Getting started with a dream holiday in Greece. – Discover Greece
Holidays on the Greek islands
Greece is home to 227 inhabited islands grouped seven island regions – the Cyclades, Dodecanese, Ionian, Saronic Gulf, Sporades, North Aegean and Crete.
Each group is different and even islands in the same chain can vary dramatically between them.
Whether you fly or take a ferry, there is something about arriving on a Greek island that is unique. The thrill is special every single time – as is the memory that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Cyclades: In blue and white
Think Greek islands and what first springs to mind is the Cyclades: white cubist homes hugging cliffsides that hover above the navy blue of the Aegean Sea.
Santorini and Mykonos are, undoubtedly, the showstopper islands that most know and love. If you haven’t visited, they are must-see islands, whether you are a romantic soul in search of the perfect sunset or love to stay out partying till late (or early).
But that’s just the start. Get searching and you’ll be amazed what you’ll discover.
Naxos, the largest island in the region, is blessed with long, sandy beaches and fertile land which produces a rich smorgasbord of tasty local delights. The fortified main town was built to protect inhabitants from invading pirates and, today, welcomes swashbucklers of all ages. For these reasons, Naxos is perfectly suited to families. Water sports fans flock here for the windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Rugged Tinos and laidback Sifnos feature hiking trails that follow the coast or head inland. They also share a reputation for being the ultimate foodie destinations, serving up traditional dishes and contemporary takes on the classics.
Sprawling Andros, blanketed in greenery and flowing with springs, is both refined and wild. Catch an art exhibition in the main town, Hora, in the morning and trek to a well-hidden beach in the afternoon.
Highlights of the Cyclades islands
Santorini and the world’s most striking sunset
When the sun dives behind the tiny island of Thirassia, find your perfect spot on Santorini to experience the majesty of the caldera from Fira and Oia villages.
Mykonos, the definition of island luxury
You’ll already have seen the most iconic sights of Mykonos before visiting, especially cosmopolitan Hora, with its cobbled alleys, iconic windmills and wave-lashed Little Venice.
Syros, one of the most cultured Greek islands
Stately Ermoupoli is one of the most regal settlements in the Cyclades. Along with neoclassical buildings, it is famous for Syros’ Apollo Theatre, a miniature of La Scala in Milan.
Andros, the home of many ship-owners
Andros was the home of many of Greece’s best-known captains and ship-owners. Walk the main town to get a glimpse of the neoclassical buildings, which blend harmoniously with the medieval architecture.
Serifos, a wildly beautiful island in the Cyclades
The steep cubist Hora of Serifos, built amphitheatrically on the top of an arid hill, is one of Greece’s most beautiful island towns. Stroll through the alleys and discover the ruins of the Venetian castle.
Milos, a volcanic gem full of local traditions
Milos’ Plaka is a picturesque village of whitewashed houses with azure doors and pink bougainvillea. This is the perfect place to try a strong Greek coffee and chat with the locals.
Tinos, a symbol of Greece and the Cyclades
The Volax plateau on Tinos, with its giant granite boulders, is a unique village that has stimulated the imagination of visitors thanks to its lunar scenery.
Amorgos, a sanctuary in the Aegean
Humble but mesmerising, the unspoilt villages of Tholaria and Langada is the ideal place for those who seek serenity and inspiration. Try the local delicacies at a taverna and experience the hospitality of the locals.
Paros, for fun-lovers and romantics
In the heart of the Aegean, Paros is an island that combines the modern with the traditional. If you are a romantic soul, you should visit the little port of Naoussa, while adventurers should go hiking to the mountain villages of Lefkes, Marpissa and Prodromos.
The divine Dodecanese
A cluster of islands at the southeastern edge of the Aegean that includes popular Rhodes and Kos, the Dodecanese islands form a bridge between Europe and the East.
Whichever of the Dodecanese islands you go to, you’ll find traces of peoples and cultures that have made their mark over the centuries: Ionians, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Ottomans and Italians. Each island has its own character and all offer opportunities for relaxation, sightseeing, adventure and great food – with a backdrop of beautiful beaches.
