Greece Tourism & Holidays in Greece Map of Greece, Athens Hotels, Greek Islands Hotels, Travel, Car Rental, Tours & Cruises in Greece

A BRIEF TRAVEL GUIDE TO GREECE

Athens, Greece

Info about: Athens - Attica
Athens: the capital of Greece and one of the most magnificent cities in the world, cradle of the western civilization and birthplace of values and principles that are the basis of our society today. It is chosen by thousands of people every year for both holidays packed with sightseeing and lying on sandy beaches, as well as business trips, due to its excellent infrastructure, which has made Athens one of the major business centers in Europe.

While in Greece, visitors should spend at least a few days touring the spectacular ancient and historical sites of Athens and Greater Attica, which are a testimony to the greatness of Ancient Greece and its cultural supremacy during antiquity.

Visitors are astounded by the Athens Acropolis Hill and its grand monuments such as the Parthenon, the Erechtheion and the Herod Atticus Odeon, while a stroll through the charming Plaka Quarters, the Monastiraki Bazaar and the downtown commercial areas of Athens, Greece is a must. Seize the opportunity to visit the city where ancient features are complimented by modern characteristics, where west and east are fused to create a unique holiday spot: the one and only Athens.

Greek Islands

Crete, Greece:
Info about: Chania (Hania), Heraklion (Iraklio), Lassithi, Rethymnon (Rethymno)
The island of Crete is a one-of-a-kind vacation destination to the south of Mainland Greece, settled between the Cretan Sea and the Libyan Sea. Crete is celebrated for its amazing features, including its long and rich history, breathtaking natural areas, charming villages, fabulous beaches, scrumptious cuisine, hospitable inhabitants and century-old traditions.

Crete is divided into 4 prefectures: Chania (Hania), Rethymnon (Rethymno), Heraklion (Iraklio) and Lassithi. Each prefecture has its own unique characteristics, but all offer excellent archaeological and historical sites and stunning coasts. On Crete, visitors can spend their leisure time swimming in crystal-clear waters, exploring the ancient sites, having fun at the nightlife venues and participating in a wide array of outdoor sports. If it's a versatile vacation spot you're looking for, the island of Crete, Greece is the place for you!

Cyclades Islands, Greece:
Info about: Amorgos, Andros, Antiparos, Ios, Kea, Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Santorini, Serifos, Syros, Tinos
The magical Cyclades Islands cluster is famous for its endless beaches and traditional white-washed cubic houses that glimmer under the sun and contrast with the deep blue Aegean Sea. For many, the Cyclades Islands are the ultimate holiday destinations in Greece and indeed the world.

Each Cycladic Island is unique and famous for its distinctive features: Santorini and its mysterious volcano, Mykonos the nightlife capital of the Cyclades, Paros and its picturesque seaside villages, Naxos the multifaceted holiday island, and Amorgos with its wild natural beauty. Furthermore, there is Andros the cultural Eden of the Cyclades, Milos and its breathtaking beaches, and Serifos the traditional Greek Island.

You can also visit Antiparos the island of serenity and leisure, Kea the nature lovers' paradise, Syros the aristocratic Greek Island, Tinos with its spiritual aura and Ios the classic Cyclades Island of fun. Other Cyclades Islands are Anafi, Delos, Folegandros, Thirassia, Kimolos, Koufonissia, Kythnos, Sifnos, Sikinos and the Small Cyclades (Donoussa, Iraklia and Schinoussa. Such a variety guarantees that every visitor will find their dream holiday spot in the Cyclades Islands, Greece.

Dodecanese Islands, Greece:
Info about: Karpathos, Kos, Leros, Patmos, Rhodes (Rodos)
The Dodecanese Islands are located in the Aegean Sea and are the southeastern most island cluster in Greece. By many, the Dodecanese are considered the most impressive of islands, mainly because of their sophisticated aura and their splendid multi-cultural features. Throughout the Dodecanese Islands, visitors will find many areas of natural beauty, a number of wonderful Byzantine and Venetian monuments, exquisite ancient sites and beautiful beaches with sparkling waters.

