Should one go to Greece?
Mount Olympus and the Acropolis of Athens are two of Greece's most well-known historical sites, and they are likely to be among the first things that spring to mind when you plan a trip there.
When you consider that the beginnings of Greek civilization extend back to the Paleolithic period, it is difficult to disregard the country's long and illustrious history. However, Greece is one of the most popular holiday locations in Europe since it offers visitors a wide variety of other sights to see.
It is difficult to divorce the land of Greece from its legendary landmarks and its rich historical past. Mount Olympia, the Acropolis, and ancient Greece have all made significant contributions to the development of European civilization as it exists today. Because of these contributions, Greece is a place that merits careful investigation.
Because it has a Mediterranean environment, you may take advantage of its comfortable temperatures throughout the whole year. The Greek islands have a long-standing reputation, giving them a personality of their own, and are widely considered to be an excellent travel destination. It doesn't matter whether you want to sightsee in Athens or cruise among the islands; the rich cuisine of the nation, which includes stuffed grape leaves and moussaka, will entice you to return.
Treasures abound in Greece's territory, which spans more than 133 000 km2 in total area. Greece is situated between Albania and Macedonia, Bulgaria and Turkey, with Egypt to its south and the Mediterranean Sea to its west. The archipelago is comprised of more than 9,000 individual islands. Just around 200 people are living there, despite the vastness of the terrain.
The hilly nature of the mainland, which makes up well over 70 percent of the country and reaches its highest point at 3,000 meters at Mount Olympia, stands in stark contrast to the flat terrain of the islands. Meteora is one of the most amazing tourist sites in the country, and it is home to some of the most famous monasteries in the world.
The Greek islands with the most breathtaking scenery
Which islands in Greece are known for their exceptional beauty? Greece, which consists of over 2,000 islands spread over the Aegean and Mediterranean oceans, has emerged as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world in recent years. The Greek islands are home to a wide variety of destinations that are just waiting to be explored. Some of these destinations include the crystal blue seas, towering cliffs, and enchanting towns filled with white buildings.
It is not an uncomplicated effort to choose which of Greece's islands is the most beautiful. Civitatis, on the other hand, provides you with a list of the 10 islands in Greece that are considered to be the most magnificent. The adventure is about to start!
1. Santorini
It should come as no surprise that Santorini is regarded as the most gorgeous island in all of Greece. In addition to being one of the most renowned, Santorini is also one of the most famous areas for travelers searching for the genuine charm of Greece. This is because Santorini is known for its classic white buildings with blue roofs and doors.
The magnificent black sand beaches of Santorini were created when a huge volcanic eruption occurred on the island of Santorini, which is part of the Cyclades group of islands. If you go to Santorini, you simply must spend some time in both the main city of Fira and the medieval town of Oia, which is often regarded as one of the most beautiful locations on the planet by a large number of people.
2. Mykonos
Even though Mykonos is best known as a location for wild parties, the stunning natural beauty of this island more than lives up to any aspirations. The village of Chora, which is the capital, is characterized by its cobblestone lanes, whitewashed buildings with colorful doors, windows, balconies, and bougainvillea, all of which combine to create a picturesque setting. Be sure to take a stroll along the terraces of Little Venice and pay a visit to the island's iconic windmills if you find yourself in Mykonos.
Mykonos is one of the most beautiful islands in Greece for all of these reasons, thus it is without a doubt deserving of its spot on our list.
3. Corfu
Corfu is also one of the most tourist spots in Greece, and it is also known as the Emerald Island. The green spaces of Corfu, which are coated in olive trees and cypress trees, the beaches of Corfu, which have water the color of turquoise, Mount Pantocrator, and the remarkable medieval heritage that is hidden in the capital of Corfu, are all reasons why you should visit Corfu while you are in Greece.
There are several neoclassical Venetian strongholds in the historical core of Corfu, and it is highly recommended that you visit them. In the surrounding area, you will also see palaces that were constructed on the instructions of Sissi herself as well as Orthodox monasteries that date back to the 13th century.
