There are countless resorts in Greece, most of them have excellent tourist infrastructure.

There are many magical places in Greece that you can visit by car, ferry or plane on your own or by purchasing a tour from a travel agency - this is the mainland of Greece and numerous Greek islands with beautiful beaches, crystal clear clean water and with a huge historical heritage. It is very difficult to call the place the best resort here, because each Greek island and city has its own unique charm and is ideal for relaxing with friends, family or your partner.

This article has selected the top 10 resorts in Greece, according to the popular Greek travel magazine for 2016.

1. Santorini (Σαντορίνη)

The landscape is one of the most impressive and beautiful in the world and is a magnet for thousands of visitors every year.

Santorini is an island of the southern Cyclades and is located between the islands of Ios and Anafi.

The most important attraction is undoubtedly the volcano. Many researchers connect the destruction of the island 3500 years ago with the destruction of the Minoan civilization and the myth of the lost Atlantis. The volcano remains active while a major eruption occurred around 1500 BC, creating a unique caldera over which hundreds of white houses with blue shutters "float".

There are many beaches on the island and the most famous are Perissa, Kamari and Red Beach.

Perissa and Kamari are endless beaches with volcanic black sand and deep blue waters.

2. Skiathos (Σκιάθος)

Skiathos is called the Emerald of the Sporades and is considered one of the most beautiful in the Aegean. Dense forests cover the mountainous part of the island, while exotic beaches have become world famous.

It belongs to the Prefecture of Magnesia and is the first island we encounter to the east of Pelion. Skiathos has low lush mountains, endless beaches and many bays and coves.

Small white houses with tiled roofs, balconies and small courtyards with colorful flowers make up the neighborhood of the island's capital of the same name. Walking along the ancient streets of the city, Skiathos reveals its unique images - traditional, picturesque, romantic, idyllic. During the summer season it is always crowded.

For beach lovers, Great Sand Beach is one of the busiest in Skiathos. Another popular beach is Koukounaries, surrounded by dense pine forest creating a landscape of rare beauty. This is one of the most famous beaches in Hellas and perhaps the world, the most photographed landscape of Skiathos. The main feature of the beach is the endless golden sands. On the east side of Koukounaries beach stretches Banana Beach - a famous nudist beach and the sandy beach of Agia Eleni.

Red Beach is made up of bright red and black rocks.

3. Mykonos (Μύκονος)

Mykonos is one of the most popular tourist islands in the Mediterranean.

Chora, as the city of Mykonos is usually called, impresses and fascinates the guest from the first moment. Despite the great development of tourism, the island maintains a traditional Cycladic character. The place where the island is located is considered one of the oldest on the planet Earth.

Mykonos occupies place of honor among the Greek islands for dreamy beaches that are ideal for relaxing as they cover all the needs of vacationers. Of course, the most famous beaches in Mykonos are the ones with popular bars and restaurants that are constantly working at a crazy pace.

But on the same loud Mykonos, there are beaches for those who are looking for peace and solitude. Thus, among the well-organized, crowded beaches, you will find others that are quieter and even deserted, without sunbeds and water sports, and this is so wonderful!

4. Kythera (Κύθηρα)

Kythira is located between Crete and the Peloponnese, 1 hour by ferry from Neapolis (Laconia) and 6 hours from the main port of the country, Piraeus.

Kythira has a safe harbor - Diakofti, the island has an airport serving the island during the summer months with daily flights from Athens and abroad.

Kitira has many beaches, organized and not, sandy and inaccessible, sights and monuments of all kinds, natural wealth and unparalleled beauty. On one side of the island, water mills and waterfalls are waiting to impress you, on the other, beaches and shops, giving a touch of vitality and relaxation to the island. Every 5-6 km, the visitor comes across a village with a strange name, but with its own history.

For example, in Notre-Myrtidiotissa, believers from all over the globe flock to pray throughout the year, not necessarily just Christians.

In fact, it is no coincidence that the goddess Aphrodite was born on Kythira. According to the theogony of Hesiod, she emerged from the foam into the sea off the coast of Kythira (Kythera), then the waves dragged her and, thus, led to Paphos in Cyprus.

5.Astypalea (Αστυπάλαια)

An island rich in history, tradition, picturesque churches, beautiful white houses and courtyards with bougainvilleas.