Whether traveling with family or friends, you’ll find the island that’s right for you. Some Dodecanese islands are extremely popular, like Rhodes and Kos, and others have a virgin charm, like Kalymnos, Symi, Kastelorizo, Kasos, Karpathos, Astypalea, Halki, Lipsi and volcanic Nisyros. And then there’s Patmos, the Jerusalem of the Aegean, famous as the place where St John wrote the Bible’s Book of Revelation.
Endless days spent on the beach
You’ll find it hard to choose among the seemingly infinite number of beaches on the Dodecanese islands. Each is special in its own way. If you’re feeling active, there’s scuba diving, snorkelling and all sorts of water sports. And if you’re looking for something more quiet and intimate, you can sunbathe, swim and relax at secluded coves and beaches.
On Rhodes, the beaches are fun for everyone: tubing, jet skiing, stand-up paddleboard and windsurfing go hand in hand with a myriad of lively beach bars. Elli, Ialyssos, Lindos, Agathi and Kiotari are the standouts and the best windsurfing takes place at Prassoni.
Karpathos’ golden coast will also impress, with the award-winning, sandy Apella and Amoopi among the highlights. Kos also has glittering beauties for uninterrupted beach-days in the sun. But if tranquillity is more your thing, then head to Kalymnos, Lipsi, Tilos and Armathia, near Kasos.
The cultural treasures of the Dodecanese
The Dodecanese islands have a rich history, visible throughout the island chain in the form of ancient citadels, castles, museums and important archaeological sites and monuments. Among them are Rhodes’ acropolis (Monte Smith) with its Doric temple and ancient stadium, the ancient acropolis of Lindos, Ialyssos and ancient Kamiros. On Karpathos, visit ancient Vroukounda and Arkesia and the palaces of Doric Nisyros on the islet of Saria.
Make time to tour exhibits and monuments wherever you travel in the Dodecanese islands: on Rhodes, the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Archaeological Museum and the Aquarium; on Patmos, a stately home that has been converted into an exceptional gallery (the Nikolaidis mansion) and don’t miss out on the Volcanic Museum on the island of Nisyros.
Windsurfing, rock climbing and scuba diving
Karpathos is famous for trekking trails of exceptional beauty, alongside mountain cliffs overlooking the big blue. Meanwhile, Kalymnos is a magnet for hikers and rock climbers from all over the world, as it boasts more signposted trails than you could possibly ever complete and 60 climbing venues of different levels of difficulty.
The unforgettable tastes of the Dodecanese
Rhodes, the first island in the Aegean to make wine, has dozens of vineyards and plenty of excellent wine for you to enjoy. In the island’s villages, local dishes await and the desserts are just as memorable. Particularly noteworthy is melikouni (a sesame bar with honey), served at weddings and baptisms. On Kasos, you’ll never tire of mizithra (the traditional cheese) and on Kalymnos you’ll eat mououri (lamb stuffed with rice), like the Dorians. On Symi, don’t leave without sampling the fried shrimps (small, flavourful and spiked with chilli flakes).
The Dodecanese islands in Greece
Rhodes, a medieval masterpiece
Within the beautifully preserved medieval Old Town of Rhodes (a Unesco World Heritage Site) are some incredible monuments, such as the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Masters. Further afield is the ancient acropolis of Lindos, as well as the grand public buildings of Mandraki and the small fort of Agios Nikolaos. The Valley of the Butterflies, a lush green canyon that attracts millions of butterflies and hundreds of visitors every year, is also popular.
Kos, the birthplace of the father of medicine
Kos has numerous must-sees locations, chief among them the Asclepion, built to continue the work of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine and the island’s most famous son.
Astypalea, beautiful beaches and tranquillity
This tiny piece of land is one of the most tranquil places in Greece. Your first stop on Astypalea should be Hora with its windmills and whitewashed homes, reminiscent of a Cycladic settlement.
Patmos, an island revelation in the Dodecanese
The Monastery of St John the Theologian, the picture-perfect Hora of with its grand, stately homes and the mystical ambience of the Cave of the Apocalypse, are just part of what give Patmos its unique identity.
Karpathos, wild, untouched and deeply traditional
There is so much to love about Karpathos. The village of Olympus is a 9th-century medieval hamlet that continues to defy the march of time with its windmills, old stone ovens and picturesque chapels, making it one of the most impressive sights of the Aegean. And don’t miss out on Apella, a beach of unique beauty, and nearby Kasos for that special kind of getaway.
