Ferry to Greece

Greek flag
  • Intro
  • The ferries
  • Onboard accommodation
  • Schedules
  • Island hopping
  • Useful information
  • About

Greece has over 200 inhabited islands, locals and visitors love to travel by ferry to them because there is something incredibly attractive as you get a beautiful view of the Aegean Sea. Greek ferries are the main means of transport between the islands. So, take the ferry to Greece and let the journey begin!

Greece is placed inside the southeastern part of Europe and is bordered by using Bulgaria, Albania and Turkey! It is included through sea with the Aegean Sea to the east, the Ionian Sea to the west and the Mediterranean Sea to the south!

The reputation of Greece is mostly because of its precise islands, famous everywhere in the global, including the islands of the Cyclades, the islands of the Dodecanese, the islands of the Sporades, the Ionian Islands (Eptanisa) and Crete!

In addition, the history of Greece, from antiquity, with its countless landmarks, its weather with the brightest sun and the maximum lovely seas inside the international, its Mediterranean cuisine that is praised in all corners of the planet is virtually a bonus over different countries! The connection with Greece is likewise with the neighboring international locations of Italy, Turkey and Albania!

A journey through history & beauty

Greece is a country that has been charming vacationers for centuries. With its wealthy history, lovely landscapes and vibrant tradition, it's far no surprise that Greece is one of the maximum famous traveller destinations within the global. From the historic ruins of Athens to the idyllic islands of the Aegean Sea, Greece offers some thing for every person.

Athens, the capital metropolis of Greece, is a need to-see destination for everybody inquisitive about records and structure. The metropolis is domestic to some of the world’s maximum iconic landmarks, consisting of the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

But Athens isn't just about history. The metropolis is also a colourful city with a thriving nightlife, global-class museums and scrumptious delicacies. Visitors can walk through the bustling streets of Plaka, the city’s oldest community and revel in conventional Greek dishes like moussaka and souvlaki in one of the many tavernas.

Beyond Athens, Greece is domestic to a number of the maximum lovely islands within the global. The Cyclades, a collection of islands in the Aegean Sea, are specifically famous with tourists. Santorini, with its iconic white-washed homes and beautiful sunsets, is possibly the maximum well-known of these islands. Mykonos, with its lively nightlife and exquisite beaches, is every other preferred amongst site visitors.

But Greece has a great deal extra to provide than just its islands. The Peloponnese peninsula, located in southern Greece, is domestic to a number of archaeological sites, such as the historic metropolis of Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games. Visitors can also explore the medieval town of Mystras and the lovely Diros Caves.

No experience to Greece would be complete without sampling some of the scrumptious delicacies. Greek meals is known for its clean ingredients and formidable flavors. Visitors can experience conventional dishes like spanakopita (spinach pie), tzatziki (yogurt and cucumber dip) and dolmades (stuffed grape leaves). And of route, no Greek meal might be whole with out a pitcher of ouzo, the well-known anise-flavored liqueur.

In addition to its history, splendor and delicacies, Greece is likewise known for its warm hospitality. Greeks are famously pleasant and alluring to site visitors. Whether you're staying in a small village or a bustling town, you're sure to be greeted with a grin and a warm welcome.

In conclusion, Greece is a destination that need to be on every tourist’s bucket listing. With its wealthy history, beautiful landscapes, delicious cuisine and warm hospitality, it's miles a rustic that offers some thing for every body. Whether you are inquisitive about exploring historical ruins or relaxing on a lovely seaside, Greece is certain to depart you with unforgettable reminiscences.

Ferries in Greece

Ferries are a popular mode of transportation in Greece, given the numerous islands and coastal areas. There are many ferry companies operating in Greece, with routes connecting the mainland to the islands and additionally between the distinct islands. Some of the foremost ferry groups in Greece encompass Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways and Anek Lines.

The frequency and availability of ferries can range depending on the season and the specific direction. During peak tourist season (June-August), ferries are greater common and may require superior reserving. However, during the low season (November-March), some routes may also have limited or no ferry service.

It is essential to word that ferry schedules are subject to alternate due to weather situations, strikes, or other unexpected circumstances. It is usually recommended to test through our booking engine for the updated records on schedules and fares.

In phrases of protection, Greek ferries are normally taken into consideration safe and reliable. However, it is nonetheless critical to comply with safety commands and processes at the same time as onboard.

Overall, ferries are a handy and exciting way to discover the Greek islands and coastal areas. Whether you are seeking out a scenic trip or a realistic approach of transportation, there are lots of alternatives to choose from.

The ferries in Greece are with the aid of the a ways the fine option with lots of ships going between exceptional Greek islands on a constant foundation. This is ideal to your pockets, however additionally offers any other large gain. A ferry journey will come up with a remarkable tour of the stunning Aegean Sea. It's also a pressure-free manner to tour: without a doubt hop at the boat, sun yourself at the deck and before you know it you'll be at your stunning vacation spot.

So, if you are up for a bit of sea tour, why not do a chunk of hopping from island to island? Ferries to the islands make this smooth and cheap and will can help you see a extensive kind of stunning websites at some point of your live in Greece. There are islands for everybody — the ones looking to break out, those looking to explore the remains of vintage civilizations and those just looking to experience the sand, sea, tavernas and Greek food even as reveling in a number of the 300 sunny days a year.