4. Milos
Now that we've covered a large island, let's move on to a more manageable one, but one that still has a lot to offer. Milos, an island formed by a volcano, makes it into our list of the most beautiful islands in Greece because of the historical monuments, paradisiacal beaches, and traditional fishing towns that it has. All of these features combine to make Milos an unforgettable destination for tourists. Did you know that the island of Milos boasts more than 70 coastlines and houses one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in the annals of human history? It was in this location that the Venus of Milo was discovered.
We highly suggest taking a catamaran tour to Milos and Polygons to see the stunning natural features and rich historical significance of this Cyclades archipelago island.
5. Naxos
In the group of islands known as the Cyclades, Naxos is the biggest island. Naxos is noted for being a peaceful island, and its ancient town is perfect for strolling about and finding its winding lanes and whitewashed homes, which are home to a wealth of history. A trip to the Greek island of Delos should include a stop at the Great Gate, also known as the Portara, which is a relic from the ancient temple of Apollo. You will get convinced of the island of Naxos's richness after participating in this medieval tour of the island.
6. Paros
The island of Paros, much like the island of Naxos, which is known for its relative tranquility, is home to hundreds of towns, beaches with white sand, monasteries, churches, and ancient monuments that are well worth seeing. Discovering the stunning natural beauty of this Cycladic island may be done in several areas, such as Naousa, Piso Livadi, Lefkes, and even the island's capital, Paroikia. The day trip to Paros from Naxos will allow you to investigate the significant locations that we have just described.
7. Crete
Crete, the biggest of the Greek islands, is without a shadow of a doubt a very valuable asset. Once planning a trip to an island, you won't need to go any farther than Crete since it has everything. Crete is a beautiful island with many things to see and do. Some of these things include beaches with crystal clear water, medieval towns, spectacular natural beauty, and wonderful gastronomy.
In addition, if you go to Crete, you have to visit the palace of Knossos. During your guided tour of Knossos Palace, your tour guide will lead you into the labyrinth that once housed the legendary Minotaur of Crete.
8. Rhodes
The island of Rhodes, which can be found in the Dodecanese archipelago, is the next stop on our tour of some of the most stunning destinations in all of Greece. It was famous in ancient times for the enormous colossus of Rhodes, and because of the beauty of its downtown, it has maintained its allure throughout the years.
At any season of every year, a trip to Rhodes will seem like a trip back in time because of the island's medieval architecture, which includes massive fortifications, stone castles, mosques, and old monuments.
9. Zante
The island of Zakynthos, also spelled Zakynthos, is located in the Ionian Sea and is home to some breathtaking scenery that never fails to astound those who come to visit. If you are planning a trip to Greece, you should spend some time on the island of Zakynthos. This is because the island's mountains are covered with lush flora, the surrounding cliffs are stunning, and the beaches have deep blue seas.
The beach of Navagio, which is located on the island and is widely regarded as one of the most stunning beaches in Greece, is an attraction that visitors should not miss.
10. koufonisia
Did you even know that there is just one settlement on the island of Koufonisia? The island is a genuine paradise in the middle of the Aegean! Is among the most lovely islands in Greece, Koufonisia is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery and picture-perfect beaches. During the trip to Koufonisia from Naxos, you may get lost in Chora or swim in the azure waters of its beaches. Both of these activities are included.
10 activities to enjoy while in Greece:
1. Spend some time exploring the ancient ruins of Delphi.
The site of Delphi is a destination that exudes its special brand of enchantment because of its placement amid nature, amid the rugged terrain of Mount Parnassus. The enormous architectural skill of ancient Greece is still on display today in the form of its theater, the temple of Apollo, as well as the stadium.
2. Get a taste of the regional delicacies.
Greece is the custodian of cuisine that dates back many millennia, and each area has its distinct culinary traditions. At each step of your stay, give in to the temptation of indulging in a delectable meal at a time-honored restaurant. You have the option of ordering a variety of foods, including moussaka, souvlaki, as well as feta.
3. Make your way through the Mantinia vineyards on foot.
The vineyards of Montana, which are found in the Arcadia area of the Peloponnese, provide the ideal growing conditions for the production of white wine of the best possible quality. Bright sunlight, fertile land, and a tradition that's been passed down for a thousand years all contribute to highlighting a genuine taste. Additionally, the landscapes that are close by are picturesque.