Kalymnos, home of sponge divers and rock climbers
Among the many treasures of Kalymnos are Vathy and Esperidon, the most beautiful fjord in the Aegean. And don’t forget the sea sponges, it’s what made this island famous.
Tilos, pristine scenery on Greece’s petite island
Nature reigns supreme on Tilos. Highlights of the island include the Harkadio Cave, where fossilised bones of dwarf elephants were discovered, and the great monastery of Agios Panteleimon.
Symi & Kastelorizo, two island beauties
Symi and Kastelorizo are famous for their neoclassical settlements that are architectural masterpieces. They are also ideal for swimming as they are wrapped in dazzling azure waters.
Nisyros, a place almost completely untouched by man
Wild Nisyros was formed by a volcano and boasts not one but three craters in its interior, along with a lunar landscape and the picturesque port of Mandraki.
Halki, the retro island with a vintage charm
Very close to cosmopolitan Rhodes but so very different, Halki is an incredibly beautiful little island. Its picturesque town greets you with colourful houses and around the island wonderful are beaches where life moves at a laid-back pace. Ftenagia beach with its emerald green waters is simply unique.
Leros, mountain escapes and ancient myths
Leros is an island of green and blue in perfect harmony. With excellent local cuisine and bays with water as clear as glass. Discover the mysteries of Leros in Lakki, Agia Marina, Alida and Padeli. It makes an ideal base for exploration by boat, not to mention the numerous opportunities for scuba-diving.
Lipsi, Arki, Agathonisi and Marathi
The little unexplored gems are rocky islets shaped into incredible forms by the elements, fiords that end up in white sandy beaches and turquoise coves.
Turquoise dreams in the Ionian
The Ionian islands represent a rare blend of natural beauty not seen elsewhere in the Mediterranean. Landscapes of thick forestland trickle down to seas of near surreal hues that range from sapphire to cyan.
The sapphire waters of the Ionian Sea welcome you to paradise. Kefalonia, Corfu, Zakynthos (Zante), Lefkada, Ithaca, and Paxos. all are wonderful holiday destinations off the west coast of Greece that you’ll adore discovering. The major islands of Greece’s Ionian Sea lived for centuries under Venetian rule and it shows in their castles and churches. Carpeted with olive trees, pines and vineyards, the Ionian Islands are fertile and green, a stunning setting for award-winning white-sand beaches and peacock-blue waters. You’ll also find that the hospitable citizens have music in their souls.
On land, you can explore monasteries and mountain villages and seek out waterfalls, hiking trails and scenic routes by car or motorbike. Nature lovers can head to the wetlands for birdwatching or the marine parks for glimpses of elusive Mediterranean monk seals and Loggerhead turtles. Kite- and windsurfers regard the Ionian Sea islands as a prime location for their sports. And as for sailing or cruising, there’s no better place in Greece, with favourable winds and safe anchorages.
The celebrated beaches of the Ionian Islands
The beaches of Lefkada – Engremni, Porto Katsiki, Kathisma – and Shipwreck Beach on Zante are famous the world over. Voutoumi and Vrika on Antipaxos are beloved by boat owners, while Schinos on Ithaca is where the elite meet. Myrtos, on Kefalonia, appears on many posters, its white crescent lapped by milky blue waters and framed by towering cliffs. Then there’s Kaladi on Kythira, and of course Corfu’s much-photographed Paleokastritsa. And there are countless other large and small beaches on all the islands in the Ionian Sea, with a full range of facilities and water sports.
Islands full of myths and colourful traditions
Medieval castles and monasteries, storied buildings and excellent museums – all are testaments to the rich culture and history of the Ionian Islands.
On Corfu, Homer’s kingdom of the Phaeacians, the city’s Old and New Venetian Forts, Achillion Palace (built by Empress Sissy of Austria) and Mon Repos are all popular sights. Outstanding museums include the Asian Art Collection in the Palace of St Michael and St George, the Archaeology Museum and the Municipal Gallery. And look out for Corfu’s marching bands in full regalia, as well as the island’s unusual Easter customs and processions in honour of patron Saint Spyridon.
