Greece is located in the southeastern part of Europe and occupies a vast territory, including part of the Balkan Peninsula and many islands in the Aegean, Ionian and Mediterranean seas. Greece in different parts borders Albania, Turkey, Bulgaria and Macedonia. The total length of its territories is almost 132 thousand kilometers, of which a fifth belongs to the islands. Among the largest are Crete, Lemnos, Ikaria, Rhodes, Corfu, and the Cyclades islands.

The landscape of Greece is a bizarre mix of mountain peaks and endless sea surfaces. The highest point of the country is located on Mount Olympus in the Central Mountain Region, at an altitude of almost 3 thousand meters. Sunny valleys, densely covered with greenery, and the mountainous heights of Thessaly and Macedonia, the intricately indented coastline and the abundance of beautiful islands - all this makes Greece attractive to many tourists.

Diversity flora directly depends on the area. The coastal area abounds with orange and olive trees, date palms, pomegranates and figs. A little higher above sea level there is a forest - black spruce, oak, beech and walnut. And finally, coniferous forests and wild flowers settled on the highest peaks. Greece, a country with an equally rich fauna, here are just some of its representatives - lynx and jackal, fox and marten, wild boar and bear, deer and chamois, hawk, pheasant and pelican.

Greece has several large cities: Athens - the capital of the country with a population of about 3.7 million people, Thessaloniki, Piraeus, Heraklion, Larissa and the Peloponnese. The form of government is republican. Executive branch represented by the president and the government, headed by the prime minister. The national currency is the drachma.

The history of Greece is one of the most ancient. On the territory of the current country, already in the 3rd century BC, a very highly developed civilization appeared with three separate cultures: Cretan, Mycenaean and Peloponnesian. Over the course of many centuries, these three states have undergone several forms of government, from monarchy to republic. For several centuries in a row, Greece was under the rule of various empires - Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman. In 1821, the Greek people began to fight for their independence, and in 1829 they won victory and the status of the Greek Kingdom. Afterwards, the country fought several more local wars for the right to possess the territories of Macedonia, Crete and part of the Balkan Peninsula. The result of these wars was an increase in the lands of Greece. The republican form of government was finally adopted in the 70s of the 19th century.

Today, Greece is part of the UN, IMF, ILO, Council of Europe, NATO and other large organizations. According to data from the late 90s of the 19th century, the total population of the Strange people is about 10.7 million people, among them 98 percent are Greeks, the remaining 2 percent are Turks, Albanians, Armenians and Vlachs. Official official language- Greek, within it there is a division into colloquial and formal. In addition, English and French languages. The vast majority of the population (98 percent) are adherents of the Orthodox Church, the rest profess Catholicism, Judaism, Islam and Protestantism.

The main source of income for the Greek state treasury is undoubtedly tourism. It brings in more than 3 billion dollars a year. Athens, Crete, Kos and Rhodes are the most visited by tourists who want to immerse themselves in the history and culture of the country. Many islands have a range of attractions. Rhodes is the owner of the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem and the statue of the Colossus of Rhodes, which is recognized as one of the wonders of the world. Heraklion is famous for its Greek and Armenian churches. Crete - the ruins of the ancient city of Knossos, where, according to legend, the Labyrinth of the Minotaur was located. Architectural monuments dating back to the Byzantine era of the development of Greece can be observed in Thessaloniki. This is the Basilica of St. Helena, and the White Tower, and the Church of St. George with its mosaic icons.

Greece is famous for its museums, with their wonderful antique collections. The most famous of them are the National Archaeological Museum, the Byzantine Museum, the Old Archaeological Museum, and the Acropolis Museum. The world's largest collection of ancient Greek artifacts is kept in the Old Archaeological Museum. The Archaeological Museum in Candia contains many art objects belonging to the Minoan civilization. The guardians of monuments from a later period include the National Art Gallery, the Alexander Soutzos Museum and the Benaki Museum. The world famous Acropolis in Athens, with its amazingly beautiful ancient temples, deserves special attention.

Irina, we also choose between the mainland and the islands.
I am attracted to Sithonia. I would like to visit Meteora. The gentle entrances to the sea are attractive. Sand.
The islands are always surrounded by a romantic aura. In addition, in September it is warmer on the islands. But, at the same time, in Crete, as I understood from the descriptions and responses, in September the sea is not calm.
So for the third year now, our family, like Buridan’s donkey, has not been able to make a choice. Last year we went to Italy, the year before to Portugal. But in this we still aim to make a choice.
We choose between Bali on Crete, Sithonia and Zakynthos.
Therefore, I am also very interested in the opinion of forum members on the question you asked.

