Nightlife, aromas and a peaceful atmosphere

Some of the island's beautiful houses were constructed on top of the remains of ancient buildings in a manner of construction that creates an authentic atmosphere – thanks to the unique style of architecture – and tourists coming to the island like to explore the picturesque alleyways and admire the appearance of the bright white houses.

This location combines a sense of relaxation, excellent food (try the fresh fish!), and pulsating nightlife.  Agios Nikolaos boasts an abundance of pubs and clubs, an open-air cinema, sports facilities and an impressive golf course for lovers of the sport who can enjoy a game of golf in a really delightful atmosphere.

Anyone looking for shopping opportunities will be able to find whatever they seek among the dizzying variety of objets d’art, jewelry, souvenirs, carpets, embroidery, Byzantine figures, porcelain, local delicacies and many other things.

Wonderful resort city

The beautiful city of Agios Nikolaos has three views facing the water – the lake and the port, the Kitroplatia beach, and the Marina. The beach in Kitroplatia is one of the only beaches in Crete that combines a vibrant city life with the beach itself, which is surrounded by trendy cafés and restaurants – it is highly recommended to come here when you are visiting the city.

Don’t forget to visit the city's museums, such as the Folklore Museum displaying traditional handicrafts, embroidery, photographs, costumes; and the Archaeological Museum in the city which displays ancient artifacts dating back to Crete’s earliest days.

Around the city, only a short distance away, are other tourist areas such as Elounda – a colorful seaside town that was once a sleepy fishing village and today attracts many tourists because of its glorious sandy beaches, the archeological sites, the pubs, cafés and the pleasant intimate atmosphere. Another place that you can visit on a trip to Agios Nikolaos is the town of Sitia which offers a stunning landscape, the impressive Kazarma fortress, and sense of infinite tranquility.

Chania – which is located in the western part of Crete and is the island's third largest city – retains its historic, authentic character, picturesque alleyways, colorful markets and interesting architecture. There is an outstanding selection of activities available – this is a city that likes to celebrate and every year there are festivals, performances and exhibitions taking place here that attract tourists from all over the world.

In the Old City you can enjoy yourself in the wonderful taverns and restaurants situated in ancient buildings or outdoors. The nightlife that Chania offers is among the liveliest of all the islands of Greece, with discotheques, cafés and parties until dawn. There are always a great number of reasons to celebrate every visit to this charming city.

Hypnotically rural

Anyone looking for nature will most definitely find what they are looking for amongst the wild nature reserves and the isolated coastal strips. Chania is a most magical place. Among the favorite places for nature lovers who come to Chania, the ‘star’ is undoubtedly Venizelos Park, named in honor of the Greek statesman Venizelos, whose dream had been to unite Crete with Greece. Inside the Park is the impressive monument commemorating the Greek uprising against the Turks, and one can look out over this beautiful city from the spectacular vantage point.

Lake Kournas is another attractive tourist spot. This is a lovely lake situated in a wooded valley, and there is an area of tranquility surrounded by lush green vegetation.

A vibrant city

Chania, similar to many cities in the Greek Islands, offers diversity of museums; such as the Archaeological Museum which includes displays of archaeological finds, pottery, mosaics and sculptures; and the Maritime Museum of Crete with its display of models of ships and ancient artifacts. One of the favorite pastimes of tourists in the city of Chania is taking an interesting tour around the Venetian quarter or the Turkish quarter, providing an opportunity to appreciate the ancient architectural styles. Among the most popular destinations: the ancient and impressive synagogue in Chania and the area of the old port. The markets in the Old City offer a variety of souvenirs and colorful ornaments and it is always fun to bring these home as a souvenir or as a gift for people who love such items. Chania will certainly provide you with wonderful moments of happiness to treasure forever.

Recreation in Rhodes

Rhodes offers its visitors a great many pleasures; from shopping, through food, to parties, pubs and clubs. The exciting lifestyle on the island allows you to take an exciting shopping journey between the thousands of shops in the city, and return home with fantastic souvenirs such as jewelry, ceramic objects, fabrics, wines, honey, olive oil, china with traditional decoration and other authentic objects.

In terms of entertainment, Rhodes is a place that is crammed with ‘action’ from day until night, including many places that remain open until dawn.

You may partake of the fascinating assortment of flavors in the local restaurants and cafés, dancing and entertainment in the local pubs and clubs.

Among the major tourist sites in Rhodes you can visit the Acropolis, a fortified hill with many temples, places of worship, and structures built during the Hellenistic period.

You won’t want to miss the streets of the old town of Rhodes which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the oldest continuously-inhabited medieval town in Europe. A massive wall that was built by the Knights of St. John encloses the old town.