On Lefkada, you will find one of the most impressive medieval buildings in Greece and the Ionian island’s most significant cultural attraction, the sturdy 14th-century castle of Santa Maura, which guards the entrance across the lagoon from the mainland. Throughout the main town, you’ll notice wonderful examples of 17th and 18th century Ionian baroque churches.
Kefalonia the biggest of the Ionian Sea islands, also has impressive attractions, such as Venetian fortresses, Mycenaean tombs, Roman mosaics and baroque churches, while Argostoli’s Corgialenios Museum and Library are among the best in Greece.
On Zante, the basilica and bell tower of Agios Dionysios are reminiscent of Venice, and the monastery of Agios Georgios ton Gremnon above Shipwreck Bay is beautifully preserved. Fans of Byzantine architecture will also want to venture to the Strofades islands, 37 nautical miles off Zante, to see the impressive 13th-century monastery fortress there.
Ideal conditions for water sports and sailing
The larger Ionian Islands are champions when it comes to water sports. Every year Lefkada draws more and more wind- and kite-surfers who find their nirvana at the beaches of Vasiliki and Myli, ranked by some as the best in the Med. Sailors based in Nydri, set off for the nearby islets of Meganisi, Kalamos and Kastos. North of Corfu, the Diapontia islands are popular destinations with sailors who then head round to Corfu before heading south to Paxos.
Antipaxos, Kioni on Ithaca and Kefalonia’s Fiskardo are beloved destinations for sailing in the Ionian Sea. Indeed, the whole region is a magnet to sailors. And for those who love to walk or cycle, each island has well-marked trails through green mountains and varied scenery, including the fabulous 220km long Corfu trail. Corfu also boasts an 18-hole golf course at Ermones, in the Ropa valley which, besides being challenging and fun, is also one of the biggest in Europe.
Highlights of the Ionian Islands, Greece
Kefalonia, the largest island in the Ionian Sea
Unforgettable images on Kefalonia start with your first glimpse of the hamlet of Assos and its Venetian castle, almost overgrown with pines and cypresses, followed by delightful Fiskardo and the ‘rival’ towns of Argostoli and Lixouri. For natural wonders, don’t miss the caves: Drogarati, 150 million years old, and Melissani with its underground lake.
Zante, home of the Loggerhead Turtle
The sea and coast around Zante were picked for Greece’s first marine park. This is where the rare caretta caretta sea turtles lay their eggs. In spring, these endangered creatures set off from the Libyan Sea and the southern Adriatic to lay their eggs in the sands of Gerakas, Dafni, Kalamaki, Marathonisi and especially Sakania, east of Laganas.
Ithaca, the epic island of Odysseus
The homeland of Homer’s Odysseus. You’ll want to visit the listed settlement of Kioni and medieval Anogi, built right on a mountain ridge.
Corfu, an enduring reminder of Venetian times
Corfu’s sights include the islets of Vlaherna and Pontikonisi (Mouse Island), Sidari (with its famous Love Canal beach), Paleokastritsa, Kassiopi, Lefkimmi and also Kouloura and Kalami, made famous by the Durrell brothers’ books. The Old Town of Corfu should be top of your list, with its cobbled alleys, Liston Arcade, Spianada (where you could happen upon a cricket match) and dozens of buildings and monuments left by Venetian, French and British rulers.
Lefkada, the most sophisticated isle in the Ionian
Off Lefkada, the legend of shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis endures on the islet of Skorpios, opposite Nydri, one of the Ionian’s biggest yachting centres. Here among the most breathtaking sights is the lighthouse at Cape Lefkada and Sappho’s Leap, while the most popular is the Faneromeni Monastery. Traditional Agios Nikitas on the west coast is another favourite, flanked by great beaches.
Paxos, crystal-clear beaches of fairy tale beauty
Make a point of taking a close look at the castle of Ai Nikolas, a listed monument which was first built in 1423 and is the most famous attraction on the island. It was renovated by Venetians in 1510 according to plans drawn up by none other than Leonardo da Vinci.
The largest island in Greece, Crete is renowned for its pin-up beaches, wild natural beauty, exquisite cuisine and thousands of years of culture and history
As Crete’s most celebrated author, Nikos Kazantzakis (of Zorba the Greek fame), once wrote: “The mystery of Crete runs deep. Whoever sets foot on this island senses a mysterious force coursing warmly and beneficently through their veins, sensing their soul beginning to grow.”