Start with Sithonia, a very complete holiday destination, and then head to the islands for the next few years. If you don't like it, don't bother. But as a rule, Greece is not so easy to give up. about the rough sea in Crete - this is to some extent not true, that is, we were there for 14 days in September - it was stormy for three days, it rained one day, but ten days of a calm, unforgettable beach holiday. if the sea is rough, then you just need to go on excursions or to other beaches.

to Irina76
We visited island Greece twice last year - at the end of May and beginning of June in Crete and Santorini, and at the end of September in Rhodes. It never stormed! Great beaches! There is a lot to see (more on Crete), just take it better car. You will not regret.

Quote: Have you considered the surroundings of Rethymnon? Quite good too.

I wanted to open a new topic, but here I see I’m not the only one who is tormented by the choice between Halkidiki (Athos) and Crete.
Tell me too))
The priorities are: quiet place, clear sea and sandy beach, moderate number of excursions.
I’m going to Greece for the first time, we’ve been to Cyprus.

Was there, and there, and there. Everywhere is good, everywhere there is good sea and sandy beaches, very kind people, food and a lot of attractions. Chalkidiki, especially Sithonia, is generally a fairy tale, but our TAs give few tours to Sithonia, mostly Kassandra. Crete is a haven for autotourists, there is a lot to see, but the beaches are not great (the sea is rough because it is open). Loutraki or Chalkidiki? Better than Halkidiki. More picturesque. The beaches are the same. On the mainland, in the Peloponnese, there are no less attractions. It depends on what you go for: just a swim or both. If there are specific questions, I will answer more specifically. In any case, Greece has not disappointed anyone yet. :)))

Quote:
Pachimuu?

Quote:
This is a no brainer (sea). But anyway.
Halkidiki - is the sea calmer?
What can you say about the Athos Peninsula? "Akratos" is completely on the outskirts, but maybe this is for the better? But on the other hand, what to do there in the evening?

I also agree that Ammudar should be excluded. Not the best the best place in Greece and Crete in particular.
Irina, why Athos, it’s so far from everything....
It seems that Gerakina in Chalkidiki (which is inexpensive) was also praised most often, though latest reviews did not hear.

Quote:

Pachimuu?

Irina VS, Amoudara is such a bald and flat area near Heraklion. If you look to the right - the cranes are in the port of Heraklion, if you look to the left - the pipes are sticking out (not from production, but still unpleasant). This wonderful place is cut in two by a highway along which cars rush... The beach is narrow, lined with sun loungers.
In short: Crete is beautiful, Amudara is terrible :)

Although, everything is relative. Once an acquaintance went and stayed in Amudar in this hotel http://gr.otzyv.ru/hotel_descr.php?id=8265, took a car and drove around Crete. Those. I only spent the night at the hotel. I was very pleased with the trip.

Chalkidiki, Thassos, Sporades - this is the beauty of Northern Greece - pine trees and white sand - complete bliss and relaxation. Crete is rugged nature with a warm soul. Well, you can't compare.

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It's very attractive. If for complete bliss and relaxation, what do you recommend from those offered by the agency: Anthemus sea or Lagomandru?

I really liked Halkidiki, I would start there. The sea is very calm, the beaches are normal in terms of access to any, even wild ones. And very beautiful nature, bright colors. Crete is different after all, I was there too. And I went to Yerapetra - I wouldn’t have rested there. The water there is cooler, by the way, than in the north of Crete.
What I like about Halkidiki is that, after renting a car, you can easily get two “fingers” in two half days drive around, with stops and swims, the roads are more comfortable, wider than in Crete. If you also take excursions to Meteora and Mount Olympus, and you can also take free excursions to Kastoria, then see all of Halkidiki and don’t miss anything. And all without stress, and you’ll have time to sunbathe and swim to your heart’s content. There are somehow more places in Crete that seem worth seeing, so you need more time to travel. Crete has beautiful cities. In Halkidiki, I only liked Kastoria (of course, fur coat production, there is a lot of money) and either Kallikratia or Kallithea, I don’t remember. Thessaloniki is not a pretty city at all, IMHO.

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Excursions are the last thing we are interested in. We are going there just to lie down, like fur seals at a rookery.
Taking into account the fact that we have different age categories (my husband is 59, I am 36, my daughter is 11), we are all primarily attracted to a relaxing holiday. But at the same time, I would like to be not far from local villages with their taverns, in order to eat not only in hotels for the purpose of variety and getting the maximum idea of ​​Greek cuisine. also to have the opportunity to take a walk in the evening.
Hotel service is important, air conditioning is a must.