4. Take a stroll up the slope of the Acropolis hill.
In the city that serves as the nation's capital, Athens, a trip up to the Acropolis hill, which is home to both the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena, should not be skipped. The splendid theaters of Dionysus or Herod Atticus may be found down below.
5. Party in Mykonos.
Mykonos is another well-known island in the Cyclades archipelago, and like Santorini, it is part of the Cyclades archipelago. However, it is largely recognized for the lively attitude that it exudes. It is frequently contrasted with Ibiza. In addition to this, each year it is attended by the most talented DJs from all across the globe.
6. Take pictures of the landmarks in Oia, which is located on the island of Santorini.
The church in the town of Oia, which is famed for its white walls with blue domes, is the location to go to get your picture taken. The church has been featured in several brochures. You have an excellent opportunity to capture a picture that is remarkable if the ocean is in the backdrop.
7. Ensure that you make the most of the sunlight.
There are a great number of beaches in Greece, each of which provides many possibilities to while away a significant amount of time doing nothing. You will rapidly conclude that pleasure may be found in the simplest of things, whether you are relaxing on a deckchair on a developed beach or a blanket in a wild and tranquil nook.
8. Observe the time in your community.
Whether you arrive in Greece to soak in the sun or tour the historical landmarks, make sure you set aside some time to experience life the way it is lived in the Mediterranean by going to the market and venturing down the vibrant side streets that are off the usual route. Make plans to meet up with the residents in the gathering spot they frequent at the end of the day.
9. Scuba diving.
Scuba diving is a popular activity that can be enjoyed along the coastlines of Greece in numerous locations thanks to the clear, turquoise seas. It is possible to come across a variety of wrecks, in addition to corals and fish of many colors.
10. To see the monasteries that are located on Meteora.
The monasteries of Meteora are indeed the ideal location for combining exploration of environment and culture since they are perched on some of the most spectacular mountain peaks in the world.
Greece: advice for tourists
Overall, the cost of lodging in Athens is much lower than the cost on islands like Mykonos. On the islands, during July and August, the price of everything will be more than treble.
Tips for dealing with the heat
Due to the high temperatures in Greece, you need to take precautions to avoid being dehydrated. You may save some euros by refilling a water bottle at one of the town's springs or village fountains since they provide free drinking water. These locations are located around the town.
Instructions on how to reach Greece:
To visit Greece, a visa is not required for visitors. You are free to settle wherever you choose in Greece if you are a citizen of the European Union. However, once three months have passed, you will be required to apply to the section of the Hellenic police department that deals with outsiders for a certificate of registration.
What you absolutely must be aware of:
It is against the law to light up a cigarette in any interior public space. An individual who violates this legislation is subject to a fine of up to 500 euros (508 Dollars).
Greek, which serves as the country's official language, is spoken by almost all of the country's 10.6 million residents (98 percent). However, if you don't speak or understand Greek, don't worry about it since the majority of Greeks are used to seeing visitors and will assist you if you want advice or an answer.
Additionally, the majority of traffic signs are written in both Greek and English. On the other hand, if you want to make the most of your time in Greece, you should try to pick up a few essential Greek terms.
Greece: about culture
The practice of Orthodox Christianity is deeply ingrained in the culture and way of life of the Greek people. The Easter festivities are infinitely more important to the Greeks than the Christmas celebrations, and they are the occasion for extensive planning as well as a variety of parties and other types of special events. The festivities are quite large, and throughout the week of the holiday, all businesses and museums will be closed.
Keep in mind that in Greece, nodding or rolling your eyes does not indicate the same thing as it does in other countries; in fact, it signifies the absolute reverse of what it does elsewhere.
Some of the locals, particularly those who live inland, have managed to keep their famously warm friendliness despite the proliferation of invasive tourism activities. Even if you're having problems picking up even a few words of Greek, they'll make you feel at home and be willing to invest time and resources.
The rhythm of the Mediterranean guides the passage of the days. The mornings come to a close with lunch, which typically begins at about 13:00 and 15:00. Then there is the nap or the siesta.
It is time for evening strolls and conversations on the balcony between the hours of 5 and 8 p.m., so by the time 10 p.m. rolls around, it is time to get together for supper!