Unsurprisingly, this mystical, pure and generous island to the south of the Aegean Sea captures the spirit of Greece and enchants everyone who visits.
Heraklion, Rethymno, Chania, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, Ierapetra, Malia, Hersonissos, Sitia, Sfakia… wherever you visit, it’s an island of thousands of vibrant images, filled with an open-hearted and vivacious spirit, rich history, world-famous cuisine and hospitable people.
The most seductive beaches of Crete
Pictures of heavenly Balos Lagoon in Chania have featured in travel guides and glossies all over the world, as have those of the eternally beautiful Falarsana, one of the finest beaches in the Mediterranean. And as for exotic Elafonisi, on the southwestern tip of Chania … seeing is believing.
Episkopi and Petres have fervent young fans, while noteworthy in the south of Crete are Preveli, Plakias, Ligres, Triopetra and Agios Pavlos, with its huge sand dunes. In Heraklion, the resorts of Malia and Hersonissos attract a young and vibrant international crowd.
Meanwhile, endless kilometres of golden coastline surround Ierapetra, in the Lassithi prefecture to the east. And the celebrated palm forest in Vai is one of the most spectacular sights in Crete, where palm trees embrace the golden sand, while the beaches of Elounda and those around Agios Nikolaos are not to be missed.
A priceless gift of culture and history
On Crete, you’ll find some of the most significant attractions in Greece: famous archaeological sites such as the Minoan palaces of Knossos, Phaistos, Malia and Kato Zakros. You’ll also visit important monasteries, some built in the 15th century or even earlier, including the Preveli Monastery in southern Rethymno, the monasteries in southern Heraklion and the historic Arkadi and Toplous monasteries.
You’ll be transported to another time wandering around the castles erected by Venetians and Byzantines. Particularly noteworthy are Kastelli in Chania, the Fortezza in Rethymno, the castle of Heraklion, Frangokastello in southern Chania, the Kazarma Castle in Sitia, and the Monte Forte in Lassithi.
Leave time for the fascinating museums, particularly the Museum of Natural History and the Historical Museum of Crete. In Myrtia, there is also the Nikos Kazantzakis Museum and in Fodele you’ll find the El Greco Museum.
The most popular destinations in Crete
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Chania, everything magical about Crete
Explore the old town of Chania with its world-renowned Venetian lighthouse, the aristocratic suburb of Halepa, Tabakaria (centre for leather production), Neoria (arsenal) and Kum Kapi, teeming with bars, cafes, restaurants and elegant hotels.
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Rethymno, with its Venetian-inspired harbour
Discover the old town of Rethymno, with its Venetian buildings, mosques, minarets, fountains and cobblestone alleys lined with shops, cafes, bars and hotels. Nearby is Idaio Antro – one of the most important caves of Minoan worship.
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Heraklion, the lively capital of Crete
The Venetian port of Heraklion is a lively city filled with sights, museums, restaurants, bars and hotels. Walk along the walls of the old city and explore Morosini (Leondaria) Square, the Loggia (City Hall), Agios Titos and Armeria (the armoury).
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Ierapetra, Crete’s sacred town
The old town of Ierapetra, with its narrow alleyways, little harbour and famous Fortress of Kales is one of the most significant sights in Crete.
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Agios Nikolaos, full of glamour, grace and luxury
A cosmopolitan summer resort, with the mystical allure of Lake Vouliagmeni (which, legend has it, is bottomless), lined with numerous cafes and restaurants.
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Sitia, yet another coastal temptation in Crete
The historic Kazarma Fortress (Casa di arma) and its animated waterfront, with cafes, shops and restaurants, should definitely be on your list of destinations to visit.
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Elounda, a fusion of luxury and sophistication
A cosmopolitan paradise of sophisticated resorts and hotels, with private beaches, pools and piers. It has the highest concentration of Greece’s five-star resorts.
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Lassithi, full of nature’s gifts
Visit the palm forest at Vai but make sure you also find time for the caves of Diktean Antro and Milatos, the island fortress of Spinalonga and the Lassithi Plateau.