Astypalea is perfect place for a relaxing holiday. The capital of the island of Chora and the port, stands on a rock that protrudes into the sea, forming two bays. On the one hand, it is a port, and on the other, a bay. The island is divided inside and outside by a 100 meters long Steno sand strip. If it weren't for this narrow strip, Astypalea would have been divided into two neighboring islands.

Numerous beaches are located in the bays around the island - Agios Konstantinos, Kaminakia, Saint John, Panormos, Pahia Ammos.

Small boats await visitors who want to enjoy secluded beaches.

The island of Astypalea is perfect for a summer holiday as it offers peace and coolness and plenty of fresh fish!

6.Chania (Χανιά)

Chania is the second largest city in Crete, after the capital of the island of Heraklion and the capital of the prefecture of Chania. The city of Chania is a beautiful coastal town that hosts the largest port on the island of Crete.

Chania has been identified with ancient Sidonia, an important city of the Minoan civilization. Many of the visitors to Crete consider Chania to be the most beautiful city on the island.

The "highlight" of the city is the old port, which is ideal for evening walks and relaxation.

There are many beaches in Chania prefecture - Apostoli beach, Stalos beach (7 km from Chania city), Balos Lagoon, located on Cape Gramvoussa in a heavenly landscape.

Do not forget to visit the island of Elafonisi, located in the southeast of Chania, 43 km from Kastelli. The island is famous for the extraordinary beauty of the beaches with white and pink sand.

7. Evia (Εύβοια)

Enjoy a real vacation in a place where the sea stretches over endless expanses and dense forests dominate the rugged coastline.

Evia hides landscapes of incredible beauty, especially its northern part. This is a large island (after Crete the second largest). The island of Evia is considered one of the most exciting parts of Greece, it is called a thermal resort, the proximity to Athens (80 km) is another plus of the island.

Residents of the Greek capital prefer to relax and improve their health on Evia. Evia is famous far beyond the borders of Greece, thanks to the unique composition of thermal water. The leading place in the field of medical tourism is occupied by Edipsos.
In addition to the magnificent nature, you can see many sights - the tower of Agia Paraskevi, the Venetian monument, the temple of Apollo Dafnofor, the monastery of St. George Elijah.

8. Paxi (Παξοί )

The island of Paxi (Paxos) is a small green paradise. Paxos, the smallest of the Ionian Islands, will enchant you from the first moment with its nobility and warmth. Located 7 nautical miles south of Corfu and within 8 nautical miles west of the mainland coast, Paxi, like all the Ionian Islands, is characterized by dense vegetation and endless vineyards.

The countless natural beauties of Paxi are a magnet for thousands of visitors. The island is ideal for nature lovers, it has beautiful beaches, romantic walks and fun in the bars that work in tourist resorts.

You can get to Paxi by ferry from Corfu, Parga, Igoumenitsa, Brindisi and Ancon.

9.Mani (Μάνη)

This is perhaps the most peculiar and fascinating area not only of the Peloponnese, but of all of Greece.

Definitely a beautiful land to get to know - towers, mountains, beaches, stone and earth with a unique color. Architecture, villages nestled in mountains that reach the sea, olive groves, beautiful beaches, tourist area - all this is Mani.

Mani has something that is not so easy to find in other Greek corners, it has its own personality, its own character. Mani has an incredible "closeness" to his traditions, family, honors his dead.

Mani has everything to charm you forever.

10. Ikaria (Ικαρία)

A beautiful island with countless leisure options, from a beach holiday, enjoying a swim in the exceptionally clear water, to rejuvenation in the thermal waters of Ikaria, you can explore the caves, which are a local attraction, or go fishing.

After that, you can enjoy a fantastic sunset in the village of Nas or in the ancient castle in Drakano.

Finally, you should not miss one of the famous festivals of the island, where you will drink the Homeric wine Pramnio and dance the famous Icarine dance.

lovers nightlife will discover Athens as a stormy, in this respect, European capital.

The Greeks are a people who love and know how to relax, preferably at night. Therefore, do not be surprised that all nightlife establishments will be crowded, despite their huge number.

Jams, preserves, preserves, Greek housewives prepare in a special way, using their secrets.