The cluster has one of the best climates in Greece, providing visitors with pleasant weather all year round. In the Dodecanese cluster, there are islands for all types, the most popular being the cosmopolitan Rhodes (Rodos) with its majestic medieval town and Patmos with the Cave of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian. Other wonderful Dodecanese Islands are: Kos, Astypalea, Chalki, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Kassos, Kastelorizo, Leros, Lipsi, Nisyros, Symi and Tilos.

Ionian Islands, Greece:
Info about: Corfu (Kerkyra), Kefalonia (Cephalonia), Lefkada (Lefkas), Zakynthos (Zante)

The Ionian Islands cluster is located off the western coast of Mainland Greece and is comprised of some of the most visited islands in the region. The Ionian Islands are famous for their wild natural beauty, cosmopolitan lifestyle, interesting monuments and artistic character, as they are the homeland of many authors, poets, and musicians, including Dionysios Solomos, author of lyrics to the Greek National Anthem.

The beaches of the Ionian Islands are absolutely stunning; in fact several of them have been voted the best beaches in the world, including Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia, Porto Katsiki Beach in Lefkada, Navagio Beach in Zakynthos, and Agios Georgios and the coves of Paleokastritsa in Corfu.

The Ionian Islands are considered the aristocratic islands of Greece, as they are strewn with Venetian-style buildings, colorful alleyways and long promenades. Tradition and modern lifestyle are perfectly combined on these islands, offering visitors a taste of both sides of their charm. There are seven Ionian Islands: Corfu (Kerkyra) the sophisticated, cosmopolitan Ionian island, Kefalonia ( Cephalonia ) the natural paradise of the Ionian cluster, Lefkada (Lefkas) the land of azure waters, and Zakynthos (Zante) where lush green hills meet sandy beaches. You can also visit Ithaki ( Ithaca ) the home of Ulysses, Kythira the quaint island refuge with turquoise waters, and Paxi the place of serenity and total relaxation.

NE Aegean Islands, Greece:
Info about: Hios (Chios), Lesvos, Samos
The NE Aegean Islands cluster is situated above the Dodecanese Islands, opposite the coast of Turkey. They are particularly well-known for their striking forested hills and exquisite beaches that provide guests with lovely natural settings during holidays in Greece. Many people choose the North Eastern Aegean Islands because of their reputation as charming getaways for those who want to relax in picturesque villages, far away from the much-frequented tourist spots. Nevertheless, the NE Aegean Islands also have exciting nightlife venues and splendid archaeological and historical sites that attract a large number of visitors.

The most popular are: Chios (Hios) the home of the mastic tree and a favourite of nature lovers, Lesvos the island of ouzo, where visitors are intoxicated by its natural beauty, and Samos the verdant island of great historical importance. Other magical NE Aegean Islands are: Agios Efstratios, Ikaria, Inousses, Limnos, and Psara. Forget everyday stress and routine and come to the NE Aegean Islands, Greece!

Saronic Islands, Greece:
Info about: Aegina, Hydra, Spetses
The Saronic Islands cluster is a favourite holiday spot of the Athenians, as it is located off the coasts of the Attica prefecture and the Peloponnese, just a short boat trip from Piraeus, the main port of Greece near Athens. They are popular destinations for both long vacations and weekend breaks. The Saronic Islands are attractive not only for their close proximity to Athens, but also for excellent beaches and superb ancient sites.

For those who are interested in visiting all the Saronic Islands, short cruises around the region are available. Aegina is probably the most visited of the Saronic Islands and has a very long and significant history, and consequently offers visitors a number of splendid archaeological and historical monuments. Apart from Aegina, the cluster is comprised of Salamina, Agistri, Hydra, Poros and Spetses. For those who are vacationing in Athens, Greece, these islands are a perfect choice for a taste of the Greek Island lifestyle.

Sporades Islands, Greece:
Info about: Alonissos, Skiathos, Skopelos
The Sporades Islands are located opposite the shores of the prefecture of Magnissia, Greece, in the Aegean Sea. They are celebrated for their lush hillsides and golden, sandy beaches, which attract countless visitors every year. The Sporades Islands cluster is comprised of Alonissos, Skiathos, Skopelos and Skyros.