Among the resorts in Greece there is something for everyone - whether you want privacy or dancing until you drop, meeting the fascinating world of mythical gods and antiquities, or active relaxation. After all, in Greece you can bask in the rays of the hot sun, enjoy the turquoise sea and white sandy beaches, stroll through picturesque places, go surfing, admire the unique architecture, attend exciting excursions, and, of course, plunge into the atmosphere of nightlife.

The most popular resorts in Greece

Which resort in Greece to choose

All resorts in Greece have a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. The southernmost resort is, therefore, it has the longest beach season. The northern part is washed by the cool Adriatic Sea, so swimming at the end of the season may be uncomfortable.

Rest distinctive features are given in the comparative table of resorts in Greece:

Resort	Peculiarities	Beaches	Type of holiday	Prices
	The most popular Greek islands among Russian tourists. Tours to Crete and Rhodes are the best choice for your first trip to Greece. The widest selection of hotels to suit every taste. You can easily find an accommodation option on the first line.	Extensive sandy beaches in the vicinity of Rethymnon and Chania. Pebble beaches are found mainly in the south of the island.	For beach and sightseeing holidays. There are resorts with developed nightlife.
		Pebble beaches predominate in the west, sandy beaches in the east.	For beach and sightseeing holidays, suitable for families with children.
	An island with a traditional slow way of life. Ideal for leisurely relaxation and cycling. Located near Turkish Bodrum - one of the centers of nightlife in Turkey. 4-5* hotels may be cheaper than in Crete.		For a relaxing holiday, suitable for families with children.
	A very green island with interesting Venetian architecture. Of the islands, it is the closest to the attractions of the mainland.	Mostly pebble beaches.	For a quiet, respectable holiday.
	Stunningly beautiful sunrises and sunsets, beaches with black and red sand. The most romantic and “photogenic” island. The island is famous for its Kiklet architecture - traditional white and blue houses.	Sandy beaches with volcanic sand.	For an excursion holiday with beach elements. There is practically no entertainment on the island.
	An excursion region rich in natural beauty.	There are sandy and pebble beaches.	For lovers of excursions, for a beach holiday.
Peloponnese	Interesting in its own way historical heritage region of Greece. Hotels of famous Greek hotel chains are located here. The choice of beach hotels is small. Most resorts are located away from the airport.	Wide sandy beaches.	Excursion holidays, beach holidays with children.
	An island with a vibrant nightlife and trendy parties.	Mostly sandy beaches.	For the relaxation of discerning tourists.

Tours to Greece

Prices for tours for 2 people for 7 nights with departure from Moscow are given.

Crete

Rhodes

Corfu

Halkidiki

Santorini

Zakynthos

Kos

It is famous for its magnificent nature, cozy beaches, clean sea and conditions for windsurfing. From here you can go on excursions to the neighboring islands of Nisyros and Kalymnos. It is also the birthplace of the healer Asclepius, so don’t miss the opportunity to swim in the Empros Termi hot spring.

Greece is an unusual country for a seaside holiday. In its bins there are places where you can relax in winter, spring, summer, and autumn. AND most of These opportunities are associated specifically with beach holidays - huge island territories and the rather impressive mainland part of the country can offer a lot of resorts of varying levels of comfort and prices.

The beach season in Greece is quite long - from April to November, on the mainland - somewhat shorter, from May to October, but at the beginning and end of the season, hotels offer very significant discounts - up to 30% - 40%!

Greece has another important advantage - a lot of excellent beaches awarded the Blue Flag, and such an award is given only for environmental friendliness and cleanliness, which, you see, is very important in these days. Well, besides the beaches, Greece is interesting as a country of ancient attractions, rich Mediterranean cuisine and fun, fiery nightlife.

Summer in Greece

Where is the best place to vacation in Greece in the summer - in June, July and August? Summer in this country comes already in May - with the beginning of May the swimming season on the Mediterranean Sea opens, warm and dry weather sets in. The air temperature in the resorts of the Mediterranean Sea (the southern part of Rhodes, Santorini, Crete) is kept within +28°C, the water temperature is + 24°+25°C, in mainland resorts (Thessaloniki, Pieria, Volos, Athens, the Chalkidiki peninsula and the Peloponnese) and islands Aegean Sea(Kos, northern part of Rhodes) - both the air and water in May are somewhat cooler - +25°+26°C, water temperature +22°C.

June, July and August are quite hot months in Greece. The air heats up to +33°+36°C, sometimes hotter, and the water - up to 25°+28°C. If you don’t like sweltering heat, but your vacation falls at this particular time, you should choose one of the beach resorts of island Greece - green Corfu and Zakynthos, resorts of mainland Northern Greece, are best suited.