For example, they usually make jam from several types of berries, add lemon and lemon juice, various spices, lemon and orange peel, almond essence, liquor and wine.

Greek guard. Evzones

It may seem strange or even ridiculous to someone the front step of the Greek guard. But do not rush to make sudden conclusions: the step, the “fun outfit” and even the color of the uniform - everything has its own meaning and deep historical roots.

Santorini. Attractions of Santorini, how to get there

One of the most mysterious Greek islands, most likely a group of islands - Thira (Θήρα ), Nea Kameni and Palya Kameni, Thirassia, Aspronisi.

All of them are located in a circle and form a ring in the Aegean Sea. The entire archipelago is named Santorini.

Greece is a country of extraordinary beauty that is perfect for a holiday. Here you can enjoy the picturesque landscapes and get acquainted with the historical heritage of the ancient state. Consider the best of Greece.

Chania

Chania is a port city, considered one of the Venetian cities of Crete. The old part can be safely called the most beautiful place on the island, and the most wonderful harbor in all of Greece, perfectly preserved. Chania is distinguished by a large number of various establishments and souvenir shops. Venetian and Turkish heritage coexist perfectly here, the combination of which gives Chania a special charm.

Rethymnon

Rethymnon is considered to be one of the most picturesque cities in Greece. And also this is an ideal place for lovers of antiquity, because the well-preserved Old Town is actually a museum, which is located directly in the open air. There are a lot of buildings here that you just need to see. These are the majestic temples and churches of the Venetian era erected by Catholics, wonderful fountains and Ottoman mosques. All this beauty is surrounded by landscapes of extraordinary beauty. While in Greece, you simply must visit Retmino, the cradle of medieval architecture.

Kardamena

Kardamena is a great place for a foreign tourist. The island has a well-developed infrastructure; here you can easily find an interesting restaurant or shop. The island is full, you can look at the preserved archaeological works. There is also a temple and a museum erected by Christians.

Lindos

Lindos is a well-preserved ancient Greek acropolis, which is located on a high cliff. Landscapes of exceptional beauty, as well as small streets of the city will help you plunge into antiquity. In Lindos, there is the fortress of the Ioannites, which fascinates with its grandeur, which is a must-see for every tourist. Walking around the city, you can easily admire nature and the sea. In addition, Lidnos is famous for its culinary specialists, so if necessary, you can spend a wonderful evening in a cozy restaurant here.

Heraklion

Heraklion is a city with luxurious conditions for recreation and a rich history, which is located on about. Crete. It is in Heraklion that everyone knows thanks to numerous myths and legends the labyrinth of the Minotaur in the Palace of Knossos. The city has taken care that its guests do not need anything, if necessary, you can easily find a good souvenir or cozy coffee. Here, its rich past and developing infrastructure coexist surprisingly well. Being in Heraklion, you can enjoy excellent landscapes - picturesque gardens, slopes towering above the sea, as well as various beaches for every taste.

Santorini

Santorini is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world. It can rightfully be called the pearl of the Aegean Sea. Many legends are associated with the island: some call it the sunken Atlantis, there are also stories about its formation. If you want to spend a long-awaited vacation in a beautiful and romantic place, Santorini is exactly what you need. Unique castles, exciting museums and beautiful beaches can all be found here.

Rhodes

Rhodes is considered one of the largest and most visited islands in Greece. It is saturated with various interesting places for every taste, even the most fastidious tourist, located in Rhodes, will easily find something for himself. It can be picturesque beaches, which are mostly pebble here, or archaeological curiosities, or perhaps it will be ancient cities with narrow streets and cozy establishments. In any case, you will not get bored in Rhodes.

Peloponnese

Peloponnese is a great place for tourists. It is located in the very south of mainland Greece. The peninsula is famous for its historical heritage and an abundance of sights; besides, it is convenient to make excursions to other parts of Greece from the Peloponnese.

Lasithi

Lassithi is known for its picturesque nature and historical places. It is on Lassithi that Mirabello Bay is located, which is considered the most beautiful bay in Greece. The most popular and visited resorts are the city of Agios Nikolaos, which has a deep-sea lake, and the elite resort of Elounda.

Corfu

Corfu is the northernmost of the Ionian islands. Due to the fact that the island at one time belonged to different states, it combines different cultures which makes Corfu attractive for tourists. This is a great place to stay due to the lack of snakes, dangerous insects and unsafe beaches. Also in Corfu low level crime.