During a historical journey in the old town you can see a reconstruction of the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Castle of Rhodes, and the spectacular ancient mosaics that are on display. You might also want to roam along the alleyways where many artists sit, and visit the souvenir shops situated alongside luxury shops.

The classical Greek experience

You are invited to start your tour of Rhodes along the city’s Crusader walls, the ancient Venetian town and the marina which was once the ancient port of Rhodes, where the famous statue of Colossus stands.  Through Gate d'Amboise you can step into the Crusader city and take a walking tour of the walls surrounding it. Here you will experience the atmosphere of the knights and the Middle Ages, especially if you combine this with a tour of the Grand Master's Palace. From there, go to the Acropolis; walking around you will be able to observe the theater, the stadium and the Temple of Apollo – symbols of the classical Greek culture.

The Cycladic architecture which dominates the island creates a fascinating maze of densely built cubic white houses. The ancient and finely preserved windmills, together with the red roofs of the churches, create an unforgettable landscape. When you tour through the streets on the island you will understand why Mykonos is known as the "jewel of the Aegean".

An island of tranquility

The magnificent beaches of Mykonos are ideal for water sports. The crystal clear waters are unparalleled for swimming and diving, and the beaches are kept clean and beautiful. It is especially recommended to visit the beach of Agios Ioannis as well as the Kalafatis Beach.

The authentic island is charming in its simplicity, its wild nature, picturesque windmills, an abundance of shops selling local handicrafts, fashion boutiques, taverns and bars along the entire coastline. Mykonos is the perfect place for you to sit and watch the sea, while sipping a glass of the local alcoholic drink – raki.

Windmills, picturesque landscape

During your visit to Mykonos you won’t want to miss seeing the the windmills, which are one of the recognized landmarks of Mykonos. You are welcome to tour ‘Little Venice’ which has been designed in medieval-style with observation stations that are amazingly romantic (especially at sunset!), restaurants with colorful terraces and lively bars.

Driving up the mountain, through the picturesque villages of Mykonos, you will come upon Ano Mera, a small town that has been named after the famous Ano Mera Monastery that is located there.

In Mykonos there are many museums including the Archaeological Museum, the Folklore Museum that displays a collection of furniture, musical instruments, items of textiles and other objects. During your visit to Mykonos don’t miss the Aegean Maritime Museum with its display of ancient coins, models of ships, and an exhibition of ancient tools of navigation.

Experience in Delos

If you want to add yet another layer to the experience of visiting Mykonos, we recommend that you pay a visit to Delos, a very small island that – despite its size – is one of the most important islands in the whole of Greece and, without a doubt, the most important of the Cyclades islands. These islands were given their name because they surround the island of Delos which is located in the centre of the Cyclades archipelago (in Greek, a rough circle is known as ‘kiklos’).

Delos, according to Greek mythology, is the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. The island reached its heyday during the Hellenistic period, when this sacred island was one of the first three religious centers in the entire Greek nation.

In Delos we also recommended that you visit the Terrace of the Lions, the Sacred Way and the the Sanctuary of Apollo, and the impressive Temple of Artemis. You are guaranteed a unique experience.

Mineral springs and unusual monuments

Lesvos is the third largest island in Greece offering a selection of attractions for visitors to the island; a charming promenade that encompasses the port area of the Mytilene capital;  relaxing beaches, rivers that flow throughout almost the entire year and wonderful picturesque towns outside the main city that are all connected with the tranquility of the island.

The truth is that the real charm of the island lies in the places that are furthest away from the central cities, in the quaint villages, the hidden bays, and the endless orchards of the mountainous region.

You are invited to partake of a special adventure in the Byzantine castle in the city and, if you feel like it, you can immerse yourself in the rich natural mineral springs of which there are many in Lesvos. Don’t miss the hot healing mineral baths in the town of Vasilika.

Lesvos is famous for its pottery and ceramics and in many of the surrounding markets you can purchase pottery souvenirs or decorative ceramic items for your home.

Adventure trip enthusiasts will be able to enjoy an amazing and dynamic safari trip with lots of thrills and adrenaline.  The Geological Museum in Sigri is one of the best museums in Greece and will provide you with a fascinating experience that it is worthwhile including as part of your trip to the island. You can visit the many special monuments such as the Roman Aqueduct; the Klopedi Temple that dates back to the Archaic period (the Archaic period in the history of Ancient Greece spans from the 9th century to the 6th century BC); and the ancient Mytilene Theater dating back to the early Hellenistic era which was renovated during the late Roman period.

The homeland of ouzo

You should also take a tour to the village of Agiasos, a special and picturesque village where you can visit the Church of the Virgin Mary. Another wonderful village is Plomari Village, the Ouzo capital of Lesvos, which is why many people like to come and visit the ouzo factory located in this village which is among the most famous in Greece. You will be impressed by the production process and, of course, have the opportunity of tasting the ouzo that is produced there.