Greece is a land of islands, every with its very own specific attraction and splendor. From the bustling streets of Athens to the tranquil seashores of Crete, Greece has some thing for every person. One of the pleasant ways to explore the islands is by using ferry, which offers a handy and cheap way to island hop.

Accommodation & amenities on board

Ferries in Greece offer a range of facilities and amenities, depending on the type of ferry and ticket you’ve purchased. Common facilities include:

  1. Cafes and restaurants: Most ferries have cafes and restaurants that serve snacks, drinks, and meals
  2. Shops: Some ferries have onboard shops that sell souvenirs, snacks, and other items
  3. Wi-Fi: Many ferries offer free Wi-Fi for passengers
  4. Toilets: All ferries have toilets for passengers to use
  5. Luggage storage: Most ferries have luggage storage areas where passengers can store their bags during the journey

Types of ferries

There are several types of ferries that operate in Greece, ranging from small local boats to large cruise ships. The most common types of ferries are:

  1. High-Speed ferries: These are the fastest and most expensive ferries, with speeds of up to 40 knots. They are ideal for travelers who want to get from one island to another quickly
  2. Conventional ferries: These are slower and less expensive than high-speed ferries, but they offer a more relaxed and comfortable journey. They are ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the scenery and take their time
  3. Catamarans: These are fast and comfortable boats that are ideal for short journeys between islands
  4. Hydrofoils: These are small, fast boats that can travel at speeds of up to 50 knots. They are ideal for short journeys between islands

Boarding the ferry

When boarding the ferry, you’ll need to present your ticket and any necessary identification documents. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow time for boarding.

Once on board, you can choose between different seating options, including indoor and outdoor seating areas. Some ferries also have cabins for overnight journeys.

Ferry schedules

Ferries in Greece operate on a regular schedule, with most routes running daily during the summer months. The most popular routes are between the Cyclades islands, which include Mykonos, Santorini, and Naxos, and the Dodecanese islands, which include Rhodes and Kos. There are also frequent ferries between the mainland and the islands, as well as between the islands themselves.

It’s important to check the timetables in advance, as schedules can change depending on the season and weather conditions. You can find timetables online or at the local ferry offices.

Ferries in Greece - Here are some estimates of how long it takes to get to some of Greece's most popular ferry destinations.

The ferry connections in Greece are numerous as they connect the mainland with the countless islands! The main ports of the mainland are the ports of Piraeus and Rafina. The most popular and with the most connections to the islands of the Cyclades, Dodecanese and Crete is that of Piraeus compared to Rafina which has fewer connections only to the Cyclades and is considerably smaller. Also the ports of Volos and Agios Konstantinos connect the mainland with the Sporades Islands while the port of Kyllini connects the mainland with the Ionian Islands!

The connections between the Greek Islands are numerous and most of them are made throughout the year. The frequency of the routes depends on the season with a particular increase during the peak months but also on the type of ferries, since connections made only by high-speed vessels are not carried out during the winter months for safety reasons!

International ferry connections to Greece

Getting to Greece by ferry is possible from Italy, Turkey and Albania, but there are countless options and plenty of ferries and departures within Greece, between its islands and inland. There are many combinations between different destinations in a country that has over 107 inhabited islands scattered in the Greek seas!
Greece is the country you prefer all year round mainly because of its mild climate, but its popularity soars in the months from May to September because of its unique islands with the beautiful sea and the Mediterranean sun! We would recommend you to book your tickets well in advance to ensure the best prices but also to find availability on your preferred itineraries!

International ferry connections to Greece are from Italy to the mainland and Turkey and Albania only to certain Greek islands. More specifically:

Booking tickets

Tickets for ferries in Greece can be purchased online through our booking platform. It’s recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during the peak summer months when ferries can fill up quickly.

When booking your tickets, you’ll need to specify your departure and arrival ports, as well as the date and time of travel. You can choose between different types of tickets, including economy class, business class, and VIP class.

Greece island hopping

Want to find out the Greek islands? The islands inside the Aegean are a beautiful contact in order to stay indelible in your memory. The Cyclades, the Dodecanese, Crete, the Sporades and the islands of the North Aegean invite you to experience unforgettable experiences. Place your map and embark on a journey of remarkable splendor, make your own Greece island hopping and experience it!

For those looking for a sophisticated ecosystem and high priced lifestyle, Santorini and Mykonos are the locations to go to in the Cyclades. Both offer picturesque seashores, lovely views, fashionable nightlife and VIP treatment. With direct ferry connections, those two destinations are easy to mix into one visit.

Syros and Naxos is the epicenter of the Greek islands within the Aegean Sea. Start from Syros and then visit Tinos, Mykonos, Santorini and Anafi. Or start from Naxos after which go to Paros, Santorini, Amorgos, Ios and Folegandros.

Among the numerous Greek islands, you'll find out inside the Aegean, a famous vacation spot is the Sporades Islands (Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos), embellished with world-famend seashores, both secluded and prepared.

Between Greece and the coasts of Asia Minor, in the northeast part of the Aegean Sea, five major islands (Ikaria, Samos, Limnos, Lesvos, Chios) and lots of smaller islands (Agios Efstratios, Thymena, Fourni, Psara and some more) offer you high-quality excursion and visit options.

Visit Crete with itineraries beginning from Athens, the Cyclades and the Dodecanese islands inclusive of Ios, Santorini, Paros, Naxos, Mykonos, Amorgos, Milos, Kythera, Karpathos, Rhodes and Kos.