Kos island

Kos is one of the most big islands Dodecanese. Located in the Aegean Sea. Thanks to the luxurious parks and lush greenery, Kos is called the "Garden of the Aegean". Therefore, for tourists who primarily appreciate the picturesque nature, the island will be especially attractive. Although Kos's signature eco-system is its trademark, there are also plenty of archaeological sites to visit.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is one of the largest cities in Greece. It is considered the cultural capital of the state. Thessaloniki is famous for its festivals and holidays. But besides this, Thessaloniki is a city with a history that lasts more than three millennia. Objects of Byzantine and Roman culture deserve the attention of not only the local population.

Chalkidiki

The peninsula of Chalkidiki is located in the northern part of the Aegean Sea, and its feature can be called the presence of three elongated peninsulas called Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos. Each of the peninsulas has its own zest. Kasandra, for example, is famous for its Byzantine observation tower, Sithonia for its numerous excavations, a vivid example is the ancient Olynthos. Feature of Athos Orthodox churches and sketes. In general, this is a great place to stay, the peninsula is full of different categories, which will allow you to save a lot if necessary.

On the example of the best resorts in Greece, you could see why the islands and resorts are very popular.

The mainland resorts of Greece are very popular with lovers of beach and sightseeing holidays. Particularly active tourists choose the Athenian Riviera: resorts located parallel to the Aegean Sea. There are excellent conditions for accommodation in the towns of Kalamaki, Alimo, Faliro, Lagonisi, Vura, etc. These places are located near Athens, which makes it easy to visit many legendary sights, as well as the most popular metropolitan bars and discos. However, due to its proximity to the capital, holidays on the Athenian Riviera are the most expensive in the country.

The resorts of Halkidiki and Thessaloniki are world famous. These places are located in the north of the country. Local beaches, for the most part, "hide" in small bays, and pine groves grow along their borders. This feature makes the air here very clean, which contributes to both relaxation and healing. It is worth noting that Chalkidiki is one of the first Greek resorts, and Thessaloniki is a very ancient European city with a lot of interesting sights.

Many comfortable resorts are located on the Peloponnese peninsula. In Corinthia, Messinia, Arcadia, Ilia and other tourist cities, you will find excellent beaches suitable for vacationers of all ages. There are many attractions on the Peloponnesian Peninsula, but if you wish, you can easily and fairly quickly get to the capital from here (on average, in two hours).

Holidays in the resorts of the Greek islands

The Greek islands are a real paradise for tourists. The most populous and frequently visited are Crete, Rhodes, Santorini, Kos and Corfu. Choosing a resort on the islands of Greece should be based on your goals and capabilities.

If you are planning a spring vacation, feel free to go to the resorts of North Crete. Thanks to warm currents, the beach season here often opens at the end of April. Fine sand beaches, a well-developed tourist infrastructure, many attractions and shopping opportunities will allow you to fully enjoy your vacation. It is worth noting that little travelers are always welcome in Crete: many hotels have a special menu, as well as all the necessary accessories (baby chairs, strollers, shallow pools, playgrounds).

In the resorts of Rhodes, both lovers of water sports and fans of "lazy rest" will have a great time. The first to choose is the west coast with numerous bays and pebble beaches. This is where windsurfers are based. In the eastern part of the island, most of the beaches are sandy, and the Aegean Sea is noticeably calmer. Also, lovers of nightlife will like holidays in Rhodes: many bars, clubs, discos are open around the clock.

The resorts of Santorini, Corfu and Kos are worth choosing if you prefer a relaxing holiday. The first place is famous for its beaches with volcanic sand (gray and red), as well as excellent cuisine. Kos and Corfu are distinguished by green landscapes and very clean air. The resorts of these islands are quiet, moderately active (the main modes of transport are own feet and bikes), have many long sandy beaches and a very clear sea.

If you want not only to lie on the beaches, but to have a great time, go to the island of Mykonos. This resort is considered the most bohemian place in the country: it is here that world celebrities prefer to relax. The main "hot places" are located in the city of Hora - the capital of the island. There are many cafes, bars, restaurants, night discos, as well as shops of the most famous world brands.