It is better to visit beaches in Greece in the summer either early in the morning or in the evening - on a hot afternoon it is better to stay at the hotel or take a walk in the park.

Autumn in Greece

The best time to vacation in Greece is in September and October, in the fall. At the beginning of autumn, the weather is almost always ideal, the beaches are very comfortable, there is no longer sweltering heat and it’s easy to breathe. This is the season that couples with children, older people and those who suffer from hypertension should choose for a beach holiday in Greece.

Weather in Greece in September and October: the air and water are warmed up to comfortable temperatures (air +30°+33°C, water +24°+26°C), and then, closer to November, both the sea and the air slowly begin to cool down - up to + 22°+23°С. There is no rain at this time yet.

From the end of August to mid-September in Greece you can have a good and comfortable vacation in any part of the country, and then, in early October, it is better to go on vacation to the southern islands - Rhodes, Crete, Santorini - the weather there is excellent, warm and dry at that time - until mid to late October. In November the rains begin and the beach season is slowly waning.

Winter in Greece

Winter in Greece is a time of long, cool rains, almost no one swims in the sea, but you can enjoy the sea breeze, walk, breathe and get healthier, and swim in heated indoor pools (these are available in almost every decent hotel). During the winter, many beach hotels close, stopping operations, this phenomenon is especially noticeable on the islands. In the spring, with the establishment of warm weather, they open again and begin a new season.

The air temperature in winter in Greece is within +8°+13°С, the sea is heated to + 14°+17°С.

Spring in Greece

Spring in Greece brings the opening of the beach season - already in April you can swim on many beaches of the country's islands, most of these places are located in the south - in Crete, in the southern part of Rhodes, bordering Turkey, and others southern islands. In April, during the day the air warms up to +25°C, and the sea water reaches +19°C, you can already swim, the sea is very refreshing! Later, in May, conditions for relaxation become more comfortable - during the day +24...+28°С, water temperature -+22°+23°С. The full beach season begins, which lasts until mid-late October.

Where to relax in Greece? Resorts, islands and sea

Mainland Greece

Athens

Athens is a city that serves as the capital of the country and also functions as a beach resort and a city of historical attractions. In Athens, which is located on the very shore of the Aegean Sea, you can sunbathe on city beaches (and live in city hotels), or choose something more secluded in the suburban area - it will be less crowded and cheaper.

Athens is a good place for a fun youth holiday, with visits to nightclubs and discos, Greek taverns and numerous attractions. The city is not suitable for quiet relaxation - you need to look for more secluded resorts. Alternatively, Athens can be chosen to combine the beach with treatment mineral waters- There is a thermal resort of Loutraki nearby.

When is the best time to relax? It is better to vacation in Athens in May or September - early October. At this time it is not as hot here as in summer, but there are quite a lot of tourists and vacationers - it is the capital after all!

Of course it deserves attention ancient Acropolis in Athens, but not everyone can handle this acquaintance: antique temple located high on the mountain, it is quite difficult to climb there, especially in the summer heat. In addition, the temple is very popular - crowds of tourists await you on the approaches to the Acropolis. Another highlight is the old town of Plaka, where you can visit with a guide. From Athens it is worth going on an excursion: to Delphi, Mycenae and Meteora - look at the ancient monasteries under the clouds; to the islands of Poros and Aegina; or for fur coats - shopping tours to Kastoria are very popular.

If the main goal is to see the sights of Athens - best time for vacation (and the cheapest tours) - January and March, but if you go to the beach - then August, September, early October.

What is the price? A vacation in Athens is not cheap - a week-long tour for two from Moscow with flights and accommodation in a 4* hotel will cost from 60 thousand rubles.

Pieria and Paralia Katerini

Pieria is a large region of Greece, located in the east, between the cities of Thessaloniki and Athens. Pieria has both mountains and sea, with a large sandy coastline called Paralia Katerini, famous for its best Blue Flag beaches.

What to see and where to visit? People come here to visit the divine Olympus, stay in modern comfortable hotels, enjoy excellent cuisine and nature, water activities, pamper themselves with shopping and fun nightlife in clubs.

The resorts of Pieria are exactly the place where it is best to relax in Greece with children.

When is the best time to go on vacation? To conquer Olympus, it is best to go to Pieria in the fall - it is not hot, you can easily climb to the top, and to sunbathe and swim in the sea, you should book a trip in May-June, or at the end of August - September - early October.

What is the price? Prices for a beach holiday on the coast of Pieria - Paralia Katerini (flight from Moscow) - from 43 thousand rubles. for two, for 7 days.