With so much statistics to your arms, it is up to you to create your very own Odyssey and experience these glittering gems that embellish the Aegean first hand. Enjoy the vacation of your life with the Greek Islands ferry!

Useful information for your journey to Greece

In case of need you can use the following useful phone numbers during your stay in Greece:

Ambulance service/Medical emergency: 166
Police: 100
Tourist police: 171 & 1571
General telephone information: 11888
Piraeus port authority: + 30 210455 0100
Rafina port authority: +30 2294321200 - 201
Patras port authority: +30 2613615400
Igoumenitsa port authority: + 30 266 509 9300
Corfu port authority: +30 26610 45551
Ktel Kifisou Public Transport | Athens: +302105246805
Ktel Thessalonikis Public Transport: +30 2310 510835
Fire Service: 199
Coast Guard: 108

Tips for taking a ferry in Greece

  • Greece is a country with excessive site visitors all 12 months spherical however more so in the course of the summer season length so we endorse you to e-book your ferry tickets to Greece in advance
    Check all available routes and examine expenses and offers on our on line platform earlier than you e-book your tickets
  • We advise you to be at the port of departure at the least 2 hours earlier, specifically if you have a vehicle
  • Pack a small bag with essentials for the journey, together with snacks, water and sunscreen
  • Greece has tremendous locations both on its islands. Check out our destination pages committed to every destination
  • The most visited islands are Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, Amorgos, Milos, Serifos, Crete, Rhodes, Symi, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Samos, Lesvos, Ikaria, Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos, Corfu, Ithaca, Zakynthos and Kythera

Important: Ferry tickets are individual ferry tickets bought for a selected path and for personal use. If you're going to tour to more than one Greek island then you should buy a price ticket for each course. Each vacation spot is unique!

 

Sightseeing in Greece

During your stay in Greece you should see so many sights that you may honestly want a second go to to the country. Greece with its wealthy history and way of life gives impressive monuments, marble idols, historical theaters and archaeological websites, museums, church buildings and monasteries, palaces and castles, seashores of incredible beauty as well as restaurants, golf equipment and nightclubs!

Below we will present the maximum essential sights from all over Greece as well as hotel options for splendid reviews at some point of your visit to this outstanding country!

Archaeological sites

The Acropolis of Athens: Is the most famous and distinguished monument of Athens! The historical Acropolis is positioned on pinnacle of a hill in Athens and contains ancient ruins of sizeable architectural and ancient significance, inclusive of the Temple of Erechtheion, the entrance to the Propylaea and the Temple of Athena Nike. The most well-known building on top of the Acropolis is the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena!

Parthenon (Athens): Built on the very best point of the Acropolis, it is the most important Doric temple in Greece and took 15 years to finish.

Ancient Mycenae (Mycenae, Crete): They are located on top of a hill between high mountains and have been the kingdom of Agamemnon, the legendary king who ruled the Greeks at some point of the Trojan War.

Mystras (Laconia): Became a Byzantine capital and fortified city and lies on a steep hillside complete of olive and orange trees and is taken into consideration the most astonishing set of medieval ruins in Greece.

Palace of Knossos (Crete): Is a unique historical site in Crete, the notable capital of Minoan Crete, placed 5 km south of Heraklion town. The ruins are remarkable and the placing consists of a big palace, courtyards, non-public residences, baths and bright frescoes.

Phaestos (Crete): Became the second most important Minoan palace-town after Knossos and with fewer frescoes and offers a breathtaking view of the apparent of Messara and the best point of Crete on Mount Psiloritis!

Sanctuary of Apollo (Delphi): Placed in the heart of Ancient Delphi, on the hillside and is the place visited by pilgrims to pay attention to the prophecies of the god Apollo, which have been expressed via the oracle selected with the aid of (a girl from the place)

Ancient Delos (Delos): An Unesco World Heritage Site ! It is an historical metropolis in Delos and was a bustling industrial center in addition to a sanctuary. Access to Delos may be very smooth from the island of Mykonos

Kerameikos (Athens): Discovered in 1861 whilst work began on the construction of Pireos Street. It once stood on the clay-rich banks of the Iridanos River. It took its name from the potters and turned into used as a cemetery inside the sixth century A.D. It has several marble columns carved with shiny photographs.

Ancient Agora (Athens): The Agora changed into the coronary heart of ancient Athens, wherein Socrates expounded his philosophy! On the site of the ancient market is the majestic Temple of Hephaestus, a brilliant museum and the 11th century Byzantine Church of the Holy Apostles, adorned with brick designs that mimic Arabic calligraphy

Temple of Olympian Zeus (Athens): Placed in the center of Athens and is a brilliant temple that had 104 Corinthian columns (17 meters high with a base diameter of 1.7 meters), but simplest 15 remain.

Odeon of Herodes Atticus (Athens): became constructed in 161 AD by the rich Roman Herod Atticus in memory of his wife Regilla. For many decades, the theater has been the venue for a number of the maximum essential theatrical, musical and dance performances inside the summer season as it is famous for its unique audibility.

Panathenaic Stadium (Athens): The only stadium in the world this is made absolutely of marble with a long records and is one of the maximum famous traveller attractions in Athens. In 1896 it became the venue of the first current Olympic Games.

Theatre of Epidaurus (Epidaurus): Constructed in the direction of the stop of the 4th century BC, it's miles one of the most important and excellent preserved ancient Greek buildings in life. It can accommodate up to 14,000 humans and is famous for its tremendous acoustics. Today it is used for performances all through the yearly Athens and Epidaurus Festival.