Lesvos is a place full of authentic flavors: here you can taste local goat cheeses, seafood, and lamb roasted in the Lesvos style, which is simply an absolute delight.

A symbol of Greek independence

Nafplio is an important city in Greece and it was the first capital of independent Greece prior to the capital being relocated to Athens.  Nafplio is where the first king of Greece was crowned. The city is considered to be one of the most cultivated ones in the country. Pathways that have been paved in marble, beautifully preserved historical sites, and streets that are closed vehicles and which provide a sense of tranquility for people touring the city on foot.

Every corner reveals another treasure, beauty spots, small bakeries where the aroma of freshly baked goods waft into the air, intimate restaurants and charming pubs.

The oldest part of the city is beautiful; a mountain covered with cacti and spectacular beaches. Here you can set out upon a historic journey – on every side you will find architecture dating back to the Middle Ages and fascinating tourist sites. You are welcome to visit the Town Hall where the independent Parliament of Greece was first convened. Well known monuments await you, such as the Saint George Metropolitan Cathedral and the Archaeological Museum of the Argolis region. Another attraction is the old mosque.

Ancient fortresses and an impressive view

Tourists who come to Nafplio from all over the world love to visit the city's historic relics, among which the Fortress of Bourtzi in the harbor which was built in the 15th century when the Venetians occupied the town, and the Castle of Palamidi.

The fortress walls tower to a height of 200 meters above the city and affords an impressive vantage point over the city and the harbor – you can choose the challenging route and climb about 999 stairs, or take the easier and faster route and simply enjoy the dazzling scenery that awaits you from the top.

If you want to take a break and savor the local culinary delights, plan for some ‘time out’ in the relaxed port area – a picturesque and enjoyable spot which has a wealth of restaurants and cafés where the time will pass most pleasantly.

Athens Museum and the Acropolis

Among the major attractions in the area one can visit the Acropolis – dedicated primarily to the Greek goddess Athena, and the location of the Parthenon temple – the symbol of ancient Greece and one of the most important sites in the world.

The New Athens Museum is another place not to be missed; an eye-catching architectural masterpiece filled with remarkable historical artifacts and treasures from Piraeus. Here, all of the relics that were discovered in the archaeological excavations over the decades are on display in an extraordinary setting.

A lot of people also visit the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus, which has an amazing display of sculpture and pottery, as well as the remains of the ancient museum. The Athenian Agora Archaeological Park is a unique site where one can see buildings and that depicting the ancient structure of the city in days gone by.

Art lovers are invited to tour the Piraeus Municipal Gallery, which presents a selection of works by famous modern Greek painters, alongside compositions by many younger artists not yet established.

The Hellenic Maritime Museum presents the history of the Greek navy from ancient times to the present day. The museum has a wealth of models of ships, flags, maps, films, books, representations of historical events and other fascinating items.

Entertainment and shopping in Piraeus

If you are looking for a lively marina you will not want to miss Zea, where a great many large and splendid yachts and boats are anchored; all around the area of the marina one finds a selection of bars, restaurants and cafés and the atmosphere is exciting and colorful.

Other places that are highly recommended for a tour of the city are Syntagma Square (Constitution Square), the Greek Parliament building and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It is also well advised to pay a visit to the House of the President, Heinrich Schliemann’s House, the Academy of Athens, and also the Old University and the National Library which have been built in the ornate neo-classical Greek-style.

Another popular tourist destination in the city is the Olympic Stadium where the modern Olympic Games were held in 2004.  If you are interested in purchasing souvenirs, you should take some leisure time to walk around the Plaka neighborhood, the area of the market and taverns at the foot of the Acropolis. Sip a glass of ouzo and enjoy life.

Please note that the boat anchors in the port of Piraeus, which is very near to Athens. Either when booking the cruise or on the boat itself it will be possible for you to purchase a variety of shore excursions.

A tranquil fishing village

Katakolon has the very peaceful nature of a small fishing village since there are only about 600 permanent residents. One can find among the quiet streets of the harbor area taverns, souvenir shops, shops selling Greek artifacts, handicraft items and leather goods, as well as restaurants serving fresh fish and a variety of local delicacies.

For those who feel like strolling around or sunbathing it is only a short walk to a number of peaceful beaches where fishing boats anchor. This is a place where beauty and simplicity are very much intertwined.

This is how the Olympic Games started

There is no doubt that the main reason for tourists visiting this destination is ancient Olympia – the captivating archaeological site. Olympia is the birthplace of the Olympic Games, which were held every four years starting from the year 776 BC.

It is also well-known because of the Statue of Zeus, which was considered to be one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.  A very interesting tour awaits you around the remains of the ancient city, the gymnasium in which sports were taught, and the ‘palaestra’ which served as a wrestling arena, and more.