Thessaloniki

The season is similar to the season in Athens, prices are 15-20% lower than for a holiday in the capital.

Hair

Volos is an unfamiliar resort in the region of Magnesia and Thessaly for tourists, not very famous, but comfortable and beautiful. Getting here is easy - there is a seaport, a city at the same distance from Athens and Thessaloniki. It has a well-developed tourist infrastructure, excellent opportunities for traveling around the central part of Greece.

And where else to relax in Greece, settling in one of the hotels of modern buildings, if not in Volos?! There are many new hotels and hotel complexes in Volos, and there is plenty to choose from if you decide to stay in an apartment or villa. The beaches of Volos stretch for more than 6 km along the coastline, peace and quiet reign all around, the surrounding resort villages fascinate with clean sea bays, a calm and peaceful atmosphere.

What to see and where to visit? Volos are secret alleys in the Old Town, journeys into the world of myths and ancient history Greece: the Sea of ​​the Argonauts and the Mount of the Centaurs, Jason's voyage on the Argo, the train of de Chirico, Pelion mansions, paintings by Theofili and mosaics in the Archaeological Museum, as well as ferry cruises to the Northern Sporades, Crete, the Cyclades and Lesvos, and the Peloponnese Peninsula await you and along the coast of mainland Greece.

When is the best time to go on vacation? Since the resort is set up for a calm and peaceful family holiday, for holidays with children, the best time for sunbathing on the beaches of Volos is the end of August - September, the beginning of October, or the end of May - the beginning of June. You can expect morning coffee to the sound of the sea surf, peaceful afternoon conversations over a glass of tsipouro, delicious seafood for dinner accompanied by Mediterranean wine and Greek music.

What is the price? Prices for holidays in Volos vary widely: on the outskirts it is quite cheap, but the closer to the city center and the higher the star rating of the hotel, the more expensive the holiday will be. A seven-day trip for two from Moscow with accommodation in a 3*-4* hotel in the suburbs - from 45 thousand rubles, in the city - from 60 thousand rubles.

Peninsulas of Greece where you can have a great holiday

Halkidiki

Halkidiki is a garden of paradise with a coastline whose total length of beaches is more than 500 km! The beaches are covered with sand and the purest pebbles, the Aegean Sea splashes around, almost the entire coastline has been awarded the EU Blue Flags for cleanliness and environmental friendliness. The Chalkidiki peninsula is easily recognizable on the map - its other name is “the trident of Poseidon”. The components of Halkidiki are smaller peninsulas - “fingers” of the trident: Kassandra, Sithonia and divine Athos.

Halkidiki is one of the best holiday destinations in Greece. There are few vacationers on the peninsula, the resorts are quiet and uncrowded, they do not have a very developed tourist infrastructure, but there are untouched natural landscapes, excellent beaches and delicious food all around! Students go to Halkidiki to see the real Greece for the weekend, families with children, those who love alternative recreation - diving, surfing, exploring local trails, independent travel.

(Photo © Jack Cousin / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

What to see and where to visit? For nightlife in Halkidiki you need to go to the resorts of Kallithea and Hanioti (Kassandra peninsula), Sarti (Sithonia), for impressions - to Saint Athos, a huge Byzantine open-air museum, and to get to know Aristotle better - to the ancient city of Stagira. And don’t forget to visit Zeus-Ammon, who inspired the great Alexander the Great to go to Egypt - his temple is located near Kallithea (Kassandra Peninsula).

When is the best time to relax? The best time for a beach holiday on the Halkidiki peninsula is the end of May - June, the end of August - September - early October. The sea is warmed up, but the air is not yet (or no longer) hot...

What is the price? Prices for holidays on the Halkidiki peninsula (departure from Moscow, tour for two, accommodation for 7 days and nights, 3*-4* hotels) start from 45 thousand rubles, at the end of the season it will be cheaper - many hotels offer discounts of up to 30%!

Peloponnese

Peloponnese - a peninsula in the shape of a plane tree leaf, which is washed by Ionian Sea. Anyone who would like to better understand where this place is should remember ancient Sparta, it was right here. For tourists the Peloponnese offers big choice: on the coasts of Messini, Achaia and Ilias there is a huge selection of resort spa hotels and modern hotel complexes; Traditional Greek hotels - xenonas are worth booking in Monemvasia, Arkadia and Mani, while luxury mountain chalets and villas await in Taygetos, Parnonas and Kalavryta.

At the beach resorts of the Peloponnese, those who enjoy active recreation and natural elements relax - water sports, mountain hiking, excursion programs to historical attractions.

You can get to the peninsula from the airports of Athens or Thessaloniki; the easiest way is to transfer or rent a car in Greece.

