and water fun. Limnoupolis is located in a
green, scenic area that sets it apart from many other parks of its
kind, which are often sadly devoid of vegetation. There should be
something for everyone at this park: for thrill seekers, slides
such as Kamikaze and the Black Hole should summon up some
adrenalin; for more mellow fun there are multiple water slides such
as the Crazy River, the Multiplista, the Giant Slide, and the
Triple Twist; for those who merely want to relax and unwind there
is the Lazy River, where visitors float on tubes through waterfalls
and caves, and the jacuzzi area; for kids there is a special pool
and play area. In the unlikely event that children get bored there
are also video games to play. There is a nicely designed pool bar
and rope suspension bridge over the main pool as well as an
artificial island in the middle. There are restaurants and a
mini-market for refreshments. Lifeguards permanently on duty ensure
that visitors stay safe.
Website: http://www.limnoupolis.gr
Star Beach Water Park Corfu
Star Beach Water Park features all the expected things, such as
various nice pools and four big water slides ranging from the
relaxing to the thrilling, but it also offers traditional beach
watersports such as jet skiing, scuba diving, waterskiing and
banana boat rides, and a kind of bungee jumping, to name a few.
There are sun beds and umbrellas in relaxation areas by the pools
and tubing rivers for lazy sun worshippers and parents to float
along while the kids let off some steam. There is also a spa that
offers various beauty treatments. For the really little kids there
is Baby Star Beach, a children's water playground with shallow
pools. Star Beach has an amazing variety of amenities and
activities including free WiFi and free foam parties on a daily
basis. There are lifeguards permanently on duty so the park is very
safe. Needless to say there are also restaurants and a bar to
replenish energy for more fun activities. This is a great trip for
the whole family and a good combination of wholesome beach fun and
poolside relaxation.
Website: http://www.starbeach.gr
Eftalou Thermal Baths Lesvos
A trip to the Eftalou Thermal Baths is a wonderful excursion for
anyone on holiday in Lesvos. The hot, natural springs are located
nearly three miles (4km) outside of Molyvos on the northern coast
of Lesvos. Highly popular with tourists, the Eftalou's Springs are
located at the beach and are one of the few springs in Greece where
men and women can bathe together. The temperature of the water is
between 109F and 116F (43C and 47C), which is very hot. Bathing in
the water is recommended for a number of conditions and illnesses
including blood pressure problems, rheumatism, gallstones, and
neuralgia. It is also just extremely relaxing and therapeutic! It
is recommended, though, that visitors don't stay in the water for
longer than 20 minutes in each session due to the extreme heat.
There is an old, domed bath house, which has a charming,
old-fashioned atmosphere and is an experience in itself, and a
newly renovated spa building next door to it that offers a variety
of treatments and facilities. The coastal setting is also pretty
and enjoyable, which adds to the experience. A novelty for
children, this is an activity the whole family will enjoy.
One of the three largest petrified forests in the world, the
Petrified Forest of Sigri on the western edge of the island, dates
back 15 million years and is protected as a natural monument. A
visit to the Petrified Forest of Sigri is a fascinating outing for
families with children or for anybody interested in natural
phenomena. The Petrified Forest was the result of a volcanic
eruption around 21 to 15 million years ago that buried the flora
and trees of the region (including oaks and sequoias) beneath
layers of ash. Visitors can view 'the Pompeii of the plant world',
which features some impressively well-preserved specimens; on some
of the trees visitors can still see leaves and fruit preserved for
millennia. Visitors can view the Petrified Forest along three main
mountain trails: Trail One is called 'Discovering the Petrified
Forest' and is a good introduction to the area; Trail Two, 'The
History of the Petrified Coniferous Forest', details the process by
which the trees were preserved; and Trail Three, which is the
longest, takes people to the tallest standing trunks. In Sigri
there is an interesting museum dedicated to the forest that
displays some stunning examples of petrified wood and explains the
process well.
Donkey trekking is a great activity for the whole family.
Travellers can enjoy day-excursions through verdant green valleys,
past olive groves and along mountain paths. Sunset-treks are also
wonderful, with tasty, beach barbeques waiting to reward riders at
the finish. Along with being a terrific way to appreciate the
island's scenery, donkey treks allow visitors to discover its
traditions. Indeed, Lesvos is self-sufficient and proud, with
well-preserved local customs. It also has a refreshing lack of
tourist trappings, despite its popularity with travellers.
Filerimos Hill used to be the citadel of the ancient town of
Ialysos, and its large plateau is home to some intriguing
historical attractions. On the eastern side of the hill, see the
foundations of the Athena Polias temple and an early Christian
basilica, dedicated to Virgin Mary, as well as a Byzantine church.
The Monastery of Filerimos, which is thought to have been built by
knights, and was later renovated by Italians, is an important
archaeological site where Mycenaean pottery and a Doric foundation
have been unearthed. A lovely path to the west, lined with cypress
and pine trees, leads to an impressive crucifix at the centre of a
small square. Apart from all the exciting archaeological ruins and
artefacts, this is a pretty area that offers visitors lovely views
from the vantage of the hill with some great photo opportunities.
Despite its wealth of ancient artefacts and historical significance
Filerimos Hill is not as crowded with tourists as some of the other
sites on Rhodes, which is also a great advantage for those who like
to avoid crowds.
With buildings and monuments dating back hundreds of years, Old
Town offers a wealth of historic attractions and has been declared
a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The medieval streets feature Gothic
windows and paved courtyards lit by traditional street lamps. The
most famous of these is the Street of Knights (or Knights Avenue)
which leads to the Palace of the Prince Grand Master. This palace
displays several artefacts from as far back as the 13th century,
when the crusades first came to Rhodes. The shops and stalls of
Socrates Street are worth browsing for local jewellery, pottery and
clothes. Although there are many gates through which to enter the
Old Town, one of the best starting points is Eleftheria (Liberty)
Gate, from where visitors will come to Simi Square, which contains
the ruins of the Temple of Venus, thought to date from the 3rd
century BC. Getting lost in the Rhodes Old Town is almost
obligatory: there are about 200 streets and they don't even have
names so it can get confusing. Getting lost here is rather
wonderful but when visitors need to find their way again, they
should ask for Socrates Street, which is the 'main' street of the
area. The Old Town is completely pedestrianised.
Rhodes Beaches Rhodes
The beaches on Rhodes Island are a great attraction for
visitors. There are about 45 attractive beaches on the island so
there is a lot for visitors to choose from! Afandou beach is quite
undeveloped and therefore good for those who don't like a crowd.
Faliraki beach, on the other hand, is usually quite crowded and has
all the necessary amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas,
watersport facilities, restaurants and beach bars to enjoy. The
shallow waters of Faliraki beach make it a popular holiday spot for
families with children, as do the great facilities. The Faliraki
Waterpark and Luna Park distinguish this beach from others on the
island as they feature water slides, kamikaze slides and a gigantic
wave pool, as well as fully trained and certified lifeguards for
safety. Faliraki Beach is on the northeast of the island, just over
seven miles (12km) from Rhodes town. Kalathos beach has
crystal-clear waters, wooden sunbeds and bamboo umbrellas (very
eco-friendly!) and Kallithea beach is renowned for its hot
medicinal springs and beautiful palm trees. Lindos beach is right
beneath the castle of the same name and is a peaceful little cove,
great for a quick dip after visiting the castle.
Petaloudes Valley of the Butterflies Rhodes
A wonderful place to take the kids while on Rhodes is
Petaloudes, the Valley of the Butterflies, although any
nature-lover will enjoy this unique experience. This attraction
sees a myriad of beautiful butterflies colouring its skies and kids
can follow them along the narrow streams, and over the rustic
little bridges. The shaded walkways lead to rock pools and
waterfalls, and carry a vanilla scent emanating from the local
storax trees. The best time to visit the valley is after the rainy
season (which ends in late May) when the high humidity in the area
sees thousands of Jersey Tiger Moths, which are in fact butterflies
despite their name, cover the landscape. They are attracted by the
Oriental Sweet Gum trees in the area and can be found in the valley
throughout the summer. The Valley of Butterflies is a natural park
and a protected conservation area that is lovely to visit, even
when the butterflies are not around. There is a small Natural
History Museum at the entry to the valley, where visitors can learn
more about this unique ecosystem.
Children love the Marine Aquarium on Rhodes Island, and will be
enamoured by its diverse range of live Eastern Mediterranean
specimens, which include sea flowers, turtles, octopuses and
strange-looking decapods (crustaceans with 10 limbs). This venue
has been used as an aquarium-museum and research station since 1963
and, as such, it displays an interesting collection of preserved
and mounted marine specimens, as well as numerous scientific
instruments. The aquarium is housed in an interesting Art Deco
building that was designed by an Italian architect when the island
was under Italian rule. It is officially known as the
Hydrobiological Station of Rhodes and is far more than a museum;
the station is a research centre and a rescue and rehabilitation
centre for aquatic animals that works to re-release animals back
into the wild once they have been sufficiently cared for and
rested. The Marine Aquarium is a very well-respected institution,
although it is not as big as many modern aquariums. The aquarium
creates an underwater atmosphere that captivates visitors of all
ages and the air conditioning ensures that it is a cool and
refreshing place to be, especially on a hot summer day.
Website: rhodes-aquarium.hcmr.gr/en/
Samos Beaches Samos
The coast of Samos has many beautiful beaches to enjoy as it is
a large, lush island. There are at least 20 beaches that tourists
and locals recommend. Mykali beach, south of Samos town, is covered
in white pebbles and lapped by emerald waters and is one of the
most popular beaches on the island. On the mountainous northwest
coast of Samos, visitors will find the secluded Megalo Seitani
beach, which can only be reached on foot and richly rewards those
who make the extra effort. There are a few other beaches on the
island that are inaccessible to cars and these tend to be the most
private and secluded. The Vlendza beach, just outside the town of
Avlakia, has good amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas, as
well as a small tavern. Tsamadou beach lies just outside of Kokkari
Town and is the only official nudist beach on the island. The best
beach on Samos for children is Psili Ammos beach, as kids love to
play in its warm, shallow waters and build sand castles on the
shore. It is a very safe beach with calm waters. This long sandy
strip also attracts migrant flamingos each year in December and the
pink flocks are a delightful sight. There are also a couple of
taverns nearby to enjoy. Psili Ammos beach is 35 miles (56km)
southwest of Vathy.
Temple of Hera Samos
The largest Greek temple ever built, the Temple of Hera was one
of the essential sanctuaries of ancient Greece, and is now a great
sightseeing attraction. It was built near the mouth of the Imvrasos
river for worship of the goddess who, according to myth, was born
and lived there. Only half of one of its 115 columns stands today,
but the bases of the columns and other temple foundations are still
visible so it is possible to imagine what the giant temple looked
like. The Temple of Hera was constructed over a long period of
time; it was added to, renovated or completely rebuilt a number of
times over the centuries when it was destroyed by earthquakes or
other means. The oldest building phase identified by archaeologists
is the 8th century BC. The very large temple, the ruins of which we
can see today, was known as the 'Polycrates Temple'. One of the
giant statues from this site can still be seen in the Samos
Archaeological Museum, which is a good complement to a trip to the
temple ruins as it provides context and information. Unlike many
other archaeological sites in Greece, however, there is some
information given at the temple and visitors receive a free guide
leaflet upon entry. This temple is not to be confused with the
Temple of Hera at Olympus, where the Olympic Flame is lit for each
Olympic Games.