Greece as a travel destination is indeed very multifaceted. There are resorts for every taste and budget (not to mention the sights)!

Here, I made a sign to make it easier to navigate in the main Greek resorts:

Athenian Riviera

Gorgeous beaches can be found already half an hour from the center of the Greek capital. From the southern suburbs of Athens to Cape Sounion stretch dozens of organized and wild free beaches, surrounded by impressive natural landscapes.

The Athenian Riviera is an ideal place for walking and swimming, as well as activities various kinds sports and outdoor activities, with the appropriate infrastructure.

Walking along the small coves, you can simultaneously shop in modern shopping centers, dine on the seashore or have fun in coastal clubs, famous for their incendiary atmosphere.

The main resort towns of the Athenian Riviera:

Faliro, Marina Flisvu

Flisvos has a delightful bay with beautiful view to the Sardonian Gulf. The local marina and the bay as a whole are the “calling card” of the Athenian Riviera, and Flisvos Park is surprisingly good for relaxing walks or cycling.

Take on arms: Until September 30, from Wednesday to Saturday from 17:30 to 20:30, bicycles are offered free of charge to everyone for a three-hour walk, as part of the “Tram - Bicycle. Coastal Routes.

Glyfada

Glyfada is one of the most beautiful suburbs of Athens, distinguished by its amazing sandy beaches adorned with date palms. Here you can get immense pleasure from swimming in the purest water, as well as having fun late into the night in the famous clubs of the area.

Elegant villas, stylish shops, popular restaurants and luxurious hotels - all this together makes up a magnificent picture in which the beauty of nature is harmoniously combined with luxury and comfort.

Glyfada Golf Club boasts a field that meets international standards.

Voula

2 km south of Glyfada is the Voula area, a real gem of the Athenian Riviera, with two well-equipped beaches and embankments: A` and B` Voulas. This is an ideal place for swimming and water sports, with excellent conditions for recreation and excellent infrastructure. Water skiing, beach volleyball and water slides are especially developed here, turning the beach into an amusement park.

Enjoy a cup of coffee by the sea, continuing your day with refreshing cold cocktails - until the very evening - in one of the nearby clubs.

Beach "A` Voulas" was awarded the Blue Flag in 2011 - evidence that this is a great place for family vacation.

Vouliagmeni

Vouliagmeni is an impressive suburb, with lush vegetation and beautiful beaches. Here are some of the most luxurious hotels and respectable restaurants in Attica, as well as famous nightlife music and entertainment centers that can satisfy the needs of the most demanding visitors. Don't miss the opportunity to swim in crystal waters beach "Asteras", awarded the Blue Flag in 2011, and relax in peace, admiring the beauty of the surrounding nature.

Please note: Vouliagmeni Lake is an object of exceptional natural beauty, definitely worth a visit.

Varkiza

Varkiza is one of the most popular tourist resorts, located along the coastline, with beautiful bays and beautiful landscape geophysics. Here you can swim on the beaches with crystal clear waters, as well as engage in water sports.

Be sure to taste the unique dishes of fresh fish and seafood in traditional taverns and uzeri (glasshouses).

For windsurfers: here you will get an unforgettable windsurfing experience thanks to the well-organized infrastructure.

The picturesque coastal route along the Saronic Gulf also includes such unique tourist resorts as Lagonisi and Saronida, ending at Cape Sounion, which is dominated by majestic temple Poseidon.

How to get to the suburbs of Athens - the Athenian Riviera?

In order to get to the suburbs, in addition to a taxi, you can use the tram departing from Syntagma (Constitution) Square:

1st route– tram line T1, going towards Neo Faliro (SEF stop)

2nd route- line T2 towards Voula (stop "Asklpiio Voulas").

Line Τ3– routes Voula – Neo Faliro, is perhaps the most scenic route, providing its passengers with the opportunity to enjoy a walk along the coastline.

In addition to tram routes, the southern suburbs are served by bus routes:

• Β3(Akadimia - Glyfada, along Vouliagmeni Avenue)
• Ε22(Akadimia - Saronida, express).