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Mt Ida (or Psiloritis) and other mountain highlights
Ambitious hikers will climb to the top of the tallest mountain in Crete and be rewarded with an unforgettable view.
In the heart of Greece, Thessaly, with its exhilarating nature, and the Sporades, the beautiful lush green islands of Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonissos, will seduce you
Geological marvels (Meteora), majestic mountains and villages (Pelion), famous rivers (the Pineios) and a multitude of gorges, valleys, lakes and beaches… Thessaly and the Sporades islands have it all. From the cities of Volos and Larissa, to the natural wonders of Lake Plastira, Tempi and Elati-Pertouli, and on to the islands of Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonissos, prepare for a wonderful journey through the heartland of Greece.
Top attractions in Thessaly and the Sporades
- Meteora: Το nature’s masterpieces, people have added their own. The largest, most important monastic community in Greece, after Mount Athos, the Meteora monasteries are built in seemingly impossible locations at the top of the evocative meteoric rocks of Thessaly.
- Volos: Volos’ colourful waterfront is a gourmand’s delight, with its many eateries, including early industrial buildings transformed into multi-purpose centres that offer dozens of dining and entertainment choices. But don’t overlook the city’s museums and the archaeological sites of Dimino and Sesklo.
- Larissa: One of Greece’s most important cities lies on both banks of the Pineios River, where you will find attractions such as famous ancient theatres and the acropolis on the hill of Agios Achillios.
- Tempi: At Tempi, the Pineios River carves a narrow gorge between Mt Olympus and Mt Ossa. Nearby Ambelakia is famous for its listed grand houses.
- Pelion: A favourite destination in Greece, with its fine traditional architecture, untouched villages, bridges, old fountains, grand houses and the narrow Moutzouris railway. The villages of Makrinitsa, Zagora, Tsagkarada, Mouresi, Kissos, Vyzitsa and Milies stand out.
- Lake Plastira: A natural wonderland in which to relax and enjoy various sports and outdoor activities.
- Elati & Pertouli: An ideal year-round destination in an area of rare beauty in the southern Pindos mountain range.
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Enjoy the sea and sand, alone or with company
It might be on the mainland, but Pelion boasts a number of popular beaches, with a choice of sand or white pebbles to go with the clear water. Some of the best are Horefto, Ai Ioannis, Papa Nero, Damouhari, Fakistra and from Mylopotamos to Potistika on the southern coastline. In the Sporades, you will find beaches whose reputation precedes them – such as Koukounaries and magical Lalaria on Skiathos, and Kastani, Panormos, Milia, Stafylos and Velanio on evergreen Skopelos, and Agios Dimitrios, the star of Alonissos.
Hiking, canyoning, water sports and snow skiing
Walking along the old stone paths of Pelion, you will explore villages and monasteries, and cross fertile forests and stone bridges. And hiking in the vicinity of Meteora offers once-in-a-lifetime views. Kissavos is the ideal choice for off-road experiences, as well as mountain biking and canyoning (the Kalypsous Gorge and its cascades). Beaches in Agiokampos, Pelion and the Sporades are ideal for all kind of water sports. While the calm waters of the Pagasitic Gulf south of Pelion are suitable for sailing and kayaking. Choose the popular ski resort of Pelion to enjoy incredible views during winter, and Lake Plastira for dozens of exciting activities (horseback-riding, cycling, canoeing, rowing and more). Off-roaders will enjoy the tracks around northern Pelion, Tsagarada and Kissos. One very special experience is crossing the Agrafa next to the river, while the mountain trails above Nafpaktos drawn comparisons with Switzerland.
Local culinary wonders
Thessaly offers a wide range of local delicacies, from homemade trahana soup (sometimes even for breakfast), in the mountain villages during winter to pies of various kinds throughout the year. In Pelion, especially in Zagora and Portaria, women’s cooperatives produce various sweets that you can buy, while in the tavernas you might try the spetsofai (sausage sauteed with peppers) and galotyri, a creamy curd cheese. At the tsipouro joints of Volos, you’ll be initiated into the tsipouro ceremony, which involves downing many little glasses of the fiery liquor, tempered by lots of small plates of mezedes. And in Larissa and Trikala, you will savour delicious cheeses, such as kasseri, kefalograviera and graviera.