What time is best to go? Since the average air temperature in the Peloponnese in summer is +24°+26°C, a mild Mediterranean climate prevails in the coastal zone, you can relax here almost all summer - from June to November, but the best time is June, September, October. The water in the Ionian Sea off the coast of the Peloponnese warms up slowly in the spring - in May it is still cool here, but at the end of autumn - in November the sea is still warm enough and you can swim. In addition, the Peloponnese coast is an excellent place for learning to swim, especially for children - the sea water in the Ionian Sea is much saltier than in the Aegean or Mediterranean, the sea “holds”, swimming is easy and simple.

Things to do? In addition to the beaches, the Peloponnese is interesting for the thermal springs of Loutra Kaifa near the Ilia prefecture; they are useful for chronic rheumatism, skin diseases, and muscle inflammation.

Among the popular entertainment options on the peninsula are water sports and recreation: kite surfing, water skiing, walks in the mountains and around ancient cities. Among the attractions, it will be interesting to get acquainted with ancient Corinth and Nemea - the birthplace of the Nemean Games, ancient Olympia, where the first Olympic Games started.

What is the price? Prices for a beach holiday on the Peloponnese Peninsula (departure from Moscow, for 7 days and nights, for two, accommodation in a 3*-4* hotel) start from 44 thousand rubles, more luxurious 5* hotel options will cost 60-70 thousand .rub.

Where to relax in Greece: islands where you should go on vacation

Crete

What is the best time to rest? The best months for a holiday on the island of Crete are the second and third ten days of May, July (northern winds help cope with the summer heat), September, October and early November. By the way, in November, relaxation can be even better than in summer - the sea is very well warmed up, and the air no longer breathes the midday heat, but warm southern winds from Africa blow across the island.

Things to do? Best activity in Crete - the beach and the sea, but if this is not enough for you, you can go diving, have fun in one of the local water parks, try delicious dishes Cretan cuisine and write down food recipes in Crete, order a series of excursions and visit them all: visit ancient city Knossos, meet the Minotaur, look into the cave of Zeus and listen to how the windmills sing in the wind on the Lasithi plateau. World-class attractions in Crete...

Prices. Crete is an expensive island, and all thanks to the fact that rich tourists from Europe - the Germans and the British - like to relax here. A seven-day tour from Moscow, for two, with accommodation in a 3*-4* hotel will cost from 40 thousand rubles, on the southern coast of Crete - slightly more expensive.

Rhodes

When is the best time to go on vacation? When planning a holiday in Rhodes, keep one thing in mind important detail: the coast of the island is washed by two different seas: in the west - the Aegean, in the east - the Mediterranean. Accordingly, both the conditions and the time for relaxation will be completely different: the east coast is very sunny, hot, there is a calm sea splashing here, without big waves or storms, the best time for vacation is May, June, the end of August, September, October. The western coast of Rhodes is dominated by the stormy and exciting Aegean Sea - it is always a little windy here, so summer heat it is practically not felt, you can come at any time, from May to October-early November.

What to see and where to visit? The “highlights” of Rhodes are artifacts created by the ancient Romans and the Knights Hospitaller - the magnificent Palace of the Grand Masters, the fortress of Rhodes, ancient Lindos and its equally ancient Acropolis, the Temple of Athena. For believers, it will certainly be interesting to visit the ancient operating monastery of Tsambika, or to pray in one of the local Orthodox churches. It's worth having fun and having fun in Faliraki - there are many discos, night bars and restaurants, and there is a beautiful beach nearby.

Prices. Where better to vacation in Greece on a budget, if not in Rhodes?! A tour for two from Moscow, with accommodation in a 4*-5* hotel for 7 days and nights, will cost from 40 thousand rubles, there is plenty to choose from!

Corfu

Corfu (Kerkyra) - located in the west of Greece, it is washed by the Ionian Sea. Corfu is a relaxing island; the British, who miss the southern sun, love to relax here all year round, celebrities from all over Europe, movie and pop stars, aristocrats and rich people. Corfu is not exactly Greece, it is rather Italy - a kind of idyllic Italian landscape paradise, part of Greece. The northern coast of the island received the apt name - “Monaco of Greece” due to the fact that the richest tourists of famous families vacation here: the Rothschilds, Abramovichs, Anellis, etc.

You can sunbathe and bask in the sea in Corfu already in May (air temperature + 23°C), in the summer it is hot, but not sultry - +30° +32°C, and in the fall it is again very warm and comfortable - + 23° +28 °C.