One of the great attractions on Samos is the cave where
Pythagoras lived and worked as a philosopher, mathematician,
astrologer, doctor and musician. Very little is actually known for
sure about Pythagoras but legend has it that he used the caves as a
refuge from the tyranny of Polycrates. We know his teachings were
mystical as well as mathematical as he was the founder of an
esoteric religious movement known as Pythagoreanism. Although some
tenets of this religious and philosophical movement are known, for
the most part it too is somewhat shrouded in secrecy. Most of the
caves are now open to the public. The site is made up of two caves
and two chapels, with 'holy water' dripping from their stalactites,
and was used for prayer and teaching as well as shelter. The cave
is located on Mount Kerkis, an extinct volcano that forms the
second-highest peak in the East Aegean, and although it is located
near the base the climb may still be a bit difficult for some. The
views from the cave are beautiful and there are some great photo
opportunities. It is advisable to bring a bottle of water and
sensible shoes for the rather steep walk.
The Ancient Theatre of Pythagorion sits just below Panagia
Spiliani monastery's ruins. Its stage and some seats are all that
remains. Still, these remnants hint at how grand the venue must
have been in its time. Today, performers use the site for plays, as
well as concerts and modern recitals. Historians and culture buffs
should check the calendar for events. Otherwise, Pythagorion is the
perfect Mediterranean escape, with a pretty harbour, gorgeous
beaches, and the Mediterranean's oldest manmade port standing out
as the town's highlights. Attractions in and around the port
include the statue of Pythagoras, the Castle of Lykourgos, the
Church of Metamorphosis, the Ephpalinos Tunnel and Roman Baths.
Visitors who wish to explore a bit further can enjoy sailing
excursions to other cities, villages, beaches and ancient sites.
The town also has a vibrant nightlife.
Children love to visit these beautiful waterfalls on the
northeast coast of Samos Island, although it is certainly not
necessary to have children along to enjoy this scenic island
attraction. Visitors should follow the road west from Karlovassi
that leads towards the harbour, which will bring them to the
pristine Potami Beach; just over a mile (2km) further visitors will
reach a forest and lake, beyond which there is a series of
waterfalls. The rambling walk along the river soon becomes an
adventure through the forest leading to the waterfall. Swimming in
the small lake is a great way for kids to cool off and there are
lovely spots for the folks to sit and relax, or perhaps enjoy a
picnic lunch. There are rock valleys and several lovely little
pools and waterfalls to explore. There are some beautiful old
trees, interesting rock formations and small bridges and visitors
may even be lucky enough to spot some turtles or other animals. For
the snap happy, this enchanting little forest provides many photo
opportunities as well as fun for the whole family. There is no
entry fee; visitors simply ramble into the forest from the beach
and enjoy the waterfalls.
The castle of Lykourgos Logothetis is a magnificent example of
defensive architecture. It is situated to the southwest of the port
of Pythagorio, and was built at the beginning of the 19th century,
playing a vital role in the Greek Revolution against Turkish rule.
The castle was built, with the help of many locals, out of the
remains of ancient buildings and monuments, to help repel the
invaders and it became the headquarters of the revolutionary
movement in Samos and the main asset in their defence against the
Ottoman navy. It is named after the local leader of the revolution.
There is a temple next door to the castle that commemorates the
victory of 6 August 1824 when Samos successfully resisted an attack
by the Turks. The anniversary is still celebrated at the church
annually. Lykourgos has wonderful views and many interesting
architectural features. The hill on which the castle is located may
be the oldest acropolis in Samos, as a number of prehistoric
artefacts have been discovered there, making the whole area
captivating and rather mysterious. Kids will probably enjoy
exploring the castle as much as adults, so it makes a good
excursion for the whole family.
The beaches of Santorini are unlike other Greek beaches and have
special and dramatic geological features such as black shining
pebbles and unique land formations, coloured by black, white and
red sands. The beaches tend to be coves surrounded by steep cliffs
that add to their beauty. The waters are deep though, so visitors
should be cautious. The Red beach is possibly the most famous and
is located near the village and ancient site of Akrotiri. It is
popular because of the stunning volcanic slabs and colour of its
sand, although the sand is not comfortable to sit on so the sun
loungers on the beach are necessary. Perissa beach, just southeast
of Fira, is another favourite and has an impressively long, black
sandy beach with an enormous rock rising out of the sea. For those
who prefer a quiet and unspoilt beach environment, Cape Columbo is
one of Santorini's most beautiful and most isolated beaches. The
waves here are rougher though so beware of a more dangerous sea.
The southeastern beaches of Monolithos, Avis and Kamari are family
favourites. At Monolithos beach kids love the football pitch,
basketball court and play area. Trees at the back of the beach
provide shaded respite from the sun, and there are also snacks
available on the beach.
Skopelos Beaches Skopelos
The island of Skopelos has plenty of beautiful beaches for
visitors to enjoy; in fact, it boasts some of the most beautiful
beaches in Greece. Some of them may be recognisable from the film
Mamma Mia, which was shot on the island. Most are shingle beaches
lapped by clear blue waters, great for snorkelling, fishing and
swimming. There are usually sunbeds and umbrellas available at the
beach, and waterfront taverns nearby. It is ideal to hire a boat to
sail to private, secluded coves at one's leisure, but by car or
even bus one can still reach lots of great beaches. Favourite
Skopelos beaches include Stafilos, which is just just under three
miles (4km) from Skopelos town, and is a very pretty beach with a
bar and a lifeguard. There is parking for cars and the bus does
stop at this beach. Panormos is another favourite; the bay boasts
one of the most beautiful, natural ports in the world and it is
celebrated for its sunsets. Visitors should beware that the water
on Panormos gets deep quite fast. Milia is considered by many to be
the most attractive beach on the island; it is long and white and
has pine forests descending all the way to the beach. The Amarandos
coves are also a popular attraction.
Folklore Museum of Skopelos Skopelos
The Folklore Museum of Skopelos is housed in a traditional
building, its interior reminiscent of Skopelitian homes of the
past. The museum exhibits local 19th and 20th-century artefacts
focusing on three areas of handiwork practiced traditionally in
Skopelos: embroidery, weaving, and handicraft work including
ceramics, woodcarving, the making of knives, tools and agricultural
implements, and folk art paintings. There are also nautical
exhibits and model ships on display, illustrating the proud
nautical history of the area. The museum has recreated rooms and
outfits to give visitors an idea of how locals lived and looked in
centuries past. It is a small but charming museum and should'nt
take much time to explore; it is interesting to walk into this old
house and become immersed in the belongings and skilled produce of
past inhabitants. For those passionate about arts and crafts this
is a must. As the collection is modern and not ancient, those
tourists who wish to explore ancient Greece need not visit.
The National Marine Park of North Sporades is a great attraction
for visitors to Skopelos. The park was the first designated Marine
Park in the country and is currently one of the largest marine
protected areas in Europe. Besides the open ocean, the park
includes Alonnisos, six smaller islands (Peristera, Kyra Panagia,
Gioura, Psathura, Piperi and Skantzoura), and 22 uninhabited islets
and rocky outcrops. The waters are a conservation area as they are
the breeding grounds for endangered Mediterranean monk seals. There
are also a number of dolphin and whale species in the area,
including the striped dolphin and the long-finned pilot whale. The
park is very beautiful and there is lots to explore. One of the
most popular and beautiful beaches is Agios Dimitrios, a pebble
beach with stunning turquoise water, which has been voted several
times as one of the most lovely beaches in the world. There are
many wonderful beaches to explore in the park and several great
walking paths. On Alonnisos visitors will find Patitiri port, from
where many boats depart to all the beaches of the island as well as
the rest of the islands of the Marine Park, where access is
permitted. Some areas are kept completely free from human
influence.
Website: http://www.alonissos-park.gr
Prinos Street Market Thassos
Located on the northwest coast of Thassos is the major port of
Skala Prinos. Each Monday morning, locals and tourists wander
through the Prinos Sreet Market. The market offers a selection of
fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as a good assortment of nuts.
Leather goods are also available from the market, as well as shoes
and clothes. As with most markets of this kind there are seldom
changing rooms to use for trying on clothes so shoppers have to try
on what they can at the stall, or guess their size. The market is
small enough to feel quaint and friendly but large enough to have a
good bustle and selection of goods. Skala Prinos also has some
really lovely sandy beaches with shallow, clear, calm waters which
are perfect for children and have great views of the mainland. It
is wonderful to pop to one of the beaches after a quick exploration
of the market for a refreshing swim.
The history of Thassos is uncovered at the Museum Theologos, set
in an old mansion that was the home of the mountain village's
former mayor, Mr Chatzigeorgiou. The mayor played an essential role
in the revolution against the Turks that took place on the island
in 1821. Exhibits include displays of olive presses, flour mills,
tools, looms and chests from the 18th century, as well as some
wonderful pictures. The museum is only one interesting aspect of
this fascinating old town, situated up in the mountains. It is
worth visiting just to stroll through the picturesque streets and
stumble over all the evidence of antiquity. Theologos used to be
the most important village on the island and was both the political
and economic centre of Thassos, which is why the museum is situated
here. Theologos was declared a cultural capital by the Greek
government in 1979, which means that construction or alteration to
existing buildings is limited to preserve the authentic old
architecture. The village has also preserved many folk traditions
and still produces its own olives, vegetables, alcohol and lamb, so
that when visitors have a meal at the local taverna, they will
almost certainly be eating local produce.
Most visitors to Thassos are drawn by the stunning white sandy
beaches on the east cost of this island. The more popular beaches
have all the required tourist amenities, but despite this the
beaches have retained their natural beauty and have not been ruined
by crowds or infrastructure. The largest and most popular beach is
Chrissi Ammoudia (Golden Beach), a sweeping strech of white sand
that is set against the towering slopes of Mount Ipsario, which
rises to 1,200m (4,000 ft). Tripiti Beach, on the south of the
island, is known for its natural bathtub and a cave leading to the
Aegean Sea. It is a big beach, quite far from the main town, and
boasts rich marine life in its waters. Livadi is popular with
campers and backpackers and is a protected cove. Makriammos is a
beautiful, long, sandy beach and is a favourite for many; it is
also home to some great mussels. Pefkari has bars, taverns and a
small kiosk, and watersports include banana boat rides, jet-skiing
and paragliding. The nudist beach of Paradise is one of the most
beautiful on the island, as the name suggests. It is not
exclusively a nudist beach but nudity is tolerated. The eastern
beaches are the calmest and Scala Potamia and Golden Beach are two
of the best for small kids as they are sandy with shallow, calm
waters.
Zante Beaches Zakynthos
Zante is renowned for unspoilt beaches and rich marine life and
it is a great island for nature-lovers. The beaches on the island
are also known for their beautiful emerald green water. The region
of Vassilikos has some of the best beaches on the island and a
favourite is St Nicholas, which has great watersports facilities.
Gerakas is also very popular, voted one of Greece's best beaches.
Gerakas is a long, sandy beach with lovely and unusual rock
formations. Many of the holiday resorts have their own beaches for
visitors to enjoy, and these are the Zante beaches with the best
amenities; generally the beaches do not have restaurants and bars
because their lack of development is their greatest attraction. The
Kalamaki, Porto Zoro and Laganas beaches are all beautiful.
Loggerhead sea turtles can be seen at Laganas Bay, home to the
National Marine Park. Navagio beach is also a great favourite,
famous for its shipwreck: the 'Panagiotis' was wrecked in 1982
while smuggling a large cargo of cigarettes and trying to evade a
customs patrol in stormy weather. There is a view point (of
somewhat dubious stability) from which the wreck can be seen, and
there are also boat trips available to the beach where the ship
lies.