Experience the best of Thessaly & Sporades
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GroupSkiathosSkiathosEnjoy the sea and sand, alone or with company
It might be on the mainland, but Pelion boasts a number of popular beaches, with a choice of sand or white pebbles to go with the clear water. Some of the best are Horefto, Ai Ioannis, Papa Nero, Damouhari, Fakistra and from Mylopotamos to Potistika on the southern coastline. In the Sporades, you will find beaches whose reputation precedes them – such as Koukounaries and magical Lalaria on Skiathos, and Kastani, Panormos, Milia, Stafylos and Velanio on evergreen Skopelos, and Agios Dimitrios, the star of Alonissos.
Hiking, canyoning, water sports and snow skiing
Walking along the old stone paths of Pelion, you will explore villages and monasteries, and cross fertile forests and stone bridges. And hiking in the vicinity of Meteora offers once-in-a-lifetime views. Kissavos is the ideal choice for off-road experiences, as well as mountain biking and canyoning (the Kalypsous Gorge and its cascades). Beaches in Agiokampos, Pelion and the Sporades are ideal for all kind of water sports. While the calm waters of the Pagasitic Gulf south of Pelion are suitable for sailing and kayaking. Choose the popular ski resort of Pelion to enjoy incredible views during winter, and Lake Plastira for dozens of exciting activities (horseback-riding, cycling, canoeing, rowing and more). Off-roaders will enjoy the tracks around northern Pelion, Tsagarada and Kissos. One very special experience is crossing the Agrafa next to the river, while the mountain trails above Nafpaktos drawn comparisons with Switzerland.
Local culinary wonders
Thessaly offers a wide range of local delicacies, from homemade trahana soup (sometimes even for breakfast), in the mountain villages during winter to pies of various kinds throughout the year. In Pelion, especially in Zagora and Portaria, women’s cooperatives produce various sweets that you can buy, while in the tavernas you might try the spetsofai (sausage sauteed with peppers) and galotyri, a creamy curd cheese. At the tsipouro joints of Volos, you’ll be initiated into the tsipouro ceremony, which involves downing many little glasses of the fiery liquor, tempered by lots of small plates of mezedes. And in Larissa and Trikala, you will savour delicious cheeses, such as kasseri, kefalograviera and graviera.
Hydra, Spetses, Poros, Aegina, Tzia/Kea: Welcome to the charming little islands near Athens, which offer history and style in abundance and are ideal for a quick getaway all year round. Just a short ferry or hydrofoil trip from the port of Piraeus, you’ll find beautiful beaches, historic monuments, stately buildings and one-of-a-kind hospitality.
Spetses
Τhe sea captains’ island, Spetses promises la 'dolce vita', whether for a quick weekend getaway or a long holiday. Have a leisurely coffee in Dapia, as you look across the sea towards Kosta and Porto Heli on the Peloponnese. Walk along the waterfront, past the handsome mansions below St Nicholas’ Church, to the Old Harbour with its traditional boatyards. Then visit the Bouboulina and Hatzigiannis-Mexis museums.
Hydra
The aristocratic island of Hydra invites you to experience the beauty that has enchanted international jet setters, artists like Chagall and Picasso and musicians like the late great Leonard Cohen. The port town is cosmopolitan and elegant, with its 18th-century mansions, old churches and marble-flagged steps that serve as streets on this steep island. A trip to take you back in time.
Poros
A place beloved by Giorgos Seferis, the Greek Nobel laureate, and groundbreaking writer Henry Miller, with its beautiful nature, vintage charm and peaceful ambience. Just a stone’s throw from Galata on the mainland, in Poros you’ll find small tavernas, yacht marinas, neoclassical buildings, a clock tower, pine forests reaching the sea, serenity and relaxation.
Aegina
Just an hour from the port of Piraeus, Aegina is the island closest to Athens. Here you’ll enjoy ancient temples, stone-built Byzantine churches, a delightful old-fashioned port town, delicious local pistachio nuts and a swimming season that lasts until late autumn. This charming, welcoming island will entice you as it has the many from around the world who have chosen to make it their second home.