Thessaloniki

The second largest city in Greece after Athens. Strictly speaking, it is not a resort, because in order to swim here, you have to go out of town. But in Thessaloniki itself there is a lot of interesting things for the traveler: ancient sights (White Tower, arch and tomb of Galeria, agora, Roman forum), museums, a water park and an amusement park, nightclubs, restaurants and family taverns, and many shops, including, fur shops.

pros

• own airport
• many attractions
• the opportunity to see the sights of the Greek capital, which is quite a long time to get by land transport from other resorts
• rich nightlife
• fur shops

Minuses

• not suitable for lovers of active and extreme recreation
• beaches outside the city

Crete

The largest island in Greece, the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean region. It is considered one of the most popular European resorts. By the way, it is closer to Africa than to Europe, which is why the season here lasts longer than in other Greek resorts, but in July-August it can be very hot. Here are the most hotels and great amount attractions: archaeological excavations in Knossos, Malia, Phaistos and Gortyn, medieval Venetian buildings in Heraklion, Chania and Rethymnon, the Samaria Gorge, the picturesque plateau of Lassithi with the cave of Zeus located on it. The most picturesque coastline in the area of ​​​​the cities of Elounda, with modern marinas for yachts, and Agios Nikolaos, with its unique lake connected to Aegean Sea narrow channel.

Also from here you can easily go on a cruise to the neighboring Greek islands: Santorini, Rhodes, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros and others. Every year Crete hosts an art festival and a colorful carnival in Rethymno. Fans of outdoor activities can go diving here.

pros

• own airport
• the most developed infrastructure
• a huge number of attractions
• you can go diving

Minuses

• the most popular resort in Greece - many tourists in the "high" season

Rhodes island

A real pearl of the Mediterranean: this island is rich in natural beauties and archaeological sites (the historical part of the city of Rhodes is included in the list of world cultural heritage UNESCO and it, believe me, it's worth it!). The history of the island is closely intertwined with the history of the Knights of Malta. No wonder the island is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece.

In the summer, various festivals are held in Rhodes: the medieval one, where residents in historical costumes organize a fair, demonstrative jousting and other exciting performances, and the watermelon festival, where you can see many amazing crafts from this berry: plates, candlesticks, soccer balls, hats, as well as ride on watermelon peels.

pros

• station for professional windsurfing and kitesurfing
• there is a casino
• one-day cruises to Turkey (Marmaris)

Minuses

• it can be too windy, especially on the Aegean coast

Corfu island

The greenest Greek island for lovers of a relaxing holiday. Here it is pleasant to lie on the sandy beach (the average temperature in summer is +25-30°C) or go on a leisurely boat trip through the lagoons and caves.

An interesting experience can be a safari-style trip or a bike ride through the picturesque places of Corfu. Those who cannot sit still can find centers on the beaches for organizing kite surfing, jet skiing, flying over the sea with a parachute, diving, etc. For the Orthodox, in the center of the capital of the island, Kerkyra, there is a cathedral with unique imperishable relics Saint Spyridon Trimifuntsky.

pros

• own airport
• the greenest island
• great for holidays with children

Minuses

• not many attractions and activities, can be boring
• a rather narrow strip of beaches located along the highway; not all beaches are sandy
• the shortest beach season

Santorini Island (Fira)

The most mysterious and unusual island of the Cyclades group. In 1500-1650 BC. at this place there was a powerful earthquake and a volcanic eruption - the surviving remnant of the crater and became the island of Santorini. From this, there are black mountains and the beaches of the most different colors- white, red and black.

Many researchers, including the famous Jacques-Yves Cousteau, still assume that it is here, in the caldera of the volcano, which, after an earthquake, plunged to a depth of 300-400 meters, is the missing Atlantis. Many tourists choose this island for romantic dinners, wedding celebrations and honeymoons: breathtaking views and the unique atmosphere of the island are conducive to this.

Some interesting facts about the island:

1. The hypothesis of the death of the Minoan civilization, as a result of the eruption of the Santorini volcano, is considered the most plausible, but not the only one. There are versions that the Achaean Greeks, who invaded from the mainland, could be the culprits.
2. Jules Verne visited Santorini with a group of volcanologists. What he learned here was used by him to describe the volcanic eruption in the novel The Mysterious Island.
3. Pumice from the quarries of Santorini was used in the 60s of the XIX century in the construction of the Suez Canal.
4. In the bay near the port lies a circle of black mourning buoys. This is the site of the sinking in 2007 of the Greek cruise ship "Sea Diamond", as a result of hitting the volcanic reef of one of the five islands that make up the Santorini archipelago - Nea Kameni.
5. There is a NATO base on Santorini.