Blue Caves Zakynthos
Located near a picturesque village called Volimes, the Blue
Caves are one of Zakynthos Island's best-loved attractions. Only
accessible by boat, these striking rock formations put on an
unforgettable show. Essentially, the caves capture and reflect
light in a marvellous variety of blues; visitors will enjoy the
best displays at sunrise, sunset, or from under water while scuba
diving. Oftentimes, visitors can enjoy round-island boat trips that
include the caves and Navagio Beach, with its famous shipwreck.
Small, 25-passenger boats are generally more pleasant than
300-seaters, as they can sail into the caves, which is a magical
experience.
Marathonisi Island Zakynthos
Marathonisi is a small island in Laganas Bay, completely
unspoilt by human inhabitants. There are two main beaches on this
island: the white sands of the larger beach are the nesting area of
the endangered Caretta Caretta (Loggerhead) sea turtle; and the
smaller pebble beach is home to a couple of interesting sea caves.
Visitors can swim into these caves, or paddle a boat around them,
and they create a snorkeller's paradise. The Monachus sea seal,
also an endangered species, also visits the island to reproduce and
visitors may even be lucky enough to see some of these rare
animals. The natural pine, olive and green oak forests on the
island are another beautiful attraction. There is no development on
the island, which is part of the National Marine Park, and visitors
are advised to take water and supplies for the day. There is a
little picnic snack boat that circles the island and provides
refreshments to visitors, but it is best for visitors to assume
they will be fending for themselves while they are on the deserted
island. The National Park ensures that the beach is empty of people
by sunset so that the turtles, who come ashore at night, are not
disturbed.
Nymphes Corfu
Nymphes is a big village with a unique and colourful history.
Legend has it that the mythical nymphs would come to bathe in the
village's waterfalls, giving lucky humans a chance to catch a
glimpse. Nymphs were nature spirits in Greek mythology and were
usually portrayed as beautiful, female guardians of nature. There
were different kinds and the ones at Nymphes would have been
Naiads, guardians of springs and rivers. Nowadays travellers can
still walk to and enjoy the scenic waterfalls and wells in this
lush setting; it is easy to imagine the nymphs in this magical
landscape. Other attractions in Nymphes include the nearby
monastery of Askitario, where, according to local tradition, the
monk Artemios Paissios lived in the 5th century and worked many
miracles. The Agriculture Co-operative is also interesting and it
produces fruit, and liqueurs and sweets made mostly from the
kum-kuat fruit. They will allow visitors to sample their wares free
of charge and, if visitors find something they like, they can buy
it; these local treats make for good souvenirs. Other lovely
villages to visit on Corfu include Kynopiastes, Lakones and
Roda.
Sparta Peloponnese Peninsula
Made popular again by the 2006 film 300, the ancient city of
Sparta sits in the middle of the Plains of Laconia in the
Peloponnese, which is one of the most historic regions in the
world. Sparta emerged as a political entity around the 10th century
BC and by 650 BC was rising to be a dominant military power in
ancient Greece. It was recognised as the leader of the Greek forces
in the Greco-Persian Wars, from which Greece eventually emerged
victorious but at great cost to Sparta, and many other city-states.
By 146 BC Sparta had lost its independence to Roman conquest. The
Spartans were fiercely militaristic and their whole way of life was
centred around military training and prowess. The Spartans were a
legendary military force, and are still referenced in military
strategy. At the archaeological site visitors can view the
excavations and ruins and visit the tomb of King Leonidas, the
sanctuary of Artemis Orthia, and the Sparta Archaeological Museum
in town, as well as view a number of ruins and ancient churches in
nearby Mystras. The famous battlefield of Thermopylae can also
still be visited and there are several monuments there to the
Spartan force that was wiped out after extreme feats of prowess and
bravery, including a monument to King Leonidas.
Santorini Wineries Santorini
Santorini is a large wine-producing region, which was helped
along by a volcanic explosion in 1650 BC. The vines on the island
are very old, and are trained into a distinctive basket shape to
protect them from the elements. Wine has been grown in the region
since ancient times and has been renowned since as early as the
Middle Ages, when the Venetians made it famous; the Italian
influence is still detectable in the wine tradition of Santorini
today. One of the grapes that the region is known for is the sweet
Vin Santo (or vinsanto), which is dried in the sun before use. The
blended rose from white grapes such as Athiri, Aidini and
Assyrtiko, and red grapes such as Mandelaria, is also highly
acclaimed. There are a number of great wineries on the island.
Antoniou is very popular, particularly for weddings, and Boutari is
the largest vineyard in the region. Sigalas, which has spectacular
views from their patio, is a lovely place to while away a day, and
Volcan has a Wine Museum that will interest fanatics interested in
the production process and history of the area.
Museum of Pre-Historic Thera Santorini
The Museum of Pre-Historic Thera has displays of many
archaeological finds from the excavations at Akrotiri, including
Neolithic pottery from as far back as 3300 BC. The exhibits attempt
to show life in prehistoric times, with tools, metalworkings,
pottery, furniture, and other artefacts on display. The exhibition
is laid out in four parts: the history of research at Thera; the
geology of Thera; the island's history from the Late Neolithic to
the Late Cycladic I period (early 17th century BC); and the heyday
of the city at Akrotiri (mature Late Cycladic 1 period, 17th
century BC). Visitors should look out for the gold ibex figurine
and the magnificent wall paintings, or frescoes, of Ladies and
Papyri and of the Blue Monkeys. A visit to this small but
interesting museum is a great complement to exploring the
archaeological site of Akrotiri as it provides context and displays
the impressive artefacts discovered at the site. Often tour guides
will combine the site and the museum. The museum is well-organised
and informative and offers a lot of good background information; it
consistently rates well with tourists in reviews.
Myrtos Beach Cephalonia
Voted one of Europe's most beautiful beaches, and voted 12 times
as the most beautiful beach in Greece, Myrtos is one of
Cephalonia's most popular attractions. The pebble beach is set a
full kilometre below the road, in a dramatic vista of white
limestone, turquoise sea, and green trees. The beach was used as
the setting for scenes out of the movie Captain Corelli's Mandolin.
Just north of Argostoli, the beach is well-maintained and offers a
snack bar and sunbed and umbrella rentals. A steep, winding road,
with stunning lookout spots and views along the way, leads down to
the beach from the village of Divarata and, during peak season,
there is a public bus service that runs to the beach from the Agia
Efimia harbour. Because of the pebbles, visitors are advised to
wear some kind of beach shoes. It's best to get to the beach early
if visitors are driving themselves, as it is very popular and
parking can become scarce later in the day. Thankfully, the beach
itself seldom feels too crowded because of its length. It is not
the best beach for young children, as the waves can get rather
rough and little ones are sometimes frustrated by the pebbles.
Melissani and Drogarati Caves Cephalonia
Cephalonia's caves are popular attractions, each offering a
unique experience. In Melissani, visitors are taken in boats
through a small channel into a brilliant turquoise subterranean
lake. In Greek mythology caves have always been associated with the
divine and many religious ceremonies were held in caves. It is
therefore not surprising that several ancient artefacts have been
found in the Melissani cave. Melissani is said to be the place
where the nymph of the same name committed suicide because the god
Pan would not reciprocate her love. The stalactites within the cave
that look like dolphins are said to be her frozen messengers. It is
a beautiful and mysterious place to visit. Drogarati Cave is much
larger and has tours 200 feet (60m) below the ground, with lights
highlighting spectacular displays of limestone stalagmites and
stalactites. The Drogarati Cave is thought to be about 150 million
years old and was traditionally said to be the home of a dragon.
Drogarati is known for its good acoustics, and has hosted many
concerts from international artists including Maria Callas. The
caves are usually both open between Easter and the end of October,
although Drogarati may be open during the winter months as well.
Both are very well known and easy to find.
Ithaca Cephalonia
The tiny island of Ithaca has a rich history, acting as the
scenic backdrop for mythological epics such as Homer's Odyssey.
Ithaca has been inhabited since the second millennium BC and has
been occupied or ruled by the Romans, the Byzantine Empire, the
Normans, the Turks, the Venetians and the French, as well as
briefly being a British protectorate, so the island has a rich and
rather tumultuous history. But visitors would not think so when
exploring the lovely countryside: the mountainous interior hides
pockets of cypresses, pines, and olive trees and some of these are
ancient; one of the olive trees is thought to be at least 1,500
years old. There are also some Neolithic and Early Hellenic ruins
on the island. Nowadays, Ithaca is home to a number of traditional
villages, with a few museums and beaches. The best beach is
arguably Filiatro, which has olive trees growing all the way down
to the shoreline and a peaceful bay which is lovely for swimming.
Vathy, also known as Ithaki Town, is the largest town, where many
of the island's roughly 3,000 inhabitants live. The town is a
popular port for yachts and other small pleasure cruises in the
Ionian Islands, and has some good restaurants and shops. In fact,
Vathy has one of the largest natural harbours in the world. Ithaca
is near enough to Cephalonia to make for a fun and interesting
excursion or weekend away.
Aegina Saronic Gulf Islands
Aegina is the closest Saronic Gulf Island to Athens. As such,
it's almost one of the city's suburbs, offering cosmopolitan shops,
restaurants and accommodation. Formed largely from an extinct
volcano, the island was once the training place of Achilles' elite
fighting unit, the Myrmidons. Today, it boasts a buffet of cultural
attractions. The well-preserved Temple of Aphaia and the monastery
at Agios Nektarios are time-honoured favourites. Visitors can also
enjoy the pretty town of Perdika, though it's likely to be busy
during peak season. By ferry, the rugged island is around 40
minutes away from Piraeus port, and is a wonderful setting for
seaside holidays.
Hydra Saronic Gulf Islands
Considered the most beautiful island in the Saronic Gulf, Hydra
has a number of pretty towns with not a high-rise building or noisy
car in sight thanks to zealous development restrictions. The island
is not named for the mythical beast, the Hydra, but comes from the
Greek word for water and pays tribute to the natural springs on the
island. Hydra port is the main village and the pretty,
crescent-shaped harbour has some great restaurants, shops and
galleries to entertain visitors. Steep and quaint stone streets
lead upwards from the port, pebbled beaches ring Hydra's impressive
mansions of wealthy Athenians, and there are worthwhile cultural
attractions such as the Cathedral of Hydra and the Hydra Museum.
Other villages and hamlets on the island include Mandraki, Kamini,
Vlychos, Palamidas, Episkopi and Molos but as no cars are allowed
the only methods of transport are donkeys, bicycles and your own
two feet. This adds to the charm of the place and it is wonderful
to walk or ride around the island. Though the island is very
beautiful, its longstanding reputation as a weekend getaway spot
has obliterated most traditional ways of life in favour of catering
to tourists.
Poros Saronic Gulf Islands
The ancient name of Poros was Pogon and it is actually an
island-pair inclusive of Sphairia, the southern, volcanic island
where the modern city is located, and Kalaureia, the larger,
northern island. A bridge connects the two islands. Poros,
separated from the Peloponnase by only a few hundred metres, is a
quiet, wooded island with scenic pine, olive and lemon groves and a
pretty monastery, as well as two good beaches at Askeli and Neorio.
It is lush and mountainous and a popular weekend getaway for locals
and tourists. Graves on Poros have been dated to the Mycenaean
period and evidence suggests that the island-pair have been
inhabited since the Bronze Age. The Archaeological Museum is worth
a visit and houses findings from the Sanctuary of Poseidon and
other nearby ancient sites. The city's main landmark is the clock
tower built in 1927 and other attractions include Bourtzi Castle,
built around 1828, and the original site of the Sanctuary of
Poseidon which dates to roughly 520 BC. The presence of a naval
training base means that Poros Town's waterfront area is often
lively and crowded at night. However, many visit Poros simply to
relax and enjoy the lovely scenery and beaches.