Agistri
This tiny island, just five minutes from Aegina and about an hour from Piraeus by boat, offers pine-studded landscapes, beautiful bays and hidden coves, pure nature for trekking and biking and picturesque seaside tavernas – perfect for an alternative holiday.
Tzia/Kea
CycladesClose to Athens (just one hour from the port of Lavrio, east of Athens) is Tzia (also known as Kea), which will charm you with its cosmopolitan ambience, unique beaches and the mysteries hiding on its seabed.
Kythnos
Cyclades
Picturesque villages boast narrow streets of cobbled stone and gardens full of flowers, next to tiny chapels that pop up on rocky headlands and within forest glades. So much hidden beauty exists on Kythnos, and just a short hop by ferry from Athens. With a history starting in the mists of the Mesolithic period, Kythnos, modest and hospitable, unexpectedly beautiful and serene.
A day cruise to the islands close to Athens
So close that you feel you could almost touch them, the islands of the Saronic Gulf offer a generous taste of Greek summer to anyone visiting Athens.
Castles and noble mansions, wild beauty and mysterious ancient rituals, majestic mountains and sensational sea
One thing is certain: although far from major urban centres, you’ll get here easily (by boat or plane) but will find it hard to leave. Each island in the North Aegean has its own identity, with unique wild beauty and rich cultural heritage. Seemingly unexplored, they may not be tourist-magnets but that is exactly what gives them their charm. Kick back and relax beachside or go exploring in these unspoilt and seductive treasures: Lesvos (Mytilene), Chios, Samothrace, Thassos, Lemnos, Ikaria, Samos, as well as diminutive Agios Efstratios, Fourni, Psara and Innouses.
Magnificent sandy beaches, picturesque mountain villages, dramatic coastlines, delicious food, rich history and rare natural beauty make these islands ideal holiday destinations. The larger islands, such as Lesvos, Samos, Chios, Ikaria and Thassos are perfect for families, couples and groups of friends, while the smaller ones are a paradise for sailors and intrepid travellers.
Beaches of virgin beauty
Lemnos is the island with the most virgin beaches – more than 100 in fact, half of them sandy, all of them uncrowded. On Chios, you’ll find another 90. On Lesvos, discover one of the best beaches in the Aegean, Vatera, as well as Sigri and Eressos. On Chios, you’ll swim at Mavra Volia (Black Beach), whose dark volcanic pebbles are unlike anything you’ve ever seen. On Ikaria, at Nas, a modern beach meets antiquity with the remains of an ancient temple of Artemis. Popular Mesahti is ideal for water sports. And Seychelles, a small bay with emerald water, looks (as the name suggests) as though it has been airlifted straight out of the Indian Ocean! On Samos, the best beach is Chryssi Ammos (Golden Sand) and, on Thassos, you’ll find Paradise, quite literally.
Sights and attractions unique to Greece
- Chios: Discover the 20 mastic villages on the south side of the island, where the rare masticha trees are cultivated; the handsome, stone dwellings of Anavatos near the cliff; and the wonderful yellow-red stone of the 19th and 20th-century villas in Kambos.
- Lesvos: The petrified forest, the likes of which exist only on this island and in Arizona, and 18th-century towers in the countryside will transport you to another time.
- Ikaria: The main town (Christos) comes to life only at night, with shops opening after 9pm.
- Samothrace: Explore this virgin island. You’ll swim in small natural pools called vathres, created by the countless waterfalls, and soak in the hot springs. It’s a setting lifted straight out of a fairy tale.
- Samos: Take a walk around Vathy, the old part of Samos’ main port-town, built on a hillside overlooking the sea, with narrow streets and handsome two-storey houses with tiled roofs.
- Lemnos: The castle in Lemnos’ principal town – one of the best-preserved in the Aegean – occupies a steep, rocky promontory flanked by two seaside neighbourhoods – the Romeiko (Greek) and Turkiko (Turkish) Yialo (shore). It was erected by the Byzantine emperor Andronikos I Komninos (1118-1185) on the site of older walls, most probably ancient.
- Thassos: Whether on the coast or inland, you’ll discover beautiful little villages all over Thassos, like Agios Georgios, Alyki, Theologos, Kallirahi, Kastro, Kazaviti, Koinyra, Limenaria, Maries and Panagia.