A Quick Guide To The Greek Islands

Andros - Photo: Pixabay

Scattered between the coast of mainland Greece and the tip of Northern Africa, the Greek Islands have been popular holiday destinations for a wide range of holidaymakers.

Where are they?

The Greek Islands are dotted throughout the Aegean Sea, mainly off the south-east of mainland Greece. They come in many shapes, sizes and geographical varieties and the people that visit them are as varied as the islands themselves. Whilst you can move between the islands, most people choose to stay on just one for the duration of their holiday. The islands are traditionally divided into seven groups: Cyclades, Aegean, Dodecanese, Sporades, Ionian, Argosaronic Gulf and Crete which, as a single island, is the largest in the group.

Where can I stay?

Try a Greek Island holiday with a difference by choosing a boutique hotel. You can’t beat the individuality of these small, intimate hotels where detail is a primary consideration and the needs of the guest always come first. Try Elounda Gulf Villas and Suites on Crete, Katikies on Santorini and Ostraco Suites on Mykonos. These are all unique places to stay, offering the ultimate in quiet understated luxury.

What can I see?

For most people, the attraction of the Greek Islands is the beaches. The quality and size of the beaches vary from island to island, as does the level of development in the main resorts. The sheer number of islands means that you can usually find exactly what you’re looking for; whether it’s 24-hour entertainment or a quiet relaxing break. For those that want to explore the islands’ culture, there are plenty of historical buildings, traditional villages and museums to visit.

How do I get around?

You can get to some of the islands such as Mykonos and Santorini by air, but most of the other islands are reached by ferry from Athens. The ferries are regular and there are ticket operators at the harbors, so you can also use them to visit other islands during your stay. To get around an island, you can hire a car or a bike, or use the local bus system. There are no train services once you’re off the mainland. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, hire a sailing boat and navigate your own way around the islands.

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A Greek Retreat

Zakynthos - Photo: Pixabay

Historically Modern

The Cradle of Civilization, Greece has long played a part in the history of the world. It is located in the southeastern part of Europe between Albania, Turkey, and Italy. Greece is one of the smallest countries in Europe. However, despite its size, it holds an astoundingly rich history and culture. Thus, Europe especially Greece, became a haven for over 16 million tourists each year making it the 15th most visited countries in the world to date. (Information from 2007)

Cosmopolitan Living

Life in Greece is peaceful and serene. The locales are calm and charming people that think of the future optimistically. Theft and violence are kept down to the lowest level. Thereby, tourists consider this a safe place to travel in. People live simply. These amicably hospitable people welcome guests with open arms.

Activities in Greece vary from place to place. However, despite its difference, they all satisfy the different needs and likes of the guests. Mealtime in Greece is best enjoyed at late nights. Party starts at 10 pm and people, both the locales and guest, frequent the clubs, bars, restaurants, and taverns.

Joining the Greeks during mealtime will not be an awkward experience. Don’t be afraid to start a conversation. You will surely find yourself sharing quite interesting, not to mention, memorable conversations with them.

And now we move on to places that placed Greece on the map and tourists in the country.

Santorini - Photo: Pixabay

Santorini

The volcano which has the greatest eruption mankind has ever known - that is Santorini. It is located in the most well-known islands in the Cyclades. Superstitions say that if engaged young couples stay and last for a week on Santorini, they will be blessed a lifetime marriage.

Crete

Crete island is located between the Libyan Sea and the Cretan Sea. Crete’s long and rich history, amazing features, charming villages, breathtaking natural areas, scrumptious cuisine, fabulous beaches, century-old traditions, and hospitable inhabitants makes it one of the most visited places in Greece. Visitors can spend leisure time exploring the ancient sites, swimming in crystal-clear waters, participating in a wide array of outdoor sports, and having fun at the nightlife venues. Truly, Greece is a versatile vacation spot that is worth visiting.

Athens

Athens is the capital city of Greece, not to mention, one of the most magnificent cities in the world. It is the birthplace of principles and values that our society bases today and the cradle of the western civilization. Athens’ excellent infrastructure, spectacular historical and ancient sites, the Athens Acropolis Hill, the Parthenon, the Herod Atticus Odeon, and the Erechtheion make it one of the most visited cities in the world to date.

A stroll through the charming downtown commercial areas of Athens, the Monastiraki Bazaar, and the Plaka Quarters is a must. Observe how the modern changes and characteristics compliment the ancient features as well as how the east and west are fused to create Athens, a unique holiday spot.

Holiday Getaway

Planning your vacation in Greece will surely be difficult because of the many choices it offers. From an active hobbies, leisure interests, or relaxing pastimes, one can surely get confused. Be spontaneous! Discover the country by yourself. Don’t forget to check out the mentioned places to complete your stay in Greece.

So, if you’re planning for a vacation but you have no idea where, need not worry just think Greece!

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