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 picturesque mountain town of Arachova is located on mainland Greece, about 150 kilometres northwest of Athens. In winter, Arachova is a popular gateway to the snow-covered slopes of Mount Parnassos, but the town also boasts a range of cultural sights and outdoor activities to be enjoyed all year round. Don’t miss the famous archaeological site of Delphi (10 kilometres away), with some ruins dating back to the year 4000 BC, or the well-preserved frescoes of Hosios Loukas (about 25 kilometres away), a gorgeous walled Byzantine monastery. Outdoor enthusiasts, meanwhile, will find a number of walking and hiking opportunities in and around the town, such as the route to the legendary Corycian Cave. Finally, be sure to spend some time in Arachova’s popular cafes and bustling tavernas - charming features of the town.
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.
Classically known as Thera and officially Thira, the picturesque island of Santorini dots the South Aegean Sea. Some destinations have stunning beaches and breathtaking natural landscapes, while others have extraordinary ancient cities and excellent restaurants. The popular Greek island of Santorini is blessed with all of these attractive features and more. This lovely volcanic island in the Cyclades lies in the middle of the Aegean and is well known for its strikingly white cliff-side homes with their pretty deep blue rooftops. Visitors will be treated to dramatic ocean views, pristine beaches, traditional Grecian architecture, many fascinating historical sites, fine dining, and excellent local wineries. With all of this on offer, it is little wonder that this remarkably romantic island has become one of the world’s most popular island getaways.