Temple of Poseidon (Cape Sounion): Located at the end of the peninsula of Sounion, at the southernmost point of Attica and is made totally of white marble, erected inside the middle of the 5th century BC and built in honor of Poseidon, god of the ocean. It is a gap with a spectacular view of the Aegean Sea, that is why thousands of Athenians visit it to experience the sunset and the whole moon.

Ancient Thira (Santorini): Turned into settlement with the aid of the Dorians in the 9th century BC and consists of Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine ruins along with temples, mosaic homes, a marketplace, a theater and a gymnasium. It is worth a visit both for its archaeological cost and for its staggering perspectives.

Ancient Messini (Messinia): Is a totally large ancient town and is located on a hillside and remains below excavation! It includes a huge theater, a marketplace, a massive Sanctuary of Asclepius and one of the most spectacular historic Greek stadiums.

Ancient Nemea (Peloponnese): Is an imposing Doric-kind temple of the 4th century BC. And the place wherein the Nemean Games were once held in honor of Zeus. Three unique columns at the moment are preserved, whilst the local museum well-knownshows rich findings from the location.

Archaeological Site of Dodoni (Ioannina - Epirus): It is placed 22 km south of Ioannina in Epirus! The remains are dated back to prehistoric period.

Philippi Archaeological Site (Macedonia): Is positioned near Kavala and has one of the richest histories of all ancient Greek ruins, playing a key role in Macedonian, Roman and early Christian history. In 2016, it took its location the various World Heritage Sites of Greece through UNESCO.

Museums

Museum of Cycladic Art: Hosts over 3,000 objects of Cycladic, historic Greek and Cypriot art displayed on four flooring in the halls of the Museum, a dwelling cultural space in the heart of Athens.

Acropolis Museum: Is an outstanding museum, very modern-day and homes greater than 3000 famous items from the Acropolis location from prehistoric times to the end of Antiquity.

National Library of Greece (Athens): A contemporary area with more than a million books and journals and a wealth of manuscript codices relationship from the 9th to the 19th century.

National Historical Museum (Syntagma - Athens): Became the antique parliament from 1875 to 1935 and is in particular critical because thru works of artwork and items it presents the cutting-edge Greek records, specially during the conflict duration and the muse of the present day Greek nation.

Benaki Museum at 138 Pireos St (Athens): A mansion founded and donated in 1930 through Antonis Benakis, located within the middle of Athens. The museum focuses on Greek way of life throughout the country's records and homes over a 100,000 gadgets from Greek history and showcases the many eras, cultures and civilizations that motivated the improvement of Greece. In addition to Greek art from prehistoric to modern instances, there is additionally a large series of Asian art. The museum hosts frequent exhibitions and maintains a latest conservation and healing workshop.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum (Crete): It is one of the most exceptional museums in Greece and Europe. It has a unique series of masterpieces of Minoan art, which is why it's far taken into consideration the museum par excellence of Minoan lifestyle.

Delphi Archaeological Museum: Gives the history of the well-known Delphic sanctuary and the most essential oracle of the historic Greek international. It has an essential collection of a number of the maximum crucial works of historic Greek artwork, covering the length from the second millennium BC, earlier than the muse of the Sanctuary, to Late Antiquity.

Museum of Marble Crafts (Tinos - Cyclades): Positioned inside the village of Pyrgos, on the island of Tinos and includes an excellent range of genuine gadgets, consisting of secular, ecclesiastical, funerary and ordinary objects made from marble, a cloth that has a unique place within the architecture and art of Greece and Tinos, from antiquity to the contemporary.

Natural History Museum of Apiranthos (Naxos): Positioned in the village of Apeiranthos on the island of Naxos and has a totally superb collection of specimens from the fauna and plant life of the area. It includes an aquarium, an first-rate series of shells, dolphin skeletons, bones and a bellows cranium as well as an impressively massive collection of flowers species.

Archaeological Museum (Thessaloniki): Certainly one of the biggest museums in Greece and the crucial museum of northern Greece. It has a wealthy collection of historical artifacts from the rich historic Greek, Roman and Byzantine records of Thessaloniki with beautiful examples of Roman structure, unique colorful mosaics, sculptures and jewelry from the Greek classical and Hellenistic intervals.

Historical Archives Museum of Hydra (Hydra): Became based in 1918 and is housed in an stylish stone mansion and houses historical instructional, administrative and religious documents, manuscripts from the Greek Revolution, vintage books, maps and more. The museum also homes relics from the Balkan and two world wars, traditional costumes, sculptures, nautical instruments and artwork.

Museum of El Greco (Heraklion/Fodele - Crete): Located within the village of Fodele, 10 mins from the city of Heraklion, Crete and is the area where one of the maximum vital painters, the genius of the Spanish Mannerist school, Dominikos Theotokopoulos, turned into born and lived throughout his kids.

Other sites & activities

Parliament (Athens): The Old Parliament House at Stadiou Street in Athens, housed the Greek Parliament among 1875 and 1935. It now houses the country's National Historical Museum.

Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center: A primary cultural center and one of the international's leading private charities. There is unfastened access for those who want to participate in many cultural, academic, wearing and recreational activities! It includes the National Opera House, the National Library of Greece, and the Stavros Niarchos Park, certainly one of the biggest green areas in Athens, with a place of 21 hectares.

