Hot sun, wine, olives and azure sea - Greece can rightfully be called a tourist paradise. What no Greek vacation should be without? Read below!
Plaka is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the Greek capital, with many buildings built on foundations dating back to antiquity! So take a leisurely stroll along the narrow streets, looking at the colorful facades of the old houses drenched in flowers, sit in a local café and admire the majestic Acropolis overlooking Plaka.
2. ...and admire the Acropolis at night
And since you're in Athens, you shouldn't miss the opportunity to admire the symbol not only of the capital, but of the entire country. The Acropolis is certainly worth seeing up close during the day, but we recommend waiting until dark, when the illuminations light up and the temple looks amazing.
3. In Kalambaka, visit Meteora
The city of Kalambaku is worth traveling to for the Meteora, a complex of Orthodox churches perched at a mind-boggling height on sheer rock pillars (another local attraction). Once up there, you can not only admire the beautiful scenery and panorama, but also feel the unique atmosphere of the holy place.
4. Go to Santorini
What is Greece without sunny beaches and white-washed houses against a sky-blue sea? You'll find it all on Santorini, one of the most beautiful islands in Greece. It's worth visiting for the fabulous views, the warm Aegean Sea and the famous multicolored beaches of red, white and black.
5. Experience paradise in Navaggio Bay
Fans of seclusion and contemplative vacations should consider the island of Zakynthos in the Ionian Sea. It's here that you'll find the most beautiful spot not only in Greece, but perhaps in the world - Navagio Bay. A cozy bay with a sandy beach, surrounded by rocks, the clearest sea and - the last touch - an ancient pirate ship washed ashore. Romance!
6. Visit Gynecocracy
If you're in Thessaloniki in January, be sure to visit the village of Monokklisia, 86 kilometers from the city. It's famous for its annual Gynecokratia (Greek for "power of women") festival on January 8. On this day, everything gets upside down: women do nothing all day long, spending time in conversation and having fun, but men dress up in dresses and take on the role of housewives. What does that make? Take a trip and see for yourself.
7. Taste the local cuisine
To visit Greece and not try at least some of traditional Greek cuisine? It's impossible! So be sure to devote a day or two to gastronomic exploration: choriatiki (known to us as Greek salad), souvlaki (a type of kebab), moussaka, gouros (pita bread envelopes with meat and vegetables), spanakopita (spinach pie). And, of course, sweets: loukoumades (doughnuts with cinnamon and honey) and galaktoboureko (puff pastry with custard).
8. Visit the Palace of the Minotaur in Crete
Of course, everyone knows the legend of the terrible Minotaur, who lived in a labyrinth on the island of Crete. But anyone can visit the palace where it was supposedly located: the Palace of Knossos under Iraklion is a living monument to those times. The majestic throne room, the beautiful frescoes, strikingly colored as if they were painted only yesterday, and the unique atmosphere of antiquity are all here.
9. Go Greek shopping
This means no formulaic souvenirs or, God forbid, magnets; just the real thing. What to bring back from sunny Hellas? Of course, olives and olive oil, feta cheese (and both are better to buy at the market, directly "from the manufacturer"), natural cosmetics and embroideries with handmade lace, as well as Greek wines and honey. And if your soul is still asking for something memorable, look out for locally made ceramics, carved woodwork, and jewelry.
10. Descend into the caves
If you're not intimidated by the prospect of descending into dusky underground labyrinths, you're welcome to take a speleological tour. Especially since Greek caves are not only beautiful, but also very educational, such as Petralona Cave on the Halkidiki peninsula, where scientists have found Europe's oldest human remains.
Have a great trip!
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