Thanks to the efforts of the British, the island has an excellent tourist infrastructure: the most expensive holiday villas have been built on the north-eastern coast, and almost the entire coastline is built up with hotels and hotel complexes. The Kavos resort is especially popular among young people; wealthy travelers prefer the resorts of Paleokastritsa and Perama.

(Photo © Pexels / pixabay.com)

When is the best time to relax? The best time for vacation is from May to October. The hottest period on the island is the second half of July - early August, the air temperature reaches +35°C and above, the rest of the time the island is warm, but not hot, the climate is very comfortable, conducive to relaxation.

In October the rains begin and last until March. It is because of the heavy rainfall that Corfu is lush with greenery all year round.

Things to do? Swim, sunbathe, breathe the sea air, play cricket (very popular game in Corfu, thanks to the same British), drink traditional ginger beer, which is served in Greek taverns, admire the Italian architecture that fills the island, wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town of Kerkyra, have fun at parties and dinner parties of world celebrities.

Prices. Holidays for two, 7 days (including flights), departure from Moscow, budget option 2*-3* - from 40 thousand rubles, accommodation in a 4*-5* hotel - from 55 thousand rubles.

Kos

The island of Kos is a representative of Greece, where tourists prefer luxurious and expensive holidays. Here you can meet Hollywood celebrities, since getting to the island is quite easy - there is an international airport. A beach holiday on the island is suitable not only for rich married couples (take a closer look at the outskirts of Kefalos, the Psalidi resort), but also for restless young people: their favorite place is the Kardamena resort. Winsurfers are drawn to stay at the northern resorts - in Marmari and Mastichari.

When is the best time to relax? The best time for a beach holiday on the island of Kos is from May to October, but in the summer months - in July and August it can be a bit hot, up to +35°C. However, the northern winds that often visit the island do not allow the heat to stagnate and create favorable conditions for comfortable relaxation on the beach.

What to see and where to visit? First of all, go to the Asklepion temple complex to visit the gods, then to the plane tree of Hippocrates, a native of the island of Kos, and it’s also worth checking out the Castle of the Knights of St. John and the ancient Agora - the main market ancient world islands. Free from wandering around historical places During your time, you can have fun at the local water park, try yourself as a diver, dance at one of the many discos, or take a yacht ride along the coastline of the island.

Prices. You will have to pay a lot for a holiday on the island of Kos in the summer - the prices here are quite high. A seven-day tour with a departure from Moscow for two, with accommodation in a 3* hotel will cost from 35 thousand rubles; in luxurious 4* and 5* spa hotels the price increases sharply - 80-120 thousand rubles. on same conditions. However, there is a way to reduce the price of the tour: you need to book a hotel in advance, 3-4 months before the expected vacation, choose a vacation time at the beginning or end of the beach season - either in May-early June, or at the end of September-October. This way you will receive a significant discount - up to 35%!

And one more hint: due to the large number of refugees trying to get to Europe through the island of Kos, many hotels on the island often offer last-minute tours - due to the wary attitude of foreign tourists to the current situation on the island, they are often not full. Therefore, even before the start of your vacation, it is worth looking for very comfortable accommodation, but at a low price..

Zakynthos

The island of Zakynthos (Zakynthos) belongs to the Ionian Islands, which got their name from their location in the Ionian Sea. It is a close neighbor of Corfu, located a little to the left of the Peloponnese peninsula. Zakynthos - most beautiful place eastern Greece, rich in mountain landscapes (two mountain ranges hide a beautiful valley inside the island), greenery and clean white sand beaches.

It is not easy to get to Zakynthos - you must either take a ferry from Greek ports or fly chartered by travel companies.

When is the best time to relax? In Zakynthos, the holiday season is similar to the conditions in Corfu, a mild Mediterranean climate and no changes atmospheric pressure in these places they allow you to start your vacation in May and end it deep in October. The island has created unique natural conditions for well-being and health. Take advantage of this! Among the most popular resorts on the island are Flower of Levante and Southern Venice.

Where to go and what to see? Of course, the Blue Caves of Zakynthos, which are included in the list of the most exotic beaches in Greece, also include one of the most photogenic beaches in the world - Navagio, the most famous Greek beach. Historical highlights include numerous Orthodox monasteries, ancient Venetian mansions preserved on the island, and the Venetian Bohali Castle in the capital of the island, the city of Zakynthos.

Prices. A seven-day trip with a departure from Moscow, for two, with accommodation in a 3*-4* hotel will cost from 40 thousand rubles, a budget option 2* - from 35 thousand rubles.