Spetses Saronic Gulf Islands
Spetses is a popular weekend destination in the Saronic Gulf,
with towns full of white-washed mansions and fragrant pine forests.
Catering more for wealthy travellers than package tourists, the
island's gently rolling hills are good for hiking, and intrepid
explorers will find good swimming holes and beaches. The island's
little port of Dapia, the first impression visitors get of Spetses,
is surrounded by whitewashed, Neoclassical houses and ringed by
smart cafés and stylish boutiques. The highlight of the season in
Spetses is the celebration of the Panaghia Armata, which re-enacts
an 1822 naval battle between the Greek forces and the Turkish
Armada. Although the island is now as peaceful as they come,
cannons still line the promenade as testament to its proud
militaristic past. Part of Spetses's appeal is that the island
remains comparatively undiscovered and travellers still get the
feeling of being somewhere authentic, instead of touristy. Cars are
banned from the central town area so locals still use horse-drawn
carriages and bicycles to get around which adds to the charm.
Spetses is quite a pricey island, thanks to the upper-class
Athenians who retreat here for holidays, but it is a very rewarding
one.
Paleokastritsa Corfu
Paleokastritsa is one of the most beautiful villages on the
beautiful Corfu and it is frequently included in tours of the
island. This resort area is on the west coast of Corfu island about
16 miles (26km) from Corfu Town and consists of six lovely coves
with sandy beaches, surrounded by green forests and olive trees.
There is a variety of accommodation here for those who choose to
stay. The local tavernas, clustered around the waterfront, are
renowned for serving up the town's delicious lobster catches, and
there are a few bars and clubs that provide after hours
entertainment. There is a monastery, dating from 1228, on the
promontory about a mile from the beach with a surprisingly nice
selection of gifts and handcrafted souvenirs. In one of the cells
of the monastery a small museum has been founded that exhibits the
holy relics of the monastery. Magnificent views are obtained from
the monastery complex and the hills above, particularly from the
village of Lakones. A medieval castle, Angelokastro, overlooks the
area, sitting on a hilltop which can be reached by a very scenic
drive via the village of Lakones, or on foot, though the walk is
arduous. There are several nearby villages worth visiting, and
Paleokastritsa is a good base from which to explore Corfu.
Public Holidays in Greece
2023
2024
New Year's Day
Mon. January 1
Mon. January 1
Epiphany
Sat. January 6
Sat. January 6
Independence Day
Mon. March 25
Mon. March 25
Orthodox Good Friday
Sun. April 14
Fri. May 3
Orthodox Easter Sunday
Tue. April 16
Sun. May 5
Orthodox Easter Monday
Wed. April 17
Mon. May 6
Labour Day
Wed. May 1
Wed. May 1
Assumption of the Virgin Mary
Thu. August 15
Thu. August 15
Ochi Day
Mon. October 28
Mon. October 28
Christmas Day
Wed. December 25
Wed. December 25
Synaxis of the Mother of God
Thu. December 26
Thu. December 26
Clean Monday
Tue. February 27
Mon. March 18
Holy Spirit Monday
Wed. June 5
Mon. June 24
Port of Call - Athens (Piraeus)
Port of Athens Photo credit: Robert Cutts
Athens is a mandatory stop-over on most Mediterranean cruise
itineraries, containing some of Europe's great sights and wonderful
year-round weather. The city is bustling, gritty and chaotic, and
consequently not to everyone's liking. The key to enjoying the
experience is to outsource the driving to a guide, and to read up
as much about Greek history as you can to make the historical sites
come alive.
Cruise ships dock at Megas Limani harbour within the Port of
Piraeus, located seven miles (11km) from central Athens. Be wary of
pickpockets around the port area. Shuttle buses take passengers
from the berths to the international terminal. There one can find
shops, tourist information, and a metro connection to central
Athens.
Shopping in Athens (Piraeus)
There is a decent open-air market in Piraeus, but most cruise
visitors head to the more picturesque Plaka District where every
worthy shop and Greek souvenir can be found. Be warned that many
shops close for siesta sometime between 1pm and 5pm on weekdays,
and all day on Sundays. The flea market in Monastiraki is well
worth a visit as is the Central Market whic presents a vibrant
glimpse into authentic Athens life.
Dining in Athens (Piraeus)
Daphne's - celebrated Greek restaurant in the centre of
Athens
Vlassis - take your cue from the locals who flock here for the
souvlaki
Spondi - by consensus the best restaurant in Greece
Things to do in Athens (Piraeus)
Take a sightseeing tour of the city and avoid navigating the
traffic yourself
Enjoy a half-day trip to Delphi and catch some wisdom from the
Oracle
Sip ouzo and try mezedes on Constitution Square
Tel: 210 4550229
Port of Call - Corfu
Corfu Harbour Photo credit: Alex Graves
The second largest of the Ionion Islands and steeped in a rich
and fascinating history, the port of Corfu is a popular stop on
most Mediterranean cruises. Boasting some of Greece's best beaches,
Corfu is also teeming with verdant plant and animal life. Couple
that with a captivating cultural history - Corfu having been
occupied by the Byzantines, Venetians, French, Russians and British
before the Greeks - and you will understand why this is one of the
Mediterranean's most attractive ports of call for cruise
passengers.
Key attractions in Corfu for travellers to explore include the
Ayios Spyridon Church, the Old Fort
the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Asian Art, the two
tiny islands of Pontikonissi and Vlaherna, Achilleion Palace and
the ruins at Paleopolis.
Cruise ships dock right at the New Port with free shuttles
operating to the passenger services terminal while others operate
shuttle services to and from Corfu Town.
Shopping in Corfu
Corfu Town is the place to go shopping with the best
tourist-orientated stores located in the Old Town. The main
shopping street is N. Teotoki and here shoppers will be able to
find just about everything and anything, from jewellery, plates and
textiles, to sculptures, needlework and ceramics.
Dining in Corfu
Rex - a popular family eatery serving a wide variety of Greek
fare
Venetian Well - delicious international fare with a Greek
twist
Aegli Garden Restaurant - tasty Mediterranean fare at affordable
prices
Things to do in Corfu
Visit Palokastritsa to see the Monastery of the Virgin Mary
Go off-road on a jeep safari
Take Greek cooking lessons
Admire the views from Kanoni
Laze on the sunny beaches, such as Mon Repos
Municipality of Corfu
Tel: +302 661 042 6012
Port of Call - Crete (Heraklion)
Crete Harbour Photo credit: Phileole
The Greek island of Crete and its port of Heraklion boast a rich
and captivating cultural history. Heraklion is brimming with
interesting sights and makes a wonderful port of call for any
cruise passengers passing through.
Key attractions include Fountain Square, the Tomb of Nikos
Kazantzakis, the Historical Museum of Crete, the Archaeological
Museum and the Knossos Palace, one of the world's most important
historical sites featuring intricate ruins dating back nearly 4,000
years and linked to the mythical Minotaur and King Minos.
Cruise ships dock at Heraklion harbour which is located very
close to the heart of the city of Heraklion, with most tourist
attractions only a short walk away.
Shopping in Crete (Heraklion)
Shoppers should head straight to Market Street in Heraklion,
where hundreds of tiny stores and stalls sell just about everything
from fresh fruits and vegetables to jewellery and local crafts.
Haggling is accepted but shoppers shouldn't expect major discounts
or price reductions.
Dining in Crete (Heraklion)
Pantheon - family friendly restaurant serving affordable local
fare
Kyriakos - one of the finest restaurants in town
Ippocampus - popular eatery with locals and tourists serving
hearty local fare
Things to do in Crete (Heraklion)
Enjoy watersports such as waterskiing and wind surfing
Laze on secluded beaches, such as Paliokastro
Visit the Minoan site of Phaistos
Hike to the Samaria Gorge in the White Mountains in western
Crete
Marvel at the remains of Gortyna
Greek National Tourist Organisation, Heraklion Tel: 2810 228203
http://www.greeka.com/crete/crete-tourism.htm
Port of Call - Katakolon
Katakolon Photo credit: Michael Cannon
Located just 22 miles (35km) from Olympia, sleepy little
Katakolon isn't much to look at at first glance. However, its
proximity to Olympia and its deep-water port make it an ideal
cruise destination for large cruise ships in the Ionian Sea.
Katakolon itself is formed by three parallel streets: the first
is a seaside pedestrian thoroughfare with a few restaurants and
tavernas; the second has mostly shops; and the third is more
residential. As a general rule, the further you get from the docks
the less touristy the feel.
There isn't much to do in Katakolon other than browsing the
tourist shops and whiling away an hour or two in the pretty seaside
tavernas; nearly all cruise passengers opt to take a tour to the
famous archaeological sites at Olympia.
Shopping in Katakolon
There are a few tourist shops along the promenade in Katakolon,
but more interesting souvenirs can be found in the art galleries on
the main street, including beautiful bronze sculptures.
Dining in Katakolon
Mouragio Restaurant - friendly seafood restaurant near the
port
Glyfada Beach Restaurant - family-friendly Greek restaurant near
Katakolon Beach
Marina Restaurant - one of Katakolon's oldest restaurants
serving homemade local cuisine
Things to do in Katakolon
Tour the ruins of Ancient Olympia
Taste the local varietals at Mercouri's Vineyards &
Winery
Sun yourself on Agios Andreas Beach
Visit the Museum of Ancient Greek Technology
Explore the ruins of Chlemoutsi Castle
Pyrgos Tourist Office +30 2621 37111
Port of Call - Mykonos Town
Mykonos Photo credit: Charles Haynes
The cosmopolitan and picture-perfect island of Mykonos attracts
thousands of cruise passengers every year; the island's
boutique-lined paved streets, white-washed houses with blue doors,
and picturesque harbour never seem to go out of fashion. This
upmarket Greek island is possibly the most expensive of all the
Greek islands and has a thriving gay scene with heaving clubs and
lots of loud music. But despite the trendy nightlife and glitzy
guests, this island has managed to retain its natural and
traditional charm. Passengers arriving in Mykonos Town are usually
met by the island's mascots, the pink pelicans. Key attractions
include thatched windmills, miles of sandy white beaches, the
Aegean Maritime Museum and Little Venice.
Ships dock at the cruise port at Tourlos, which is located just
outside of Mykonos Town. Shuttles transport passengers into town in
just three minutes while for ships that anchor offshore, tenders
will transfer passengers right into town.
Shopping in Mykonos Town
Shops and informal markets line the streets of Mykonos Town and
plenty of shopping opportunities exist in almost every corner of
this tourist-geared island. Stores touting souvenirs such as
jewellery, paintings and other local wares can be found along the
waterfront area in abundance.
Dining in Mykonos Town
Nammos - trendy beach restaurant with great atmosphere and views
over the yacht marina
Mamacas Mykonos - located close to Taxi Square and serving
affordable traditional Greek fare
M-eating - fine dining offering fantastic and authentic Greek
food
Things to do in Mykonos Town
Visit the archaeological museum island of Delos
Visit Little Venice
Explore Panagia Tourliani Monastery
Hit the many excellent beaches
Go windsurfing at Kalafatis beach
Tourism Office, Mykonos Town
Tel: +30 228 902 5250
Port of Call - Patmos
Patmos Photo credit: kellinahandbasket
The northernmost island in the Dodecanese Archipelago, the small
island of Patmos is a popular port of call for cruise ships in the
Mediterranean.