Attica Zoological Park (Spata - Attica): A non-public and the handiest zoo in Greece and is located in the suburb of Spata, about 20 km east of Athens. The zoo is home to more than 1,500 animals representing 220 species, in an area of 20 hectares.

Hiking Vikos Gorge: Placed in the North Pindos mountain variety in Epirus known as Zagori and has forty four villages referred to as Zagorochoria.

Spinalonga Island (Crete): A small barren island with a protracted history of being one of the closing lively leper colonies in Europe from 1903 to 1957.It is positioned in the herbal harbor of Elounda in the prefecture of Lassithi in Crete.

Akrotiri prehistoric metropolis (Santorini): One of the most crucial locations in the Aegean. Blanketed by way of a bioclimatic roof and above the archaeological remains cling corridors that allow site visitors to walk among the two and 3-storey homes. In prehistory it was a Minoan port town that became covered in ash after a volcanic eruption on the island.

Valley of the Butterflies (Rhodes): Placed on the western facet of the island of Rhodes and is one of the most attractive locations of the island. It is domestic to hundreds of thousands of butterflies that peacefully hang out inside the timber in lakes and small waterfalls.

National Marine Park of Alonissos Northern Sporades (Alonissos): Became the first marine park installed in 2003 in Greece and is these days the biggest marine covered vicinity in Europe.

Liston (Corfu town): One of the most vital and well-known spots on the island of Corfu, paved with superb architecture and the function arches that make it one of the most crucial points of interest. It is the main entrance to the infamous slim canyons of the Old Town of Corfu.

Dikteon Cave (Lasithi - Crete): Positioned at 1025 meters above sea level. Visitors can enjoy the particular cave with the aid of following a staircase leading right down to the indoors of the cave, with lovely, evocative lighting fixtures.

Windmills (Mykonos - Cyclades): They're the brand of the island of Mykonos and are visible when one processes the port due to the fact that they are on a small hill of the island's Chora! There are 16 in general and that they were built by means of the Venetians within the 16th century.

Little Venice (Mykonos - Cyclades): One of the most romantic locations in Mykonos with first-rate vintage traditional white homes located on the threshold of the land on the ocean.

Lighthouse (Chania - Crete): Located at the entrance of the old port of Chania, constructed in 1864 by means of the Venetians and it has been a indexed archeological site in Greece considering that 1962.

Petrified woodland of Lesvos (Lesvos): Created 20 million years ago and is one of the maximum lovely monuments of Greece's geological background. There are fossilized parts of timber, larger and smaller colorful, standing or mendacity on the planet, to shape a completely unique introduction of nature.

Palaces & castles

Fortezza Vecchia (Corfu): A Venetian citadel in Corfu city and covers the cape that at first contained the vintage metropolis of Corfu.

Palamidi Fortress (Nafplio): Became built by using the Venetians and is positioned in the city of Nafplion! The spiral staircase from the metropolis to the fort has 913 steps however it's miles well worth the effort due to the fact the view of the Argolic Gulf and the town of Nafplio is outstanding.

Bourtzi (Nafplio): Positioned in the middle of the port of Nafplio and became built through the Venetians to shield the city from pirates and invaders from the sea. From 1930 to 1970 it served as a hotel. Since then, it has been mainly a vacationer enchantment and from time to time hosts parts of the Summer Music Festival.

Castle of the Knights (Kos town): Placed within the middle of the port of Kos and turned into a stone neighborhood with the ancient ruins from the antique town by the Knights of the Order of St. John, which guarded the city from drawing close Ottoman attacks.

Mon Repos Estate (Corfu): A small and beautiful palace constructed in 1826 with colonial factors and is positioned on top of a hill in a beautiful inexperienced surroundings.

Frangokastello (Chania/Crete): Located within the south of Crete in the prefecture of Chania and is a Venetian fort built in 1374.The buildings in the partitions had been constructed all through the Ottoman career.

Palace of the Grandmaster of the Knights of Rhodes (Rhodes): Also referred to as Castelo, is a medieval castle within the town of Rhodes, at the island of the identical name and is one of the few examples of Gothic structure in Greece.

Sisi Palace, Achilleion Palace (Corfu): A pricey villa built in 1892 for the Empress of Austria, Elisabeth von Wiltelsbach (better called Sissy) with stunning gardens and special statues consisting of that of Achilles and these days it's miles a museum.

Tatoi Palace (Athens): Inside the beyond was the summer time house of the Greek royal family and is positioned at the foot of Mount Parnitha in 10,000 acres of pine-covered hillside. It was a palace of fantastic opulence however after the removal of the royalty it changed into deserted and most of the artifacts have been destroyed. Recently efforts were made to renovate it. It is a nice get away for Athenians.

Fortezza of Rethymno (Rethymno/Crete): The Αcropolis of the city of Rethymno in Crete and turned into built through the Venetians in the 16th century. Several homes were constructed within the Αcropolis.

Castle of Astypalaia (Astypalaia/Dodecanese): A Venetian fort fabricated from black stones in Chora of Astypalea and is placed on the pinnacle of the hill offering a splendid view of the sea and the island.

Methoni Castle (Peloponnese): An impressive fortress, one among the most important inside the Mediterranean, positioned on a rocky promontory constructed through the Venetians inside the early 13th century.

Koroni Castle (Peloponnese): Became constructed through the Venetians closer to the end of the 13th century with massive gates, big partitions and square towers. It is positioned at the very best factor of the peninsula and the view to the Messinian Gulf is terrific.