Santorini has long been ranked first in the list of the most beautiful islands in the world, leaving behind Bali (Indonesia), Cape Breton (Canada), Boracay Islands (Philippines), Great Barrier Reef (Australia).

The beauty of Santorini is truly impressive. At the same time, admiring the magnificent caldera, you do not forget for a second that this beauty brings danger and destruction. Here you instantly realize the full power of nature and our planet and feel the feeling of how defenseless a person can be before this force.

A day trip to Santorini, for example, from Crete, can be a pleasant boat trip for the first acquaintance with Santorini, however, during such an excursion, you definitely will not have enough time to get acquainted with the beauties and sights of the island.

Some of the sights and hiking trails of Santorini:

• Excavations ancient city near the village of Akrotiri, 15 km south of the capital of the island, Fira. The city was buried under a thick layer of volcanic ash during the eruption, thanks to which it is perfectly preserved. It consists of 2-3-storey houses, inside of which well-preserved frescoes were found, somewhat reminiscent of Cretan Minoan palaces.
• Walking route Oia - Fira, starting from the caldera trail and leading along the old road to the churches Profitis Ilias And Timios Stavros on the top of the mountain.
• Scenic walking route Imerovigli - Skaros, lasting about 30 minutes and leading to the Venetian fortified castle Skaros towering above the sea on top of a sheer cliff.
• Perissa - Vouno Mass - Ancient Fira. Following this route from Perissa beach (with black volcanic sand), you will reach Wuno mass, where ancient Fira, the capital of the island, stood, and now excavations are underway, visiting which you can see the agora, the theater, Roman baths, the sanctuary, the Gymnasium.
• Be sure to take a boat trip around the caldera, visiting the islands of Palea Kameni, Nea Kameni and Therasia. The uninhabited island of Nea Kameni is the most visited among tourists - it, in fact, is active volcano, which last erupted in 1956. The landscape of the island of Nea Kameni is absolutely lifeless, when visiting it is recommended to have a hat with you and wear shoes with thick soles, as the soil on the island in the crater area heats up to + 80 ° C! On the island of Palea Kameni there are thermal springs with water that has a yellow-blue color due to the high sulfur content. You can swim in them, but swimsuits and swimming trunks will have to be thrown away after that, because. it is not subject to deletion.

pros

• exotic black beaches
• the most beautiful and romantic views in all of Greece
• the opportunity to walk around the crater of the volcano
• in the summer there are numerous music festivals

Minuses

• no direct flights from Russia
• not suitable for families with children

Kos island

A small cozy island (only 112 km of coastline), which is part of the Southern Sporades archipelago. It often blows here strong winds, because of this most of northern coast is not developed. The best places for a beach holiday are to the right of the capital (on the map) or to the left to the cape. It is considered the birthplace of the ancient physician Hippocrates.

pros

• has its own international airport
• suitable for a relaxing relaxing holiday
• natural and architectural and historical sights for every taste

Minuses

• it can be windy
• located in a seismically unstable zone

Zakynthos Island (Zakynthos)

Zakynthos is one of the three Ionian islands of Greece, located near the Peloponnese peninsula (9.5 nautical miles) and the island of Kefalonia (8.5 nautical miles). A picturesque island with numerous beaches, Navagio Bay - a symbol of the island (you can see it in any article about Zakynthos), Caretta-Caretta turtles, magnificent old Venetian mansions, etc. The capital of the island - the city of Zakynthos - resembles a medieval city with narrow cobbled streets and beautiful squares, in which the mansions of Venetian merchants with loggias and galleries-arches are perfectly preserved.

pros

• great beaches
• developed tourist infrastructure
• scenic views

Minuses

• perhaps, for some, Zakynthos, in contrast to the nearby island of Kefalonia, may lack the “spirit of true Greece” - as in many places popular for tourists, there is a dominance of pizzerias and McDonalds, to the needs of British and Italian tourists who have long settled here

Kefalonia Island (Kefalonia)