While many towns in Greece boast the ruins of temples dedicated
to gods like Zeus and Hera, Patmos is steeped in Christian
mythology and home to some 300 churches, monasteries and convents.
The island is thought to be the home of the Apostle John, where he
spent several years in exile and wrote what would become the Book
of Revelations.
Patmos offers many diversions for cruise passengers, including
pleasant beaches, restaurants and tavernas, shops and lovely
scenery. Not on the main route for land-based tourists in Greece,
the island has retained its unspoiled charm while remaining
welcoming to cruise ship passengers. Visitors should take note,
however, that the water in Patmos is not drinkable and it is best
to stick to bottled water.
Cruise ships in Patmos dock in Skala harbour.
Shopping in Patmos
Prices in Patmos are a bit higher than most of Greece because
everything (including drinking water) must be imported. That said,
there are several excellent jewellery shops, and several selling
handmade art and crafts around the harbour and in Hora.
Dining in Patmos
Vegghera - delicious and filling meals right on the marina
Benetos - Mediterranean food with waterfront views
Taverna Leonidas - popular tavern in Lambi Bay
Things to do in Patmos
Explore the Cave of the Apocalypse
Visit the Monastery of St. John
Take a trip to the medieval town of Hora
Sun and swim on the beach near the harbour
Skala Tourism Office +30 22470 31666
Port of Call - Rhodes
Rhodes Port Photo credit: Daniel Lobo
Rhodes is the busiest tourist destination in the Dodecanese
Islands, and one of the most popular cruise ports in Greece. With a
rich history evident in the ancient and medieval buildings and
artwork, cruise passengers of all ages will find something to
wonder at in Rhodes.
Visitors can skip the new part of town, which is primarily
unattractive high-rise buildings, and head straight to the winding
streets of Rhodes' Old Town, which has a lively atmosphere and is
full of shops, restaurants, tavernas, and historical sites.
The rest of the island holds attractions for cruise passengers
as well, including the town of Lindos, declared a historic monument
for its temples and churches and only 30 minutes away by car.
Cruise ships in Rhodes dock at the commercial port, within
walking distance of the Old Town.
Shopping in Rhodes
Some of the best shopping in Rhodes is concentrated in the Old
Town. Shops spill into the streets, offering local wine, handmade
lace and pottery, leather goods and products made from olive oil
and olive wood. Good deals can be found at the Turkish bazaar on
Soukratos Street. Note that many shops are closed from November to
March when there aren't many tourists.
Dining in Rhodes
Tamam - tiny Greek restaurant with friendly service
Kerasma - modern Greek food near the famous 'Bar Street'
Restaurant Agalma - good meze and steaks on an out-of-the-way
street
Things to do in Rhodes
Visit the white-washed houses and ruins at Lindos
Hike to the temples and monasteries on Filerimos Hill
Laze in the sun or play watersports at Faliraki Beach
Take a tour of the city walls from the Rhodes Archaeological
Museum
Explore Petaloudes, the valley of the butterflies
Rhodes Port Authority +30 22410 28888
Port of Call - Santorini
Santorini Photo credit: Jon Rawlinson
One of the most beautiful islands in the world, it's no wonder
that Santorini is among the most popular cruise destinations in the
Mediterranean.
The numerous villages on Santorini all offer their own charms
and attractions: Oia and Pyrgos are charming towns with winding
streets, while Imerovigli and Firostefani promise spectacular
sunset views. Many of the towns boast the iconic whitewashed
architecture and steeply-sloping streets Santorini is known for.
Tucked away in corners of the island are beaches, monasteries,
vineyards and archaeological sites, all promising a memorable day
spent on land.
Cruise ships in Santorini dock off of Fira and then ferry
passengers to the docks. You'll then need to take a funicular (or
donkey) to get up the cliffs to Fira.
Shopping in Santorini
Odos Erithrou Stavrou, opposite the cable car in Fira, is the
main shopping street in Santorini. There you'll find jewellery and
designer goods, but there are other (cheaper) shops scattered
around the city. For Santorini wine, cruise passengers can buy
directly from the vineyard or go to the Iama Wine Store in Oia,
which stocks dozens of local labels.
Dining in Santorini
Salt & Pepper - friendly Greek restaurant with an Italian
flair
Pirouni - great seafood and spectacular sunset views
Daphne - local cuisine in a family-friendly environment
Things to do in Santorini
Go snorkelling or suntan on the Red Beach
Sample local varietals at the Volcan Wines Museum &
Winery
Visit the excavated city of Akrotiri, buried by a volcano in
1450 BC
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Over the last five years, there has been an explosion of low-cost airlines promising to fly travelers to places formerly only served by mainstream airlines
Virgin Voyage’s Resilient Lady recently started its three-part repositioning voyage to Australia and New Zealand. Ahead of the company’s inaugural season in the region, the 2022-built vessel kicked off the first part of its journey on Oct. 22, in Piraeus, Greece
It took two days, in late August, to arrive on Santorini from Boston with two kids under 7, but we made it, seeking shade and a refreshing welcome spritz in Andronis Arcadia's serene lobby, a vision in neutrals. Perched at the top of a hill just outside of the island’s most attractive town — anyone who has ever
On my first visit to the Peloponnese peninsula in southern Greece, I don’t remember what exactly prompted me to jump in a rental car and start exploring. I do remember the route: it was a narrow road through a quintessentially Greek landscape, bathed in spring afternoon sunlight
Every port city has Its day in the sun and none shine brighter than Piraeus, Greece. No seafaring sailor is worthy of the title without a call on this ancient port sometime in his career. Of course Athens gets its fair share of the Aegean spotlight, but without Piraeus it would be landlocked for cruise guests. It
The droves of tourists elbowing each other through Greece and Croatia are too busy boarding packed ferries and waddling through sweaty crowds to notice the other country right there, sandwiched
Some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations — Turkey, Greece, Hawaii and, now, Morocco — have been ravaged by disaster this year, with earthquakes, wildfires and floods razing entire towns and villages, killing residents, and destroying or damaging cultural monuments. The series of catastrophic
The ancient Acropolis is trying a contemporary solution to its overtourism problem. On Monday, the Greek government implemented a new timed ticketing system for the UNESCO World Heritage site, along with a visitor cap of 20,000 per day. The new “Visitor Zones” program
Greece is home to some of the most famous historic sites in the world, such as Knossos, the Temple of Poseidon, and the Acropolis of Athens. These ancient sites in Greece have fascinating backstories, like the legend of the Minotaur at Knossos and the belief that Poseidon was the
Starting on September 4, a limited number of daily visitors will be permitted to enter Greece’s historic monument of the Acropolis, as the respective authorities try to put a strap on mass tourism. According to Lina Mendoni, the Culture Minister, daily visitors to the Athens
Greece’s prime minister is offering a “do-over” for travelers whose trips to the holiday island of Rhodes were canceled or truncated due to the country’s wildfires this summer. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis appeared on the UK chat show Good Morning Britain on August 2 to
Deadly wildfires in Southern Europe haven’t stopped UK holiday companies from bringing packages to Rhodes back on sale, while the Greek island experienced one of the worst weeks of the year as the blaze resulted in two casualties. However, climate change’s impact on Italy
Celebrities are making 2023 the summer of the super group trip — like Kristen Bell’s star-studded Idaho escape and Matt Damon’s Greece getaway with Chris and Liam Hemsworth. While group trips sound fun at first, they’re not always as effortless as the stars
The dangers of wildfires in Greece are far from over and could impact travel for a while to come. More than 20,000 people, many tourists, have already been evacuated from Rhodes alone, and both the U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Greece and Greek authorities
It’s only 100 degrees in Greece today—a respite from the heat that caused fires across the country and had officials scrambling to evacuate tourists from ongoing fires. Sixty-four new blazes began on Sunday, the hottest day yet this summer. The most serious was on the island of
A scorching heatwave is gripping southern Europe, with record-breaking high temperatures expected to persist for another week. Countries across the Mediterranean, including popular holiday destinations like Spain, Italy, Croatia, and Greece are experiencing extreme heat. Parts of
The Mediterranean is the trendiest place to be this summer now that every country that has a coastline straddling the basin has lifted all travel restrictions. From Europe’s Southern swimming spots, which extend from Spain’s Westernmost Costa del Sol to Greece’s Easternmost
People have traveled to the Acropolis high on its rocky hill overlooking Athens, Greece, since ancient times. Now, however, the crowds have become unmanageable. Indeed, as post-pandemic travel numbers continue to rebound, it is now common for upwards of 14,000 people to
Many travelers look forward to their summer trips all year long. Destinations like Miami Beach, San Juan, and Cancún will be filled with sunshine, fruity cocktails, and tons of stuff to do. If you’re traveling to Europe, places like Greece and Italy will be the hot spots for many
Variety Cruises, a family-run business that was founded in Greece in 1949, is refining its cruise offerings by going ‘deeper’ into its voyages. The line will visit more remote areas and create experiences that enable guests to immerse themselves in the history, culture and cuisine of
Visiting Greece is a bucket list dream for many. The whitewashed buildings punctuated with bright blue paint, the food, the friendly people, and the beautiful beaches all draw in tourists from around the globe. But one Greek island, in particular, has caught the attention of
Greece is working to make hundreds of its beautiful beaches wheelchair accessible, installing remote-operated ramps, making restroom improvements, and more. The ramp project, which is being designed by Greek company Seatrac, will be installed at 287
In the 2021 film The Lost Daughter, Leda (Olivia Colman) sits and reads upon a recliner at a beach club in Greece. But then a newly arrived, expansive family disrupts her peace—the children cavort, the adults bicker while cracking beers—and a member of the
Greece-based Celestyal Cruises is set to launch a new vacation brand, Celestyal Vacations, and confirmed it is looking for a ship to replace Celestyal Olympia. Celestyal Holidays has already launched in the U.K., and will launch as Celestyal Vacations in the U.S. in the
With stunning beaches, rich history and delicious cuisine, it’s no surprise that Greece is so popular among travelers. From exploring ancient ruins to soaking up the Mediterranean sun, Greece has something for everyone. Athens has a fascinating blend of ancient and
The Games of the I Olympiad were held from April 6 to April 15, 1896 in Athens, Greece, the first Olympic Games in modern times. The first Olympics, or "I Olympiad" also established the International Olympic
As an African American traveler, I didn’t know what to expect when traveling throughout Greece for the first time. I’ve wanted to visit Greece since I was a kid, back when I first learned of Greek mythology and the Olympic Games in grade school. By the time I arrived in
White-washed towns spilling down into luminous blue waters: It’s no doubt the Greek islands are a picture-perfect dream. While you might come for the beaches and beauty, you’ll likely stay for its incredible food and friendly welcome. “Greece is really known for its simplicity and