Monemvasia Castle (Peloponnese): Positioned in Monemvasia at the southeastern coast of the Peloponnese and the citadel is the oldest inhabited fortress in Europe. It is a place of first-rate beauty and allure with its cobbled streets and stone houses.

Mystras Castle (Peloponnese): A completely unique complex constructed in 1249 and is positioned at the hillside in the southeast of the Peloponnese. Its church buildings have Byzantine structure and impressive frescoes.

Nafpaktos Castle (Peloponnese): One of the first-rate preserved castles in Greece with its partitions extending to the sea and is located on the hill above Nafpaktos where the historic Acropolis turned into located. The view to the Patraikos Gulf and the bridge of Antirion is fantastic.

Monolithos Castle (Rhodes): Built in 1480 with the aid of the Knights of St. John at the foundations of some other, older fort and stands at a height of about 236 meters. Few ruins stay however the view of the sea is unreal. The citadel is accessed by a staircase carved into the rock.

Medieval Castle of Leros (Leros): Positioned in the northeast of the island and at a peak of approximately 600 meters from the ocean with an extremely good view.

Venetian Castle of Kythira (Kythira): Constructed in 1565 and is positioned west in Kythira with many homes and 9 church buildings with superb architecture of the sixteenth and seventeenth century. It is taken into consideration the great region of Kythira to appreciate the sunset overlooking the Ionian Sea.

Churches/Cathedrals/Monasteries

Monastery of Hozoviotissa (Amorgos - Cyclades): The second oldest in Greece and was built in 1017. It is of particular splendor with the monastery putting at the rock 300 meters above the sea.

St Nicholas' Church (Syros - Cyclades): An impressive Byzantine church and the purchaser saint of Ermoupolis, the capital of Syros! It has marvelous interiors and the icons had been created with the aid of the most crucial hagiographers of the time.

Monasteries of Meteora: A cluster of Byzantine monasteries perched on top of steep cliffs that make up a completely unique panorama of breathtaking beauty. In 1988 they were included inside the UNESCO World Heritage List as they house priceless artifacts and frescoes.

Monastery of Saint John (Patmos -Dodecanese): Perhaps the maximum important monastery in the Aegean! It changed into based in 1088 and is placed on a hill overlooking the ocean and the town of Patmos!The frescoes date back to the early 17th century while the monastery's museum houses rare objects and an super treasury and library

Church of Megalochari (Tinos - Cyclades): Placed inside the city of Tinos and is considered marvelous and is the maximum important pilgrimage website online in Greece and famous all over the world! The church dominates as it's far positioned on a hill above the metropolis of Tinos. The special issue is that the pilgrims cowl the distance from the harbor to the church on their knees, as a vow to the Virgin Mary on a red carpet from the doorway of the church to the harbor.

Church of Ekatontapiliani (Paros - Cyclades): Placed some meters from the port of Parikia, the capital of Paros and is one of the excellent preserved early Christian monuments in Greece.

Mount Athos (Halkidiki - Macedonia): Mount Athos includes 20 monasteries a thousand years antique, cells in caves and approximately 2,000 monks from all over the global. It is placed within the jap peninsula of Halkidiki and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Church of Seven Martyrs(Sifnos - Cyclades): A small traditional Cycladic church on top of a rocky islet literally on the waves with a stunning view of the Aegean Sea. It is one of the most photographed spots of Sifnos.

Church of Agios Ioannis (Skopelos-Sporades): Located at a height of one hundred meters from the sea at the pinnacle of a sea cliff with beautiful panoramic views.

Church of Panagia Kalamiotissa (Anafi-Cyclades): The monastery become constructed round 1600 is positioned on pinnacle of the enforcing rock of Kalamos, the second highest rock in the Mediterranean and the rite that takes region is a unique enjoy as the priests sing and pray all night lengthy.The monastery is one of the foremost points of interest of the island of Anafi and the view is beautiful

Church of Panagia Makrini (Samos - Dodecanese): Constructed within the 9th century and is placed in a cave on the western slope of Mount Kerki on the island of Samos. The interior is decorated with properly-preserved 14th century frescoes and the view from the courtyard is one of the first-class at the island.

Church of Agios Spyridonas (Santorini-Cyclades): Positioned in Oia and is constructed at the rock! It is one of the most photographed churches of Santorini with the blue dome harmonizing flawlessly with the blue sky and the white Cycladic houses.

Monastery of Panagia Chrysopigi (Sifnos-Cyclades): Built in 1650 is placed on a rocky island connected to the rest of the island through a small bridge. It is one of the most essential churches of Sifnos and for the pilgrimage believers come from throughout Greece.

The Church of Agia Fotini (Mantineia/Peloponnese): Built between 1970 and 1980, it's miles a unique building that combines classical, Byzantine and romantic architectural patterns and has radical ornament and iconography. Many call it the Greek Sagrada Familia because of its different production techniques, even as others disapprove of it as no longer consultant of the Orthodox church

The Church of Agia Theodora of Vasta (Arcadia/Peloponnese): Located just outside the village of Vasta in Megalopolis in the Peloponnese and turned into constructed between the tenth and 12th centuries. This small chapel is supported by means of 17 big trees that protrude from its roof and walls. Each tree weighs nearly a ton and is over 20 meters high. Many researchers have spent years analyzing this shape, even x-raying the walls, but haven't any reason for the tree roots. A spring comes out from below the chapel and irrigates the timber.