The largest and most mountainous island of the Ionian Sea, located near the Peloponnese, between the islands of Ithaca, Zakynthos and Lefkada. Picturesque, green and very clean island. Unfortunately, many architectural sights from the Venetian occupation on the island were destroyed by the earthquake in 1953, however, there are many beautiful places to visit on the island. The "visiting card" of the island is the world-famous Myrtos beach.

pros

• great beaches
• good for holidays with children
• here you can feel the "real", and not adapted for the Anglo-Italian tourist, Greece

Minuses

• relatively difficult for Russians transport accessibility of the island

Mykonos Island

Mykonos is the nightlife capital of Greece, a vibrant mosaic of wonderful beaches and picturesque streets. The name of this island has long become a symbol of prestigious and fashionable recreation and life to the fullest. Representatives of the world bohemia and the offspring of the noble families of Europe love to relax here. The destination is also very popular among gay tourists.

pros

• great beaches
• excellent tourist infrastructure
• scenic views

Minuses

• relatively difficult for Russians transport accessibility of the island

Peninsula Halkidiki

Halkidiki is three rather different peninsulas, with their outlines resembling the trident of Zeus. The most popular among tourists is the Kassandra peninsula, on the far left. The tourist infrastructure is the most developed here: there are many hotels, restaurants and nightclubs. The middle peninsula - Sithonia - is known for its picturesque landscapes and wild beaches.

Pine groves, the purest Aegean Sea, soft sand and cozy bays make Halkidiki attractive for families with children. The third, easternmost, peninsula is the monastic Aion-Oros (Athos or "Holy Mountain", where 19 Orthodox monasteries are located). Access to this "monastic state" is possible only for men, is limited and requires a separate permit.

pros

• scenic landscapes
• pine groves
• clean sandy beaches with a gentle entrance
• there is a casino

Minuses

• long transfer from the airport to most hotels

Peloponnese Peninsula

A truly huge (with an area of ​​22 million km 2) is called "Greece in miniature", it has everything that we love this hospitable country for: beautiful beaches, picturesque mountain ranges, lively tourist centers and traditional villages with a patriarchal way of life, legendary ancient cities and archaeological sites and much, much more!

In the west, the peninsula is washed by by the ionian sea and to the east by the Aegean Sea. The 6-kilometer Corinth Canal, dug by hand in the 19th century, unites the two seas.

The main cities of the Peloponnese: Patras, Sparta, Tripoli, Pyrgos, Kalamata, Araxos, Napflion and Corinth.

pros

• own international airport
• great beaches
• ideal for a relaxing family holiday, incl. with kids
• an abundance of truly significant and interesting tourist attractions
• scenic views
• all-season availability of some SPA-resorts

Minuses

• there are no large resorts: hotels and apartments are quite scattered

Pieria

The capital of the region is the city of Katerini, and the most popular resort on the coast is the city of Paralia. I was struck by the abundance of fur shops (almost every factory in Kastoria considers it its duty to open a fur salon in Paralia). Therefore, if the purpose of your trip is to purchase fur products, and you are not planning a full 1-2-week vacation in Greece, Paralia and neighboring coastal towns may be good option. In other cases, I’m not sure: the beaches that we saw here cannot compete with the beaches I saw earlier in other parts of Greece, in particular: the suburbs of Athens, the Halkidiki Peninsula, the islands of Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, Santorini and others, the cleanliness of the coast and water, nor the tourist infrastructure.

Being in the mainland of Greece, it is definitely worth getting to know the beauties of Pieria: it is here that the ancient Greek gods live - the famous Mount Olympus with a magnificent national natural park on the slopes. Picturesque villages and mountain resorts at the foot of Mount Olympus are full of charm. The mountain village of Litohoro was especially struck by its unusual atmosphere.

And in addition to natural beauties, there are many archaeological sites in the vicinity: Dion, Pydna, Paliambela Kolindru and Platamonas.

So, I would advise you to visit Pieria, but not for a beach holiday, but for the purpose of excursions or buying a fur coat.

pros

• an interesting destination for sightseeing holidays, as well as for all those who are fond of mountain sports
• own international airport (Thessaloniki)
• a good opportunity to combine "useful with pleasant" for those whose main purpose of a trip to Greece is the purchase of fur products

Minuses

• rather long transfer from the airport
• comparatively dirty and not too well equipped beaches

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