Santorini

Santorini (Thira) is one of the representatives of the group of islands of the Cyclades archipelago. This is a small island created by the volcanic activity of the planet, its beaches are covered with multi-colored volcanic sands - black, red, white, and the architecture is made in dazzling white and blue-blue tones. Surely you have seen pictures of Santorini more than once, they are mesmerizing!

(Photo © cecilevanmeensel / pixabay.com)

People go to Santorini for a leisurely, cozy, comfortable and decently priced vacation - the prices here are designed for wealthy tourists who can stay for 10-14 days, no less, without any damage to their wallet... Budget tourists come to Santorini with a one- or two-day stay an excursion, usually from Crete or Rhodes, from Turkey, from the ports of Greece - Piraeus, Volos, Thessaloniki, to see the unique sea sunsets and sunrises on the island.

When is the best time to relax? The beach season in Santorini lasts for eight months, starting at the end of March and ending at the end of November. But the best time, of course, is the end of September - beginning of October, the Velvet season: the sea is like fresh milk, the air is like soft swan fluff...

Where to go, what to see? Santorini has more than enough attractions! But the main attraction is the sunrises and sunsets, riding donkeys through the labyrinth of narrow island streets, sunbathing on colorful beaches and in open-air pools with beautiful view at sea, photo sessions against the backdrop of the unusual architecture of the island.

What is the price? Prices for Santorini are a bit steep - everyone wants to come here! A seven-day tour from Moscow, for two, with accommodation in a 3*-4* hotel will cost from 78 thousand Russian rubles, and then - how much you can pay, the price ceiling is within 190 thousand rubles. for the same 7 days of rest.

Introductory image source - © Jack Cousin / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

Helpful hints:

Tatiana Solomatina

Which resort to choose in Greece?

Hello again, dear readers! It's December and summer is still far away, but many are already thinking about vacation. I would like to draw your attention to sunny Greece.

Kos

Kos is a chic and expensive resort for the elite, it is not without reason that Hollywood stars choose it for their holidays. The island is small, located in the southeastern part of the Aegean Sea. There is a lot of greenery here, the nature is very beautiful.

Prices are high, so you probably won’t be able to relax on a budget.

Zakynthos

Zakynthos – amazing beautiful island, which you want to return to. Two rows of mountain ranges protect the valley from bad weather. Lush vegetation, steep cliffs, picturesque bays with golden sand closed from the sea - a real paradise for tourists.

Unfortunately, landing on the island is rare and can only be reached by local airlines or ferry.

Santorini

Santorini is a small island of volcanic origin, with a coastline of 70 km. The white houses of local residents are laconically integrated into the mountain landscape. It has its own, kind of aristocratic, cozy atmosphere. Life flows slowly, time seems to stop.

If you go a little away from the tourist trail, you can find wild places and enjoy solitude. The beaches of the island are very diverse, even the sand in each place has its own shade, from soft yellow to bright red.

Holidays on the island are expensive. As a rule, tourists come here for one day as part of excursion groups.

conclusions

There are many resorts in Greece and it is really difficult to choose. Beautiful nature and gorgeous beaches can be found in almost every corner of this sunny country. So where is the best place to relax in Greece? How many people, so many opinions. Where one person likes it, it won’t necessarily be good for another.

If you, dear readers, are interested in my opinion, then now I would act in the following sequence:

1. Reading general information about the country and the main resorts
2. We look at prices for tours or accommodation and air tickets (you may come across cheap tickets and it will be more profitable to travel on your own)
3. Based on the second point, we decide how to relax, through a tour operator or on our own. How to accept correct solution I wrote
4. Most likely, for my first acquaintance with the country, I would choose one of the islands, focusing on price-nature-quality-easy transfer (in that order). You may have other priorities
5. Having decided on the island, read detailed information about the resorts of this place, based on fresh reviews on the Internet
6. Next, choose accommodation, a hotel or a house (if not a tour)
7. Now buy a tour or tickets (if you are traveling on your own)

This plan is not suitable only for those who purposefully go to see certain attractions. It’s easier for such tourists; they just need to choose a resort closer to their desired places to visit.

That's all I wanted to talk about, I hope you have a general picture about the resorts of Greece.

You can soon learn about my personal impressions from the stories in the “My Travels” section. In the meantime, I suggest you read the article. It seems to me that this is a relevant question.

In the near future I will write about the island of Rhodes. Subscribe to my newsletter and be the first to receive new publications.

Recently, in some minor magazine, I came across a note that this country will also soon be closed to Russians. Allegedly, they will make a couple of provocations for this purpose. Haven't you heard anything? It will be a great pity. Write in the comments what you think about this. Very interesting read.

And I’ll say goodbye to you for a moment. Share the article on in social networks, convenient buttons are located below.

Tatiana Solomatina