The Roofless Church of Panagia Kakaviotissa (Lemnos - Dodecanese): Positioned 8 kilometers from the principle town of Lemnos island, it's miles a tiny medieval church, housed under a natural rock shelter and the view of the sea and the landscapes of Lemnos is unique.

Church of the Panagia (Folegandros–Cyclades): It's far the most important church at the island of Folegandros which stands imposingly on pinnacle of the hill above the principle town. The church is known for its tall bell tower and all through the sundown the view of the island is amazing.

Beaches in Greece

Porto Katsiki Beach (Lefkada): One of the pinnacle beaches in Greece and the most posted photo in magazines, with turquoise waters and white sand surrounded by way of large cliffs in lush flowers.

Elafonisi Beach (Chania/Crete): One of the most first rate beaches in Crete with clean blue waters, pink sand and a unique panorama.

Balos Beach (Chania/Crete): Positioned approximately 56km northwest of Chania and is definitely the most photographed seaside in Crete with turquoise waters, shallow waters and natural beauty.

Plaka Beach (Naxos): One of the most popular beaches of Naxos and a favorite seaside for nudists, with lengthy and huge, white sand and turquoise water.

Super Paradise (Mykonos): One of the most well-known seashores inside the international with quality clean crystal waters, sandy and nicely organized.

Seychelles Beach (Ikaria): A lovely beach of Ikaria with pebbles among rocks that creates a completely unique scenery. A small seaside subsequent to the main beach has a huge cave.

Tsigrado Beach (Milos): This shore is located at the lowest of a bay surrounded by means of very excessive cliffs and cliffs. Its distinctiveness is by and large because of its beautiful turquoise waters but also for the authentic manner you could get admission to it as at the pinnacle of the cliff there may be a rope linked to a staircase, which results in the seashore and you need to keep the rope tightly and begin descending cautiously.

Paleokastritsa Beach (Corfu): The most popular beaches of Corfu and is positioned near the Byzantine castle of Paleokastritsa.The waters are crystal clean but specially cold.

Simos Beach-Elafonissos (Peloponnese): Simos beach is the trademark of the island of Elafonisos of remarkable splendor with crystal clean sea and herbal dunes up to 10 meters excessive.

Mylopotas Beach (Ios): Positioned in a bay, very near the capital of Ios with golden sand and crystal blue waters and is the most visited seashore of the island.

Sarakiniko Beach (Milos): One of the most advertised seashores in Greece due to its lunar white chalk image that makes it very special!

Navagio Beach (Zakynthos): A cove with a shipwreck on the sand. The beach has crystal blue waters and a simply magical panorama.

Myrtos Beach (Kefalonia): A global well-known seashore and is considered one of the most beautiful seashores within Greece, with awesome herbal beauty surrounded by way of inexperienced hills.

Agios Prokopios Beach (Naxos): Located about 4 km from the port of Naxos and has thick sand that leads to sand dunes with crystal clear waters and has obtained the maximum distinctions in Greece and overseas.

Platys Gialos (Mykonos): A sandy seashore nicely prepared and with many activities consisting of
starfishing, windsurfing and parasailing in the Aegean and with bars and restaurants with seafood.

Golden Beach (Thassos): A sandy organized seashore with very clean waters and consequently it has a blue flag.

Glyfada Beach (Corfu): One of the most lovely seashores of Corfu with sand and beach bars. It may be very without problems reachable from the old town of Corfu.

Kolymbithres Beach (Paros): One of the most famous in Paros with shallow waters, a special seaside known as Kolimbithres overlooking the bay of Naoussa. It isn't a single beach but many small sandy beaches isolated from every other among big granite rocks that shape pool-like cavity

Panormos Beach (Skopelos): A big sheltered bay with a pebbly beach and crystal clean waters, with an organized beach.

Mikri Vigla (Naxos): Positioned in the southwestern part of Naxos and includes two special seashores separated by way of a series of rocks! Ideal for diving and for individuals who like windsurfing and kitesurfing thanks to the well-known north wind.

Faliraki Beach (Rhodes): A protracted seaside with a width of 5km and the most famous and prepared seaside of Rhodes. On the seashore you may locate bars, nightclubs, eating places and you may be capable of do water sports.

Potami Beach (Samos): A long seaside of uncommon beauty with pebbles and crystal clear waters placed at the northeast coast of Samos. It is prepared with umbrellas and sunbeds and a seashore bar.

Agali Beach (Folegandros): A sandy seaside placed approximately 4 km away from the main town of the island.Ideal for households.

Greek cuisine & gastronomy

It is not any coincidence that the word gastronomy is a Greek word! The roots of Greek delicacies cross lower back to antiquity and it's far without a doubt an attraction for those traveling Greece, as it is famous for its scrumptious products grown in a really ideal Mediterranean weather! The great virgin Greek olive oil, which is thought international, makes most Greek dishes healthy and tasteful, as well as the plethora of herbs, spices and seasonings!

In the latest years, younger chefs have introduced other elements to their delicacies, making the dishes have an extra international and cosmopolitan flavor! However, the philosophy of Greek cuisine remains identical with the combination of sparkling seasonal produce, the proper mix of ingredients and fresh olive oil to make certain flavorful uplift and high dietary value!

Some famous dishes of Greek delicacies are the following:

Moussaka: A traditional Greek speciality made with roasted or fried eggplants (aubergines) and potatoes, a wealthy, tomatoey sauce of minced beef or lamb and crowned with a deliciously creamy bechamel sauce.