Carnival Cruise Line has announced new cruises to Europe in 2024 including sailings that will visit Iceland, Greece, Italy, Spain and other European destinations. Carnival will sail a series of 17 cruises in Europe on Carnival Legend in 2024. The cruise ship will homeport in the following three cities in
A passenger train carrying hundreds of people, including many university students coming back from their holidays, collided at high speed with an oncoming freight train in a fiery wreck in northern Greece, killing at least 36 people and injuring some 85, officials said Wednesday
Greece is the land of dreams. We dream about its azure seas, its charming island villages and its myriad beaches, both broad and minute. We dream about the Acropolis, shining on a hill over fascinating Athens. This grand country, from mountaintop to city street, lives up to those dreams. Greece satisfies travelers looking for adventure, the great outdoors, relaxing seaside vacations and
Greece is an ancient civilization known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. It's also one of the most popular vacation spots in Western Europe and people travel from around the world for their destination weddings, birthday trips, private getaways, and scenic cruises in Greece. Since this
Greece is officially one of Europe’s top tourist destinations for 2023, having hit a new popularity peak following its reopening for tourism and launch of a Digital Nomad Visa. There is no shortage of marvellous sights to be found across the entire Hellenic Republic, but 3
With over 1,000 miles of coastline and over 1,000 islands and islets, Croatia is one of Europe's most idyllic summer destinations. Yet until now it has always felt that little bit more exotic than the likes of France, Spain and Greece, with its own currency, the kuna. All that changed on
For the ninth year in a row, Ireland has been crowned Europe’s Best Travel Destination at the annual Travel Weekly Reader’s Choice Awards. It beats off strong competitors – with Greece, Italy, and Croatia, to name a few – but what is it about this chilly insular nation that has got
The number of international tourists who visited Greece has surged this year, despite increasing inflation as well as the Ukraine war, according to the statistics provided by the Bank of Greece. Despite the notable increase in the number of international arrivals, the figures are still below
Views, views, did we mention the views? Chef Nobu’s 14th hotel sits on the volcanic cliffs outside Imerovigli, the highest on the Greek island. Nobu’s Caldera outlook, with the cascading whitewashed homes of Oia in the distance, doesn’t get old. But it's the
Thailand and Greece (the Hellenic Republic) are in talks to rebuild and further grow mutual tourism between the two countries, with high-level meetings having been held in Athens on 5 September, 2022
You can see a lot of Greece in under two weeks and get a real feel for its history, ruins, beaches, food, late-night revelry and a few of its many iconic islands. Ferries link many of the best places to visit, and lazing away the hours on deck gazing at the passing turquoise water is an irresistible
Hardly a week goes by in Greece without some kind of festival or celebration, large or small. Many are pegged to the nation’s long and storied heritage, while others are tied to the Orthodox church, which continues to play a huge role in the nation’s calendar and conscience. Some events are
While romantic Santorini and bacchanalian Mykonos often get the lion’s share of attention (and tourists) in the Cyclades, another isle with quieter charms awaits a mere 45 minutes away: Paros. That’s where fashion designer Margherita Missoni and her friends—including Eugenie Niarchos and
The travel intelligence platform, Mabrian, has ranked in its most recent study the best European cities based on the value for money they offered in June 2022. According to Mabrian, the top three best value-for-money European destinations are Zagreb (Croatia), Athens (Greece), and
What is Greece most famous for? Beaches, archaeological sites, delicious food, dancing in the moonlight? It’s hard to pick. Yes, this is the place where starry-eyed honeymooners watch the sunset into the Aegean Sea from the whitewashed cliffs of Santorini. But it’s
Confusion is growing over whether Greece is about to lift travel restrictions for foreign visitors next week or not. The announcement has caused a lot of confusion
By the beard of Zeus! On May 2, Greece is to lift all COVID-19-related entry rules, and it could well prove a game-changer for thousands of tourists during
The Games of the I Olympiad were held from April 6 to April 15, 1896 in Athens, Greece, the first Olympic Games in modern times. The first Olympics, or "I Olympiad"
Wheel the World, a travel booking platform known for making global travel more accessible, recently launched nine itineraries, including a women-only tour of Morocco and a seniors trip to Israel
Nobu Hospitality has confirmed it first hotel and restaurant in Greece, the Nobu Hotel and Restaurant Santorini. The property is scheduled to open in the spring
Dreaming of a trip to Europe in 2022? From a historic gem in London to a beachside retreat in Greece, these are the best new hotels to have on your radar
A CNN writer went to explore the real-life Mediterranean diet -- an award-winning style of healthy eating she had been covering for years as a health journalist -- in Greece
At their lowest level since 2016 are the prices of air tickets for USA residents who want to travel to Europe. Among the cities that saw the prices of air tickets fall sharply is Athens in Greece, while the same list includes popular tourist destinations such as Madrid, Barcelona, Rome, Helsinki, Milan and Dublin
Occupancy in accommodation and hotels in Greece reached 63 per cent from September 12 until September 19, the figures published by the country’s Minister of Tourism, Vassilis Kikilias, have revealed
As the summer season is coming to an end, the Greek Minister of Tourism, Haris Theocharis, has acclaimed the country’s performance during the season and pointed out that the country has welcomed more than six million tourists
Paradisiacal plunge pools, seductive sea views and delectable interior designs. Behold Greece's best new hotels for 2021, 11 properties that all offer dreamy accommodation
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention added 16 destinations to its "very high" Covid-19 risk level on Monday, including Greece, Ireland and the US Virgin Islands
What awaits American visitors to Europe this summer is a byzantine and constantly-changing array of Covid-related restrictions and registration requirements. But this American traveler would go again in a heartbeat
Greece has taken up residence on my bucket list for years, but every time I considered planning a trip there, it either felt too daunting or something else would come up and force me to put it on the back burner
Six days after Greece reopened to vaccinated American travelers, one of the country's most anticipated hospitality ventures followed suit: Kalesma Mykonos opened its meticulously carved doors on May 20
The move, affecting about 400 flights per day, is a reaction to the shocking arrest of a journalist last month after Belarusian officials forced his plane Greece-to-Lithuania flight to land in Minsk
I’m going to Greece. That might not sound noteworthy, except that Greece is a very hilly country. In fact, its national motto should be, “We have a lot of stairs.” And I have Stage 4 cancer and can’t walk much
The European Union has called on airlines to avoid Belarus' airspace after a Ryanair flight from Greece to Lithuania was forced to land in the country, and a dissident journalist on board was arrested
Don’t give up on a European vacation in 2021! With Greece allowing Americans to enter the country with proper testing and screening, four cruise lines are setting sail
Greece is keen to see crowds of holiday-makers flooding back to its idyllic islands and has despatched the tourism minister to London to convince one of its biggest markets
Seabourn is developing plans to start round-trip cruises from Barbados this summer, putting a second ship into operation along with its Greece-Cyprus program
Greece has lifted quarantine requirements for vaccinated travelers and those testing negative for Covid-19 from key tourism markets, including Europe, the UK and the United States, in what officials called "baby steps" on the road back to normality
United Airlines announced a new long-haul international expansion to Europe. The carrier will add new flights to Croatia, Iceland, and Greece in time for the summer
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings today announced it will restart service this July with cruises from Jamaica, the Dominican Republic and Greece with the Norwegian Joy, Jade and Gem
The narrow, stone-paved alleys on the traditional village of Oia, in Santorini, are usually packed with tourists even this time of the year. The Greek island with the most famous sunset view
The Games of the I Olympiad were held from April 6 to April 15, 1896 in Athens, Greece, the first Olympic Games in modern times. The first Olympics, or "I Olympiad" also established the International Olympic Committee. At a cost of approximately $500,000 USD, I Olympiad hosted a
From traditional countryside villages, organic farms, and vineyards to a mythically significant Greek island, these are the best day trips from Mykonos
It’s finally happening: People around the U.S. are looking forward to traveling again. More and more of us are getting vaccinated each day and celebrating that fact by booking flights, reserving hotels and vacation rental homes, and drafting lists of all the things we want to see and do when we arrive somewhere new
Itching to book (or just start dreaming about) your next vacation? Check out the top-rated all-inclusive resorts on TripAdvisor right now, in locations like Mexico, Greece, the Maldives and more
The Lonely Planet publishing company listed Greece as the top destination in the entire world in the category of “Sustainable Food” on their “Best in Travel 2021” list released recently, which has been adapted to reflect current demands for environmentally-friendly tourism.
On Monday, Greek authorities said 12 crew members of a Maltese-flagged cruise ship on a Greek island tour with more than 1,500 people on board had tested positive for the coronavirus and have been isolated on board The Mein Schiff 6, operated by TUI Cruises.
Ireland on Tuesday announced new rules that will likely cut popular holiday destinations Greece and Italy from a quarantine-free “green list” and leave some of Europe’s strictest travel restrictions in place for another month.
Add Greece to the list of places where big-ship cruising is resuming. Germany-based TUI Cruises on Sunday will become the first major cruise line to restart Greek Island voyages since the coronavirus lockdown began with sailings out of Heraklion, Crete.
Greece on Saturday reopened six of its main ports to cruise ships for the first time in the coronavirus-shortened tourism season, but no ships are expected before three weeks. In a letter to the Cruise Lines International Association and three major cruise operators early this week, Tourism Minister
For UK travellers, it’s cheering to hear that the government is planning to relax its travel quarantine rules in early July for a number of European countries. UK officials have been in talks with their counterparts in Portugal, France, Italy, Greece and Spain
The Mediterranean is gradually opening up to tourism, hoping to salvage what's left of the summer high season – but not to cruises anytime soon. Italy is already open; Greece opened Monday and Spain opens next week.
Sinuous spruce-wood walls wind around the cosy Wooden Cave suite that Tenon Architecture has created for the Hyades Mountain Resort in southern Greece.
The Greek Tourism Ministry has announced that, as of June 15, people from 29 countries will be allowed to enter Greece on direct flights to Athens and to the northern city of Thessaloniki.