You can include in your tour a visit to the modern Archaeological Museum of Olympia which displays sculptures and fascinating artifacts from the Roman and archaic period.

Kavala is one of the intimate types of Greek cities, built on a hillside in the model of an amphitheater so that there are numerous vantage points looking out over the sea. From all sides you will be able to watch the fishing boats and ships anchored in the harbor. The connection between the ancient past and the contemporary present-day is inevitable and can be felt around every corner. Start your tour at Eleftherias Square and from there cross to the colorful Megalou Alexandrou pedestrian mall which is surrounded by a treasure-trove of cafés, bars, trendy shops and a great many tobacco warehouses. Tobacco is a recurring theme in the city: there are a lot of tobacco shops and even a museum devoted to the production processes and the history of tobacco.

The area of the pedestrian mall is also the focus of the shopping scene, with a variety of authentic Greek paintings, bottles of oil, scented soaps and souvenirs that are fun to buy and take home.

Some of the historic buildings in this city are associated with neo-classical houses of the tobacco growers and there is also a very impressive City Hall and Municipal Tobacco Warehouse. The Old City of Kavala includes an impressive ancient fortress that was rebuilt by the Turks in 1425, and offers breathtaking panoramic views. The tour alongside the city walls passes by a bronze equestrian statue of Mohamed Ali and it is worthwhile to continue from there, along the winding alleyways that are filled with typical Byzantine houses and intimate bars.

Kavala has some great beaches, filled with deck chairs and sunshades, beach bars, restaurants and cafeterias that offer souvlaki, ouzo, tzatziki and halloumi cheese in refreshing variations. The most popular beaches are the Sarakina beach and Pirgos beach, where you will be able to enjoy a wonderful vacation atmosphere.

The tobacco trade is an integral part of the city and is intertwined in its history. In the past there were 50 tobacco companies operating here and the city housed about 160 tobacco warehouses. But the global economic crisis of 1929 hit the local industry, and the splendor of these days can be witnessed today mainly at the Tobacco Museum, which reflects the association of the location with the tobacco trade through a number of interesting exhibitions, such as examples of tobacco, art and advertising relating to the world of tobacco, the production process, and more.

Other interesting museums in the city are the Folklore Museum, which is located in a building that has elements of Ottoman-Turkish and Neo-Classical architecture and displays Greek statues, tools, objects of Greek folk culture;  there is also the Historical – Ethnological Museum of the Greeks of Kapadokia where you can admire precious Kappadocian costumes, carpets, paintings, jewelry, embroidery etc

No doubt the most well-known symbol of Kavala is the Aqueduct that was built in 1550 by Sultan Suleiman II and served as the main water source for the city. Today this remains as a magnificent monument that contains 60 arches of various sizes. The journey back into the past also passes by the Acropolis, built on the ruins of a Byzantine fortress which dates back to the 15th  century.

If you feel like having a bit of a celebration in addition to getting a deep tan and visiting ancient ruins, then you should be aware of the fact that Kavala nightlife is worth getting to know: a collection of trendy clubs, authentic taverns, cheerful pubs, parties playing hip electronic music, beach restaurants that specialize in fresh fish dishes – and all of this in the truly exciting atmosphere of Kavala.

Pythagoras was born here

The island gained fame as the birthplace of Pythagoras, Epicurus and Aristarchus and is also famous for the sweet wines that are produced here. In the summer, the island inhabitants celebrate the wine festivals in the evenings, and you are welcome to join in the festivities and take part in the libations.

During a trip to the island it is recommended to visit the coastal town of Pythagorion, one of the most beautiful towns on the island. Another favorite destination is the fishing village – Kokari, which has become a lively resort town built on spectacular rocky ground, and this is a splendid place to go walking.  Samos has a variety of different landscapes, from green mountain villages through the magnificent vineyards. The beaches in Samos are wonderful, white and sandy – of the kind that caresses the soles of your feet, and the water is clear and deep turquoise in color. The bustling open markets offer tourists a variety of opportunities to return home with high-quality olive oils, pottery, rugs, woven fabrics and other astonishing local produce. Whitewashed houses with blue windows, Venetian buildings, narrow winding staircases leading down to hidden beaches create an atmosphere of peace and true freedom.

Wine and the good life

Samos is famous for its wineries, this is the place to enjoy excellent wines and especially Muscat grapes, figs, and citrus fruits. It is strongly recommended to sample the fine wines and enjoy a selection of the sweet delicacies that the capital city is famous for. If you have been looking for a place that offers good entertainment, you should be aware of the fact that the nightlife in Samos is magical for tourists because of the variety available, and the exhilarating atmosphere. Bars, discos, taverns and coffee shops with live and exciting Greek music will soon get you up on your feet. Greek rhythm is full of ‘joie de vivre’.