Fava: Inside the form of a pulp or puree, very just like hummus in texture and made with dried fava beans, onions and masses of more virgin olive oil. The most well-known is the one from the island of Santorini.

Greek Salad: The most popular salad in Greek cuisine, usually prepared with portions of tomato, cucumber, onion, feta and olives, oregano and clean olive oil.

Τaramosalata: A snack crafted from taramas, salted cod fish blended with olive oil, lemon juice and a starchy base of bread or potatoes. Sometimes it could comprise garlic, spring onions or vinegar.

Gigantes: Consists of large beans baked in tomato sauce with plenty of sparkling herbs and orange.

Greek pies: There are many pies that fluctuate consistent with each vicinity of Greece and are a normal traditional dish in each corner of Greece.

Pastichio: Includes a deep layer of big tubular pasta, minced meat and a thick béchamel sauce.

Spetsofai: Is a rustic spicy Greek dish with thick us of a sausages and peppers in a wealthy tomato sauce. There are various versions which include this one from the Pelion region with eggplant, even as in most areas, it's miles made with green or colourful mild peppers, or warm peppers.

Souvlaki: possibly the most famous food in Greece! It is any sort of meat (red meat or chicken) wrapped in a pie, with tzatziki, tomato, potato and sauce.

Gemista: Vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, aubergines, pumpkins) full of rice and tomato sauce, spices and now and again can also comprise minced pork or beef.

Loukoumades: Small fluffy sweet balls with honey (the Greek model of doughnuts), which are fried in a deep pan to turn out to be golden and crispy. They are served with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon.

Dolmadakia: Filled vine leaves with rice and masses of herbs. They can also be filled with minced meat, rice and herbs.

Kleftiko: A rustic, conventional Greek recipe and in Greek which means "stolen". It is made with slow-cooked lamb, that is first marinated in garlic, olive oil and lemon juice.

Tzatziki: A dip crafted from salted strained yogurt or diluted yogurt mixed with cucumbers, garlic, salt, olive oil, now and again vinegar or lemon juice and herbs including dill, mint, parsley and thyme.

Soutzoukakia: The secret factor here, is cumin. Cumin is a completely fragrant spice that flavors the meat and offers it a special flavor. Traditionally, soutzoukakia are made with minced pork or a aggregate of minced red meat and minced beef.

Hotels in Greece

There are so many beautiful hotels in Greece that several pages would be needed to mention them all. There are impressive luxury hotels in Athens and throughout the Greek islands, hotel complexes with many facilities, beautiful boutique hotels as well as Rbnp apartments and low cost hotels. Below, we will give you an indicative list of some hotels that cover all the above accommodation categories:

Luxury hotels in Greek Islands:

  • MarBella Nido Suite Hotel & Villas (Corfu)
  • Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa (Chania/Crete)
  • Elounda Gulf Villas (Elounda/Crete)
  • St.Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas (Crete)
  • Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort (Mykonos)
  • Boheme Hotel (Mykonos)
  • Mykonos Ammos Hotel (Mykonos)
  • De.Light Boutique Hotel (Mykonos)
  • Cavo Tagoo (Mykonos)
  • Naxian Collection (Naxos)
  • Summer Senses Luxury Resort (Paros)
  • Santorini Secret Suites & Spa (Santorini)
  • Canaves Oia Suites (Santorini)
  • Cosmopolitan Suites(Santorini)
  • Rocabella Hotel (Santorini)
  • Andronis Hotel (Santorini)
  • Cavo Tagoo (Santorini)
  • Lindos Blu (Rhodes)
  • White Coast Pool Suites (Milos)
  • Aristide Hotel (Syros)
  • Porto Zante Villas & Spa (Zakynthos)
  • The Petra (Patmos)
  • Aqua Blu Boutique Hotel & Spa (Kos)

More affordable choices:

  • Golden Beach (Paros)
  • Mr.& Mrs.White (Paros)
  • Aelia by Eltheon (Santorini)
  • Astra Suites (Santorini)
  • Labranda Kiotari Miraluna Hotel (Rhodes)
  • Lindos Sun (Rhodes)
  • Castelli (Zakynthos)
  • Allure Wellness Retreat (Lefkada)
  • Skiathos Avaton Hotel (Skiathos)
  • MarBella Corfu (Corfu)

Luxury hotels in Athens:

  • Theoxenia Palace Hotel
  • The Margi 
  • Grande Bretagne
  • St. Lycabettus
  • Intercontinental

Luxury hotels in Mainland:

  • The Excelsior (Thessaloniki)
  • Hyatt Regency (Thessaloniki)
  • Makedonia Palace (Thessaloniki)
  • Electra Palace (Thessaloniki)

Best resorts in Greece:

  • Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso (Athens)
  • Corfu Holiday Palace (Corfu)
  • Myconian Utopia Relais & Chateaux (Mykonos)
  • Myconian Imperial (Mykonos)
  • Katikies (Mykonos)
  • Creta Maris Resort (Hersonissos /Crete)
  • Blue Palace Elounda (Elounda/Crete)
  • Epirus Palace Congress & Spa (Ioannina/North Greece)
  • Andronis Concept Wellness Resort (Santorini)
  • Elea Resort - only for adults (Santorini)
  • Costa Grand Resort & Spa (Santorini)
  • Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection (Santorini)
  • Marpunta Resort (Alonissos/Sporades)
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