From a spectacular island beach resort on a private bay in Greece, a historic ski property in the Alps, or a modern sculptured art hotel in Scotland, I have curated a list of highly anticipated hotel openings for 2021 around the world. Many of these properties have continued construction despite COVID-19 as long- range investments
Greece has brought forward its planned reopening to tourists to June 15 as pressure mounts on European destinations to roll back coronavirus restrictions to stave off economic collapse. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced the new date in a national address on Wednesday, saying only tourists from countries with acceptably low rates of virus infection would be permitted
A major historical site and tourist attraction is welcoming visitors again. The coronavirus pandemic caused so-called non-essential businesses to close their doors — from bars and restaurants, to museums, to major tourist attractions. Like so many other historical sites around the world, the Acropolis in Athens has been closed since March in accordance with lockdown measures in Greece to fight
Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Croatia. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Greece, Cyprus, and Israel. Soon, travelers in each of these trios may be able to travel freely within their partner countries—salvaging some part of the summer travel season for Europe and the Mediterranean's less-affected countries. The partnerships, called "travel bubbles" and "corona corridors" by some, are popping up
Celestyal Cruises has revealed its new 2021/22 itineraries including new ports of call, extended stays in popular ports and extra departures on its “Steps of St Paul” sailings. The line is adding a new island, Syros; swapping Heraklion for Agios Nikolaos (Crete) and adding Greece’s second city, Thessaloniki, to its itineraries. Celestyal is also maximising time spent in Cairo by skipping a stop in
The Games of the I Olympiad were held from April 6 to April 15, 1896 in Athens, Greece, the first Olympic Games in modern times. The first Olympics, or "I Olympiad" also established the International Olympic Committee. At a cost of approximately $500,000 USD, I Olympiad hosted
Ten years ago we were at Epidaurus, and each took turns to descend to the orchestra and read from Sophocles or Euripides – among the wisest writers of all time. It’s been a turbulent 10 years for Greece and for us. When the dust has settled it would be good to revisit and remind ourselves of some of the eternal wisdoms and pleasures. In 2013 I visited Christchurch, a city slowly emerging from the crisis of
When I first went to Greece, some 30 years ago, I was a teenage backpacker and survived on biscuits and scrumped (delicious) lemons. I didn’t discover the joys of Greek food until I lived there as an English teacher after university. At the time supermarkets, such as they were, only sold canned and frozen food. I had to develop a new way of shopping: in markets, grocers and butchers, buying what was fresh, local and in season
Although your Instagram feed may make it seem like everyone is visiting places like Greece, Portugal, and Peru, there is one location that is apparently more popular than ever: the local library. According to a recent Gallup survey, “Visiting the library remains the most common cultural activity Americans engage in, by far.” In fact, the average American adult took a trip to the library 10.5 times in 2019. That number
From Milos, Greece to Dahab, Egypt this year’s list of the best budget travel destinations has something for every kind of traveler. Whether you want to explore vibrant Rajasthan in India or relax in style on Lovina, the lesser-known side of Bali, Indonesia, this list has you covered. This is the sixth iteration of my annual Forbes list and in the spirit of keeping things
Moonachie, NJ – (December 9, 2019) – Central Holidays today announced the debut of its 2020 Europe brochure with authentically rich experiences in Greece, France, Malta, Spain, Portugal, & Croatia, featuring inspired itineraries and ultra-personalized programs. Celebrated for its affordable luxury itineraries, uniquely
Travel photography on Instagram can feel pretty predictable. The path to easy likes and virality is paved with clifftops in Greece, colorful Caribbean walls, and food-in-the-air shots that are meant to tickle some universal pleasure center. But just because that's what we see the most of on social media doesn't mean it's the start and finish of what's out there. In fact, it's hardly representative of the breadth of
I first landed on Arkoi a few years ago by chance while seeking an escape from the August crowds on Samos, another Greek island in the eastern Aegean Sea. There happened to be a boat headed there one morning – a relatively infrequent occurrence, even in summer – so I jumped at the opportunity. While Samos is teeming with commerce and pleasure seekers, the tranquil and bucolic
A 22.5 metre-wide cruise ship has become the largest ship to pass through the narrow Corinth Canal in Greece, according to its operator. The Braemer cruise liner was so close to the sides of the 6.4 kilometre-long canal when it squeezed through on October 9 that passengers could almost reach out and touch them, UK-based Fred Olsen Cruises said. At 24,344 gross tonnes and 195.82
Cruise passengers held their breath as a 22.5 meter wide cruise liner became the largest boat to pass through Greece's narrow Corinth Canal, according to its operator. Carrying 929 passengers on board, the Braemar cruise liner narrowly managed to squeeze through the rocky walls of the canal -- which measures a maximum of 25 meters wide at the water's surface -- making it the longest
It was a baking hot summer’s day and I was in a car driving through the dramatic hills and lush vegetation of the Peloponnese in Greece. “Look at this whole plain,” my driver, Eleni Korka, said, gesturing out the window. To our left was a huge, flat area, covered in olive trees and scrub bushes. Where it ended, the earth transformed sharply into forested
What better way to experience Greece than by staying in a waterfront hotel with a private plunge pool? Overlooking some of the best beaches the Southern European country has to offer, these coastal hotels are as lavish as it gets. Filled with amenities ranging from exclusive spa treatments to private helicopter transportation and personal butlers, here are 10 of the most luxurious seaside hotels when
It's no secret that Greece boasts some of the most stunning stretches of sand in the world. While many of the Mediterranean country's best-known beaches are often teeming with sunbathers, there are still plenty of gorgeous hideaways for those keen to escape
A travel blogger was removed from the Acropolis of Athens in Greece after being falsely accused of “breaching sexual decency,” she claims. British citizen Adebola Sowemimo was visiting the historical site when she said she was pushed out of a museum building
Calling Alonissos a sleepy seaside island wouldn’t be construed as a criticism. For many, this authentic and refreshing island, an hour ferry from Skiathos, is everything Greece is meant to be. In 2019, simple is the new luxury. Alonissos is lined with quiet and unspoiled beaches, offers unpretentious meals and endless leafy
Cruise ship passengers are used to seeing all sorts of sights — sprawling cities, distant islands, a dolphin or two — but a cruise ship sailing through the Mediterranean Sea last weekend came across an unlikely scene: a boat of 111 migrants stranded off the coast of Greece. Marella Cruises’ Marella Discovery was sailing near Greece’s Peloponnese peninsula on Saturday night, when a
Renowned for its nourishing simplicity, Greek cuisine is considered among the finest and healthiest in the world. With an emphasis on baked rather than fried food, most traditional dishes avoid elaborate sauces, preferring the perfume of herb seasonings. Nutritionists have long trumpeted the Greeks' use of unsaturated fats like olive oil and unprocessed sugars like honey, as well as pulses and
When it’s time to plan for a honeymoon, there are plenty of places to travel to celebrate your newlywed status. And many of those options are cliché — Hawaii, Paris, or the Carribean are often the go-to options. Nothing is wrong with taking the standard route — it is your trip to plan, after all, and you should go where you want. But if Greece isn't already on your short list, you'll want to add it. Greece
In Greece this week, undercover cops are cracking down on restaurants over-charging tourists; one American visitor said on TripAdvisor that he was charged 830 euros for six beers and 3 salads at a restaurant in Mykonos. Let’s face it—we’ve all fallen victim to the occasional scam as tourists. I’ve agreed to pay way more than necessary on cab rides, for instance, and would
WorldPride, the LGBTQ celebration, is in New York this year, and LGBTQ people of all stripes are making the trek. That's right: The trek. People are heading to New York from as nearby as Washington, D.C,. to as far away as Tunisia, Greece and Taiwan. This year, the draw especially comes from the 50th anniversary of the famous Stonewall riots, a pivotal
It’s rare to find a hotel that appeals to children of all ages. Verina Suites does so brilliantly, and has plenty of perks for adults too. Staff in white deliver homemade lemonade to the squishy day beds that line the turquoise pool. Kids can mess around on giant inflatables or play table tennis, while their parents wind down with outdoor yoga sessions or summery
White and pastel-washed buildings set atop rugged hills overlook clear, blue water. The sun sets in breathtaking fashion. The Karpathos moon is so full and bright that intrepid traveler Katie Sehl figured it for a lamp or a giant spotlight the first time she saw it. In many ways, Karpathos looks like the other islands of Greece you've seen in pictures or in person, and Sehl, a
ATHENS, GREECE (February 04, 2019) – Celestyal Cruises, the award-winning, main home-porting cruise operator in Greece and the preeminent line serving the Greek Islands and the Mediterranean has extended the season with new 2019 and 2020 itineraries. In 2019 Celestyal
Celestyal Cruises, the regional leader for the Greek Islands and Eastern Mediterranean has announced it is taking its award-wining program west in the fall of 2020 for six departures into the Adriatic visiting seven new destinations in Italy, Montenegro, Croatia and Greece. The new
No city divides the French like Marseille. For every admirer cooing about the sun-warmed sea, craggy coastlines, fish-rich bouillabaisse and the Mediterranean melting pot (thanks to 20th-century immigration from Greece, Spain, Italy, Corsica, Morocco, Tunisia and Algeria), someone else is grousing about corruption, dirty streets and eroding Frenchness. And
Disney Cruise Line will call on five ports in Greece during three special Mediterranean voyages departing from Rome in summer 2020. The sailings mark the first time in five years a Disney cruise ship has stopped in Greece. Next summer, one 12-night and two nine-night cruises aboard Disney Magic will call on Greek ports including
From colorful Parga and the stunning beaches of Sivota to the low-key port of Preveza, the Epirotic coast is dazzling. Characterized as the Greek Amalfi Coast, though with its own allure, this endless coastline dotted with seaside villages, dreamy beaches, mountain villages, archaeological sites and amazing landscapes is still widely undiscovered
In October, Brad Barrett flew to Greece to gather with fellow enthusiasts of a lifestyle often known by the acronym FIRE, for “financial independence, retire early.” Barrett co-hosts one of the movement’s most popular podcasts, ChooseFI, often discussing how to maximize travel rewards. Travel is a major component of the early-retirement
Moonachie, NJ – (December 13, 2018) – Central Holidays has unveiled its 2019 Mediterranean brochure featuring a robust array of authentically rich travel programs throughout Greece, Spain, Portugal, Malta, France, and Croatia. This just-released 124-page publication
Millions of visitors flock to Greece each year to seek out its cultural treasures and natural beauty. Some rubberneck with the crowds chasing sunsets in Oia on Santorini, or seek out raucous revelry on ultra-chic Mykonos. Far beyond the usual Greek island suspects are less-touristy gems where you experience a more authentic Greek lifestyle without forfeiting vibrant village life
A road trip is the most romantic way for the discerning modern traveller to explore a region, especially if you have to share the road with the occasional herd of goats. Epirus, the wild mountainous region with a latticework coastline in northwest Greece, boasts
The massive 6.8 magnitude quake struck in the Ionian Sea close to the tourist island of Zakynthos, also known as Zante, on Friday morning, October 26. Tremors were first felt just before 2am local time. The earthquake had a depth of around 16 kilometres and according to reports, the quake
Celestyal Cruises (“Celestyal”), the main home-porting cruise operator in Greece and the preeminent cruise line serving the Greek Islands and the Eastern Mediterranean, today announced the appointment of Stewart Williams as Regional Manager, APAC, effective 10 September 2018. Mr. Williams will report to Marios Polydorou, Director, Sales and Travel Services.
Dazzling white rock formations, hidden caves and breathtaking beaches contrast with arresting blue seas to make Milos one of the most impressive islands in Greece. This craggy volcanic island in the Aegean Sea is the most southwesterly of the Cyclades group, and is where the Venus de Milo, the most graceful marble statue of antiquity, was discovered.
Dazzling white rock formations, hidden caves and breathtaking beaches contrast with arresting blue seas to make Milos one of the most impressive islands in Greece.
This craggy volcanic island in the Aegean Sea is the most southwesterly of the Cyclades group, and is where the Venus de Milo
Moonachie, NJ – (August 27, 2018) – Central Holidays is pleased to introduce amazing Europe winter travel deals to splendid destinations throughout Italy, Spain, France, Malta, and Greece – unbelievably priced from just $349 per person. The travel brand’s product development team of destination specialists has negotiated remarkable preferred pricing and is leveraging its strong buying power to present these exclusive travel deals, chock-full of value-added perks, bonus sightseeing, and one-of-a kind experiences – all at unparalleled package prices.
Two months ago at Lake Prespa, on the northern Greek border, Macedonian prime minister Zoran Zaev emerged from talks with Greece and announced an agreement to change his country's name to "North Macedonia." National name changes are rare, but this was the second one to hit headlines in just a couple of months. And that little added "North" looks innocent
Frequently outshone by the idyllic Aegean Islands, and overshadowed by the ancient glories of Athens, Greece’s second-largest city is hardly a household name. But the buzzing metropolis in the country’s northern mainland doesn’t need to trade on its looks or fame to earn respect. The once-powerful port is still filled with the Unesco-listed remains of the three empires that ruled it
Traveling to Greece during the peak summer months can feel both like a dream and a nightmare. The islands are warm, sunbaked, and full of life and energy. Every beach calls you to swim in its azure waters or tan on its rocky cliffs and every whitewashed wall, blue window, and stuccoed roof is waiting to land on your Instagram feed. But, there, lurking just outside
Greece’s fire department says the death toll from the country’s deadliest forest fire in decades currently stands at 92, including two unidentified bodies which have not been claimed by relatives. The July 23 fire swept through a seaside resort area northeast of Athens, fanned by gale-force winds that hampered firefighting efforts. Hundreds of homes were destroyed, and
The handsome, nimble motor-sailing cruiser Galileo will whisk 49 passengers on a whistle-stop tour of the Cyclades, surely Greece’s most striking island group. Pairing popular stops such as volcanic Santorini and vibrant Mykonos with tranquil Antiparos and untouched Folegandros, the itinerary also blends sightseeing with sunbathing, swimming and hanging out in tavernas.
