Greece Travel Guide

Greece was the birthplace of some of the most ancient and prosperous European civilisations, and it is home to a magnificent coastline surrounded by islands, some distinctive and delicious cuisine and a relaxed, laid back lifestyle.

Culture & history

Greece has been a crucible of civilisation in Europe for thousands of years. It is a country with a great many historical monuments and diverse cultural influences. It is located at the junction of East and West and has endured occupation by many over the ages. Occupation dates back to 3000 BC when the powerful Mycenaean Cycladic and Minoan civilisations lived here. However it was a bit later between 800 and 500 BC when powerful city states such as Athens and Sparta evolved, producing the classical age that we are more familiar with in popular history. The history of Greece is told by the remains of these once great civilisations that lie scattered allover the country today.

People

Essential to the Greek way of life is the notions of church, country and family. The Greeks are proudly patriotic, and enjoy relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, the people are generous, friendly and welcoming.

Cruising

The coastal waters and islands of the Mediterranean around Greece are the most popular cruising grounds anywhere in the world. The coastline is beautiful and is blessed with warm blue waters and even bluer skies, hundreds of inlets and tiny port towns ideal for exploring or just relaxing by the water. There are multitudes of tour companies that offer everything from budget short trips to luxury multi-day cruises, there is something to suit almost anyone.

Island hopping

Perhaps the best known commodity of Greece for tourists are the world famous islands. There are close to 1500 of them, each with its own individual character. You can go relax on a beach on Skiathos, soak in hot spring baths on Lesvos, party hard on Mykonos, enjoy the spectacular views from Santorini or explore ancient Rhodes, there'smore than enough to keep you busy on Greeces Islands. The Greek Isles also boast some unique archaeological relics, some of the worlds most recognisable architecture and the traditions of a highly varied cultural past.

Santorini was created by a volcanic eruption in 1500 BC and therefore offers a stunning contrasted landscape of steep dark rock formations alongside beaches and small white villages. There are several interesting monuments and an active volcano on the island, and its capital, Thira (Fira), offers many ruins including old Roman baths, theatres and markets. Soak up the charm of the island by getting around by foot; there are hiking trails all over the island, or for something different, hire a scooter and zip from beach to beach.

Mykonos is one of Greece's most visited islands, well known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and it's picturesque capital full of white-washed houses and blue-domed churches and its magnificent sandy beaches. It is also a major party island, there are many exciting bars and a pulsating nightlife that rarely slows down before dawn. On the west side of Mykonos, visit romantic Little Venice in Chora or take a look at the south coast beaches and the tiny sacred island of Delos, which legend tells us is the birthplace of the god Apollo.

Dining

Like it's people, the food in Greece is unique and very distinctive. It features strong flavours and fresh ingredients and mixes classical Mediterranean cooking with other influences from the east. Lemons, tomatoes, nuts and grapes feature heavily in the cuisine and are served with much fresh seafood and of course Greek olives. The Greek love to serve up appetiser plates, or meze, making it easy to sample a bit of everything - all washed down with a beer or cold white wine.