From crystal-clear seas and sun-soaked beaches to ancient wonders and some of the best nightlife in the Mediterranean. Greece is awash with magnificent playgrounds that have captivated travelers for generations. Its storied history spans thousands of years and has produced the Olympic Games, a fabulous mythology. Philosophies that still make the world go round. Its vibrant culture is rich in enchanting traditions, lively festivals, colorful art and passionate music. Anyone who visits can expect adventures galore.

Most of tourists come for the simple pleasures of Greece’s delicious food, gorgeous beaches and quaint villages. The ever-popular islands, in particular, are custodians of the country’s traditional ways. With black-clad women still delivering vegetables to island tavern’s on panniers donkeys. While bronzed, weather-beaten fishermen sit in the sun drinking thick coffee and playing Tavli (backgammon). The tourist infrastructure has intruded in many respects, but the timeless aspect of whitewashed buildings clustered on hillsides has been retained. The myriad islands in the Aegean Sea are easily accessible from Piraeus. Athens’ historic harbor, and many of the larger ones have airports with connections to Athens or major European cities.

On the mainland, the capital Athens is sprawling, polluted and overcrowded, but nevertheless enthralls visitors. It’s dominated by its major landmark, the Parthenon. Though the remains of other Classical Greek wonders are found mainly on the Peloponnese Peninsula. Thessaloniki lies in the north and is modern and spirited with a Byzantine flavor. Visitors are sure to love this ancient and sun-filled country.

Renowned for its influence on Western civilization. Greece is very much the heart of the Mediterranean experience. Where travelers can escape to a heady blend of stunning vistas and warm, passionate people. Idyllic islands await those who seek blissful days of glorious sunshine and crisp waves. There’s far more on offer in this ever-popular destination. Visitors will also find iconic ruins, charming villages and some of the best nightlife in the region.

Gastronomes can feast on meze staples such as saganaki (fried haloumi cheese), kleftiko (lamb slow-baked on the bone), and souvlaki (shaved pork wrapped in a pita). No visit is complete without a taste of Greek spirits. A trip to Greece promises unforgettable adventures and rich insight into an incredible heritage.

Best time to visit Greece

The most popular season for a visit is summer (June to August).When the weather is beautiful and sun is guaranteed. Late spring (April and May) and early autumn (late August through September) are also lovely times to holiday in Greece, as crowds are thinner and the sun is gentler.

What to see in Greece

Spend a few days marveling at the ruins of the Parthenon and the Acropolis in Athens, and wandering through the archaeological museums nearby. Visit the site of the first Olympic Games in 776 BC. Where there are still ruins of arenas, gymnasiums and changing rooms. See the tomb of King Leonidas in Sparta, along with other relics of the famous warriors of the Peloponnese Peninsula. Explore the Cave of the Apocalypse on Patmos. Where the Apostle John is said to have written the Book of Revelation.

What to do in Greece

Take a cruise to Crete and lounge on the pristine beaches in Hania, Heraklion, and Agios Nikolaos. Where crystal-clear waters meet golden sands. Immerse yourself in the rich history as you follow the legendary trail of Homer’s Odyssey with a visit to the storied island of Ithaca. Exploring its ancient ruins and charming landscapes. Enjoy the lively village of Vathy, where local culture thrives amidst scenic views. Let loose in the trendy tavernas and vibrant nightclubs of Mykonos. Dancing the night away under a sky filled with stars and laughter. Watch a stunning sunset off the coast of Santorini, as the sun dips below the horizon. Painting the sky in a breathtaking array of colors. Creating moments that will linger in your memory long after your journey has ended.

Greece’s fascinating history, stunning landscapes and vibrant culture are the stuff of legend and have long captivated the world’s travelers. Most visitors begin their holiday in the capital. Athens, where Classical Greece is still evident through renowned structures such as the Parthenon and the Acropolis.

From Athens, many tourists head out to the islands, which provide the quintessential Greek experience. Mountainous Crete is among the most popular of them and features sparkling beaches. Spectacular green outcroppings, ancient Minoan sites and the famous Samaria Gorge Trail. Corfu is loved for its mythic significance. Santorini for its stunning sunsets and unique volcanic beaches, and Rhodes for its timeless medieval town, which is a World Heritage Site. History buffs should venture to the Peloponnese Peninsula for the region’s ancient ruins and battlefields.

Nature enthusiasts will relish hiking the Samaria Gorge or the trails of Mount Olympus, Greece’s highest peak. For a more leisurely pace, travellers can unwind in natural hot springs or enjoy wine tours in regions such as Nemea and Santorini.

Culinary adventures abound and there are opportunities to take cooking classes, sample street food and dine in traditional tavern’s. Visitors shouldn’t miss local festivals for the chance to explore Greek culture through music, dance and food.

Those seeking adventure can enjoy rock climbing in Kalymnos. Water sports such as diving and kayaking, or paragliding over breath-taking landscapes. Resorts such as Kalavryta and Mount Parnassus offer skiing and snowboarding. It’s worth visiting the impressive Melissani Cave in Kefalonia for a boat tour through its turquoise waters.