Mainland Greece

Halkidiki, Greece:
Info about: Kassandra, Mount Athos (Agio Oros), Sithonia
Located in the northern part of Greece is the amazing vacation resort of (Chalkidiki). Rich in natural beauty, it is a favourite of visitors from Greece and abroad. Halkidiki is comprised of a mainland region and 3 peninsulas: Kassandra, Sithonia and Agio Oros (Mt. Athos). All 3 peninsulas have common characteristics, such as lush hillside, dazzling sandy beaches, significant historical sites, and picturesque mountain and seaside villages.

Each peninsula, though, has its own unique characteristics. Kassandra is famous for its pine trees which grow right on the stunning beaches and climb the hillside, Sithonia is known for its traditional, unblemished features and pristine sands, and Mt. Athos is the autonomous region with the impressive monasteries. In other words, Halkidiki, Greece is a holiday destination for everyone!

Central Greece:
Info about: Athens-Attica, Evia Island, Evrytania, Fokida, Viotia
Apart from Athens and Greater Attica, the region of Central Greece includes many other wonderful locations. Evia Island and its capital Halkida are a short distance from Athens and popular destinations for day trips. The prefecture of Evrytania and its capital Karpenissi are a favourite of winter sport lovers due to its excellent snow center.

The prefecture of Fokida is well-known for the ancient town of Delphi (where the Oracle made her predictions that are often mentioned in legends of Ancient Greece), as well as the seaside resorts of Itea and Galaxidi. In the prefecture of Viotia visitors can find Arachova, the most cosmopolitan ski resort in Greece situated at the foot of Mt. Parnassos.

Macedonia, Greece:
Info about: Halkidiki (Chalkidiki), Kavala & Thassos Island, Serres, Thessaloniki
Macedonia is a large region in Northern Greece, comprised of 13 prefectures and is packed with marvelous vacation spots for both summer and winter holidays. The most famous places in Macedonia are Thessaloniki, which is the second largest city in Greece after Athens, and the popular tourist destination of Halkidiki (Chalkidiki).

Peloponnese, Greece:
Info about: Achaia, Argolida, Corinth, Laconia, Messinia
The Peloponnese is a region of great historical significance and stunning natural beauty that gather less tourist crowds than other areas in Greece, but is in many cases even lovelier. It appeals to both summer and winter holidaymakers because of its magnificent beaches and impressive mountains. The Peloponnese is divided into 7 prefectures: Achaia (Achaea), Arcadia (Arkadia), Argolida, Ilia (Elia), Korinthia (Corinthia), Laconia (Lakonia), and Messinia.

The Achaia Prefecture provides visitors with scenic Patra - the largest port in the Peloponnese and the third largest city in Greece -, the attractive seaside town of Diakofto, and the marvelous mountainous Kalavrita and its ski center. Arcadia's gems are its capital Tripoli, its beaches of Tyros, Leonidio and Astros, and its winter sports center in Vytina.

In the prefecture of Argolida, you can stroll through the picturesque capital town of Nafplion, which is considered one of the most beautiful towns in Greece, and visit the splendid archaeological sites of Epidaurus and Mycenae, two of the gems of Ancient Greece. While vacationing in the prefecture of Ilia, a visit to the capital Pyrgos, the coastal town of Zacharo and the majestic Ancient Olympia site is a must.

The Korinthia Prefecture offers tourists lovely beaches in Kiato and Xylokastro, ancient sites in Korithos Town, a posh casino in Loutraki and the famous Isthmia Canal. The prefecture of Lakonia is full of historical sites in Sparta, Monemvasia and Mystras, as well as splendid beaches in Gythio and Elafonissos, a small island with azure waters off the coast of Neapolis Town. In the Messinia Prefecture, you will have the opportunity to visit Kalamata Town, swim at the beaches of Kyparissia, Kardamili, Pilos, Methoni and Koroni, and admire the Byzantine monuments scattered throughout the area.

