Dominating the Attica region of Greece, the country’s capital, Athens, is one of the oldest cities in the world. For over two and a half centuries, the astonishing Greek temples and monuments of Athens have continued to intrigue and amaze visitors from around the world. This icon of western civilization seamlessly combines ancient history with modern architecture and a surprisingly lively atmosphere. This is particularly apparent in areas at the foot of the Acropolis, Anafiotika, Plaka, Monastiraki, and Thissio where visitors will find numerous extraordinary Neoclassical buildings, trendy and traditional cafes, and shops, and narrow winding streets with historical treasures at every turn. Once you have enjoyed a history and art fix, try some mouth-watering Greek cuisine at one of the city’s fine local restaurants before indulging in the insatiable nightlife at the chic cocktail bars and waterfront dance clubs.
The small, charming port town of Nafplio is situated on the Argolic Gulf in the northeast of the Peloponnese Peninsula, just one and a half hours by car from Greece’s capital, Athens. The town is known for its remarkably scenic location, overlooking a picturesque harbour and presided over by two medieval castles, including the spectacular Palamidi fortress. At the centre of Nafplio’s historical Old Town lies the large, marble-paved Syntagma Square, lined with quaint cafes and featuring the Arsenal, a stately building occupied by a fascinating museum. At the other end of the square, a historic mosque now occasionally functions as a cinema. Nafplio serves as a popular weekend getaway for Athenians eager to escape the big tourist crowds of the city and enjoy Nafplio’s excellent restaurants, boutique shops, impressive architecture, quayside cafes, fine beaches and old-world atmosphere.
Out of all of the Cyclades - the group of islands that surround the sacred Greek island of Delos - Mykonos is perhaps the most famous. It is known for its gorgeous green rolling hills, exquisite beaches and the glamorous, cosmopolitan crowd that typically vacations here. While Mykonos makes for an ideal base for archaeological day trips to the nearby islands, the island itself has plenty to offer. Spend your days exploring the quaint winding alleyways strewn with iconic whitewashed houses; sailing around the picturesque harbour and out into the glistening Aegean Sea; unwinding on the idyllic beaches, and dining in the numerous fine restaurants. If it’s unforgettable nightlife, a bit of luxury, and plenty of natural beauty you are after, Mykonos is undoubtedly the destination for you.
Perched on a 220-metre-high cliff overlooking the vivid blue waters of the Aegean Sea, Fira is Santorini's cultural and commercial capital that beckons those in search of breathtaking views, stunning sunsets, delectable local cuisine, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Facing the volcano on the island's western edge, Fira is a bustling cosmopolitan town characterised by a mixed sample of Cycladic and Venetian styles woven together by labyrinth streets that cater to daytime adventures and nighttime sprees. Embark on a fascinating exploration of the town's local museums, restaurants, coffee shops, and archaeological sites by hopping on a cable car heading to remarkable churches and iconic landmarks. For a deep dive into local history, visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thira, the Archaeological Museum, and the Santozeum. End the day with a leisurely cruise to the volcano from the Old Port on a luxury yacht or traditional wooden sailing boat.
Resting on a spectacular eastern peninsula of the Greek island of Crete, the coastal town of Agios Nikolaos, also called Ayios Nikolaos, is sandwiched between dramatic mountains and the serene waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The town features Lake Voulismeni, a former sweet-water lake, tucked behind the harbour and lined with lively cafes and restaurants. This cosmopolitan town offers a picturesque waterfront, alluring promenade and narrow tree-lined streets fringed with a blend of traditional houses and neoclassical buildings. History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the Archaeological Museum, which showcases Minoan relics found in the area; and the Folklore Museum, with woven textiles, embroideries, handicrafts. Other popular activities include: hiking, diving, golfing, and boat trips. Make sure to spend a leisurely afternoon sunbathing at swimming at the beautiful Kitroplatia Beach.