Tourists in southern Greece should keep up to date with the news and follow the advice of local authorities, the Foreign Office has warned after wildfires not far from Athens killed as many as 60. A blaze swept through the resort town of Mati, in the Attica region, an hour from the Greek capital, in some of the worst fires since 2007 when dozens were killed on the southern Peloponnese peninsula.
Piraeus, Greece -- July 19, 2018 -- Celestyal Cruises is pleased to announce the appointment of Josh Hepp as Business Development Manager, Western USA and Western Canada, effective 9 July 2018. Based in Denver, CO Josh will be responsible for aggressively growing Celestyal’s footprint in the West
The second time you visit an area is always a test. You are presumably going back because you enjoyed it the first time. Will the second visit live up to expectations? We were first recommended Çıralı, on the Turkish coast south of Antalya, by a friend who had lived in Kardamyli in Greece. It was apparently very similar: a beautiful but low-key resort, surrounded by mountains and lots to
The love affair with Greece continues for our readers, who have voted six of the country’s islands into the European Top 10 list this year. But beyond Santorini and Mykonos, some of these winners are decidedly lesser known. It turns out, there are still places you can be the first to discover in your circle of friends. Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel
Back in the day when Greece’s ferries were as delightfully cheap as they were agonisingly slow, island-hopping around the Aegean was a rite of passage for travellers. Now, with catamarans, charter flights, a ferry route connecting the Ionian islands for the first time this summer, and a fleet of seaplanes scheduled to launch in 2019, even the most remote islands
Greece is the latest in a string of European countries fighting to maintain the fine balance between sustainable tourism and “overtourism” - with one prominent politician saying the country is feeling the strain. This year, the country is expected to welcome 32 million foreign travellers – an almost 100 per cent increase from the 15 million visitors in 2010 and over five times the amount of visitors from 10 years ago.
Piraeus, Greece: Celestyal Cruises today announced the appointment of Mary Woody as Business Development Manager for the Central U.S. Region. Ms. Woody is a business development manager with more than 20 years’ experience in the cruise industry. Ms. Woody is based in Kansas City, KS, and will report to Gordon Dirker, Vice President, Business Development, Celestyal Cruises, Inc., beginning May 28, 2018.
May 7, 2018 -- (Piraeus), Greece -- Celestyal Cruises today announced that Kyriakos Anastassiadis will conclude his term as CEO of the company on June 30, 2018. Anastassiadis contributed to the company’s strategic repositioning as well as to the development and strengthening of the Celestyal Cruises brand internationally. From his position as Chair of CLIA Europe, a role he has served in since late 2016, he assiduously promoted the cruise industry agenda.
From England to Greece, where to stay if you’re in the mood for celebrating. Hotels on Europe’s festival circuit come in a range of styles, from party-centric to serene retreat. Some even create their own festivals devoted to food, literature or music, and others offer easy access to destination events nearby. The following new, improved or event-staging hotels welcome guests to celebrate.
Santorini's sweeping caldera, sunset cruises, picturesque blue-domed churches and whitewashed vacation cottages carved into a 300-meter cliff have made it an unstoppable success story among the islands of Greece.
So interchangeable are the islands of Greece and Croatia that the producers of the Mamma Mia! film sequel (due for release this July) have chosen Vis, off the Dalmatian coast, as a stand-in for the story’s fictional Greek island of Kalokairi – which must have had Greek tourism officials harrumphing over their houmous.
The Games of the I Olympiad were held from April 6 to April 15, 1896 in Athens, Greece, the first Olympic Games in modern times. The first Olympics, or "I Olympiad" also established the International Olympic Committee.
February 28, 2018 -- Piraeus, Greece: Celestyal Cruises today announced its extended 2019 and new 2020 itineraries. In 2019 Celestyal Cruises will extend its season into December and return to Istanbul for the first time since 2016 with its new
We were based at Amanzoe, a hotel-resort of fabulously incongruous modernity revealed, after a gruelling journey, with all the force of myth. Amanzoe is as high as high-concept hospitality reaches: the site includes a library
With 400 staff and crew for its 596 passengers, nine dining venues and all-butler suites, I’m expecting a very different cruise experience for my holiday ahead. I am joining a 10-day voyage through Greece (Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes) and Turkey (for the ancient ruins of Ephesus and Pergamon)
There is a blueness of sea that seems feasible only via Photoshop or an Instagram filter, but which is made real around the south-east Aegean’s Dodecanese islands. The star players of the archipelago are Rhodes, Lesbos and Kos, but there are 12 large islands in the group, plus tens of smaller ones
Today, Windstar Cruises announces its new “Have You Ever” campaign focusing on a Europe 2017 summer sale, aimed at turning these “never have I evers” into “yes, I haves” with prices from $1,299 per guest. More than 20 voyages in Northern Europe, Italy, Greece, and the Mediterranean are included in the sale
The Games of the I Olympiad were held from April 6 to April 15, 1896 in Athens, Greece, the first Olympic Games in modern times. The first Olympics, or "I Olympiad", also established the International Olympic Committee
TripAdvisor Vacation Rentals has rounded up 10 unusual converted homes you can rent for your next getaway, including a 1960s caboose in North Carolina, a windmill in Greece, and a water tower in Denmark
Traveling from Athens to Crete in 1939, Henry Miller, the author of bawdy novels, many of them banned in America, flew in an airplane for the first time — an experience he described in “The Colossus of Maroussi,” his exuberant travelogue of a nine-month journey through Greece
Strong winds near the coast of Greece caused damage this morning on Royal Caribbean's cruise ship, Rhapsody of the Seas, but no passengers were injured and the ship is still sailing.
Ithaca is just 18 miles from top to tail and although it offers various Odysseus-themed attractions – a cave, a spring, the ruins of a castle – there’s no point rushing to any of them
Greece’s economy may still be in the doldrums, but Athens’ arts scene and nightlife are flourishing. Combine that with a wave of new affordable places to stay and the capital is no longer just a gateway to the Greek islands
We've just returned from a weeklong trip onboard Thomson Cruises' Thomson Celebration, sailing the seven-day Grecian Legends itinerary from Dubrovnik to Dubrovnik, starting with an overnight stay in Croatia before calling at Corinth, Itea and Corfu in Greece and Kotor in Montenegro
As anyone who has been to Santorini or Mykonos in the high season knows, strolling the overcrowded lanes can feel like negotiating a stampede at a soccer stadium. Those islands are indeed beautiful, but these lesser-known regions are just as alluring
Way back in ancient Greece, Plato was philosophizing about a menu based solely on greenery, making him -- along with Buddha, Gandhi and Einstein -- among history's foremost plant diet trendsetters. Even so, the vegan lifestyle is experiencing a remarkable boom today, with a proliferation of in-demand meat and dairy-free restaurants, bakeries and bars around the globe
The Cyclades island cluster is Greece’s answer to the Hamptons. These small communities, once rustic hideaways, have morphed into scene-y summer staples, luring visitors via superb weather, a chic setting, and delicious local produce. Think of Naxos, Santorini, or Mykonos as a sun-baked island answer to East Hampton but, of the more than 200 islands that make up this cluster, the closest thing to a Mediterranean Montauk is Koufonisia
The beach is the key to many a great holiday – from first childhood steps across the sand to teenage posturing and strolls en famille. But the perfect beach is rarely found by chance. The coasts of the Mediterranean and the Atlantic are fringed with an overwhelming array of beaches - many of which have been spoilt by concrete tower blocks and flocks of tourists. Head, instead, to one of these secret beaches - 52, one for every week of the year - chosen by our European experts in France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Croatia, Greece and Turkey
Greece has somewhere between 2,000 and 6,000 islands and islets scattered through the Aegean and Ionian Seas, of which a little over 200 are inhabited. Many visitors come to the islands with an ingrained image: Whitewashed houses and churches with vivid blue accents, crisp burnt orange sunsets, a labyrinth of narrow streets where a slant of sunlight peaks through the alabaster town square. That really is what favorites like Santorini and Mykonos look like, which is why they're so popular and crowded
This mountain and peninsula in northern Greece is home to more than 2,000 monks living the ascetic life in one of 20 Eastern Orthodox monasteries. Outsiders, such as Vladimir Putin, who will visit this weekend, are allowed in with special permission - so long as they aren't female (as has been the case for more than 1,000 years)
Travel publisher Lonely Planet has revealed its top 10 European countries to visit this year. This list is topped by the Greek Peloponnese peninsula, the southernmost region of mainland Greece characterised by a mountainous interior and indented coastline, as well as historic sites such as Olympia and Mycenae and the Nemean wine region, which is gaining international recognition
Celestyal Cruises has confirmed it will sail year-round in Cuba beginning on November 21. Celestyal Cruises has been operating under the Cuba Cruise name and has based its ship Celestyal Crystal in Havana from December to March, repositioning to Greece during the summer
The island of Lesbos has become a focal point of the refugee crisis in Greece. Its residents have been nominated for a Nobel peace prize for their empathy and assistance but worries persist over long-term effects to its tourist trade
We are spoilt in Australia to have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. But if you head to Europe, you will find the best beaches, as voted by Trip Advisor, in Greece. The 2016 Traveller’s Choice Awards found six of Europe’s top 15 beaches located in Greece
A few years ago, Google's director of engineering Radhika Malpani was considering a summer trip to Greece. Being a Google employee, she naturally started out by searching a few terms on her phone, but she soon had so many different tabs open for flights, hotels, itineraries, and attractions that she found herself overwhelmed and wishing she could pass the whole project off to a travel agent
When I was researching for our honeymoon, I spent hours pouring over Pinterest and google searches trying plan and maximize our time spent over there. When I came back, I wanted to put together a complete travel guide for my readers so they would be the best equipped for their travels. So let's get into it
The best secret beach resorts for family summer holidays in France, Italy, Croatia, Turkey, Greece and Spain, with tips on the best hotels and apartments
A return visit to Mykonos, Greece, is just as mesmerizing as the first time, 38 years ago. Priorities might've changed (sightseeing and relaxing versus sunbathing and clubbing), but the island remains a stunning place to just be.
At least three cruise lines have changed their itineraries in Greece to avoid the island of Lesbos, where some 20,000 migrants from the Middle East and Africa are living in camps
Anthony Horowitz returns after 30 years to the Greek islands of Crete, Paros, Antiparos and Mykonos, to find backpacks have been replaced by wheelie suitcases
Despite the economic storm, the sun is still shining in Greece, and the tavernas, beaches, ancient sites and vineyards are open for business. The country needs your help - so get a fistful of euros and go and have a good time with the help of our in-depth guide to the best deals, hotels, food and wine
Will flights landing in Greece have access to enough fuel to return? I understand they are unable to land with too much fuel for the return leg. I'm also concerned about fuel and getting to and from the airport by taxi and/or coaches. Will sufficient fuel be available to get to the resorts?
Travel advice: What holidaymakers need to know about a likely Greek exit from the euro, with tips on carrying cash, using ATMs, credit cards, booking late deals and potential civil unrest
This little-known region of the Greek mainland has the world's deepest gorge, a landscape like Scotland's and mountain villages to rival those of Provence
The election in Greece has triggered more political and economic instability in the euro zone. Yet the nation is heavily dependent on tourism; around two million British holidaymakers visit the country annually
Thinking about a cruise around Greece or Turkey? Our latest Cruise Ship Tour, in the carousel above, offers a deck-by-deck look at Louis Cruises’ Cristal, which is based in the region