Thessalia, Greece:
Info about: Larissa, Magnesia
Thessalia (Thessaly) is a region in Mainland Greece comprised of 4 prefectures: the mountainous Karditsa with its Plastira Lake and Trikala with the Meteora Monasteries, Larissa, which is characterized by plains, a bit of shoreline, and the beautiful Tembi natural site, and lastly Magnesia, with its marvelous beaches and the Mt. Pilio snow center. Like many other regions in Greece, Thessalia offers wonderful winter and summer vacations. All prefectures have very charming villages where traditions and customs are still practiced today.

Other Areas in Greece

If you are traveling through Greece you may want to see the region of Epirus and Thrace, both of which are rich in natural and historical sites, scenic villages and superb beaches. In Epirus, an area on the western side of Greece, we recommend touring the prefectures of Ioannina, Thesprotia, Arta, and Preveza.

In Thrace, the northeastern part of Greece that borders with Turkey and Bulgaria, you can visit the prefectures of Evros, Xanthi and Rodopi, as well as the island of Samothraki, which is situated opposite the prefecture of Rodopi.

Winter Tourism in Greece

Many areas in Greece are ideal resorts for winter holidays, as they offer quaint mountain villages that have comfortable rooms for rent and winter cabins, as well as fine winter sport centers with well-organized facilities. In the Trikala and Magnesia Prefectures of Thessaly are the Koziaka (Pertouli) and Pilio ski centers, respectively. In the Central Greece region are the Parnassos ski center in Arachova, Viotia and the Tymfristos ski center in Karpenissi, Evritania.

In the Achaia Prefecture of the Peloponnese is the wonderful Helmos ski center in Kalavrita, while in the Arcadia Prefecture of the Peloponnese is the Mainalos ski center in Vytina. Northern Greece also offers a number of winter sports facilities, such as the Vernos ski center in Kastoria, the Vasilitsa ski center in Grevena, Vermios ski center in Naoussa and Vora (Kaimaktsalan) ski center in Arnissa, Edessa.

Greece Destination Guide

GENERAL INFO ABOUT GREECE
Greece is a country of great beauty and history, where thousands of visitors come every year to lie on breathtaking beaches, swim in sparkling waters and visit some of the most exquisite archaeological monuments in the world. Greeks are a hospitable people who are proud of their country and want to share its wonderful features with the rest of the world.

Click on the destination of your choice from the list above to receive detailed information about the area.


		Greece Hotels
		Greece Car Rentals
		Transportation & Travel in Greece
		Yacht Charter & Cruises in Greece
		Greece Travel Tips
		- Greece Weather - Euro Currency - Greece Visas & Passports - Driving in Greece

Greece Hotels
In Greece, visitors can find an endless array of hotels, rooms to let, studios, apartments, villas, traditional houses, suites and pensions, all of which offer comfortable accommodation to vacationers. Hotels in Athens, Greece, as well as in the Greek Islands and Mainland Greece, are abundant, ranging from budget and economy hotels to resorts, villas and luxury hotels in Greece. Vacation packages to Greece are an excellent solution for those who want to tour many parts of the country. The holiday packages offered by travel agencies in Greece often include hotel accommodation, excursions, car rentals and cruises to the Greek Islands.

Greece Car Rentals
If you want to truly experience Greece and its wonders, we recommend renting a car and touring the destinations of your choice. Just purchase a good map of Greece that includes historical and ancient sites, beaches and villages, and off you go on an unforgettable adventure in a safe and reliable rent a car. Every town and island in Greece offers a wide selection of car rental and motorbike rental agencies, making it easy for visitors to find the rental car of their choice in all regions of Greece.

View a list of car rentals agencies in Greece

Travel to Greece - Transport in Greece (Flights to Greece - Trains, Buses & Ferries in Greece)
Travelling to Greece is easy and convenient, as the Athens Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” is one of Europe’s finest airports, catering daily to hundreds of international flights to Greece from abroad, as well as a large number of domestic flights to the Greek Islands and many other towns on the mainland. If you are looking for cheap flights to Greece, you should book in advance, although some airlines offer last minute cheap airfares to Greece and the Greek Islands. Apart from budget airfares to Greece, many airline companies provide business class airfares and student airline tickets. Airfares fluctuate depending on the season and the time of booking.

Ferry boats are also a convenient way to travel to Greece. International ferries make trips between Italy and Greece. Ferries are the most common means of transport from Piraeus Port in Athens to the Greek Islands. Ferry departures are quite frequent, especially during the summer months when Greece is packed with tourists. Boat tickets range from cheap tourist class tickets to first class tickets with cabin rental. Many Greek Islands are directly connected by boat, making it easy for visitors to do a little island hopping.

In Athens City, (as well as other big cities, such as Thessaloniki, Patras, Heraklion, etc) the public transportation network is excellent. In Athens there are numerous buses, trolley cars and tram cars that transport visitors close to the historical sites of the city. The Athens Metro Line and Suburban Train Line are very efficient means of transportation that reach many urban and suburban areas, including the Metro’s extended line that reaches the Athens Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos”. The KTEL Intercity Buses and the Intercity Trains are available to transport visitors to various areas in Attica and major cities throughout Greece.

Greece Cruises - Greece Yacht Charter
Greece is the ideal place for sailing, as the seas surrounding Greece and the Greek Islands are calm, the climate of Greece is mild, and there are hundreds of coasts and coves that can only be accessed by boat. There are many Greece yacht charter companies that provide both bare boats and crewed yachts for sailing around Greece. Most Greek yacht charter companies offer luxury cruises to the Greek Islands. Treat yourself to a unique experience and go sailing in the Greek Islands and the beautiful shores of Mainland Greece!

View a list of yacht charter companies in Greece

Greece Travel Tips

Greece Weather
The weather in Greece is temperate and typically Mediterranean, with the sun shining for most of the year. In the winters are quite mild and wet, while summers are dry and hot.

The difference in altitude in Greece means a varied Mediterranean-type climate. The high mountains and low seaside areas create major fluctuations in temperature and weather conditions. Mountainous regions often have snowfall in the winter and have therefore become popular winter holiday destinations. Attica and Eastern Greece are dry, while Northern and Western Greece are relatively wet and humid. Rainfall never lasts long in Greece and overcast skies are rare, even during winter and fall.

If you are visiting Greece in the summer, be sure to wear a hat and light clothing, apply sunblock and carry a bottle of water, especially if you are planning on doing some sightseeing at the monuments of Ancient Greece, as temperatures in summer can often reach the high 30’s (C˚). The weather in Greece during spring and fall is marvelous, with temperatures ranging from the high teens to the high 20’s, depending on the region. We recommend carrying a light jacket in the spring and fall evenings. For those planning on visiting Greece in the winter, they should have warm winter clothing, including a scarf, a hat and gloves to protect them from the chilly wind.

Euro Currency
The official currency of Greece is the Euro and its denominations. It is very easy to exchange currencies in Greece, as there are an infinite number of exchange booths in Athens and all major Greek cites. All banks and most hotels in Greece also offer exchange services. Feel free to use our currency exchange conversion page

Greece Visas & Passports
EU citizens are not required to carry a passport, as long as they carry the proper Identification Card. Only UK citizens, are required to carry a passport, although all other entry conditions for EU nationals are applicable.

Citizens of the U.S., Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Israel, Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and several South American nations need only a valid passport to stay in Greece for up to 90 days without a visa. Citizens of other countries are allowed to stay in Greece for 60 days without a visa. Extensions on the period of validity are issued by the proper authorities once an application has been submitted and an extension fee is paid. Evidence of means of support without employment or a bank statement must also be shown. It is illegal to stay in Greece with an expired visa and individuals that do so are subject to prosecution.

Greek authorities prohibit entry to those whose passport states that they have been to the occupied region of Northern Cyprus after November 1983.

Driving License
To drive in Greece you need a valid International Driver’s Permit, the cover of which is written in all European languages. The permit is an official driving document that can be used is most countries and is issued by certified travel associations. Always accompany the International Driver’s Permit with your regular driver’s license.

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Greece Tourism | Holidays in Greece Map of Greece, Athens Hotels, Greek Islands Hotels, Travel, Car Rental, Tours & Cruises in Greece